Piuquenes Pass (Andes Crossing)

Following the historic path used by the Army of the Andes in 1817, this 6-day trans-Andean expedition traverses the central cordillera from Mendoza, Argentina, to the Cajón del Maipo in Chile. The route crosses two significant high-altitude barriers—Portillo Argentino (4,330m) and Paso Piuquenes (4,030m). Hikers move through a high desert landscape of volcanic rock, vast glacial valleys, and the powerful Tunuyán River. The terrain consists primarily of rocky mountain paths, loose scree on the steeper pass approaches, and high-altitude plateaus where exposure to wind and sun is constant.

Consistently ranked as one of the best treks in the world, the Santa Cruz weaves through the heart of the Cordillera Blanca. Surrounded by dozens of 6,000-meter peaks—including Huascarán, Peru's highest mountain, and Alpamayo (often called often regarded as one of the most beautiful mountain)—this 3-to-4-day route cuts a dramatic path over the soaring Punta Union pass at 4,750m. Hikers traverse surreal turquoise glacial lakes, sprawling alpine meadows, and desolate moraines in a truly formidable high-altitude environment.