Things To Do
in Huaraz
Huaraz is a city located in the Peruvian Andes known for its stunning mountain scenery, including the nearby Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash. The city is a popular destination for adventure seekers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering opportunities for hiking, trekking, mountaineering, and mountain biking. Huaraz is also known for its vibrant local culture, delicious Peruvian cuisine, and colorful markets showcasing handicrafts and textiles.
Visitors to Huaraz can explore archaeological sites, relax in natural hot springs, and immerse themselves in the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding mountains.
- "¿Cómo estás?" - How are you?
- "Gracias" - Thank you
- "Por favor" - Please
- "Hasta luego" - See you later
- "¿Cuánto cuesta?" - How much does it cost?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $10 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $25 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Huascarán National Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains. Take a short hike to acclimatize to the altitude while appreciating the flora and fauna.
After lunch, head to the Huandoy Glacier for a guided tour. Marvel at the glacial landscapes and snap pictures of the stunning blue ice formations.
Wind down with dinner at a local restaurant, trying out traditional Peruvian cuisine. Take a stroll through the town square and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Visit the local market in Huaraz, where you can find fresh produce and artisan crafts. Interact with vendors and immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture.
Join a guided tour to Laguna 69, a picturesque lake known for its turquoise waters. Spend time hiking and enjoying the breathtaking scenery.
Return to Huaraz and enjoy dinner at a café with live music. Relax and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty with access to breathtaking landscapes, including the Andes mountains and numerous hiking trails.
- Rich cultural heritage with traditional Peruvian customs, festivals, and local markets.
- Adventure opportunities such as trekking, mountaineering, and visiting nearby national parks like Huascarán National Park.
- A warm and welcoming local community with friendly residents.
- Affordable cost of living, including food and accommodations compared to larger cities.
- Altitude sickness can be a concern due to Huaraz's high elevation (approximately 3,052 meters or 10,013 feet).
- Limited healthcare facilities, which may pose challenges in case of serious medical emergencies.
- Potential language barrier for non-Spanish speakers, as English is not widely spoken.
- Access to reliable transportation can be an issue, especially for remote trekking areas.
- Seasonal weather variations can impact travel plans, particularly during the rainy season.
Best Activities in Huaraz
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the stunning mountain landscapes and glaciers on multi-day treks, such as the Santa Cruz Trek or the Huayhuash Circuit.
Enjoy rock climbing in the picturesque surroundings of Huaraz, with various routes suitable for beginners to experienced climbers.
Discover the beautiful scenery and rugged terrain of the area on mountain biking excursions, including trails in the Llanganuco Valley.
Soar above the valleys and lakes of Huaraz while paragliding, and experience breathtaking aerial views of the Andean landscapes.
Tours
Uncover the best of Huaraz with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Huaraz
Visit one of these nice places.
Located just outside Huaraz, offers stunning panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range.
Offers breathtaking views of the turquoise lake and the surrounding mountains.
A popular trekking destination with a stunning glacial lake and mountain views.
Provides a stunning view of the city of Huaraz and the nearby mountains.
Food in Huaraz
Huaraz Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular local dish made with fresh trout marinated in lime juice, onions, and aji peppers, typically served with sweet potatoes and corn. Try it at El Horno or Dario's Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A traditional Andean dish cooked in an earth oven, typically containing marinated meats, potatoes, and various Andean tubers such as olluco and mashua. Enjoy this hearty dish at Rincon de Rata or La Rusticana.
A spicy Peruvian dish featuring stuffed rocoto peppers with a mix of ground beef, onions, and Andean cheese, often served with potatoes. You can savor this dish at Chavin Restaurant or Churup Restaurant.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Huaraz better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, local cheeses, and Andean grains. Visitors can sample a variety of street food delights such as salchipapas (sausage and fries), tamales, and empanadas.
The main square in Huaraz is a hub for street food vendors, offering everything from anticuchos (grilled skewered meats) and picarones (sweet potato and pumpkin doughnuts) to fresh fruit juices.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Huaraz, it is important to show respect for Pachamama, the Andean earth mother, by not littering and by asking for permission before entering sacred sites or natural spaces.
Greetings are important in Peruvian culture, so it's customary to greet people with a handshake and a slight embrace. Punctuality is also valued, but it's common for social events to start late.
Respecting elders is a key cultural norm in Huaraz. It's customary to show deference and speak politely to older individuals, as they are highly regarded in the community.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Huaraz with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Huaraz
Ensure a smooth experience
In Huaraz, Peru, tipping is not mandatory, but it is appreciated. It is customary to leave a small tip of 5-10% for good service at restaurants. Additionally, tipping tour guides, drivers, and hotel staff is also welcomed.
In Huaraz, Peru, cash is commonly used for everyday transactions. However, larger establishments and tourist areas may accept credit cards. It's advisable to carry some cash in the local currency, Peruvian Sol, for small purchases and when visiting more remote areas.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Huaraz.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Huaraz, with clear skies and ideal for trekking and climbing. Expect cool temperatures and possibly below-freezing nights at higher elevations.
Expect frequent rain, especially from December to March, and some trekking routes may be affected. The landscape is lush and green during this time.
Huaraz at Night
Hiking in Huaraz
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful turquoise lake located at an altitude of 4,600 meters, popular for day hikes.
A renowned multi-day trek that takes hikers through stunning landscapes, high mountain passes, and ancient ruins.
The largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca, offering hiking trails with spectacular views and the opportunity to see glaciers.
A lesser-known trek that showcases breathtaking scenery, with a rich variety of flora and fauna.
Two stunning glacial lakes, Chinancocha and Orconcocha, ideal for hiking and photography.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Huaraz through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Huaraz by plane.
Located in Lima, about 400 km from Huaraz, this is the largest international airport in Peru and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Located in Anta, approximately 60 km from Huaraz, this airport serves mainly domestic flights and is the nearest airport to Huaraz with some international connections.
Located in the city of Anta, this airport is about 60 km away from Huaraz and offers limited international services.
Situated in Jauja, around 140 km from Huaraz, it primarily serves domestic flights but has some international services as well.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Including Quechua and Aymara, these groups have a deep cultural heritage and often speak their native languages.
A significant demographic group in Huaraz, Mestizos are people of mixed indigenous and European descent.
Descendants of early European settlers, this group often holds significant socio-economic status in the region.
Including people from other parts of Peru and neighboring countries, this group has grown in recent years, contributing to the cultural diversity.
Visitors from various regions and countries, particularly during peak tourist seasons, significantly impact the local economy and culture.
The Soul of Huaraz
Discover the essence of Huaraz through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Huaraz, with many local teams and a strong community following. Matches are frequently held at local stadiums.
Given its proximity to the Andes, mountain climbing is a significant activity in Huaraz, attracting many enthusiasts to tackle peaks like Huascarán.
Trekking is popular due to the stunning landscapes and trails around Huaraz, including routes to the Santa Cruz trek and Lake 69.
Mountain biking and road cycling are enjoyed by locals and tourists alike, taking advantage of the diverse terrains around the city.
Although Huaraz is inland, surfing is popular in the nearby coastal areas, with many locals traveling to enjoy the waves.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Huaraz.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Peruvian cuisine heavily features meat and seafood, many restaurants and cafes in Huaraz offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes such as quinoa salads, vegetable stews, and fresh fruit smoothies.
Visitors with gluten sensitivities can delight in gluten-free offerings found in various restaurants and cafes, including options like ceviche, grilled meats with quinoa, and potato-based dishes.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Huaraz with these cultural adventures.
