• One of best treks in Cordillera Blanca, begins & ends in Huaraz.

• 3-day trek combines adventure, scenery & culture.

• Culminates at Chavin de Huantar, one of Peru’s most important archaeological sites.

This 3-day trek from Olleros to Chavin de Huantar is one of the easier multi-day treks in the Cordillera Blanca … but still spectacular, with views of snow-capped peaks like:

• Shaqsha (5,703 m / 18,711 ft)

• Cashan (5,686 m / 18,655 ft)

• Tuctupunta (5,343 m / 17,530 ft)

The trek begins in the charming town of Olleros, 30 km (19 miles) south of Huaraz and covers 37 kms (23 miles), much of it through Huascaran National Park.

The trekking high point is at Punta Yanashallash (4,700 m / 15,420 ft) which is reached by a steady climb.

The route ends at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Chavin de Huantar, which was the administrative and ceremonial centre of a powerful pre-Inca culture that dominated much of what is now Peru.

Along the way there is the chance to interact with the Quechua-speaking inhabitants of traditional farming communities, such as Shongo and Nunupata.

Moreover, by taking this trek, you are supporting local eco-tourism initiatives that aim to promote the region, help maintain its traditions and provide much-needed income for its inhabitants.

Olleros 3-Day Trek: Itinerary Outline:

Day 1: Drive to Olleros from Huaraz; Hike to Sacracancha. Overnight camping.
Day 2: Sacracancha – Yanashallash Pass - Shongopampa. Overnight camping.
Day 3: Shongopampa - Chavin de Huantar - Huaraz.

NB. It is highly recommended to do at least two day hikes prior to embarking on a multi-day Olleros trek. It gives you a chance to acclimate and to check the suitability of your equipment … and for us to assess your ability.

Included in Olleros Trek price:

* Bilingual and local guides.

* 3 meals per day. NB. Vegetarian food available on request.

* 2-person tents, mattresses, dining room-kitchen tent, small tables and chairs.

* Trek cook.

* Animal handlers.

* Mules or llamas to carry camping equipment and food.

* Transport Huaraz – Olleros / Chavin – Huaraz

* Pick-up from Huaraz accommodation.

Not included in Olleros Trek price:

* Breakfast on the first day & dinner on the last day.

* Tips & entrance fee to the Ruins.

* Personal travel insurance.

* Sleeping bag (NB. available for hire) 

Day 1: Huaraz – Olleros - Sacracancha

We leave Huaraz this morning, in a private vehicle, to make the one-hour drive to Olleros. Here we meet the trek crew, arrange the equipment on the pack animals, and then get hiking.

We climb steadily from Olleros (3,450 m / 11,614 ft), along a river bed with beautiful views of the plateaus and snow-capped peaks of Huascaran National Park, to arrive at Sacracancha (4,080 m / 13,386 ft), where the first campsite is located.

Today’s hike covers some 15 km (9 miles) and takes 5-6 hours, at an unhurried pace.

Overnight at Sacracancha, in tents.

Meals included: Lunch, Dinner

Day 2: Sacracancha – Yanashallash-Pass – Shongo

After breakfast, we begin our day’s trekking by going up a narrow valley, to arrive at the only high mountain pass on the trek, Yanashallash, located at 4,700 m (15,420 ft).

From here we can see the awe-inspiring peaks of Umashraju, Huantsan and Rurec mountains, among others.

We hike over the Continental Divide and down a pre-Inca stone trail, into the Callejon de Conchucos on the eastern side of the Andes.

Along the way, we pass through some tiny family communities before reaching our second campsite at Shongopampa (4,088 m / 13,412 ft).

Today’s hiking is a bit steeper than the first day, covering 11 km (7 miles) in 5 - 6 hours.

Overnight at Shongopampa, in tents.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

3rd Day : Shongopampa – Chavin - Huaraz

After breakfast we continue to descend, passing through the Andean villages of Chichucancha, Hatu and Nunupata, with views of Huantsan Mountain (6,395m / 20,981 ft)

After walking for about 4 hours, covering 10 km (6 miles), we arrive at Chavin de Huantar (3,140 m / 10,302 ft). Here we bid farewell to our trek crew, and then have a guided tour of the archaeological site.

Chavin culture was at its zenith more than 3,000 years ago and the ruins were once the centre of a great civilisation.

Nonetheless, relatively little is known about the culture, and the stylised depiction of pumas, birds and snakes carved into the rocks at Chavin have been a matter of much speculation for archaeologists.

We then drive back to Huaraz, passing through Kawish (Cahuish) Tunnel at 4,550 m (14,928 ft), which marks another point on the Continental Divide, along the way.

On arrival back in Huaraz, we transfer you to your hotel.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch

Please note:

1. This Olleros Trek programme can be amended, according to the needs & wishes of the group, and logistical considerations.

2. Daily hiking times are approximate.