Huayhuash Landscape & Stargazing Trek 12 Day Andean Photography Adventure
Huayhuash landscape Astrophotography trek Trek Via Trapecio 11d/10n This trip takes us to the hearth of the Cordillera Huayhuash, The second-highest tropical mountain range in the world. Landscape, Astrophotography trekker’s paradise is remote, wild, and stunningly beautiful. This mountain range is home of Siula Grande mountain (6344m), where the book, and subsequent movie, told the harrowing tale of English climbers Joe Simpson and Simon Yates, after summiting the Siula Grande. This version of the trek crosses six high passes over 4500 m and two higher than 5000 m. We camp next to stunningly beautiful alpine lakes and in broad, grassy valleys with wildflowers and rushing alpine creeks. And all the time we are appreciating White Mountains above us with peaks at elevations above 5000 and 6000 m. Most of the nights between April to September, it is perfect for astrophotography. The end of the day and also the morning are perfect for sunset and sunrise photography. Also if you like some light painting you will be so happy too.
Itinerary Day by Day
Day 1: Huaraz – Chiquian – Cuartelhuain
Drive time: 4–5 hours
Altitude: ~3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Photography Focus: Majestic Andean sunsets, nightscapes under the stars
As we depart from Huaraz, we journey through the rugged Cordillera Blanca. The drive to Chiquian and then on to Cuartelhuain offers a series of unforgettable landscape shots. Along the way, stop to capture the Andean villages, sweeping valleys, and towering mountains as they greet the afternoon light.
Once we arrive at Cuartelhuain, we’ll set up camp at an elevation that offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks, including the Huascarán mountain range. The high-altitude location provides the perfect conditions for a stunning sunset over the mountains, casting long shadows and warming the landscape with vibrant orange and pink hues.
Nightscape Photography at CuartelhuainAs night falls over the Andean wilderness, Cuartelhuain transforms into a spectacular nightscape photography location. The clear skies and low light pollution make it one of the best places for star photography.
Night Photography Tips:
Altitude: ~3,700 m (12,139 ft)
Photography Focus: Majestic Andean sunsets, nightscapes under the stars
As we depart from Huaraz, we journey through the rugged Cordillera Blanca. The drive to Chiquian and then on to Cuartelhuain offers a series of unforgettable landscape shots. Along the way, stop to capture the Andean villages, sweeping valleys, and towering mountains as they greet the afternoon light.
Once we arrive at Cuartelhuain, we’ll set up camp at an elevation that offers incredible views of the surrounding peaks, including the Huascarán mountain range. The high-altitude location provides the perfect conditions for a stunning sunset over the mountains, casting long shadows and warming the landscape with vibrant orange and pink hues.
Nightscape Photography at CuartelhuainAs night falls over the Andean wilderness, Cuartelhuain transforms into a spectacular nightscape photography location. The clear skies and low light pollution make it one of the best places for star photography.
Night Photography Tips:
- Star Trails: Set your camera on a tripod and experiment with long exposures to capture star trails arching over the jagged peaks.
- Milky Way: With its crisp, cloudless skies, this is the perfect spot to photograph the Milky Way stretching across the star-studded sky. A wide-angle lens with a low f-stop will help you capture the depth and clarity of the stars.
- Mountain Silhouettes: Use the snow-capped peaks as a dramatic silhouette against the starry backdrop. A long exposure with a light source near your subject (such as your campfire or headlamp) will give you that perfect foreground.
- Right after the sunset as the light fades into twilight
- A couple of hours after sunset when the stars are brightest
Day 2: Quartelhuain – Cacananpunta Pass – Janca
Trek time: 6-7 hours
Altitude: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft (Cacananpunta Pass)
Today’s hike takes us through rugged terrain, ascending towards the Cacananpunta Pass, which sits at an impressive altitude of 4,700 meters. Along the way, you'll encounter panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the Cordillera Huayhuash, including Yerupajá and Siula Grande.
Landscape Photography:
As we arrive at Janca for the night, the surrounding peaks glow in soft alpenglow—that perfect warm light that casts long shadows across the landscape. This is one of the best moments for capturing sunset over the snow-capped mountains.
Nightscape Photography: Janca CampOnce night falls, the Janca campsite becomes a photographer's dream. Away from the lights of civilization, this location offers dark skies and incredible stargazing opportunities, making it ideal for nightscape photography.
Night Photography Tips:
Look out for the milky way stretching across the sky, framing the mountain ridgelines and offering amazing opportunities for long exposure shots. Consider using a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or faster) to bring out the full brilliance of the night sky.
