Hello- we plan to trek Santa Cruz in Mid May. After reading some trip reports I would like to check where is it preferable to start, is any direction better over the other. Some people suggest to start from Cashapampa, others from Vaqueria. What's your recommendation?
I can not find much information about the transportation to the trail head, it seems there are colectivos running, but how long does the ride take?
Is the insect going to be a problem in May?
How cold does it get at night during the trek?
When is Semana Andisima this year and what does it mean as far as independent travel is concerned?
thank you very much for any info.
Reply to this We trekked Vaqueria to Cashapampa, I don't think it matters which way you go really as views are good in all directions. From C to V, the ascent is longer but more gradual, while going from V to C, you face a tough time on day 2 with a steepish climb to the pass.
We took an early morning local bus from Huaraz to Vaqueria, it left Huaraz at 6.30 am and got there about 10.15, so you're looking at about 4 hours. Colectivos might be a bit quicker, but not sure what time they go at.
We trekked in May, no probs with insects. It can get very cold, especially at the campsite below the pass which is at 4200 m. Bring plenty of warm clothes. Wet weather gear also important.
No idea about Semana Andisima.
We did the trek independently and I've a blog about it too if you want to read more.
Barry
Reply to this Thanks for the quick reply. Since you trekked in May- can you tell me how many people were on the trail. The guidebook says that this is the most trekked trail (after Macchu Piccu), should I be worried?
What stove did you use, I have a small one running on propane/butane, so I am not sure if the canisters will be available in Huaraz.
Did you do any acclimatization hikes prior this trek? B.
Reply to this there were 2 other small groups with a guide who started the trek on the same day as us (so about 6 or 7 others in all), we then met a few people going the other way on Day 3 and 4. Overall it was quiet, I think June may be busier.
We had hiked two treks in Cusco, plus spent time at altitude in Bolivio and Chile so we were very well acclimatized by Santa Cruz. The pass goes to 4750 metres so perhaps you could do a warm up day trek around Huaraz before hand. If you are in Cusco beforehand that should be sufficient.
Our stove is a propane/butane mix too, we bought the canisters in a shop in Huaraz, can't remember the name of it, but I remember the canisters are on sale in lots of places there, esp the touring agencies.
Good luck
BArry
Reply to this Barry- thanks again. My worries were that if it is cold during the night the propane butane mixture can freeze (I never heard of such scenario till I have read it somewhere) so clearly you did not have this problem.
How were you prepared for the cold?
Where did you stay in Huaraz, would you recommend that place?
B.
Reply to this we kept the gas in our sleeping bags with us😊
I brought quite a number of layers, though during the hike we didn't need them so much, it was only in the evenings when we stopped hiking. one of the campsites is at 4200m, and it gets very cold at night there so it's best come prepared.
i stayed in caroline lodging, http://www.carolinelodging.blogspot.com/ - very friendly place and good value, gets busy here though.
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