30 Best Tourist spots & Things to Do in Huaraz | Apr 2025
Huayhuash 8 Day Trek
The Cordillera Huayhuash is less popular than the Blanca, but is no less spectacular. More remote and higher than the Santa Cruz trek, the Huayhuash trek is a traverse of he mountain range made famous by the film "Touching the Void".
From $680.00
Summiting Nevado Mateo | Day Trip | Cordillera Blanca | 5,150m
+All clients can reach the summit of Nevado Mateo with our expert guides. We are patient and accomodating. +Guide to client ratio 1:3 +Crampons, boots, helmet, harness, and piolet (ice axe) provided with prior fitting +Picnic lunch provided (but bring your favorite trekking snacks) +Depending on size, transportation is by taxi, sprinter van, or luxury bus +Peruvian Owned; Family Run Let’s climb the Nevado Mateo in just one day.
5.00 (39 reviews)
From $140.00
3-day tour to Parón, Llanganuco and Laguna 69 from Huaraz
Departure from the city of Huaraz at the agreed time, the route is in the northern part of the Callejón de Huaylas, we will pass through yungay, caraz from where the road turns east through the town of Parón, reaching the front of the Quebrada from Parón and the lake of the same name, located at 4170 meters above sea level, we will walk approximately 40 minutes to reach a tourist point from here you have a panoramic view of the lake and the mountains such as Huaydoy, Chacraraju, Piramide, Paron, Caraz and Needle and finally we will return to Huaraz.
From $150.00
Lake 69 Full-Day Hiking Tour from Huaraz
Lake 69 is the most beautiful lake in the Cordillera Blanca and it has become popular by its easy reach in just a one day hike.
4.25 (4 reviews)
From $40.00
Pastoruri Glacier
Pastoruri Glacier in one of the best tour in Huaraz, where you enjoy the nature and live an amazing experience, in the rute you pass for some tradicional cityes like Recuay, Catac, Ticapampa, etc.
4.62 (34 reviews)
From $30.00
Trekking to Laguna 69
One of the best single day hikes in the world, ideal to appreciate the mountains in all their splendor. The color of the lagoon is one of the most beautiful in the world, as well as being at the foot of the imposing Nevado Chacraraju.
4.13 (8 reviews)
From $40.00
69 Lake - Cordillera Blanca
Is one of the best treks in Cordillera Blanca, where we will visit a beautiful lake its name is Llangancuco then we walk for 3 hours aproximately enjoying the nature and finally visit the principal atractive, the 69 lake and finally we will return to Cebollapampa to take the bus back to Huaraz.
4.84 (62 reviews)
From $30.00
Laguna 69 Day Trek
You will be picked up around 5AM from your hotel and reach the trailhead after ~3h drive. Beginning the trek, you will go through beautiful trek passes by alpine meadows and beside a river.
3.63 (8 reviews)
From $35.00
Parón Lake - Cordillera Blanca
Lake Parón is one of the most beautiful lake where you can enjoy the nature sorrounded by mountains like huaydoy, chacraraju, piramide, paron, caraz and aguja.
4.69 (35 reviews)
From $44.12
Santa Cruz 4 Days Trek
The world class Santa Cruz Trek is one of the most popular in Huaraz for good reason. The multi-day trek takes trekkers through the most stunning scenery in the Cordillera Blanca including awe-inspiring mountain passes and vast plains in 3-4 days! For pure mountain scenery in the Cordillera Blanca, theres no better value than the Santa Cruz trek.
4.33 (12 reviews)
From $380.00
Laguna Parón (Full Day)
It is the largest lagoon in the Cordillera Blanca. It is surrounded by the most imposing Nevados (with heights greater than 6000 meters above sea level) such as the Artesonraju (Paramount Pictures Mountain, Nevado Huandoy, Piramide, Huascarán, among others.
5.00 (8 reviews)
From $40.00
Snowy Mateo - Cordillera Blanca Expedition
ITINERARY: Day 1: Huaraz - Base Mateo 4700 masl - Summit Matthew 5150 masl - Base Camp - Huaraz: Pick up from the lodgings at 2:30 am and departure from Huaraz at 3.
5.00 (26 reviews)
From $140.00
Adventure Santa Cruz Trek. 3N/4D a Truly Unforgettable Journey
Trekking Santa Cruz: One of the most popular treks in the Cordillera Blanca, the hike around this subtropical mountain range passes through impressive landscapes of uncommonly beautiful mountains, frequent lakes and glaciers.
5.00 (5 reviews)
From $3,250.00
Climbing Mateo - Your first 5 thousand
Climb your first mountain of 5 thousand meters. Good food throughout the circuit. Beautiful views of the emblematic mountains of the Cordillera Blanca Ideal for beginners .