Altitude: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft (Cacananpunta Pass)
Today’s hike takes us through rugged terrain, ascending towards the Cacananpunta Pass, which sits at an impressive altitude of 4,700 meters. Along the way, you'll encounter panoramic views of some of the highest peaks in the Cordillera Huayhuash, including Yerupajá and Siula Grande.
Landscape Photography:
- As we climb toward the pass, the views become more dramatic. Capture wide-angle shots of the vast Andean plateau with its glacial lakes and jagged peaks. The landscape here is truly wild and untouched—perfect for epic sweeping vistas and dynamic weather patterns.
- Mountain textures: The jagged ridgelines, dramatic cliffs, and glaciers present amazing detail shots. Be sure to look for abstract compositions in the rocks and ice as the light shifts throughout the day.
As we arrive at Janca for the night, the surrounding peaks glow in soft alpenglow—that perfect warm light that casts long shadows across the landscape. This is one of the best moments for capturing sunset over the snow-capped mountains.
Nightscape Photography: Janca CampOnce night falls, the Janca campsite becomes a photographer's dream. Away from the lights of civilization, this location offers dark skies and incredible stargazing opportunities, making it ideal for nightscape photography.
Night Photography Tips:
- Starry Skies: With no light pollution, this spot is perfect for milky way shots. The peaks of Yerupajá and Siula Grande can serve as dramatic foregrounds for your starry compositions.
- Star Trails: Set up your camera for long exposure shots to capture star trails. The circular motion of the stars against the stillness of the mountains creates a mesmerizing effect.
- Tented Silhouettes: If the sky is clear, you can also capture beautiful shots of your tent with the glowing stars above. A long exposure will create light trails from the campfire or your lanterns, adding a human touch to the stark wilderness.
Look out for the milky way stretching across the sky, framing the mountain ridgelines and offering amazing opportunities for long exposure shots. Consider using a wide-angle lens with a fast aperture (f/2.8 or faster) to bring out the full brilliance of the night sky.
Day 3: Janca – Carhuac Pass – Laguna Carhuacocha (4,200 m / 13,780 ft)
Trek time: 5–6 hours
Photography Focus: Majestic mountain vistas, sweeping highland landscapes, astrophotography at night
The day begins with a gradual climb as we leave Janca behind and set our sights on Carhuac Pass. The landscape is wide and expansive, with towering peaks in every direction. Keep your camera ready for sweeping vistas, dramatic ridgelines, and the rugged terrain leading to the pass.
As we ascend, Carhuac Pass offers stunning panoramic views of the Huayhuash range, with snow-covered mountains, jagged cliffs, and endless valleys stretching below. This is the perfect moment for wide-angle shots capturing the vastness of the Andes. The light here can be incredibly dramatic, especially as the clouds shift over the peaks.
After the descent, we arrive once again at Laguna Carhuacocha to set up camp and prepare for a night of celestial wonders.
Nightscape Photography at Laguna CarhuacochaAs night falls over Carhuacocha Lake, the landscape transforms into an otherworldly scene—perfect for nightscape photography. With minimal light pollution, this location offers some of the clearest night skies you’ll ever encounter.
Photography Tips:
This combination of landscape and nightscape opportunities will surely give you a full portfolio of stunning shots from Carhuacocha, whether you're shooting the high Andes during the day or capturing the celestial beauty under a star-filled sky.
Photography Focus: Majestic mountain vistas, sweeping highland landscapes, astrophotography at night
The day begins with a gradual climb as we leave Janca behind and set our sights on Carhuac Pass. The landscape is wide and expansive, with towering peaks in every direction. Keep your camera ready for sweeping vistas, dramatic ridgelines, and the rugged terrain leading to the pass.
As we ascend, Carhuac Pass offers stunning panoramic views of the Huayhuash range, with snow-covered mountains, jagged cliffs, and endless valleys stretching below. This is the perfect moment for wide-angle shots capturing the vastness of the Andes. The light here can be incredibly dramatic, especially as the clouds shift over the peaks.
After the descent, we arrive once again at Laguna Carhuacocha to set up camp and prepare for a night of celestial wonders.
Nightscape Photography at Laguna CarhuacochaAs night falls over Carhuacocha Lake, the landscape transforms into an otherworldly scene—perfect for nightscape photography. With minimal light pollution, this location offers some of the clearest night skies you’ll ever encounter.
Photography Tips:
- Milky Way: Capture the Milky Way arching across the sky, with Yerupajá and Siula Grande standing tall as the perfect foreground. The contrast between the dark, rugged mountains and the glowing galaxy will make for breathtaking images.
- Star Trails: Set your camera for long exposures to create stunning star trails over the tranquil lake. The reflections in the water create a beautiful symmetry, doubling the impact of the stars above.
- Astro Portraits: Capture the silhouette of a lone trekker or group standing in awe under the stars, with the snowy peaks and lake reflections as a dreamy backdrop.
