Family Adventure in the Heart of the Andes: Exploring Huascaran National Park

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of immersion, a day where the grandeur of Huascaran National Park truly seeped into our souls. It wasn't just about seeing the sights; it was about feeling the pulse of the Andes, connecting with the land, and savoring the simple joys of family and discovery.

The crisp morning air greeted us as we emerged from our tents, the towering peaks of Huascaran painted with the first light of dawn. After a quick check to ensure we had all our essentials – I still rue the forgotten extra camera batteries – we were ready to embrace the day. Our first stop was Bosque Del Prado for breakfast. It was a delightful start, fueling us up with hearty, traditional Peruvian fare. Lila, ever the adventurous eater, even tried a bit of everything, much to Hans-Peter's amusement.


Discover Bosque Del Prado: A culinary haven in Provincia de Huaylas serving authentic Peruvian dishes amidst stunning Andean landscapes.
With our bellies full and spirits high, we ventured into the heart of Parque Nacional Huascarán. The sheer scale of the landscape is humbling. As someone who grew up in the relatively modest hills of Harar, Ethiopia, the colossal mountains of the Cordillera Blanca evoke a sense of awe I find hard to articulate. The park itself is immense, stretching as far as the eye can see, a sanctuary of biodiversity and natural wonders.


Experience the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Huascarán, a top destination for outdoor adventures in Peru.
We spent hours simply wandering, taking in the sights and sounds of this unique ecosystem. The park is home to over 700 plant species, a testament to its rich biodiversity. I was particularly captivated by the Queen of the Andes (Puya raimondii), a majestic plant that stands as a symbol of the region. I tried to capture its grandeur with my camera, hoping to share its beauty with you all.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

The park is also a haven for wildlife. Although we didn't spot any spectacled bears or pumas, we did see several Andean condors soaring overhead, their massive wingspans a sight to behold. Lila was particularly thrilled, pointing and chattering excitedly as they circled above us.

Around midday, our stomachs began to rumble again, leading us to Ala qué rico for lunch. This charming spot offered a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine, and we savored every bite. Lila, predictably, opted for the simplest dish on the menu, but even she admitted it was delicious. Hans-Peter and I, however, decided to share a couple of plates, as usual. Food always tastes better when you share, doesn't it?


Experience exceptional grilled dishes and gastropub delights at Ala Qué Rico in Huaraz - where culinary tradition meets modern taste.
After lunch, we decided to indulge in a bit of retail therapy at Violeta Fashion Boutique. I must admit, I was drawn in by the vibrant colors and intricate designs of the local textiles. I ended up purchasing a beautiful shawl, a tangible reminder of our time in Huascaran. Lila, of course, gravitated towards the brightly colored accessories, while Hans-Peter patiently waited outside, enjoying the bustling street scene.


Explore unique fashion at Violeta Fashion Boutique in Yungay, where local style meets trendy apparel and personalized service.
As the afternoon waned, we continued our exploration of Huascaran National Park, delving deeper into its natural beauty. The park's diverse ecosystems, ranging from subalpine to alpine and tundra, are truly remarkable. We hiked along trails that wound through valleys and mountain slopes, each turn revealing new vistas and breathtaking views.

The weather in October is moderately chilly, but we were prepared with warm clothing. The sun peeked through the clouds, casting a golden light on the landscape. According to the locals, October sees a good chance of rain, but thankfully, we were spared a downpour today.

As evening approached, we made our way to Trece Buhos for dinner. This restaurant is known for its craft beer and cozy atmosphere. We enjoyed a hearty meal, savoring the flavors of Peru while relaxing after a long day of exploration. Lila, exhausted from our adventures, fell asleep in my arms before her meal even arrived. The staff were so kind, offering to pack it up for us to take back to camp.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Trece Buhos in Huaraz – where grilled delights meet a vibrant atmosphere.
One thing that struck me today was the rich history and cultural significance of Huascaran National Park. Beyond its natural beauty, the park is home to numerous archaeological sites, remnants of pre-Inca civilizations. It's a place where the past and present intertwine, where the echoes of ancient cultures resonate in the landscape.

UNESCO recognized Huascaran as a Biosphere Reserve in 1977 and a World Heritage Site in 1985, further cementing its importance. These designations underscore the need to protect this natural wonder for future generations.

As I sit here now, writing by the soft glow of our lantern, I can't help but feel grateful for the experiences of today. Huascaran National Park has a way of captivating the soul, of reminding us of the beauty and power of nature. It's a place that stays with you long after you've left its embrace.

Tomorrow, we plan to trek Santa Cruz and visit Catarata [if the weather permits, of course]. I’m eager to see what new adventures await us, and to continue sharing our journey with you all. For now, though, it’s time to rest and recharge, dreaming of Andean peaks and Peruvian delights.

On a lighter note, I also wanted to share a funny moment from our day. While shopping at Violeta Fashion Boutique, Hans-Peter, bless his heart, attempted to haggle over the price of a llama-shaped keychain. His German bargaining skills, however, were no match for the shopkeeper's Peruvian charm. He ended up paying full price, but the keychain now holds a special place in our collection of travel souvenirs. It's these little moments, these unexpected encounters, that make our family adventures so memorable.

For those planning a visit to Huascaran National Park, I highly recommend packing layers, as the weather can change quickly. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery, and be sure to try the local cuisine. And most importantly, be prepared to be awestruck by the sheer beauty of this natural wonder. I’m also glad I packed my hiking boots and warm clothes! I almost forgot the first-aid kit, but thankfully caught that before we left Munich.

As the stars begin to pepper the night sky, I am reminded of a quote I once read by the Ethiopian poet Tsegaye Gabre-Medhin:

Ethiopia's mountains lift my vision high, where eagles dare, and ancient spirits fly.

Though he was writing about my homeland, his words resonate deeply with my experience here in Huascaran. The mountains here, too, lift my vision high, inspiring a sense of wonder and connection to something greater than myself. Goodnight from the Andes, dear friends. Until tomorrow!

I did find out that there are several festivals around this time of year in Huaraz, but I didn’t see any today. I am looking forward to the Santa Cruz trek tomorrow, as long as there is no rain!