4.96 (46 reviews)
From $120.00
Pastoruri Glacier Day Trip
See the famous Pastoruri Glacier before it disappears forever! Ths day tour begins with a stop to see the massive Puya Raimondii plants that can grow up to 120m.
3.75 (4 reviews)
From $35.99
Climb Pisco - the balcony of the Cordillera Blanca (5752m)
Good food throughout the circuit. Beautiful views of the emblematic mountains of the Cordillera Blanca It is considered the balcony of the Cordillera Blanca Ideal for beginners.
5.00 (3 reviews)
From $470.00
Chavín de Huántar
Chavin de huantar is one of the most important tour in Huaraz because in this tours we will visit a very important building of the chavin culture, a very old building also we will visit Querococha lake and finally the museum where we can find many importants pieces.
4.56 (9 reviews)
From $30.00
Pastoruri Glacier Private Full-Day Tour from Huaraz
Located in the south part of the Cordillera Blanca, Pastoruri is one of the glaciers left in the tropical areas of South America.
From $180.00
Full-Day Private Tour to Laguna 69
Take one of the most spectacular trekking excursions in the Andes, to lagoon 69: a peaceful turquoise lagoon next to imposing snow-capped peaks, a true natural spectacle.
From $150.00
69 Lake - Cordillera Blanca - Private Service
Is one of the best treks in Cordillera Blanca, where we will visit a beautiful lake its name is Llangancuco then we walk for 6 hours aproximately round trip, enjoying the nature to visit the 69 lake and we will return to Cebollapampa to take the bus back to Huaraz.
4.90 (10 reviews)
From $130.00
Santa Cruz Llanganuco Trek Cordillera Blanca
Day 1: Huaraz (3100 m. a. s. l) - Caraz (2290 m. a. s. l) - Cashapampa (2970 m. a. s. l) - Llamacorral Camp (3760 m. a. s.
5.00 (6 reviews)
From $1,050.00
HORSE RIDING - Panoramic Mountain View in Private - CORDILLERA BLANCA
this Panoramic Mountain view horse riding is one the unique adventure tours in Huaraz, its another alternative for yoru adventure tours while you are in Huaraz, this tour may fit you for your acclimatizing purpose.
5.00 (1 reviews)
From $90.00
Glacier Pastoruri and Puya Raimondi Full Day Tour
The tour to Pastoruri Glacier is a special experience, because is one of the easiest snow-capped peaks to reach, located at 17,192 feet high.
From $30.00
Mountaineering: Ascent to Nevado Mateo
Climbing a mountain is something that everyone must do before dying, Nevado Mateo is ideal to start with this passion. The Peruvian Andes offer us endless possibilities, but only the Nevado Mateo offers us such a simple ascent and despite this it is more than 5,150 meters high and with a 360 view of the most beautiful mountains of the Cordillera Blanca , within the Huascarán National Park.
5.00 (2 reviews)
From $140.00
Chavin Ruins Day Trip (UNESCO Heritage Site)
There/s more to Huaraz than just nature. Close by the mountains, there is a pre-Incan ruin designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site! On this tour, we will first make a stop by the beautiful Queracocha lake before continuing onto the ruins of Chavin.
From $22.99
Llanganuco Lake - Cordillera Blanca
Llanganuco Lake is one of the most famous tour in Huaraz because we will visit the 60 percent of the Callejon de Huaylas we will make stops in carhuaz, Yungay, Tarica and we can be near of the Huascaran Mountain and Huandoy Mountain; is a tour where you can see and buy tipical products.
4.75 (4 reviews)
From $30.00
Full day hike in Lagoon 69 with Transportation
Visit the most beautiful lagoon of the Cordillera Blanca It is the most visited lagoon in the Cordillera Blanca During the walk, you will enjoy beautiful views of the emblematic mountains of the Cordillera Blanca .
3.67 (3 reviews)
From $30.00
Laguna Chinancocha (Llanganuco) and Callejón de Huaylas - Full Day
It is a unique route, crossing picturesque towns and appreciating the Cordillera Blanca to the east and the Cordillera negra to the west.
4.33 (3 reviews)
From $40.00
Lake Churup Trek at Huascaran National Park
Lake Churup is located at the base of the snow-capped mountain of the same name, within the Huascaran National Park. In this challenging trek, we will visit this stunning lake of turquoise waters that offers amazing landscapes and panoramic views at 4,450 m.
