Description

Rugged, snow-capped mountains tower over fields of wildflowers. Cows quietly drink from the blue waters of high alpine lakes. Cascading waterfalls thunder down from looming glaciers. Triumphant yodels echo across valleys as climbers summit renowned peaks. This is the highest tropical mountain range in the world and one of the most beautiful places you'll ever visit. Get ready for the Andean adventure of a lifetime!

Climb into the Cordillera
North of the capital of Lima, Peru's desert coastline rises abruptly into the imposing Cordillera Blanca. Here more than 50 mountains over 5,700 meters pierce the sky with razor sharp ridges, jagged peaks, and imposing glaciers. Each year adventurers from across the globe migrate here to take advantage of one of nature's premiere playgrounds.

The adventure begins with a drive along the desolate and winding desert roads of Peru's coast, before turning straight into the towering Andes to the mountaineering center of Huaraz. After getting settled in Huaraz, you'll begin your journey with a quiet stroll through Incan ruins and a delicious cup of coca tea. After making final preparations and adjusting to the altitude, you'll set off on foot and enter the wilds of these majestic mountains on the renowned Santa Cruz circuit.

Trek of a Lifetime!
Climbing out of the valley on ancient trails, you will enter into one of the earth's natural wonders. During next four days, leave civilization behind and immerse yourself in the cordillera. You'll trek past turquoise lakes, hike over mountain passes, savor delicious backcountry dinners, and wake to breathtaking views. The hike will be made easier by the assistance of local professional guides, cooks and porters, giving you time to fully appreciate the natural beauty around you. Along the way you will witness colorful fields of wildflowers, soaring Andean birds, and the mighty peak of Alpamayo, which UNESCO named the most beautiful mountain in the world. During the evening, relax and get to know your fellow travelers while spotting shooting stars in the clear night sky. After a few days of preparation, experience the satisfaction of successfully climbing 15,000-foot Punta Union pass, the highest point of the trek. To finish it all off, you'll be rewarded with views of Peru's highest peak and the blue waters of Llanganuco.

Who Should Come?
Andean Adventurer is the perfect program for those looking for the personal growth of entering the wilderness in one of Mother Nature's crowning jewels. While no experience is necessary, this program is both physically and mentally challenging, and participants should be ready for a backpacking experience. Professional guides, skilled cooks, and quality equipment will help make this rustic program comfortable and rewarding. Grab your hiking boots and enter one of the most beautiful places on earth! Combine this with one of our other community service programs for an amazing Peruvian experience.

Highlights

TREK through the highest tropical mountain range in the world on an incredible one-week adventure.

CHALLENGE your body and mind as you go over 15,000-foot passes on the Cordillera Blanca's famous Santa Cruz circuit.

CAMP by turquoise alpine lakes surrounded by fields of vibrant wildflowers.

MARVEL at sight of Alpamayo, named the world's most beautiful mountains.

EXPERIENCE pristine alpine ecosystems dwarfed by towering glaciated peaks.

Travel Types

• BackPacking Abroad
• Hiking
• Student Tours
• Tours
• Trekking

Type of Programs

• Adventure Travel
• Student Tours

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

2,195+ International airfare

Program Fees Include:

The above cost includes all ground transportation in-country, 3 meals a day, housing, staff through the duration of the program, and all excursions on the program itinerary not listed as optional.

This Program is open to

American, Asian, Australian, Canadian, European, Kiwi, South African and Worldwide Participants.

Application Process Involves

• Online Application plus Application Assessment

Typically The Application Process Time is

1-2 business days

Rustic Pathways's Mission Statement

Rustic Pathways is a pioneer in providing superior quality travel and service programs for students and families in some of the world's most welcoming countries. Rustic Pathways demands professionalism and integrity across all of its operations, insists on quality in all aspects of its programs, and places the safety of its students above all other considerations. We enrich the lives of our students and our staff, benefit the parts of the world we serve, and build cultural bridges that lead to greater global understanding and cooperation.

Year Founded

1983