The beautiful Huaraz is a place that always remains in memory. Today, it has become an ideal destination for adventure lovers, similar to Switzerland. It is not an imitation, but a place that has earned its reputation thanks to the beauty of its mountains and snow peaks. Mentioning this, don’t you feel attracted by the idea of ​​exploring its landscapes and challenging its altitude?

History of Huaraz

It was founded in 1574 by Captain Alonso de Santoyo with the name of San Sebastián de Huaraz. Although the history of its founding is similar to that of other places, there is something special about Huaraz.

So what should you know about Huaraz? In short, Huaraz is located in the Andean valley of the Callejón de Huaylas, which extends for more than 180 kilometers. This valley is formed by the Blanca and Negra mountain range, and has microclimates that vary between altitudes of 1000 and 6746 meters above sea level.

Now, I will tell you about the snow-capped mountains and lagoons of Huaraz; Huaraz is a place with a rich pre-Inca history dating back to the Chavín era. It was founded in 1574 by the Spanish captain Alonso de Santoyo. The interesting thing about this site is that it was used as a mining center due to the wealth of minerals found in the mountains that surround it.

I will tell you about its most iconic attractions: the accessible snow-capped mountains. These are like a starter dish, jewels that you can visit by vehicle or other means of transportation, which makes the day easier. Some of these snowfalls are:

Nevado Pastoruri (5240 meters above sea level)

This snowy mountain is not very challenging, but the views are exquisite. You can reach the base of the snow-capped mountain and contemplate its beauty, and also visit the famous Siete Colores lagoon and the Raymondi pujas.

The snowy Pastoruri is famous for the retreat of its glacier due to climate change. If you want to witness this phenomenon, there is a route called the Pastoruri “Climate Change Route”, which allows you to appreciate this fact in greater detail.

In addition, it also includes visits to places such as Laguna Patacocha, the sparkling water springs of Pumapampa and the Puyas Raymondi.

Snowy Vallunaraju (5686 m above sea level)

Don’t fall asleep yet. I know the seats in your vehicle are comfortable, but you have just arrived at a place known as “the mountain of dreams.” The views are incredible and will make you feel like you are in a dream. The cold air of the Andes will envelop you.

When you look at the snow, you will see that it is shaped like a saddle. This place is popular for acclimatizing and mountaineering near Huaraz.

Snowy mountains to climb

This section is for those who love adventure and seek challenges. If you are a beginner, we will give you some tips to get started.

Huascarán (6768 m above sea level)

This is the highest snow-capped mountain in Peru and a symbol of majesty. There is no person who does not want to visit it. The Incas considered him an important deity. A curious fact is that it is divided into two parts: Huascarán Sur (6768 m) and Huascarán Norte (6655 m).

Pay attention to its surroundings, as it is the habitat of species such as the spectacled bear and the condor.

Trekking Routes to Huascarán

Moderate Route: Laguna 69 – For those who have little time and love the views. A one-day trek in the Huascarán National Park. The route is approximately 14 km round trip. You will see waterfalls, glaciers and snow-capped mountains.

Difficult Route: Santa Cruz – For those who want to adventure. A 5-day trek. You will see peaks like Alpamayo and Taulliraju, green valleys, turquoise lagoons and waterfalls.

Extreme Route: Alpamayo Circuit – For the most experienced.

The challenge that experts are looking for is something that will push you to the limit. It’s not easy, but it’s worth it for the beautiful landscapes you’ll see. This tour lasts between 8 and 12 days, depending on how you feel. It is like other treks, but it offers much more. There are deep valleys, snow-capped peaks, crystalline lagoons and an environment surrounded by Andean flowers.

Please note that to do this tour, you must be in good physical shape. Each day, you will walk between 6 and 10 hours. You can start at the Alpamayo base or in Hualcayán.

If you want to trek in Huascarán, here are some things you should know:

For beginners:

* You can hire a tourist agency to take you there, or take a bus to the park entrance.

* You must acclimatize to the climate. You can drink coca or florida water, or just spend a few days in Huaraz before starting.

* Camping, swimming in the lagoon, littering or making bonfires is not allowed.

For the most experts:

* Trekking is a challenge, not only because of the experience, but also because of caution. It’s better to go with someone else.

* You must acclimatize before each walk. If you have time, consider spending a few days in Huaraz before you start.

Chopicalqui is a snowy mountain that requires experience and specialized equipment. It is located in Yungay and is one of the favorites for its beauty and the experience it offers. The route begins in Huaraz and lasts 5 days.

Day 1: Hike to Campo Morrena

Day 2: Ascent to Campo Alto (around 10 hours)

Day 3: Summit day from Campo Alto to Chopicalqui (between 9 and 12 hours)

Day 4: Descent to Campo Morrena (around 7 hours)

Day 5: Descent from Campo Morrena to Ancush and return to Huaraz

Huandoy is the experts’ favorite; Legend says it is the forbidden love between the daughter of the sun and a mortal prince. This place is difficult, especially the Huandoy Sur area. The most common route is Laguna 69.

Nevado Mateo

It is ideal for beginners who want to experience the adrenaline and challenge of snowfall. From there, you can see Huascarán, Chopicalqui and other peaks.

There are other little-known snow-capped mountains, such as Shapraraju, Rurimachay, Pucaraju, Rajopaquinan, Pishqo, Nevado Cajap and Nevado Huarapasca. Nevado Huarapasca is a great challenge and requires technical experience.

Lagoon 69

It is a glacial lake with turquoise waters that dazzle under the intensity of Huascarán. Its name is due to the fact that it is the ninth lake listed in an inventory of more than 400 lakes in the Huascarán National Park.

What should you know about trekking to these lagoons?

This trek is of moderate difficulty and lasts one day. It takes place within the Huascarán National Park. The lagoon offers stunning views of snow-capped peaks, waterfalls and green valleys.

The duration of the round trip trek is approximately 7 hours. The ascent lasts 5 hours and the descent 2 hours.

This trekking is part of the route to Huascarán. It would be great to do both treks.

Parón Lagoon (4155 m a.s.l.)

It is located 32 km from Caraz. The lagoon is fed by the melting of snow-capped Huandoy and Artesonraju. Its waters are turquoise and cold.

To get there, take a vehicle from Caraz. The trip takes 1.5 hours to the trailhead. The walk lasts 15.5 hours.

Don’t forget to make an offering to the lagoon. You can rent a kayak and navigate the lagoon.

Other gaps

• Llanganuco Lagoon (3850 m a.s.l.)
• Churup Lagoon (4450 m a.s.l.)
• Palcacocha Lagoon (4562 m a.s.l.)
• Rocotuyoc and Frozen Lagoon

More lagoons to visit

• Querecocha Lagoon: A popular destination in Áncash.
• Cullicocha Lagoon: Known as the “mirror of the snowy Santa Cruz”.
• Jatuncocha Lagoon: Surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
• Aquilpo Lagoon (Akilpo): Its surface is emerald green.
• Rajucolta Lagoon: At 4270 meters of altitude.
• Laguna Purhuay: Distinctive dark green color.
• Radian Lagoon: Part of the route of the 4 lagoons.