Quick Picks for Cordillera Blanca Mountains

Want to find the right mountain fast? Here are our top suggestions for every type of traveler. This list helps you prioritize your Huaraz itinerary based on your fitness and goals.

• Best overall: Alpamayo (for its perfect pyramid shape)
• Best for families: Pastoruri Glacier (very little hiking required)
• Best for beginners: Nevado Pisco (stunning views with basic climbing)
• Best free view: Vallunaraju (visible directly from Huaraz city)

10 Beautiful Mountains in Cordillera Blanca

This range contains dozens of summits over 6,000 meters. Many are world-famous for their shape and history. Explore the list of Cordillera Blanca mountain peaks below to find your match.

1. Name: Huascarán
   Type: Mountain peak
   Why go: It is the highest peak in Peru and the tropics.
   Best for: Experienced mountaineers and sightseers.
   Where: Yungay province.
   Time: 5-7 days for climbing; 1 day for views.
   Cost: $15 park fee; climb costs $1,000+.
   Getting there: Take a bus from Huaraz to Yungay.
   Tip: View its double peaks from the Llanganuco Lakes for the best photos.
2. Name: Alpamayo
   Type: Sight/Activity
   Why go: Voted the most beautiful mountain in the world.
   Best for: Serious climbers and long-distance hikers.
   Where: Northern Cordillera Blanca.
   Time: 7-10 days on the Santa Cruz trek.
   Cost: Guided treks usually cost $500-$800.
   Getting there: Start from Cashapampa or Vaqueria.
   Tip: The famous pyramid shape is best seen from the Jancarurish base camp.
3. Name: Artesonraju
   Type: Sight
   Why go: Known as the inspiration for the Paramount Pictures logo.
   Best for: Peak baggers and photographers.
   Where: Parón Valley.
   Time: 1 day to see; 4 days to climb.
   Cost: $5-$10 entry fee to the valley.
   Getting there: Hire a private taxi or tour from Huaraz to Laguna Parón.
   Tip: Take the hike above Laguna Parón for the iconic logo view.
4. Name: Nevado Pisco
   Type: Activity
   Why go: Offers the most complete 360-degree panorama of the range.
   Best for: High-altitude hikers.
   Where: Near the Llanganuco Valley.
   Time: 2-3 days.
   Cost: $200-$400 for a guided trip.
   Getting there: Entry through the Cebollapampa trailhead.
   Tip: Check our guide on climbing Nevado Pisco for beginners for more details.
5. Name: Pastoruri Glacier
   Type: Nature experience
   Why go: One of the most accessible glaciers in South America.
   Best for: Easy day trips and families.
   Where: Southern end of the range.
   Time: 5-7 hours.
   Cost: $15-$30 for a day tour.
   Getting there: Daily tour buses depart from Huaraz.
   Tip: Use Pastoruri Glacier tours to see high-altitude plants called Puya Raimondii.
6. Name: Vallunaraju
   Type: Sight
   Why go: Its twin peaks overlook the city of Huaraz.
   Best for: Beginner climbers and sunset views.
   Where: Llaca Valley.
   Time: 2 days.
   Cost: $250-$400 for a guided climb.
   Getting there: Short taxi ride from Huaraz to the Llaca trailhead.
   Tip: You can see it clearly from the Plaza de Armas in Huaraz.
7. Name: Tocllaraju
   Type: Sight
   Why go: A stunning 6,034-meter pyramid of ice and snow.
   Best for: Experienced climbers.
   Where: Ishinca Valley.
   Time: 4 days.
   Cost: $500+.
   Getting there: Hike in from Pashpa village.
   Tip: Base camp in the Ishinca Valley is one of the best spots to stay.
8. Name: Huandoy
   Type: Mountain peak
   Why go: A massive four-peaked massif next to Huascarán.
   Best for: Expert climbers.
   Where: Opposite Huascarán.
   Time: Viewable in 1 day from Llanganuco.
   Cost: Free to view with park pass.
   Getting there: Best seen from the Portachuelo de Llanganuco pass.
   Tip: Go early in the morning before clouds arrive.
9. Name: Chopicalqui
   Type: Activity
   Why go: Known as the "Third Peak" of Huascarán.
   Best for: Advanced mountaineering.
   Where: Between Huascarán and Huandoy.
   Time: 5 days.
   Cost: $600-$900.
   Getting there: Access from the Llanganuco road.
   Tip: The ridge climb provides terrifyingly beautiful drops.
10. Name: Chacraraju
    Type: Sight
    Why go: It forms the dramatic backdrop of Laguna 69.
    Best for: Photographers.
    Where: Demanda Valley.
    Time: 1 day.
    Cost: $15-$25 for a bus tour.
    Getting there: Take a Laguna 69 day trip from Huaraz.
    Tip: Its jagged wall is incredibly steep and purely vertical.

Best Time to Visit the Mountains in Huaraz

Timing is everything when visiting the high Andes. The dry season runs from May to September. Locals call this the "Andean Summer." During these months, the skies stay clear and blue. You will have the best views of the mountains then.

Rainy season starts in October and lasts until April. January and February usually see the most rain. Trails can become very muddy and dangerous. Many climbing routes are closed during this period for safety. Always check the official Peru tourism board for the latest weather updates.

Shoulder months like April and October are also good. You will find fewer crowds at the lagoons. However, you must expect some afternoon rain showers. 2026 is expected to be a popular year for trekking, so book early!

Planning Your Mountain Trip from Huaraz

Huaraz is sitting at 3,052 meters above sea level. Most mountains on the list are much higher. You must rest for at least two days before hiking. This prevents altitude sickness, which can be very serious. Drink lots of coca tea and stay hydrated.

You should always hire a licensed guide for climbs. The mountain conditions change every year. Glaciers are melting, which makes some old routes unstable. A guide from the "Casa de Guías" is the safest choice. They know the current ice conditions and weather patterns.

Pack layers of high-quality clothing for your visit. It is warm in the sun but freezing at night. You will need a windbreaker and a warm down jacket. Good hiking boots are essential for the rocky trails in the Cordillera.