Cordillera Blanca — Beginner
The climbing route
One of the most dominant peaks seen from Huaraz, easy to identify by its two characteristic horns. The normal route via the north ridge is a moderately accessible mountaineering adventure where the approach is the most demanding part — the climb itself is straightforward and rewarding, with plenty of sun and great views. Tap a stage to see it on the profile.
Huaraz → Llaca Valley → Vallunaraju Camp Morrena
Hotel pickup around 8:00am and transfer east of Huaraz to the Llaca valley, the starting point of an approach walk of about 3 hours up to Camp Morrena — with views along the way of the San Juan, Ranrapalca, Ocshapalca and León Dormido peaks. Arrival around 1:00pm for lunch and a climbing gear check before spending the night at 4,760m.
Camp Morrena → Vallunaraju Glacier → Camp Morrena
After breakfast, a short 25-minute climb over rock leads to the glacier, where technical gear is put on — crampons, harness, helmet — to practice rope systems, climbing on a 70° to 80° wall, a 12-to-15-meter rappel, and basic rescue maneuvers. In the afternoon, return to Camp Morrena for a second night at 4,760m.
Camp Morrena → Vallunaraju Summit (5,686m) → Huaraz
Departure around 2:00am for a walk of about 5 hours to the summit of Vallunaraju (5,686m), with views of Huascarán, Tocllaraju, Copa, Ranrapalca, Ocshapalca and Huantsán. Descent of about three and a half hours back to Camp Morrena, where tents are packed up before continuing on foot to the road — arrival in Huaraz around 4:00–5:00pm for the final celebration.
Descent: it happens on summit day itself (day 3) — descent from the summit to Camp Morrena in about 3h30, followed by the walk to the road and the transfer to Huaraz, with no additional descent day.
Before you book
Everything you need to climb worry-free — personal gear is on you.
