Climbing Veronica at dawn, above the Urubamba range

Climb Veronica (5,911m/19,388ft)

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Level: Intermediate (AD/D)

Nevado Veronica pyramid shaped mountain that towers the Sacred Valley of the Incas, it is the highest peak in the Cordillera Urubamba. Veronica is a name the Spanish used, but the Original name in Quechua is “Weqewillka”, which means “sacred tears”. The first ascent in 1956 was led by the famous French mountaineer Lionel Terray. Access to the mountain is relatively easy. You do need some technical ability and experience to climb this peak. Before the glacier starts there is a rope length of rock climbing. There is roughly 450m of terrain steeper than 50°.

Climbers hiking up the snow slopes of Pumahuanca

Climb Pumahuanca (5,350m/17,548ft)

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Level: Basic (PD)

Pumahuanca rises above the city of Urubamba in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The perfect peak if you are short on time but still want to get up a peak close to Cusco. This is a great climb for beginners, technically easy and a good workout over two days. You will enjoy this side trip from the busy tourist areas to see the Sacred Valley from above!