- Golden hour: As the sun sets behind the mountains, light begins to soften, creating a golden hue that reflects on the lake’s surface. Perfect for wide-angle shots of the lake with the mountain backdrop.
- Blue hour & Milky Way rise: After sunset, the colors in the sky turn into a rich blue, and the stars gradually appear, offering the perfect time to capture the Milky Way before it fully rises.
This combination of landscape and nightscape opportunities will surely give you a full portfolio of stunning shots from Carhuacocha, whether you're shooting the high Andes during the day or capturing the celestial beauty under a star-filled sky.
Day 4: Carhuacocha – Huayhuash (4,300 m / 14,107 ft)
Trek time: 5-6 hours
Photography Focus: Glacial lakes, mountain reflections, sweeping landscapes, and nightscapes
After a morning at the stunning Carhuacocha Lake, we embark on the hike towards Huayhuash, a spectacular high-altitude campsite nestled beneath towering Andean giants. Along the way, prepare for sweeping views of jagged peaks, bright turquoise lakes, and vast valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.
📸 Landscape Photography Tip:
As you trek through this rugged landscape, take your time to photograph Yerupajá, the second-highest peak in Peru, as it looms above the valley. The way the clouds and sunlight play over the glacier-covered peaks offers endless opportunities for dramatic shots.
As we arrive at Huayhuash, the scenery only gets more dramatic, with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and glacial lakes—each angle providing a new opportunity for wide-angle landscape shots.
Nightscape Photography at HuayhuashAs night falls, Huayhuash offers one of the best stargazing spots in the world—far from city lights, this remote camp allows for crystal-clear night skies.
Best Nightscape Shots:
Photography Tip for Nightscapes:
To get the best starry shots, use a wide aperture (f/2.8–f/4) and a high ISO (3200–6400) for clear, sharp stars. Make sure your exposure time doesn’t exceed 20-30 seconds to avoid star trails unless you're specifically going for them.
This night promises to be unforgettable—the perfect opportunity for some of the best nightscape photography you’ll ever experience.
Photography Focus: Glacial lakes, mountain reflections, sweeping landscapes, and nightscapes
After a morning at the stunning Carhuacocha Lake, we embark on the hike towards Huayhuash, a spectacular high-altitude campsite nestled beneath towering Andean giants. Along the way, prepare for sweeping views of jagged peaks, bright turquoise lakes, and vast valleys stretching as far as the eye can see.
📸 Landscape Photography Tip:
As you trek through this rugged landscape, take your time to photograph Yerupajá, the second-highest peak in Peru, as it looms above the valley. The way the clouds and sunlight play over the glacier-covered peaks offers endless opportunities for dramatic shots.
As we arrive at Huayhuash, the scenery only gets more dramatic, with breathtaking vistas of the surrounding mountains and glacial lakes—each angle providing a new opportunity for wide-angle landscape shots.
Nightscape Photography at HuayhuashAs night falls, Huayhuash offers one of the best stargazing spots in the world—far from city lights, this remote camp allows for crystal-clear night skies.
Best Nightscape Shots:
- Milky Way over the Huayhuash peaks: The stars above the towering mountains create a breathtaking contrast against the deep blue of the night sky.
- Star Trails and Reflections: Capture the swirling stars above with long exposures, and use the stillness of the nearby lakes to reflect the celestial beauty.
- Tented Camps with Starry Skies: If you’ve set up your camp nearby, don’t miss a chance to photograph your tent silhouetted against the Milky Way or the towering peaks.
Photography Tip for Nightscapes:
To get the best starry shots, use a wide aperture (f/2.8–f/4) and a high ISO (3200–6400) for clear, sharp stars. Make sure your exposure time doesn’t exceed 20-30 seconds to avoid star trails unless you're specifically going for them.
This night promises to be unforgettable—the perfect opportunity for some of the best nightscape photography you’ll ever experience.
Day 5: Carhuacocha – Full Day & Night Photography by the Lake
Photography Focus: Majestic landscapes, time-lapse, reflections, and a Milky Way masterpiece
Today is a rare gift for landscape photographers—a full day to slow down and truly connect with one of the most photogenic spots in the Andes: Laguna Carhuacocha. Without the pressure of moving camp, you’ll have the time and freedom to chase the light, experiment with compositions, and wait for nature’s moments to unfold.
Surrounding the lake are three of the most iconic peaks in the Huayhuash range--Yerupajá, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca—standing like sentinels above the shimmering water. Watch as the changing light transforms the mood of the landscape, from soft morning pastels to deep afternoon contrast and glowing golden hour magic.
