Route of the Condor (CBQ)
(strenuous with trekking peak)
15 days from Lima

Cordillera Blanca

This is a trek in scenically dramatic and little-walked valleys and passes of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range.

Trekking over two high passes (5,100m and 5,350m) there are many opportunities to see the Andean condor.

Climb options

There is a chance to climb two of the Cordillera Blanca’s most attractive peaks.

No previous mountaineering experience is required to attempt the two peaks - Maparaju (5,326m) and Ishinca (5,530m).

Climbing equipment is provided and instruction in its use is given by our mountain guides.

Acclimatise in Huaraz

We follow the Pacific coast north, then turn inland and up to the highland city of Huaraz (3,090m), set amid the spectacular peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.

Huaraz is a great base for exploring the area while acclimatising. You can go mountain biking in the nearby mountains or take a day trip to the 3,000 year-old archaeological site of Chavin de Huantar.

Condor viewing

We begin with a hike to Laguna Churup, nestled in an amphitheatre below the vertical, fluted ice–face of Nevado Churup.

We then gradually ascend the broad Quebrada Quilcayhuanca valley, an awesome array of peaks appearing ahead. We camp near the head of the valley, a prime spot for condor-viewing.

From here we make an early start for our ascent of Nevado Maparaju, a snow peak that lies at the head of the adjoining Cayesh Valley.

A climb up the sweeping snow slopes brings us to the summit. There are amazing views of some of the Cordillera’s highest peaks to north and south, glacial lakes and farming land.

Ishinca

We continue, trekking over the first pass at over 5,000m. We are given an amazing 360-degree panorama of immense peaks, and head down into the Cojup valley.

From there we climb again towards the next pass and Ishinca peak (5,530m).

Reaching the snow level we don crampons, rope up and head up the south shoulder to the summit. We are again faced with a spectacular panorama of mighty peaks.

We descend to the moraine camp, and from here we make our way back to Huaraz.

There is time to relax before heading back to Lima.

Check our Books and Maps section where you will find a range of literature to help you get the most out of your South American adventure.

Extensions

Choose to trek the Inca Trail or take a trip into the Amazon rainforest.

You can also complement this tour with one of our excellent extensions.