Summit Dreams: Vallunaraju Climb

Difficulty

Challenging

Comfort

Basic

Rising in the Cordillera Blanca near Huaraz, Vallunaraju (Quechua for “The Snowy Mountain of Dreams”) is a top choice for acclimatization climbs and quick alpine adventures. One of the few peaks climbable in just two days, it’s ideal for beginners while also offering a challenge for experienced mountaineers to refine ice climbing and glacier safety skills.

The ascent features stunning panoramic views, and at moraine camp, climbers enjoy breathtaking sunsets over the icy walls of Ocshapalca and Ranrapalca. While rated moderate, the altitude and approach make it a rewarding challenge.

Whether you're taking your first step into mountaineering or preparing for higher peaks, Vallunaraju offers an unforgettable Andean adventure!

Mountain Climbing

Pablo B. is the provider of this trip

The provider speaks: English, Spanish

Hi, I'm Pablo. I was born in Huaraz at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range. I studied systems engineering and at the same time I practiced trekking on my own, after finishing my engineering career I decided to study for Official Tourist Guide and later I took a specialization course in mountaineering authorized by the Peruvian Government. During my beginnings in mountaineering I climbed important mountains such as: Huascaran, Alpamayo, Artesonraju, Chopicalqui, Ranrapalca, Tocllaraju and the classic 5 thousand mountains. I traveled to Ecuador where I climbed all the volcanoes such as: Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, Ilinizas, Cayambe, as well as Obispo Peak, the most challenging and technical mountain in Ecuador. In 2019 I climbed Aconcagua and now I lead expeditions annually. Mountaineering is my passion and work in this beautiful world.

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Tour highlights

Exciting Glacier Climb

Cross ice slopes and crevasses on your way to the top, a great challenge for both new and experienced climbers.

Incredible Summit Views

At 5,686m, enjoy breathtaking sights of the Cordillera Blanca mountains, including Huascarán and Tocllaraju, before heading back to Huaraz.

Beautiful Hike to Camp

Walk through the Quebrada de Llaca valley, surrounded by tall mountains, before setting up camp under the stars.

Route details

Your adventure begins in Huaraz, where we’ll pick you up from your hotel in private transportation. From there, we head east to Quebrada de Llaca, the gateway to our ascent.

The trek to moraine camp takes approximately 2 to 3 hours along a steep but rewarding trail. Along the way, you'll take in breathtaking views of the Ranrapalca, Ocshapalca, León Dormido, and Rima Rima peaks.

At camp, settle into your mountain tent, relax, and enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes as the sun sets over the Cordillera Blanca.

Elevation Gain: +1900m (3100m → 5000m)
Drive Time: ~2 hours
Hiking Time: ~2-3 hours
Lodging: Mountain tents
Meals Included: Box lunch, lunch & dinner

Difficulty

Challenging

Does not require specific skills, but one must be in good health

Tour provider's comments

Physical Training

Participants must be in excellent physical condition to join this climb. We recommend previous and constant preparation as a crucial factor to take on this challenge, then, the physical stress caused by the days of climbing will be minimized.

We strongly advise all participants to have an adequate training plan in gyms, outdoor sports, climbing peaks, bearing weight and long day hikes.

If you would like our advice, we can provide you a training plan after evaluation of your experience in hiking and sporting activity.

Climbing Knowledge

You must have knowledge of glacier progression, you must have a knowledge of mountain rescue, safety and equipment management. These skills allow you to optimize your safety and generate a collaborative work with our guides during the climb.

Acclimatization

Participants should have experience in altitude the last week prior to the begin the climb Vallunaraju, which ensures adequate acclimatization and conditioning of the body to the altitude. It is recommended to stay above 4,000 masl before starting the climb.

We suggest an acclimatization program before your expedition, it can be mountains of the Cordillera Blanca with a minimum of 6 days of anticipation. We recommend acclimatization at Churup lake, then a previous climbing in Mateo peak.

Accommodation

Comfort

Basic

Tent

1 night

Tickets to group meeting place

Group meeting place

Departamento de Áncash, Provincia de Huaraz, Huaraz

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Partnered with

Weather during the tour

Weather conditions along the route

You will get a weather forecast for this tour’s route based on

the forecasts for this season
the statistics from previous years’ trips

Tour conditions

Included

сertified Mountain Guide IFMGA / IVBV / UIAGM (english, spanish);
сertified chef;
private transportation: Huaraz - Quebrada de Llaca - Huaraz;
porters for the transfer of logistic equipment from base camp to high camp;
mountaineering equipment (helmet, ice axe, harness, and crampons);
5 meals per day (breakfast, lunch, box lunch, teatime and dinner);
4 seasons tent with double occupancy;
tent kitchen, dining room and bathroom;
first aid kit;
permanent radio communication between the team;
boiled water to fill your bottle every day;
tips to get to Huaraz;
advice before the Expedition;
last day: lunch and farewell toast with regional food and typical Peruvian drinks.

Extras

airline ticket to Lima and back to the country of origin;
bus transportation Lima / Huaraz / Lima;
entrance to the Huascaran National Park (S/. 60.00 soles per person);
personal porters;
mountain boots;
personal tent (if you want a personal tent, the rent is S/. 30 soles per day);
extra costs for premature abandonment of the expedition;
International Medical Insurance;
accident and rescue insurance (you can ask us about the agreement we have with Global Rescue for a preferential price);
travel luggage and trip cancellation insurance;
transfer to Huaraz out of schedule, in case of premature abandonment of the expedition;
first breakfast at the beginning of the itinerary is not included;
sleeping bag -25° / -30º;
personal expenses;
hotel during your stay in Huaraz;
tips for guide / staff.

Group size

From 6 to 9 tourists

Duration

2 days

1 night