Daytime Photography Tips:
Nightscape Photography at Carhuacocha: Pure Andean MagicWhen night falls, this remote lake becomes a celestial stage. With no artificial light for miles, the sky explodes with stars, and the snow-capped peaks glow under the soft touch of moonlight or starlight.
Night Photography Highlights:
Today is a rare gift for landscape photographers—a full day to slow down and truly connect with one of the most photogenic spots in the Andes: Laguna Carhuacocha. Without the pressure of moving camp, you’ll have the time and freedom to chase the light, experiment with compositions, and wait for nature’s moments to unfold.
Surrounding the lake are three of the most iconic peaks in the Huayhuash range--Yerupajá, Siula Grande, and Jirishanca—standing like sentinels above the shimmering water. Watch as the changing light transforms the mood of the landscape, from soft morning pastels to deep afternoon contrast and glowing golden hour magic.
Daytime Photography Tips:
- Use ND filters to smooth out the lake’s surface and capture mirror-like reflections.
- Include foreground elements like boulders, wildflowers, or herds of alpacas.
- Wide-angle lenses work beautifully here, but don’t forget to zoom in on glacier textures and cloud drama over the peaks.
Nightscape Photography at Carhuacocha: Pure Andean MagicWhen night falls, this remote lake becomes a celestial stage. With no artificial light for miles, the sky explodes with stars, and the snow-capped peaks glow under the soft touch of moonlight or starlight.
Night Photography Highlights:
- Milky Way arching over the lake and jagged peaks—perfect for panoramas
- Star reflections in still water, creating dreamlike mirror images
- Time-lapse sequences with moving clouds, moonrise, or rotating stars above Yerupajá
- Light painting with tents or foreground rocks for depth and scale
Day 6: Huayhuash – Trapecio Pass – Rampa Cuyoq (4,600 m / 15,091 ft)
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Photography Focus: Mountain panoramas, dynamic skies, starry landscapes, and nightscapes
We start our day early with a steep ascent to Trapecio Pass, one of the most stunning vantage points on the Huayhuash circuit. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast Andean valleys. The view is spectacular, with Yerupajá and Siula Grande towering in the distance, offering photographers a chance to capture the raw, unspoiled beauty of this wild corner of Peru.
As we descend to Rampa Cuyoq, the landscape opens up into wide plains and rolling hills. This area is perfect for wide-angle shots of the Andean highlands, with the surrounding peaks framing the horizon.
Nightscape Photography at Rampa CuyoqWhen night falls, Rampa Cuyoq offers an incredible opportunity for nightscape photography. With no light pollution, the skies are incredibly dark, revealing a breathtaking starry sky above the rugged landscape.
Best Shots:
Photography Focus: Mountain panoramas, dynamic skies, starry landscapes, and nightscapes
We start our day early with a steep ascent to Trapecio Pass, one of the most stunning vantage points on the Huayhuash circuit. From the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping panoramas of jagged peaks, turquoise lakes, and vast Andean valleys. The view is spectacular, with Yerupajá and Siula Grande towering in the distance, offering photographers a chance to capture the raw, unspoiled beauty of this wild corner of Peru.
As we descend to Rampa Cuyoq, the landscape opens up into wide plains and rolling hills. This area is perfect for wide-angle shots of the Andean highlands, with the surrounding peaks framing the horizon.
Nightscape Photography at Rampa CuyoqWhen night falls, Rampa Cuyoq offers an incredible opportunity for nightscape photography. With no light pollution, the skies are incredibly dark, revealing a breathtaking starry sky above the rugged landscape.
Best Shots:
- Star Trails: Capture long exposures of the stars moving across the sky, with the rugged mountain silhouettes as a dramatic foreground. The peaks of Siula Grande and Yerupajá will be bathed in moonlight, creating a stark contrast against the deep, dark sky.
- Milky Way: The Milky Way often shines brightly over this area, providing an ideal backdrop for stunning long-exposure shots. Frame the arch of the Milky Way rising above the peaks, or shoot it as a reflection in any nearby pools or streams.
- Tented Camp: If you're camping, the soft glow of headlamps or tent lights against the vast, dark Andean backdrop creates an intimate yet expansive shot, telling the story of your adventure under the stars.
- Use a wide aperture (f/2.8 or wider) for capturing the stars.
- Set your ISO around 1600-3200 to capture enough light without introducing too much noise.
- A tripod is essential for stability during long exposures.
- For star trails, use a slow shutter speed (typically 20-30 minutes) or multiple shorter exposures, stacked together later.
