We will drive to Queropalca. On the way, we pass small villages and places such as Recuay, Ticapampa, Catac and Conococha. Then we turn to the east passing some villages such as Pachapaqui, Huanzala, Huallanca and finally arriving at the Archeological Center of Huánuco Pampa. One of the many administrative centers which is built along the highland Inca highway between Cusco and Quito. The land administrated at least five, and perhaps many more, ethnic groups. We will visit this interesting place and after we will have lunch around this place. Then we continue our drive to Queropalca, our first campsite at 3830m.

Driving time: Approx. 7 hrs.

A half–day hike will bring us to the foot of Lake Carhuacocha, a beautiful location. On a calm day, the snow-capped peaks of Jirishanca and Yerupaja are reflected in the water. Camp on the shores of the lake at 4179m.

Hiking time: Approx. 6 hours

Hiking kilometers: Approx. 10.8 km

Leaving our campsite behind, we hike over a pass at 4633m with great views of the surrounding area. Once over the Carhuac pass, descend for about two hours we come into view of Lake Mitucocha and again in the background Mt. Ninashanca, Rondoy, and Jirishanca from the backdrop of our day’s hike. Lunch on route or in the camp. We arrive in the early afternoon with a chance to walk around the lake and get closer views of the mountain. Overnight and camping in Janca. 4244m.

Hiking time: Approx. 5 / 5 ½ hours

Hiking Km: Approx. 9.5 km

Leaving our camp, we head towards Cacananpunta pass at 4684m. The trail winds up to Cacananpunta Pass which is the continental division and border between Huánuco and Ancash departments. Then we descend to an alternative camp called Cuartelhuain, very close to our campsite Matacancha at 4100, just below tomorrow’s pass. Chance to see some condors.

Hiking time: Approx. 6 to 7 hours

Hiking Km: Approx. 9.4 km

We will ascend following a colorful landscape through the Rondoy valley towards Sambunya pass at 4760m, from where we can appreciate the snow-capped peaks of Ninashanca, Rondoy, Jirishanca, Yerupaja, Rasac and Solteracocha Lake. Then, we descend towards Lake Jahuacocha, a beautiful place, a perfect location to appreciate a beautiful sunset. Camp around the Jahuacocha Lake at 4073m.

Hiking time: Approx. 7 to 8 hours

After completing our special version of this shortened Huayhuash trekking circuit, after breakfast, we leave camp early for our return to Huaraz. We will ascend a steady but gradual climb up to Mancanpunta Pass at 4572m and then after a brief rest at this vantage point taking in the surrounding Andean ranges, we will descend a steep gravelly trail to Pocpa (3483m). In Pocpa, our private transportation awaits to transfer us back to Huaraz.

Hiking time: Approx. 5 ½ hours

Hiking Kilometers: Approx. 9.4 km.

Driving time: Approx. 4 ½ hours