Jagged peaks; glaciated, crevassed terrain and expedition climbing at 6,000 meters, but without the typical 3 week+ high altitude expedition time frame: that’s mountaineering in the Cordillera Blanca in Peru.

The Peruvian Andes are one of the America’s most understated mountaineering destinations, with several introductory-level 18,000-20,000ft peaks beckoning.

This all-women Ishinca & Tocllaraju expedition is operated by AWExpeditions.

With a 14-day itinerary, we’ll access the Cordillera Blanca to develop and solidify glacier travel at high altitude on Nevado Ishinca (18,143ft) prior to getting in position to attempt a summit on the more techincally demanding 19,790ft Tocllaraju.

Thanks to uncomplicated access to these peaks from the city of Huaraz, known as South America’s outdoor capital, it is possible to combine both summits in a stunning two-week itinerary without compromising acclimatization.

Ishinca is a terrific introductory high altitude climb suitable for first-time mountaineers. Tocllaraju is a more challenging climb that includes crevassed terrain and several sections of steeper angle snow climbing. It is a prize objective for the aspiring mountaineer after honing their foundational glacier climbing skills on Nevado Ishinca during the acclimatization phase.

July 12-24, 2026

Prior mountaineering experience is NOT required (though having had some exposure to roped climbing or snow travel with crampons & ice axes is helpful). Participants must be in excellent physical condition. Previous hiking experience is required and previous backpacking experience is strongly recommended.

• Guiding & logistics support on the mountain with a US-based female AWExpeditions guide in addition to an experienced local IFMGA guide

• All in-country transport

• Meals on the mountain

• Accommodation in Huaraz & on trail (double occupancy)

• A $1000 flight stipend to help offset airfare costs

• Top-notch mountaineering footwear from LOWA Boots, mountaineering attire from Fjällräven, a mountaineering backpack from Deuter, and trekking poles from LEKI

• Access to substantive discounts for personal gear purchases

• The Summit Scholarship award does not cover:

  • Visa costs

  • Travel to & from Huaraz, Peru, above and beyond the travel stipend

  • Travel insurance or mandatory rescue insurance

  • Extra hotel nights in town in case of early departure from the mountain

  • Beverages and personal expenses such as battery charging fees, hot showers on the trail, etc.

  1. Personal mountaineering gear not covered by the Summit Scholarship (rentals are available in Huaraz)

  2. Guide gratuity