Our Story | High Kings

THIS OUR STORY

Born in the wild heart of the Andes, High Kings Expeditions was founded by two local brothers — César and Miguel Vargas, known by many as “the Cats” — both IFMGA-certified mountain guides who grew up chasing summits and exploring untamed trails. Alongside them is an adventure-loving woman who brings fresh ideas, balance, and heart to our team.

After years of leading expeditions across the Andes and around the globe, we created this company to share the kind of adventures we truly believe in: authentic, locally rooted, and deeply connected to the mountains we call home.

We lead bold, immersive journeys into the hidden corners of the mountains — driven by deep local knowledge, a fierce respect for nature, and an unwavering focus on safety and cultural connection. This isn’t just guiding. It’s an invitation to experience the Andes like a local: wild, real, and unforgettable.

Cesar Vargas Alvarado
(Founder, CEO and IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide)

Cesar was born and raised in the foothills of the Cordillera Blanca, a region famed for its towering peaks and deep valleys. From an early age, he roamed the mountains around Huaraz, exploring valleys and summiting peaks alongside his family, who were among the pioneers of mountaineering in the region. These formative experiences sparked a lifelong passion for the mountains.

Driven by this passion, Cesar pursued a career in the outdoors, becoming a Certified Mountain Guide through the Peruvian Association of Mountain Guides (AGMP) and the International Federation of Mountain Guides Associations (IFMGA). With years of experience and world-class credentials, he has become a trusted expert in navigating and climbing the rugged Andean terrain. His mountaineering adventures extend beyond Peru, having tackled peaks in Ecuador, Bolivia, Chile, Argentina, and Denali in the United States, further honing his skills in high-altitude environments.

Cesar finds great joy in sharing the beauty of his home mountains with climbers from Peru and around the world. Whether leading expeditions through the Cordillera Blanca or Huayhuash, he thrives on creating unforgettable experiences and inspiring others to embrace the challenges and rewards of mountaineering. For him, each journey is not just an adventure but a deeper connection to the mountains he calls home.

Miguel Vargas Alvarado
(Founder and IFMGA Certified Mountain Guide)

Miguel Vargas was born and raised at the foothills of the Cordillera Blanca. From an early age, he developed a deep love for the mountains, joining expeditions into the heart of the range alongside his pioneering family. His passion for the outdoors grew stronger with each adventure, fueling his curiosity to explore beyond towering rock faces, icy slopes, and snow-covered summits.

Miguel achieved his certification as an IFMGA Mountain Guide, a milestone that opened the door to a lifetime of adventure and exploration. His career has taken him across Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia where he has led private and organized expeditions, helping climbers achieve their dreams.

Whether guiding a single-day rock climb or a demanding alpine expedition, Miguel finds joy in sharing the mountains with others. He believes every moment in nature is a chance to learn, grow, and experience something new—because no two days in the mountains are ever the same. His goal is to ensure that each climb is not only successful but also safe, rewarding, and unforgettable.

Known for his easygoing and friendly nature, Miguel thrives in all conditions—whether enduring a stormy night in a tent or enjoying a perfect blue-sky day on the summit. For him, the mountains are not just a workplace but a way of life, and he is always eager to help others discover their own connection to these wild and beautiful places

Mabel Candioti Norabuena
(Founder & sales/operations manager)

With a background in Intercultural Communication and studies in the UK and Finland, Mabel brings a truly global perspective to every expedition. Her extensive international travel and experience living in some of the world’s most dynamic cities have shaped her into a skilled connector—able to manage complex logistics while understanding the unique needs of a diverse, global clientele.

As our Sales and Operations Manager, Mabel ensures that every journey—no matter how remote—is meticulously organized and seamlessly delivered. Her deep knowledge of both local Andean culture and international standards makes her an invaluable bridge between our team, partners, and clients.

An avid traveler and outdoor-loving spirit herself, Mabel combines her passion for the mountains with a sharp eye for detail, ensuring that safety, comfort, and cultural authenticity remain at the heart of every High Kings expedition.

Climbing Cordillera Blanca, Trekking Cordillera Huayhuash, Trekking, Climbing, Hikes and Treks, Ancash, Huaraz, Peru

Cordillera Blanca Climbing, Cordillera Huayhuash Trekking, Huayhuash Trek, Day Hikes, Treks and Climbs Cordillera Blanca, Vallunaraju, Yanapaccha, Pisco, Tocllaraju, Copa, Chopicalqui, Quitaraju, Alpamayo, Huascaran, Artesonraju, Quillcayhuanca, Cojup