Day 7: Pampa Cuyoq – Santa Rosa Pass – Cutatambo (4,200 m / 13,780 ft)
Trek time: 5–6 hours
Photography Focus: Majestic mountain landscapes, high-altitude ridgelines, starry skies, and tranquil village life
After breakfast, we begin a challenging but rewarding ascent to Santa Rosa Pass, one of the highest points of the trek. The panoramic views of the Cordillera Huayhuash are jaw-dropping, with towering peaks and expansive valleys opening up before you. Capture wide-angle shots of the rugged terrain, ice-covered mountains, and deep glacial valleys. The play of light and shadows on the peaks as the sun shifts is perfect for dramatic landscape photography.
As we descend towards Cutatambo, we pass through rolling hills and small farms where you’ll find Andean wildlife like llamas and alpacas. The contrast of green fields against the towering mountains creates beautiful compositions. Cutatambo, a small and tranquil village, offers a peaceful setting for the evening.
Nightscape Photography at CutatamboOnce the sun sets, Cutatambo becomes a perfect location for nightscape photography. The village is nestled between towering peaks, creating a dramatic backdrop for astrophotography. With minimal light pollution, the stars seem to sparkle brighter, and the rugged landscape takes on an entirely different, almost mystical, feel under the night sky.
Best Night Photography Tips:
This night offers an incredible opportunity for capturing the beauty of the Andean landscape after dark. The quiet and remote setting of Cutatambo makes it an ideal location to experiment with long exposure techniques, star photography, and light painting to enhance your portfolio with stunning nightscape shots.
Let me know if you want to adapt this text for a website or a more detailed photography guide!
Photography Focus: Majestic mountain landscapes, high-altitude ridgelines, starry skies, and tranquil village life
After breakfast, we begin a challenging but rewarding ascent to Santa Rosa Pass, one of the highest points of the trek. The panoramic views of the Cordillera Huayhuash are jaw-dropping, with towering peaks and expansive valleys opening up before you. Capture wide-angle shots of the rugged terrain, ice-covered mountains, and deep glacial valleys. The play of light and shadows on the peaks as the sun shifts is perfect for dramatic landscape photography.
As we descend towards Cutatambo, we pass through rolling hills and small farms where you’ll find Andean wildlife like llamas and alpacas. The contrast of green fields against the towering mountains creates beautiful compositions. Cutatambo, a small and tranquil village, offers a peaceful setting for the evening.
Nightscape Photography at CutatamboOnce the sun sets, Cutatambo becomes a perfect location for nightscape photography. The village is nestled between towering peaks, creating a dramatic backdrop for astrophotography. With minimal light pollution, the stars seem to sparkle brighter, and the rugged landscape takes on an entirely different, almost mystical, feel under the night sky.
Best Night Photography Tips:
- Star Trails & Mountain Silhouettes: Use a long exposure to capture star trails above the towering peaks, with the Santa Rosa Pass and surrounding mountains forming stark, dramatic silhouettes.
- Milky Way Over the Peaks: The Milky Way can often be visible in the Andean skies, especially in this high-altitude area. Position your camera to capture the Milky Way arcing over the jagged peaks or reflected in any small nearby pools of water.
- Light Painting: Use your flashlight to add subtle light to the foreground (like a small stone structure or alpacas) while keeping the mountains and stars sharp. This creates a magical light painting effect against the backdrop of the vast night sky.
This night offers an incredible opportunity for capturing the beauty of the Andean landscape after dark. The quiet and remote setting of Cutatambo makes it an ideal location to experiment with long exposure techniques, star photography, and light painting to enhance your portfolio with stunning nightscape shots.
Let me know if you want to adapt this text for a website or a more detailed photography guide!
Day 8: Cutatambo (Optional Day)
Photography Focus: Stellar nightscapes, expansive landscapes, golden hour light
Today is an optional rest day at Cutatambo, a perfect opportunity to recharge and explore the surrounding beauty at a relaxed pace. Whether you choose to stay at camp or venture out for a short hike, this day offers incredible opportunities for landscape and nightscape photography.
Daytime Photography: Panoramic LandscapesIn the morning light, venture around the Cutatambo campsite for sweeping panoramic shots of the Cordillera Huayhuash. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks and rolling meadows dotted with grazing alpacas—classic Andean beauty at its finest.
A wide-angle landscape with the rugged peaks framed by wildflowers or grazing animals.
Nightscape Photography at CutatamboAs evening descends, the real magic begins. Cutatambo is far from artificial light sources, giving you a pristine canvas for astrophotography.
A long exposure of the Milky Way over the jagged peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash, with a tranquil reflection in a nearby lake or a tent illuminated from within to add depth to the shot.
Pro Tip for Night Photography:
For sharp stars and minimal blur, use a fast lens (f/2.8 or lower), set your camera to a high ISO (800-3200 depending on your gear), and experiment with exposure times to get the perfect balance between star brightness and minimal noise.
This optional day at Cutatambo offers a unique opportunity to get some of the best landscape and nightscape shots of your trek, making it an unmissable moment for any photographer.