From $45.00
Querococha Lake and Chavin Ruins and from Huaraz
Enjoy a full-day tour to the millenarian capital of archaeology of Chavin de Huantar. in the way you can stop at nice spots for photographs and specially in the beautiful lake of Queerococha .
4.00 (2 reviews)
From $30.00
What activities can I do in Huaraz?
Huaraz, Peru is a beautiful city located in the heart of the Andes Mountains. It is known for its stunning natural landscapes and outdoor adventure opportunities. Here are some things to do in Huaraz: 1. Visit Huascaran National Park: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the highest peak in Peru, Huascaran, as well as numerous other snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and diverse flora and fauna. You can go hiking, trekking, or climbing in the park, and enjoy breathtaking views. 2. Laguna 69: This turquoise glacial lake is one of the most popular day trips from Huaraz. The trek to Laguna 69 takes you through beautiful valleys and offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The lake itself is a perfect spot for a picnic or a refreshing swim. 3. Pastoruri Glacier: Take a day trip to Pastoruri Glacier, one of the few remaining glaciers in the region. You can hike up to the glacier and witness the effects of climate change firsthand. The views from the top are incredible, and you might even spot some wildlife along the way. 4. Chavin de Huantar: Explore the ancient ruins of Chavin de Huantar, a pre-Columbian archaeological site located about 110 kilometers from Huaraz. This site dates back to around 1200 BC and is known for its impressive stone carvings and underground tunnels. 5. Mountain biking: Huaraz is a great destination for mountain biking enthusiasts. There are numerous trails and routes that cater to different skill levels. You can rent a bike and explore the surrounding countryside, passing through picturesque villages and enjoying the stunning mountain views. 6. Hot springs: After a day of adventure, relax in one of the natural hot springs near Huaraz. The most popular ones are Monterrey and Chancos, where you can soak in the warm waters and take in the surrounding scenery. 7. Local markets: Visit the local markets in Huaraz to experience the vibrant culture and taste the delicious Peruvian cuisine. The Mercado Central is a great place to buy fresh produce, local handicrafts, and souvenirs. 8. Paron Lake: Take a day trip to Paron Lake, the largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca. The turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks create a stunning backdrop for hiking, picnicking, or simply enjoying the tranquility of the surroundings. These are just a few of the many things to do in Huaraz, Peru. Whether you are an adventure seeker, nature lover, or history enthusiast, Huaraz offers something for everyone.
When is the best time to travel to Huaraz?
The best time to travel to Huaraz, Peru is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During these months, you can expect clear skies, sunny days, and cooler temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and trekking. Huaraz is known for its stunning mountain landscapes, including the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash, and visiting during the dry season ensures better visibility and less chance of rain or snowfall. The trails and paths are also in better condition, making it easier to explore the region's natural beauty. However, it's important to note that Huaraz is located at high altitude, so be prepared for cooler temperatures, especially at night. It's recommended to bring warm clothing and acclimatize properly to avoid altitude sickness. If you're interested in seeing the region's beautiful flowers in bloom, the months of June and July are particularly vibrant, as many plants and wildflowers blossom during this time. Overall, the dry season is the best time to visit Huaraz for optimal weather conditions and the opportunity to fully enjoy the outdoor activities and natural wonders of the region.
Travel culture you should know when traveling to Huaraz
Huaraz is a city located in the Ancash region of Peru, known for its stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Here are some aspects of Huaraz's travel culture: 1. Outdoor Adventure: Huaraz is a popular destination for adventure seekers and nature lovers. The city is surrounded by the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash mountain ranges, offering opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, and hiking. The famous Santa Cruz trek and climbing Huascaran, the highest peak in Peru, are some of the must-do activities for outdoor enthusiasts. 2. Indigenous Culture: Huaraz is home to several indigenous communities, such as the Quechua people, who have preserved their traditional way of life. Visitors have the chance to learn about their customs, traditional clothing, and agricultural practices. The local markets, like Mercado Central, are great places to experience the vibrant indigenous culture and try local dishes. 3. Archaeological Sites: The region around Huaraz is rich in archaeological sites, showcasing the ancient cultures that once thrived in the area. The most famous site is Chavín de Huántar, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its impressive stone carvings and underground passages. Other notable sites include the ruins of Huilcahuaín and the Wilcahuain Temple. 4. Festivals and Traditions: Huaraz celebrates various festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with a glimpse into the local traditions and customs. The most important festival is the Señor de la Soledad, held in September, which features colorful processions, traditional dances, and music. The festival of Corpus Christi in June is another significant celebration with elaborate religious processions. 5. Gastronomy: Huaraz offers a diverse culinary scene, influenced by both indigenous and Spanish traditions. Local dishes include pachamanca (meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven), cuy (guinea pig), rocoto relleno (stuffed spicy pepper), and ceviche (marinated raw fish or seafood). Visitors can also try traditional drinks like chicha morada (purple corn beverage) and pisco, Peru's national liquor. 6. Handicrafts: Huaraz is known for its vibrant handicrafts, produced by local artisans. Traditional textiles, pottery, and woodwork are some of the popular crafts you can find in the local markets and shops. The town of Carhuaz, located near Huaraz, is particularly famous for its handwoven textiles and colorful woolen goods. Overall, Huaraz offers a unique blend of natural beauty, indigenous culture, and archaeological wonders, making it a fascinating destination for travelers interested in exploring Peru's cultural heritage.
