3-Day Olleros Llama Trek To Chavín De Huántar

Looking for a trek that blends epic mountain scenery with both natural wonder and ancient mystery?

The 3-day Olleros to Chavín de Huántar Trek is a hidden gem in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca that takes you off the tourist track and deep into the heart of the Andes. This route follows ancestral trails once used by pre-Incan traders and pilgrims, finishing at the mystical ruins of Chavín de Huántar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site older than Machu Picchu.

The journey begins in the highland village of Olleros (1 hour from Huaraz), where massive snow-capped peaks like Shaqsha (5,703 m) and Cashan (5,686 m) loom in the distance. You’ll hike through dramatic mountain valleys, cross the stunning Yanashallash Pass (4,700m), and sleep under the stars with the support of local guides, llamas and donkeys carrying the heavy gear.

Unlike more famous treks like the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, this one is blissfully empty of mass tourists. You’ll often have the trail to yourself, which makes it ideal for travellers seeking solitude, a spiritual recharge, or deep cultural connection. Along the way, you’ll pass by remote Quechua-speaking communities where life hasn’t changed much in generations, offering a glimpse into traditional Andean living.

The final day brings you to Chavín de Huántar, an awe-inspiring ceremonial center and temple complex that dates back over 3,000 years. Built Peru’s oldest known civilizations known as the Chavín culture, the site features underground passageways, stone monoliths, and a mysterious vibe that archaeologists still puzzle over. It’s the perfect reward at the end of a sacred mountain pilgrimage.

This area is special because these ancient ruins of the Chavín people in the nearby mountains and coastal areas of Peru make up one of the 6 cradles of civilizations in the world, along with areas of Mexico, Mesopotamia, Egypt, India and China.

The Olleros Llama Trek supports local ecotourism initiatives that aim to help protect the indigenous traditions of the area and provide much-needed income for rural villages in the mountains.

Olleros Llama Trek Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Huaraz → Olleros → Sacracancha (4,080 m)

• Depart from Huaraz to Olleros (approx. 1-hour drive).
• Begin trekking through the Uquian Valley, enjoying views of peaks like Shaqsha and Cashan.
• Camp overnight at Sacracancha.

Day 2: Sacracancha → Yanashallash Pass (4,700 m) → Shongopampa (4,088 m)

• Ascend to the Yanashallash Pass, the trek’s highest point, offering panoramic mountain vistas.
• Descend to Shongopampa for overnight camping.

Day 3: Shongopampa → Chavín de Huántar → Huaraz

• Continue descending through traditional villages to reach Chavín de Huántar.
• Explore the archaeological site before returning to Huaraz by vehicle.

💰 Pricing Details (2025 Estimates)

Inclusions:

• Bilingual trekking guide
• Meals during the trek
• Camping equipment (tents, mattresses)
• Donkey and llama support for gear
• Transportation from Huaraz to trailhead and return

Who Should Consider This Trek?

This trek is ideal for those interested in exploring ancient civilizations and archaeological sites. It is suitable for modern hikers with a reasonable fitness level as well as families and small groups..

Highlights

Historical Exploration: Visit Chavín de Huántar, a significant pre-Inca archaeological site with intricate stone carvings and underground passages.

Scenic Landscapes: Traverse valleys with views of snow-capped peaks and pristine highland ecosystems in the Cordillera Blanca.

Cultural Immersion: Interact with Quechua-speaking local communities and experience traditional Andean lifestyles.

Location

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