Olleros Carhuascancha Chavin Llama Trek
A unique trekking experience combining llamas, ancient trails, high mountain passes, Andean culture and the archaeological heritage of Chavin de Huantar.
Trek Information
About the Olleros Carhuascancha Chavin Trek
The Olleros Carhuascancha Chavin Llama Trek is a unique adventure that combines spectacular mountain scenery with the cultural traditions of the Andean communities.
The route is developed through a strategic alliance among local communities from Canrey Chico, Shongo, Jato, Yanayaku, Chucos and Chavin. The objective is to promote sustainable community development while offering travelers a wider trekking experience through the Wacheksa and Carhuascancha micro-watersheds.
Local llameros and cooks are part of the Association of Auxiliaries of Mountain Sector Olleros / Chavin (ASAM). Their work supports llama breeding and helps preserve the ancestral value of llamas as pack animals in the Cordillera Blanca.
Trekking with llamas also provides an opportunity to experience an ancient Andean tradition and learn more about the relationship between local communities, their mountains and their cultural heritage.
Trek Highlights
Trek with Llamas
Travel with llamas traditionally used as pack animals along the Andean route.
Ancient Trails
Follow historic Pre-Inca pathways connecting the highlands with Chavin de Huantar.
Cordillera Blanca
Enjoy spectacular views of Huantsan, Uruashraju, Rurec, San Juan, Chinchey and other mountain peaks.
Andean Communities
Discover traditional communities and experience an authentic side of rural Peru.
High Mountain Passes
Cross Yanashallash at 4,700 m and Hatunquenuash at 4,600 m.
Chavin de Huantar
Finish the trek by visiting the important archaeological site and museum of Chavin de Huantar.
Trekking Itinerary
Huaraz – Canrey Chico – Tsacracancha
We leave Huaraz after breakfast and drive along the Santa River before continuing toward Olleros and Canrey Chico at approximately 3,360 m.
At Canrey Chico, local community members will be waiting with the llamas that will accompany us during the trek. We begin hiking along the traditional route toward Chavin de Huantar.
Along the trail, the guide explains the history of the traditional pilgrimage route and the cultural importance of the area. The surrounding mountains, llamas and local communities create a unique Andean experience.
We continue to Tsacracancha, where we establish our first campsite for the night.
Tsacracancha – Yanashallash Pass – Kutacorral
We continue trekking from Tsacracancha toward Yanashallash Pass at 4,700 m. The route follows a spectacular Pre-Inca trail between the mountains, accompanied by our llamas.
This ancient pathway was used by pre-Hispanic communities and formed part of traditional pilgrimages toward Chavin de Huantar.
After crossing the pass, we descend toward Kutacorral at approximately 4,200 m.
From Kutacorral, there is a detour toward Carhuascancha where we can enjoy impressive views of Huantsan, one of the sacred mountains associated with the Chavin culture.
Kutacorral – Hatunquenuash Pass – Huantsanpampa
We continue toward Hatunquenuash Pass at approximately 4,600 m.
After crossing the pass, we descend through the Jatunqenwash and Ichikqenhuash gullies toward Huantsanpampa at approximately 4,000 m, where we spend the night.
This is one of the most spectacular days of the trek, with views of Uruashraju (5,735 m), Rurec (5,700 m), Huantsan (6,395 m), San Juan (5,843 m), Chinchey (6,222 m) and Maparaju (5,325 m).
Huantsanpampa – Jitaqoq Pass – Rajuhuarushka
We leave Huantsanpampa and continue through an impressive forest of queñuales toward Jitaqoq Pass, also known as Santa Rosa Pass, at approximately 4,650 m.
From the high point, we enjoy views surrounded by Huantsan, San Juan and Yawarraju. We can also appreciate the impressive mountains of Cayesh, Maparaju and Milpocraju.
We then descend through the Jitaqoq Valley toward Rajuhuarushka at approximately 3,950 m, where we spend the night.
Rest Day at Rajuhuarushka – Potrero Lakes
Day five is planned as a spare and flexible day at Rajuhuarushka.
Depending on weather and group conditions, we can make a shorter excursion to Hatun Potrero and Ichik Potrero lakes.
Alternatively, travelers can enjoy a relaxing day at camp and appreciate the diverse Andean flora of the Cordillera Blanca within Huascaran National Park.
We spend another night at the same campsite in Rajuhuarushka.
Rajuhuarushka – Carhuascancha – Chavin de Huantar – Huaraz
We continue trekking through the Carhuascancha Valley toward Dos Amores Bridge, where transportation will be waiting for us.
Along the way, we observe traditional agricultural activities and the landscapes of the Andean communities.
We continue to Chavin de Huantar, where we visit the important archaeological site of Chavin de Huantar and the National Museum of Chavin.
After visiting the archaeological complex and museum, we return by transportation to Huaraz.
Trekking with Llamas
One of the defining features of this trek is the opportunity to travel with llamas managed by local community members.
Llamas have played an important role in Andean life for centuries, particularly as pack animals adapted to high-altitude environments. Including llamas in this trekking experience helps maintain an ancestral tradition while creating opportunities for local families.
The experience also allows travelers to connect with the cultural landscape of the Cordillera Blanca beyond the most traditional tourist routes.
Mountain Landscapes
The route passes through some of the most impressive mountain scenery of the Cordillera Blanca.
Depending on conditions and visibility, travelers can enjoy views of major peaks including Huantsan, Uruashraju, Rurec, San Juan, Chinchey, Maparaju, Cayesh and Milpocraju.
The combination of high passes, valleys, mountain forests, glacial landscapes and traditional communities makes this route a particularly rewarding experience for experienced trekkers.
Important Information
This is a demanding high-altitude trek. Previous trekking experience and good physical preparation are strongly recommended.
The itinerary includes several high mountain passes, including Yanashallash at approximately 4,700 m and Hatunquenuash at approximately 4,600 m.
Weather conditions in the Cordillera Blanca can change quickly. Appropriate clothing, waterproof protection, sun protection and suitable trekking equipment are essential.
The final itinerary may be adjusted according to weather, trail conditions, local conditions and the recommendations of the professional trekking team.
Ready for the Olleros Llama Trek?
Contact Peru Mountain Climb to ask about dates, transportation, private service, trekking conditions and arrangements for this unique six-day adventure through the Cordillera Blanca.