Today is an optional rest day at Cutatambo, a perfect opportunity to recharge and explore the surrounding beauty at a relaxed pace. Whether you choose to stay at camp or venture out for a short hike, this day offers incredible opportunities for landscape and nightscape photography.
Daytime Photography: Panoramic LandscapesIn the morning light, venture around the Cutatambo campsite for sweeping panoramic shots of the Cordillera Huayhuash. The valley is surrounded by towering peaks and rolling meadows dotted with grazing alpacas—classic Andean beauty at its finest.
- Wide-angle shots will capture the vastness of the high-altitude landscape.
- Wildlife (such as Andean condors or vicuñas) might wander through the area, offering a chance for striking wildlife portraits against the dramatic backdrop.
- Golden hour light will bathe the mountains and meadows, creating soft contrasts and long shadows—perfect for capturing the land’s true depth.
A wide-angle landscape with the rugged peaks framed by wildflowers or grazing animals.
Nightscape Photography at CutatamboAs evening descends, the real magic begins. Cutatambo is far from artificial light sources, giving you a pristine canvas for astrophotography.
- Set your sights on the starry sky—this is a perfect location for capturing the Milky Way in all its glory. The high altitude and clear skies provide incredible clarity and contrast, making stars pop and adding rich texture to the night.
- Long exposure shots of the night sky will reveal star trails that trace arcs across the heavens. This can be enhanced with foreground elements, like rugged rocks or the silhouette of your tent.
- The mountain peaks stand tall against the dark sky, creating a stark silhouette that contrasts beautifully with the sea of stars above.
A long exposure of the Milky Way over the jagged peaks of the Cordillera Huayhuash, with a tranquil reflection in a nearby lake or a tent illuminated from within to add depth to the shot.
Pro Tip for Night Photography:
For sharp stars and minimal blur, use a fast lens (f/2.8 or lower), set your camera to a high ISO (800-3200 depending on your gear), and experiment with exposure times to get the perfect balance between star brightness and minimal noise.
This optional day at Cutatambo offers a unique opportunity to get some of the best landscape and nightscape shots of your trek, making it an unmissable moment for any photographer.
Day 9: Cutatambo – Huayllapa – Huatiac (4,000 m / 13,123 ft)
Trek time: 5–6 hours
Photography Focus: Majestic landscapes, remote villages, and astrophotography at Huatiac
Today, we trek from the charming village of Cutatambo, making our way toward Huayllapa, a traditional Andean village nestled at the foot of towering peaks. Along the way, we pass through high-altitude meadows, rugged stone paths, and picturesque mountain scenes—ideal for sweeping landscape shots of the Cordillera Huayhuash range.
Upon reaching Huatiac, we set up camp in a secluded spot, perfect for capturing the rugged beauty of the surrounding peaks. The remote location ensures little light pollution, giving you a fantastic opportunity for nightscape photography under an incredible starry sky.
Nightscape Photography at HuatiacAs the sun sets behind the mountains, the sky transforms into a stunning canvas of deep blues and purples. Golden hour at this elevation brings out the dramatic textures of the rocky ridgelines, bathed in soft light. You’ll want to capture the interplay of shadows and highlights on the mountains, creating stunning contrasts.
Once the sky darkens, astrophotography takes center stage. With the vast, clear sky overhead, this is an ideal location to photograph the Milky Way and star trails over the rugged peaks of the Huayhuash range.
Best Night Shots:
Photography Focus: Majestic landscapes, remote villages, and astrophotography at Huatiac
Today, we trek from the charming village of Cutatambo, making our way toward Huayllapa, a traditional Andean village nestled at the foot of towering peaks. Along the way, we pass through high-altitude meadows, rugged stone paths, and picturesque mountain scenes—ideal for sweeping landscape shots of the Cordillera Huayhuash range.
Upon reaching Huatiac, we set up camp in a secluded spot, perfect for capturing the rugged beauty of the surrounding peaks. The remote location ensures little light pollution, giving you a fantastic opportunity for nightscape photography under an incredible starry sky.
Nightscape Photography at HuatiacAs the sun sets behind the mountains, the sky transforms into a stunning canvas of deep blues and purples. Golden hour at this elevation brings out the dramatic textures of the rocky ridgelines, bathed in soft light. You’ll want to capture the interplay of shadows and highlights on the mountains, creating stunning contrasts.
Once the sky darkens, astrophotography takes center stage. With the vast, clear sky overhead, this is an ideal location to photograph the Milky Way and star trails over the rugged peaks of the Huayhuash range.
