Introduction to Huaraz

Huaraz, the capital of the Ancash region in Peru, is a city steeped in history and surrounded by stunning natural beauty. Founded in the 16th century, Huaraz was originally established by Spanish colonists and served as a vital administrative center. Its location near the breathtaking Cordillera Blanca mountain range has long attracted settlers and adventurers alike. The region is rich in pre-Columbian history, with nearby archaeological sites like the ancient ruins of Chavín de Huantar. These ruins showcase the legacy of the Chavín culture that thrived over 3,000 years ago.

Today, Huaraz is renowned as a gateway to outdoor adventures, drawing trekkers, climbers, and nature enthusiasts from around the globe. The city serves as a base for exploring stunning natural wonders, including Laguna 69, Pastoruri Glacier, and the towering peaks of the Andes. Huaraz also boasts a vibrant local culture, with colorful markets, traditional festivals, and delicious regional cuisine. Whether you’re seeking adrenaline-fueled activities or a deeper understanding of Peru’s history, Huaraz offers an unforgettable experience for every traveler.

What is the Best time to Go to Huaraz?

The best time to visit Huaraz, Peru, is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect clear skies and mild temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities like trekking, climbing, and exploring the stunning landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca.

While the dry season offers excellent weather, it’s also the peak tourist season, so popular trails and accommodations may be busier. If you’re looking for fewer crowds, consider visiting in April or October, when the weather is still generally good, but the number of tourists is lower. Keep in mind that the rainy season, from November to March, can bring heavy rainfall and may limit outdoor activities. So it’s best to plan your trip around the drier months for the best experience.

How do I get to Huaraz?

From Lima

The best way to get from Lima to Huaraz is by overnight bus. The most recommended company is Cruz Del Sur, which is the flagship long-haul bus company in Peru. The travel time is approximately 8.5 hours and costs 100-120 Peruvian Soles. To maximise your time, make sure to take a later bus from the Terminal in Lima so you can sleep overnight and arrive in the morning in Huaraz.

Where to Stay in Huaraz

From personal experience, dependent on your budget and needs, we can recommend three places to stay:

Akilpo Home

For the hiker enthusiast, Akilpo Home is unmatched. This BnB is owned by three local brothers that have also started their own hiking tour business which can also be found on their website. You can stay in private rooms or dorms and breakfast is provided free each morning. 

We personally come with a glowing recommendation, the crew at Akilpo made us feel very comfortable and even did a half hour deep dive on our arrival to map out our hiking itinerary without costing a cent!

Selina

For the Digital Nomad, Selina’s are always hard to go past. The hostel features both dormitory and private room options, each designed for relaxation. Common areas, such as lounges and co-working spaces, encourage social interaction among guests. A café or bar on-site typically serves meals and drinks, adding to the communal vibe.

Krusty Hostel BnB

For the more budget orientated traveler, Krusty Hostel is very basic but will provide you with a bed, breakfast and the ability to reasonably priced book day tours from the front office.

Where to Eat and Nightlife

Parque Periodista, Huaraz

Parque Periodista is the best central spot for eating out, you can get anything you want from fried chicken, pizza, sandwiches and general restobars that you’ll see throughout Peru.

El Mercado

For the most local experience, check out El Mercado de Central, located in the centre of Huaraz. Head upstairs to try a variety of local cuisines for Breakfast or Lunch. The market is also the best place for you to get fresh food if you want to cook for yourself.

Things to do in Huaraz

Day Hiking

Living up to their moniker as the hiking capital of Latin America, there are an innumerable amount of day hikes surrounding Huaraz. We recommend checking out the below hikes for further info and tips on some of the best day hikes around Huaraz.

Laguna 69/Panorama Trek

The crown jewel of day hikes in the Cordillera Blancas. Laguna 69 is one of 400 lakes within Huascaran National Park with spectacular scenery. While many people take this hike themselves, we actually recommend going on the Panorama Trek from Akilpo Huaraz, which gives you such a spectacular alternative to the standard trail, with views that you won’t get on any other hike. Please note this hike is only available through the Akilpo Huaraz guides and can only be guided. Support the local operators!

Hike Summary: Akilpo Huaraz’s Panorama trek  is a meticulously planned itinerary that offers an extraordinary 360° panoramic view. This trek takes you off the beaten track, allowing you to experience the highlights of the Llanganuco sector of Huascaran National Park in a unique and exceptional manner.

The comprehensive package includes an array of natural wonders, including captivating waterfalls, untouched wilderness, and the renowned lagoons of Llaganuco, Lagoon 69, Paccha Lagoon, and Brogui Lagoons. Moreover, you will encounter the imposing mountains of Peru, such as the majestic Huascaran standing tall at 6768m, as well as the four peaks of Huandoy, Pisco, Chacraraju, and more. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to witness the breathtaking sunrise upon the snow-capped peaks.

It is important to emphasize that this journey requires adequate acclimatization and a genuine desire to explore something truly extraordinary. While the trek demands sacrifice, rest assured that the rewards awaiting you will make every effort worthwhile.

Distance: 14km

Elevation difference: +540 /- 1100 meters

Maximum altitude of trail: Laguna 69 viewpoint (4,680m)

Start of trail: Llanganuco Viewpoint (4,600m)

End of trail: Cebollapampa (3,900m)

Time: 6-7 hours hiking

Cost: $53-60 USD per person (but it’s worth it!)

Getting there: The team from Akilpo Home will pick you up from your hostel/hotel at approximately 3am, you’ll be given a blanket and allowed some time to sleep as the trip will take 2 hours to get to Huascaran National Park. As dawn breaks, you will have the ability to have your included breakfast and take in the breathtaking views of both Huascaran and the National Park.

