Huaraz walking tour & city guide
Trekking capital beneath the Cordillera Blanca.
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Huaraz, at 3,000 meters in the Andes, is Peru's trekking and climbing capital, surrounded by the snowy peaks of the Cordillera Blanca and turquoise glacial lakes.
Lakes and peaks
Laguna 69, a brilliant blue lake beneath glaciers, is one of the most famous hikes in South America. Huascarán, Peru's highest mountain, rises over the valley. Laguna Llanganuco is reached by a scenic road.
The town
The town has markets, agencies for treks and a view of the peaks. Chavín de Huántar, an ancient temple complex, is a day trip away.
A day around Huaraz
The most famous day hike is to Laguna 69, a turquoise lake below a glacier at 4,600 meters. Tours leave early and the hike takes about six hours. Other trips visit the Pastoruri glacier and the Llanganuco lakes.
In town, the market is a good place to try Andean food and buy wool.
Good to know
Huaraz is the base for the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range in the world. Acclimatize for a few days before hiking.
The dry season, May to September, is best. The Santa Cruz trek is a classic multi-day route.
Why it is special
Huaraz was largely rebuilt after a devastating earthquake in 1970, so the town itself is modest, but its setting is spectacular, with snowy peaks of over 6,000 meters visible from the streets. Huascarán, Peru's highest mountain, rises to the north. The Chavín de Huántar archaeological site, a UNESCO site with underground galleries and carved stone heads, is a long but rewarding day trip across the mountains.
Top sights in Huaraz
- 1
Laguna 69
A turquoise glacier lake.
- 2
Huascarán National Park
Peru's highest mountains.
- 3
Laguna Llanganuco
Lakes along a scenic road.
- 4
Chavín de Huántar
An ancient temple.
- 5
Plaza de Armas
The town center.
Food markets & where to eat in Huaraz
Central market
Local Andean food.
Town center
Cafés for trekkers.
Local restaurants
Pachamanca and soups.
Food to try in Huaraz
Pachamanca
Meat and potatoes cooked underground.
Picante de cuy
Spicy guinea pig.
Coca tea
For the altitude.
Opening hours and prices change often. Please check with each place before you visit.
Plan your trip to Huaraz
Enjoyed the walk? Here is everything you need to see it for real.
- Hotels in HuarazCompare places to stay and prices.
- Tours & ticketsWalking tours, museums and day trips in Huaraz.
- eSIM for PeruStay online from the moment you land.
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