Best Night Shots:
- Milky Way and star trails rising above the jagged peaks
- Long exposure shots with the campfire and tents illuminated, casting soft glows against the mountain silhouettes
- Reflections of the starry sky in any nearby water sources, adding an ethereal quality to your photos
Day 10: Huatiac – Punta Tapush Pass – Gashpampa Overnight
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Photography Focus: Dramatic mountain views, high-altitude landscapes, and starry night skies
We begin the day with an early departure from Huatiac, trekking through a rugged Andean landscape towards the mighty Punta Tapush Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). The route is challenging but richly rewarding with dramatic mountain panoramas unfolding with every step. You’ll capture sweeping views of deep valleys and jagged peaks, and watch as the land transforms from arid rocky terrain to lush alpine meadows.
At the pass, the view is nothing short of spectacular. Here, the towering summits of the Cordillera Huayhuash and expansive glacial fields create an awe-inspiring backdrop. This is prime time for wide-angle shots, highlighting the contrast between the bright sky and the rugged terrain below.
Best Landscape Photography Tips:
Nightscape Photography at GashpampaAs night falls, the high-altitude darkness will provide one of the best opportunities for nightscape photography. The starry sky here is unmatched, with the Milky Way stretching across the heavens in full splendor.
Best Nightscape Tips:
Photography Focus: Dramatic mountain views, high-altitude landscapes, and starry night skies
We begin the day with an early departure from Huatiac, trekking through a rugged Andean landscape towards the mighty Punta Tapush Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). The route is challenging but richly rewarding with dramatic mountain panoramas unfolding with every step. You’ll capture sweeping views of deep valleys and jagged peaks, and watch as the land transforms from arid rocky terrain to lush alpine meadows.
At the pass, the view is nothing short of spectacular. Here, the towering summits of the Cordillera Huayhuash and expansive glacial fields create an awe-inspiring backdrop. This is prime time for wide-angle shots, highlighting the contrast between the bright sky and the rugged terrain below.
Best Landscape Photography Tips:
- Capture the sweeping high-altitude vistas and the contrasting textures of the rocky mountain ridges and verdant valleys.
- Wide-angle shots of Punta Tapush’s dramatic views with trekkers as silhouettes work beautifully.
Nightscape Photography at GashpampaAs night falls, the high-altitude darkness will provide one of the best opportunities for nightscape photography. The starry sky here is unmatched, with the Milky Way stretching across the heavens in full splendor.
Best Nightscape Tips:
- Star Trails: With minimal light pollution, the clear skies above Gashpampa are ideal for long exposure star trail photography.
- Astrophotography Composition: Use the rugged mountain peaks or camp elements (like tents) as foregrounds to add depth to your celestial shots. The stark contrast between the mountain ridges and the bright stars creates dramatic, almost surreal scenes.
- Milky Way Reflection: If you're lucky enough to find a calm lake or pond nearby, the reflection of the stars in the water will add an ethereal element to your astrophotography.
Day 11: Gashpampa – Yaucha Pass – Jahuacocha (4,400 m / 14,436 ft)
Trek time: 7-8 hours
Photography Focus: Majestic mountain landscapes, high-altitude views, and starry night skies
Today’s journey will take us through some of the most breathtaking Andean terrain, starting with a challenging ascent to Yaucha Pass, where panoramic views of the Cordillera Huayhuash unfold in all their glory. The towering peaks and expansive valleys offer dramatic landscape compositions—perfect for wide-angle shots capturing the sheer scale of the mountains.
The descent to Jahuacocha Lake offers stunning vistas as the landscape opens up. This serene spot, surrounded by the iconic peaks of Jirishanca and Yerupajá, creates a dreamy landscape ideal for both landscape and reflection photography.
As we set up camp near the lake, take time to photograph the golden hour light as it bathes the mountains in a soft, warm glow—one of the best moments for dramatic shots with contrasting light and shadow.
Nightscape Photography at Jahuacocha LakeWhen the sun sets, Jahuacocha Lake transforms into a photographer’s paradise. The high-altitude setting, with its still waters and clear skies, makes it a prime spot for nightscape photography. The absence of light pollution offers perfect conditions for capturing the stars in their full glory.
Night Photography Tips:
Photography Focus: Majestic mountain landscapes, high-altitude views, and starry night skies
Today’s journey will take us through some of the most breathtaking Andean terrain, starting with a challenging ascent to Yaucha Pass, where panoramic views of the Cordillera Huayhuash unfold in all their glory. The towering peaks and expansive valleys offer dramatic landscape compositions—perfect for wide-angle shots capturing the sheer scale of the mountains.
The descent to Jahuacocha Lake offers stunning vistas as the landscape opens up. This serene spot, surrounded by the iconic peaks of Jirishanca and Yerupajá, creates a dreamy landscape ideal for both landscape and reflection photography.