Laguna Churup

Hike Summary: The hike is a fairly straightforward out and back with a one minor technical section where you have to use chains to climb a face, the total hike time is expected to be approximately 2-3 hours depending on the amount of time spent at the lake!

Length: 6km/3.6km out and back

Altitude: 4,450m/14,600ft – steady climb with small slightly technical section with chains

Time: Inclusive of travel the total time will take around 7 hours.

Getting there: The best way to get there is via a ‘colectivo’ or shared van from the Pitec/Churrup stop in Huaraz and is approximately a 45 minute drive to the trailhead in Huascaran National Park in the Pitek area. The approximate cost will be approximately S/20 for a round trip but you may pay slightly more since the writing of this article. Colectivos begin leaving at 7am once full and it is best to leave by then to get enough time to hike in and out at your leisure.

Entrance Fee: Huascaran National Park has a variety of entrance fee options below:

Duration	Foreigner	Peruvian national
1 day	S/30	S/12
2–3 days	S/60	S/30
4–30 days	S/150	S/75

Laguna de Wilcacocha

Hike Summary: The perfect acclimatisation hike, Laguna de Wilcacocha is a shorter but still steep out and back hike just outside of the city of Huaraz. If you have only just arrived at altitude for the first time on your trip, this can be a great starter to get yourself prepared for the tougher hikes and treks in the region. 

Length: 6.3km

Altitude: 3,725m (568m elevation gain)

Time: 3-4hrs

Getting There: If you’re looking to get to Laguna Wilcacocha from Huaraz, the best option is to take a colectivo, which is a shared van service. There are two colectivos you can take: Bus E or Bus 10. Both stop at the corner of Av. Raymondi and Jr Hualcan in Huaraz, making it a convenient pickup spot.

The fare is typically 2-2.5 soles, and the journey usually takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on traffic and other factors. Just let the driver know to drop you off at Puente Santa Cruz when you board, and they’ll make sure to inform you when to get off.

Once at Puente Santa Cruz, cross the bridge and you will be at the trailhead where you can start hiking up the dirt path.

Other Tips: This steep out and back goes through some local villages, as a result there are stray dogs that have been aggressive previously. It is recommended to take a hiking pole or take a stick just in case.

Glacier Piastoruri

Located in the stunning Cordillera Blanca region of Peru, near Huaraz. Glacier Piastoruri is renowned for its breathtaking ice formations and striking mountain scenery. The glacier is part of a glacial system that feeds into local rivers, playing a crucial role in the region’s ecosystem. You can purchase a tour to Glacier Piastoruri from a tour operator in Huaraz. Below is a typical day tour to the Glacier:

Early Morning Departure: Typically around 6:00 AM, you’ll be picked up from your accommodation in Huaraz. The drive to the starting point takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, offering scenic views of the mountains and local villages.

Hiking to Piastori Glacier: The short hike usually begins at the designated trailhead, where you’ll meet your guide. There is a toilet available, remember public toilets you have to pay a small fee, so remember to bring change. The hike can take around 4-6 hours to reach the glacier, depending on the pace and conditions. The trail often features varied terrain, including valleys, streams, and rocky paths, with opportunities to see local flora and fauna.

Arrival at Piastori Glacier: Once you reach the glacier, you’ll have time to take in the stunning views. Your guide may provide information about the glacier’s geology and the surrounding area. This is a great time for photography and enjoying the unique landscape.

Lunch Break: A packed lunch is usually included, allowing you to rest and recharge. Some tours might offer a picnic setup with beautiful views.

Return Hike: After exploring the glacier, you’ll begin your hike back to the starting point. The return trek often takes less time, as it’s downhill.

Return to Huaraz: You’ll be driven back to Huaraz, typically arriving in the late afternoon or early evening.

Important Notes

• Fitness Level: The trek is moderate to challenging, so a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
• Weather: Be prepared for changing weather conditions in the mountains.
• Altitude: Huaraz is at a high altitude, so acclimatization is important. Ensure you’re well-acclimatized before embarking on the tour.

This tour is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty of the Andes and get up close to one of its impressive glaciers!

Laguna Paron

One of the most stunning glacial lakes in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru, Laguna Paron is located about 30 kilometers from Huaraz, near the town of Carhuaz. Known for its striking turquoise waters, the lake is surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, making it a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

Early Morning Departure: The tour typically starts around 6:00 AM with pickup from your accommodation in Huaraz. A scenic drive (about 2-3 hours) takes you through picturesque valleys and small villages, leading to the lake.

Arrival at Laguna Parón: Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking turquoise waters of the lake, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. Your guide may provide insights about the lake’s formation and local geography.

Exploration: You’ll have free time to walk along the shores, take photographs, and enjoy the stunning scenery. Optional activities may include short hikes to viewpoints for panoramic vistas.

Lunch: Some tours include a packed lunch, which you can enjoy with views of the lake.

Return to Huaraz: In the afternoon, you’ll begin the return journey, arriving back in Huaraz by late afternoon or early evening.

Huayhuash Trek

The Huayhuash Trek is one of Peru’s most renowned trekking routes, celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and challenging terrain. Located in the stunning Huayhuash mountain range, this trek typically lasts about 8-12 days and is considered challenging, requiring a good level of fitness and some trekking experience due to high altitudes, reaching over 5,000 meters. Hikers are treated to dramatic vistas, including iconic peaks like Siula Grande and the beautiful Laguna Viconga, with landscapes ranging from alpine meadows to rocky mountain passes.

In addition to the stunning scenery, the trek offers opportunities for cultural encounters, allowing hikers to interact with local communities and learn about their traditions. The region is also rich in wildlife, providing chances to see condors, llamas, and various bird species. Overall, the Huayhuash Trek is a rewarding adventure for those seeking both physical challenge and unparalleled natural beauty, making it a highlight for trekkers exploring Peru.