Peru adventure travel opportunities are almost limitless. The Cordillera Blanca is one of the most specatacular mountain locations in the world, with snow-capped peaks and sparkling blue glacial lakes. There are over 50 peaks that exceed 5,000 meters (15,000 feet) and you are spectacularly close to these giant mountains from the first day of any trek. Aracari’s founder & CEO, Marisol Mosquera, reports back on her experience hiking the classic Cordillera Blanca Santa Cruz trek, the most popular camping trek in this region.

Review of the Cordillera Blanca Santa Cruz Trek

I just did the Santa Cruz/Llanganuco Trek. Conclusion: It was absolutely gorgeous. The mountain scenery in the Cordillera Blanca is to die for – it is second only to the Annapurna in the Himalayas. Being so close to those snowy peaks was absolutely out of this world. The camping was first class and the food delicious. Our staff was delightful and totally connected with my 6 year old who trekked approximately 50% of the distance (50km) and used his horse for the remaining 50%. He had his first go at trout fishing, we roasted marshmallows and swam in glacial lakes. It was sheer bliss and very affordable too.

Here you can read a detailed day-by-day account of the Cordillera Blanca Santa Cruz trek by the Aracari team.

Alternative treks in the Cordillera Blanca

The Cordillera Blanca Santa Cruz trek is just one of many Peru luxury trekking opportunities in the area. If you don’t want to camp, basing yourself in a lodge is a great way to take day hikes, such as to the spectacular glacial lagoon Laguna 69, a not-to-be-missed highlight of the area.

Check out our Cordillera Blanca trekking itinerary with day hikes based at Llanganuco Mountain Lodge.

Hike the Cordillera Blanca Santa Cruz trek with Aracari

Aracari specializes in private, tailormade trips to Peru. All of our hikes are arranged on a private basis with no fixed departure dates. Contact us for more information on visiting the Cordillera Blanca.