At 6,768 meters (22,205 ft), Huascarán is the highest mountain in Peru and one of the highest in South America. The mountain actually has three summits: the north summit is 6655m, the south summit is 6768m and the east is 6354m.

There are two main routes, with two very different levels of technical climbing. The southern route is less technical and can be achieved by most people who are acclimatized. The northern route is quite technical and should only be attempted by experienced mountaineers and guides.

Practicalities

Regardless of the route, Huascarán is a very difficult mountain to climb, so if you want to tackle it, do your research. Consider if you want to bring your own team and gear or if you want to go with a trekking agency. There are dozens of mountaineering agencies that take climbers up the peak, some local and some international.

Whether you want to organize your own trek or to go with an agency, check with the Casa de Guías for current conditions and snowpack.