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

Whispers of the Andes

Today was a day of quiet discovery, a gentle immersion into the soul of Huascaran National Park. Away from the well-trodden paths, we sought out places where the mountains whisper their secrets, where the air is crisp with history and the land breathes with a life uniquely its own. It was a day of simple pleasures, profound beauty, and a deeper connection with the world around us.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Bosque Del Prado. The restaurant was nestled amidst a grove of trees, offering a tranquil start to our adventurous day. The girls were particularly excited about trying some local pastries, and Hans-Peter, as always, enjoyed a strong cup of Peruvian coffee to fuel our explorations. It’s moments like these, sharing simple joys in stunning locations, that make our family trips so special. As a cultural consultant, I always appreciate how food can be a window into a region's soul, and this morning was no exception.

Fueled and ready, we set off to explore Laguna Yanarraju. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads that snaked through the mountains, offering panoramic views at every turn. Lila kept pointing out the different birds she spotted, her enthusiasm infectious. When we finally arrived at the lake, it was as if we had stumbled upon a hidden sanctuary. The water was a mirror reflecting the sky, and the surrounding peaks stood guard in silent majesty. I tried to capture the scene with my camera, hoping to preserve the moment, but some things are simply too grand for a lens to contain.


Experience the serene beauty of Laguna Yanarraju, Peru's hidden gem, where nature and tranquility converge for an unforgettable escape.

Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.

We spent a couple of hours simply wandering around the lake, breathing in the fresh air, and listening to the silence broken only by the occasional bird call. Lila, ever the explorer, found a patch of wildflowers and spent ages examining them, her curiosity a constant source of joy. Hans-Peter, meanwhile, was content to sit by the shore, sketching in his notebook. He finds peace in capturing the essence of a place through his art, a different way of translating the world than I do. I thought about my hometown of Harar, Ethiopia, a place also rich in natural beauty, and felt a familiar pang of longing mixed with gratitude for the opportunity to experience such wonders in Peru. These mountains, though different from the landscapes of my childhood, evoke a similar sense of timelessness and connection to the earth.

For lunch, we decided to try Ala qué rico. It was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the aroma of grilled meats filled the air. We ordered a selection of local specialties, and everything was delicious. Lila particularly enjoyed the grilled chicken, while Hans-Peter savored a hearty steak. I opted for a vegetarian dish made with local vegetables, a testament to the region's rich agricultural heritage. It's wonderful to see how Peruvian cuisine celebrates the bounty of the land, and I always make it a point to support restaurants that prioritize local ingredients.

After our satisfying lunch, we ventured towards El Árbol de la Quina. This wasn't just a visit to a tree; it was a pilgrimage to a symbol. The Quina tree holds a special place in Peruvian history and culture, representing the nation's natural wealth. It's featured on the country's coat of arms, a testament to its importance. Discovering that the tree's bark was used to produce quinine, a vital medicine, highlighted its contribution to global health. Seeing it in person was a humbling experience, a reminder of the power and fragility of nature. It was also a stark reminder of the importance of conservation, as the Quina tree is now endangered, a victim of deforestation and overexploitation. I made a mental note to research more about conservation efforts in the region and see how I could contribute, even in a small way. Perhaps I could use my blog to raise awareness about the importance of protecting this iconic species.


Explore the enchanting El Árbol de la Quina in Tinco, where nature and tradition intertwine through the revered Quina tree and its medicinal legacy.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Huaraz, our hearts full of the day's experiences. Before heading back to our camp, we decided to have dinner at Trece Buhos. The restaurant had a lively atmosphere and a diverse menu, offering everything from pizzas to local specialties. We opted for a mix of dishes, sharing plates and sampling different flavors. Lila, of course, insisted on ordering pizza, while Hans-Peter tried a traditional Peruvian stew. I decided to be adventurous and ordered a dish I had never tried before, a spicy seafood concoction that left my taste buds tingling. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. It was the perfect way to end our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Trece Buhos in Huaraz – where grilled delights meet a vibrant atmosphere.

Before dinner, I managed to squeeze in a quick visit to Kahely MD, a local shop I had spotted earlier. I was hoping to find a unique souvenir to take back home, something that would remind me of our time in Huascaran National Park. I ended up buying a beautiful hand-woven scarf, made from alpaca wool. The colors were vibrant and earthy, reflecting the landscape we had explored. It was the perfect memento, a tangible reminder of the beauty and spirit of this magical place.


Explore Kahely MD in Yungay - Your gateway to authentic Peruvian crafts and fashion in a charming boutique setting.

Tomorrow, we are planning to visit Huaraz Zipline Adventures and Antaracá. It promises to be another day filled with adventure and discovery. I'm particularly excited about the ziplining, as it will offer a unique perspective on the landscape. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, to savor the memories of today and prepare for the adventures that await.

As I sit here in our tent, the stars twinkling above, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Today was a reminder of the simple joys in life, the beauty that surrounds us, and the importance of connecting with nature and each other. It was a day of Andean echoes, whispers of the mountains that will stay with me long after we leave this magical place.