PERU Mountain Climbing Trips

The Peruvian Andes provide an incomparable spot for mountaineering and make Peru a magnet for lovers of South American mountains. There are many reasons for this; a unique concentration of mountains and relatively few mountain climbers, mild weather almost all year round, and relatively easy access to sites that are never-the-less cut off from hectic city life. It is an ideal combination that makes Peru one of the most attractive destinations for mountaineers worldwide.

Without a doubt the best place for mountaineering in Peru is the spectacular Cordillera Blanca, which is accessed from the town of Huaraz. There are plenty of peaks over 5,000m and an incredible 33 peaks over 6,000m including Huascarán, which at 6,768m is Peru's highest peak.

The more remote Cordillera Huayhuash is 4 hours by bus from Huaraz and has seven summits over 6,000m, the highest of which is Yerupaja at 6,634m.

In Arequipa, the most popular climbs are El Misti (5825) and Chachani (6070), snow-capped volcanoes which dominate the city. The El Misti climb can be undertaken in two days and does not require any previous mountaineering experience so long as you are accompanied by an experienced guide.

In the Cusco district, ascents of Salkantay (6,271m) and Ausangate (6,384m), in the Cordilleras Vilcabamba and Vilcanota respectively, are made by a few groups each year. Both of these climbs should be planned well in advance and are suitable only for relatively experienced climbers.