As we set up camp near the lake, take time to photograph the golden hour light as it bathes the mountains in a soft, warm glow—one of the best moments for dramatic shots with contrasting light and shadow.
Nightscape Photography at Jahuacocha LakeWhen the sun sets, Jahuacocha Lake transforms into a photographer’s paradise. The high-altitude setting, with its still waters and clear skies, makes it a prime spot for nightscape photography. The absence of light pollution offers perfect conditions for capturing the stars in their full glory.
Night Photography Tips:
- Star Trails & Milky Way: With the clear skies above, the Milky Way will stretch across the heavens in a stunning arc. Set your camera for long exposures to capture the star trails, with Yerupajá’s towering peak and the calm lake reflecting the night sky below.
- Reflections in the Lake: If conditions are calm, the lake will perfectly mirror the stars above. Use a wide aperture for long exposure shots, allowing the lights to shimmer both in the sky and the water.
- Campfire Shots: For a more intimate shot, try capturing the tents lit by the fire, with the jagged peaks and starry sky in the background. This creates a striking contrast between human presence and the overwhelming wilderness
Day 12: Jahuacocha – Mancapunta Pass – Pocpa – Chiquian – Huaraz
Trek time: 6–7 hours
Drive time to Huaraz: ~4 hours
Photography Focus: Sunset at Mancapunta Pass, the last mountain views, and astrophotography at Jahuacocha
After an early breakfast, we begin our final descent towards Mancapunta Pass. The views from the pass are sweeping, showcasing the last grand panoramas of the Huayhuash range. The changing light creates a perfect canvas for wide-angle shots of the rugged peaks and valleys below. Take time to capture the dramatic colors of the Andes, particularly in the late afternoon light.
We then continue to Pocpa, a quaint Andean village where we’ll say goodbye to the mountains before heading to Chiquian and finally returning to Huaraz. As you drive, keep an eye out for more opportunities to photograph the Andean landscape, with steep valleys, rivers, and the occasional burst of wildflowers.
Nightscape Photography at Jahuacocha (Optional)If you have the chance to stay near Jahuacocha before making your way to Chiquian, the nightscape opportunities here are unforgettable.
Night Photography Tips:
This day offers a final farewell to the mountains with ample opportunity for both landscape and nightscape photography, perfect for capturing the spirit of the Huayhuash range in both daylight and the ethereal beauty of night.
Drive time to Huaraz: ~4 hours
Photography Focus: Sunset at Mancapunta Pass, the last mountain views, and astrophotography at Jahuacocha
After an early breakfast, we begin our final descent towards Mancapunta Pass. The views from the pass are sweeping, showcasing the last grand panoramas of the Huayhuash range. The changing light creates a perfect canvas for wide-angle shots of the rugged peaks and valleys below. Take time to capture the dramatic colors of the Andes, particularly in the late afternoon light.
We then continue to Pocpa, a quaint Andean village where we’ll say goodbye to the mountains before heading to Chiquian and finally returning to Huaraz. As you drive, keep an eye out for more opportunities to photograph the Andean landscape, with steep valleys, rivers, and the occasional burst of wildflowers.
Nightscape Photography at Jahuacocha (Optional)If you have the chance to stay near Jahuacocha before making your way to Chiquian, the nightscape opportunities here are unforgettable.
Night Photography Tips:
- Astrophotography: The lack of light pollution makes Jahuacocha an ideal location for capturing the Milky Way and star trails. Use a wide-angle lens and shoot long exposures to capture the expansive sky above.
- Reflection Shots: If the weather is calm, you can photograph star reflections in the serene waters of the lake. The surrounding peaks of Jirishanca and Yerupajá add depth and texture to the nightscape.
- Tent Light: Capture the glow of your tent's light against the vast, dark night sky for an intimate, surreal scene.
This day offers a final farewell to the mountains with ample opportunity for both landscape and nightscape photography, perfect for capturing the spirit of the Huayhuash range in both daylight and the ethereal beauty of night.
Information
|
Group Size1 – 8 Guests
Experience | Difficulty
Includes
Camping |
Difficulty
|
Price per person:2025
1 pax: 3.950,00 USD
2 pax: 2800,00 USD
3 pax: 2700,00 USD
4 pax: 2600,00 USD
5 pax: 2500,00 USD
6 pax: 2400,00 USD
7 pax: 2300,00 USD
8 pax: 2200,00 USD
9 pax: 2100,00 USD
10 pax:2000.00 USD
2 pax: 2800,00 USD
3 pax: 2700,00 USD
4 pax: 2600,00 USD
5 pax: 2500,00 USD
6 pax: 2400,00 USD
7 pax: 2300,00 USD
8 pax: 2200,00 USD
9 pax: 2100,00 USD
10 pax:2000.00 USD
