Join us on what is indisputably the most spectacular trek in the Andes — the exciting circuit around northern Peru’s Huayhuash (pronounced why wash) range. Less than 20 miles in length, the Huayhuash contains eight peaks over 19,000' in elevation, making it the second highest cordillera in the country after the Blanca. The icy, knife-edged crest of these mountains is so steep and compact that we enjoy continuous views of towering, ice-clad peaks such as Yerupajá (21,765'), Peru’s second highest summit, Jirishanca (19,995') and Rondoy (19,290'). Huayhuash was declared a Reserve zone by the Peruvian government in December of 2002 in order to protect its ecosystems. One of the least traveled Andean ranges, this is also one of the most physically demanding treks in Peru with lots of elevation gain and loss as the route crosses 7 passes in 12 days (all are over 15,000' in elevation—the highest reaching 16,400'). The trek averages approximately 8.3 miles per day, but one day we cover 13 miles, following rocky and sometimes steep trails. A rest day is also included to allow us to adjust our pace if necessary for acclimating or due to weather conditions. June and August are ideal months for this adventure as the weather is typically clear and dry, and the snow from the season’s rainstorms has melted off the highest passes. Of course, the rewards are worth the effort - spectacular mountain views, a dozen azure, emerald or turquoise-colored lakes, Andean wildlife such as the vizcacha and condor, typical villages, wildflowers, and some of the few remaining queñual forests!