Two Hikers Dead After Andes Snow Avalanche Hits Alpine Trail In Peru, Rescue Teams Recover Bodies

Huaraz, Peru— A snow avalanche swept an alpine trail in the Peruvian Andes on November 1, 2026, killing two hikers and shutting down a popular high-altitude route near Huascarán.

The pair were trekking above 4,200 meters on a trail that cuts across loose snowfields. Weather had turned overnight. Fresh snow loaded onto an older, icy layer. Around 10 a.m., a slab broke loose. It carried the hikers down more than 200 meters.

Mountain guides in the area heard the slide and alerted park rangers. The Peruvian National Police High Mountain Unit deployed with probes and rescue dogs. Visibility was poor. Wind made helicopter flight impossible. Teams moved on foot with crampons and ropes.

"We found them under about 1.5 meters of snow. They had no avalanche beacons. Without beacons, search time doubles," a rescue coordinator said from base camp. He said both victims were Peruvian nationals in their late 20s.

The Andes have seen heavy early-season snow. Tourism in the Cordillera Blanca is rebounding after pandemic years. Many new hikers attempt routes without guides or proper gear. Local authorities have warned about unstable cornices and wind-loaded slopes.

The trail, near Lake 69 and the Santa Cruz trek junction, is popular with day hikers. Officials said the path was officially open but flagged for caution. Snow had fallen for three days straight. Avalanche risk was rated moderate to high.

Survivors from a nearby group said they saw a white cloud and then silence. One guide said he shouted but got no response. He marked the burial site with a trekking pole and waited for rescue.

Bodies were carried down to the Huascarán National Park checkpoint by late afternoon. Park officials closed the trail until further assessment. An investigation will review whether warnings were posted clearly.

The avalanche danger remains high for the next 48 hours. Officials urged hikers to avoid alpine terrain above 4,000 meters.