Shopping list or souvenirs to buy when traveling to Huaraz
When visiting Huaraz, Peru, there are several shopping items and souvenirs that you can consider bringing back home. Here are some popular options: 1. Alpaca Wool Products: Huaraz is known for its high-quality alpaca wool products, including sweaters, scarves, hats, gloves, and blankets. These items are warm, soft, and make for excellent souvenirs or gifts. 2. Handicrafts: Huaraz has a vibrant artisan market where you can find a variety of traditional handicrafts such as pottery, wood carvings, textiles, and jewelry. These items often showcase the rich culture and heritage of the region. 3. Andean Musical Instruments: If you're interested in music, consider purchasing traditional Andean musical instruments like panpipes (zampoñas), charangos (small guitar-like instruments), or quenas (flutes). These instruments are not only unique souvenirs but also allow you to bring a piece of Andean culture back home. 4. Coffee and Cacao Products: Peru is known for its high-quality coffee and cacao beans. In Huaraz, you can find locally produced coffee beans, chocolate bars, and other cocoa-based products. These make for delicious souvenirs for yourself or as gifts for friends and family. 5. Pisco: Pisco is a traditional Peruvian brandy made from grapes. It is a popular spirit in Peru, and you can find various brands and flavors in Huaraz. Consider picking up a bottle of pisco as a souvenir or to enjoy a taste of Peru back home. 6. Local Artwork: Huaraz has a thriving art scene, and you can find beautiful paintings, sculptures, and other artworks created by local artists. These pieces can be a unique and meaningful souvenir to remember your time in Huaraz. Remember to shop responsibly and support local artisans and businesses when purchasing souvenirs in Huaraz.
Huaraz travel review
Huaraz, Peru: A Haven for Adventurers and Nature Enthusiasts Nestled in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, Huaraz is a hidden gem that offers a unique blend of breathtaking landscapes, rich culture, and thrilling adventures. This charming city, located at an altitude of 3,100 meters above sea level, is the gateway to the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Huayhuash, two of the most stunning mountain ranges in the world. With its towering peaks, glacial lakes, and ancient ruins, Huaraz is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. One of the main highlights of Huaraz is its proximity to Huascaran National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This vast protected area is home to the highest tropical mountain range in the world, with peaks reaching over 6,000 meters. The park offers a plethora of hiking and trekking opportunities, ranging from easy day hikes to challenging multi-day expeditions. The most popular trek in the area is the Santa Cruz Trek, a four-day adventure that takes you through stunning valleys, past turquoise lakes, and up to breathtaking mountain passes. For those seeking an adrenaline rush, Huaraz is also a premier destination for mountaineering. With over 50 peaks above 5,000 meters, including the iconic Alpamayo and Huascaran, the city attracts climbers from all over the world. Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer or a beginner looking to conquer your first summit, Huaraz has something to offer for everyone. But Huaraz is not just about mountains and adventure. The city itself is steeped in history and culture. Take a stroll through the charming streets of the old town, and you will be transported back in time. Admire the colonial architecture, visit the local market to sample traditional Peruvian cuisine, and explore the numerous museums that showcase the region's rich heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the ancient ruins of Chavin de Huantar, a pre-Columbian archaeological site that dates back to 1200 BC. After a day of exploring, Huaraz offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget. From cozy guesthouses to luxury resorts, you will find a comfortable place to rest and recharge for your next adventure. And when it comes to dining, Huaraz does not disappoint. Sample delicious Peruvian cuisine, including ceviche, lomo saltado, and aji de gallina, at the local restaurants and savor the flavors of this vibrant country. In conclusion, Huaraz is a true paradise for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. With its stunning landscapes, thrilling outdoor activities, and rich cultural heritage, this hidden gem in the Peruvian Andes should not be missed. Whether you are seeking a challenging trek, a thrilling mountaineering experience, or simply a place to immerse yourself in nature, Huaraz has it all. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Huaraz, Peru.