4 Lakes & Paso del Zorro Trek

We leave Huaraz in the morning by private transport and drive toward the Wilcahuain area, located only a short distance from the city. After continuing to the trailhead, we begin our trek at approximately 11,650 ft.

The first section climbs through open Andean countryside toward Radian Lake. At approximately 12,795 ft, the lake offers broad views toward Huascaran and other peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. Its calm waters and lower elevation make it a scenic first stop before the route enters more demanding mountain terrain.

From Radian, we continue toward the Mullaca Valley along a well-defined trail. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes more rugged and the views toward Vallunaraju become increasingly impressive. The route passes through sections of native queñual forest, mountain streams and high-Andean vegetation.

By afternoon, we reach the Mullaca and Carhuac lake area at approximately 15,260 ft. These neighboring glacial lakes lie beneath the slopes and glaciers of Vallunaraju. Our team prepares camp in this spectacular high-altitude setting, where we have time to rest, explore the surroundings and prepare for the following day's high pass.

• Starting altitude: Approximately 11,650 ft
• Radian Lake: Approximately 12,795 ft
• Camp altitude: Approximately 15,260 ft near Mullaca and Carhuac lakes
• Hiking time: Approximately 5-7 hours, depending on pace and conditions

After an early breakfast, we leave camp and begin the most demanding section of the trek: the ascent toward Paso del Zorro. The trail climbs through increasingly rocky terrain, with steep zigzags and sections of moraine where careful footing is required.

At approximately 16,340 ft, we reach Paso del Zorro, the highest point of the circuit. In clear weather, the pass provides outstanding views of Vallunaraju, the lakes below and a wide panorama of the Cordillera Blanca, Cordillera Negra and the Huaraz valley.

After a short rest at the pass, we begin the descent toward Ahuac Lake. The initial descent can be steep and rocky, so we move carefully and follow the guide's instructions. At approximately 14,930 ft, Ahuac offers a beautiful natural balcony above Huaraz and the Callejon de Huaylas.

From Ahuac, we continue descending along an old mountain trail toward Wilcahuain. Depending on timing and operational conditions, an optional visit to the archaeological site may be possible. Our private transport will then take us back to Huaraz, completing this intense 2-day mountain circuit.

• Maximum altitude: Approximately 16,340 ft at Paso del Zorro
• Ahuac Lake: Approximately 14,930 ft
• Wilcahuain: Approximately 11,220 ft
• Hiking time: Approximately 6-8 hours, depending on pace and terrain conditions