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

Reaching New Heights in Huascaran National Park

Today was a day of pushing limits, both physical and emotional, as we ventured deep into the heart of Huascaran National Park. The air was thin, the landscapes were immense, and the experiences were unforgettable. From the turquoise waters of Lake 69 to the icy expanse of Glaciar Pastoruri, every moment was a testament to the Andes' majestic power and the resilience required to explore them.


Explore Lake 69, a breathtaking alpine gem in the Peruvian Andes, known for its stunning turquoise waters and unforgettable hiking trails.

Our day began early, with a hearty breakfast at El Fogón in Huaraz. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, which gave me the energy I needed. We met our tour group, a mix of fellow travelers eager to witness the natural wonders of Huascaran. Lila was especially excited, her eyes sparkling with anticipation for the adventures ahead. Hans-Peter, ever the pragmatist, double-checked our backpacks to ensure we had enough water and snacks. I couldn’t help but smile, appreciating his meticulous nature, a trait that perfectly complements my own spontaneous spirit. We made sure to bring coca leaves, a local remedy against altitude sickness, just in case.

Our first destination was Lake 69, a stunningly turquoise lake nestled at the foot of snow-capped peaks. The drive itself was an experience, winding through the Callejón de Huaylas, with breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca. We stopped briefly at the Llanganuco Valley, where the Chinancocha and Orconcocha lagoons shimmered under the morning sun. The beauty was almost overwhelming, a reminder of the natural wonders that make Peru so special. I couldn't help but think of Harar, my hometown, and the similar sense of awe I felt when surrounded by its ancient walls and vibrant culture. Though the landscapes are vastly different, the feeling of being connected to something ancient and powerful was the same.

The hike to Lake 69 began at Cebollapampa, at an already considerable altitude of 3,900 meters. The trail was challenging, a steady uphill climb that tested our lungs and legs. Lila, surprisingly, bounded ahead with the energy of a mountain goat, while Hans-Peter and I took a more measured pace. I found myself pausing frequently, not just to catch my breath but to take in the panoramic views. The landscape was a tapestry of green valleys, rocky slopes, and snow-dusted peaks, all under a vast, cerulean sky. The altitude was definitely a factor, making each step feel more labored than usual. I remembered reading about the importance of acclimatization and was grateful we had spent the previous days in Huaraz, adjusting to the elevation.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

As we climbed higher, the vegetation grew sparser, and the air grew colder. We passed glacial streams, their waters crystal clear and icy cold. The final ascent to the lake was the most challenging, a steep, rocky scramble that required all our focus and determination. But then, we reached the top, and the view was simply breathtaking. Lake 69, a shimmering turquoise jewel, lay before us, framed by the towering peaks of Chacraraju and Yanapaccha. The water was so clear, it reflected the sky and mountains like a mirror. It was a scene of such serene beauty, it felt almost unreal. We spent a good hour at the lake, soaking in the views, taking photos, and simply being present in that moment. Lila skipped stones across the water, her laughter echoing through the mountains. Hans-Peter, ever the photographer, captured the scene from every angle. I sat quietly, reflecting on the journey and the incredible beauty that surrounded us. It was a moment of profound peace, a reminder of the simple joys of life and the power of nature to heal and inspire.

After a packed lunch by the lake, we began the descent, which was much easier on the lungs but harder on the knees. Back at Cebollapampa, we boarded our bus and began the drive to our next destination: Glaciar Pastoruri. The landscape shifted dramatically as we drove south, from green valleys to a stark, high-altitude desert. We stopped at Patococha, also known as the Duck Lagoon, where we spotted wild ducks in their natural habitat. We also visited the Puma Pampa carbonated springs, a unique site with bubbling waters and views of the Mururaju Glacier. The air was noticeably colder here, and I was grateful for my warm layers. It's amazing how much the weather can change in just a short drive.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Glaciar Pastoruri, a majestic glacier in the Andes, renowned for its stunning ice formations and diverse ecosystems.

Finally, we arrived at Glaciar Pastoruri, a stark reminder of the effects of climate change. The glacier, once a massive river of ice, has retreated significantly in recent years, leaving behind a landscape of bare rock and moraine. The altitude here was even higher, around 5,000 meters, and the air was noticeably thinner. The walk from the parking lot to the glacier viewpoint was short but challenging, a slow, uphill climb that left us breathless. It was a sobering experience, witnessing firsthand the impact of climate change on this fragile environment. Despite the retreat of the glacier, the landscape was still impressive, a vast expanse of ice and rock under a wide, open sky. I felt a sense of sadness, but also a renewed commitment to protecting our planet for future generations. Lila was fascinated by the glacier, asking questions about how it was formed and why it was melting. It was a valuable learning experience for her, a chance to connect with the natural world and understand the importance of conservation. I made sure to explain the importance of sustainability, a lesson I try to incorporate in our daily lives back in Munich as well.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Huaraz, exhausted but exhilarated. We stopped at Craft Beer House for a well-deserved drink. I enjoyed a local craft beer. The cozy atmosphere of the bar was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of hiking and sightseeing. We shared stories and laughter with our fellow travelers, forging connections that transcended language and culture. It was a reminder of the shared humanity that binds us together, no matter where we come from.


Explore the Craft Beer House in Carhuaz for a delightful selection of local brews and a vibrant atmosphere perfect for relaxation and fun.

For dinner, we decided to try Las Lomas - Recreo Club Campestre, a restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine. We enjoyed a hearty meal of local specialties, savoring the flavors of the Andes. Lila especially loved the papas rellenas, stuffed potatoes, a dish that reminded me of similar comfort food from my childhood in Harar. As we ate, we reflected on the day's adventures, the challenges we had overcome, and the incredible beauty we had witnessed.


Experience exquisite Peruvian cuisine at Las Lomas - Recreo Club Campestre amidst stunning landscapes in Yungay.

Today was a day of pushing limits, of connecting with nature, and of creating memories that will last a lifetime. It was a reminder of the power of travel to broaden our horizons, to challenge our perspectives, and to connect us with the world around us. As I drifted off to sleep, I was filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day and excitement for the adventures that lie ahead. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Laguna Yanarraju and El Árbol de la Quina, continuing our exploration of Huascaran National Park. I am also hoping to find some time to shop at Kahely MD, as I want to bring back some souvenirs for my friends and family in Munich. Good night from the Andes!