Huaraz pickup and transfer to Willkawayin
We start from Huaraz and drive toward the Willkawayin archaeological area, the usual access point for this expedition and the place where the ascent begins.
Hiking Experience
The Huaraz 4-Lakes Hiking Plan
Tour Overview
A demanding full-day Cordillera Blanca circuit built for strong, acclimatized hikers.
The Huaraz 4 Lakes Hiking Plan links Awaq, Mullaka, Karwaq and Radian in one long high-altitude expedition above Huaraz. Guided from the Willkawayin side of the range, this route combines archaeological context, steep mountain terrain, panoramic ridgelines and some of the best lake views in the Cordillera Blanca. It is ideal for travelers looking for a serious endurance day, mountain runners preparing for bigger objectives, or climbers who want a hard acclimatization push before higher peaks.
22.4 KM CIRCUIT4,980 M FOX PASS10-12 HOURSHIGH DIFFICULTY
Itinerary
Ascent through old trails and Runtu sector
The route climbs steadily by old mountain paths, crossing local landmarks such as Waycha and Runtu while the valley and the Cordillera Negra open behind you.
Awaq Lake approach
At roughly 4,550 m, Awaq becomes the first major alpine reference of the day and confirms the character of the route: wild, quiet and fully Andean.
Fox Pass summit at 4,980 m
Paso del Zorro is the highest point of the circuit and the key physical challenge. From here the views open toward Vallunaraju, Copa, Hualcan, Chapicalqui, Huascaran, Huandoy and the deep Callejon de Huaylas.
Traverse of Mullaka and Karwaq
After the high point, the route continues through the turquoise glacial lakes of Mullaka and Karwaq, two of the strongest visual moments of the circuit.
Descent toward Radian and return
The final section drops toward Radian Lake and the lower villages, completing a long route that can work as both an elite day hike and a serious acclimatization expedition.
Expedition Details
Expedition Details
This is one of the strongest single-day hiking challenges close to Huaraz. Cruzandes recommends it for travelers with excellent fitness, prior acclimatization and a real interest in high-altitude trekking rather than a casual sightseeing excursion.
- Location: Northeast of Huaraz near Willkawayin, Independencia District, Ancash, Peru.
- Route profile: Full-day circuit through Awaq, Mullaka, Karwaq and Radian.
- Distance: Approximately 22.4 km of total walking.
- Highest point: Fox Pass (Paso del Zorro) at 4,980 m / 16,400 ft.
- Elevation gain: Around 1,600 m of accumulated ascent.
- Duration: Usually 10 to 12 hours in a full-day format.
- Best season: April to October during the Andean dry season.
- Ideal for: Strong hikers, mountain runners and acclimatization before higher climbs.
Recommended Gear
Recommended Gear
Bring broken-in hiking boots, trekking poles, warm layers, waterproof outerwear, sun protection, gloves, water and enough trail nutrition. Because support level, transport and guiding format can vary depending on your group, we recommend requesting availability instead of relying on a fixed public price.
Photo Gallery
