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

A Final Day in the Andes

As our 11-day journey through Huascaran National Park draws to a close, I find myself overwhelmed with a sense of gratitude and awe. This trip, conceived as a means to reconnect with nature and each other, has exceeded all expectations. Today was about savoring those last moments, etching the majestic landscapes into our memories, and reflecting on the incredible experiences we've shared as a family.

The day began, as many others have, with the promise of adventure hanging in the crisp morning air. We had a delightful breakfast at Cafe Andino. I savored a strong Peruvian coffee, while Hans-Peter enjoyed some fresh bread, and Lila devoured a fruit salad. It was a simple meal, but the atmosphere was perfect, surrounded by fellow travelers and locals alike, all buzzing with the energy of a new day in Huaraz. The Cafe Andino is located in the urban heart of Huaraz, surrounded by the most spectacular mountains of the Peruvian Andes.


Experience the authentic flavors of Peru at Café Andino in Huaraz – where great food meets cozy ambiance.

Our first stop was Laguna Queushu. The drive there was an adventure in itself, winding through narrow mountain roads, each turn revealing even more stunning vistas. The landscape was dotted with small villages and grazing livestock. When we arrived at the Laguna, its beauty was striking. The water mirrored the surrounding snow-capped peaks, creating a scene of serene majesty. We spent a couple of hours here, simply walking around the lake, taking photos, and absorbing the tranquility. Lila was particularly fascinated by the birds, trying to identify each one with the help of her little guidebook.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Queushu, a serene lagoon in Peru, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Next, we ventured to Puquio Yauri Garcia. It was a chance to see a different side of the park, a more intimate, less grandiose landscape. The area was lovely, and offered a quiet contrast to the wide open spaces we had been exploring. We took a leisurely stroll, enjoying the peace and quiet, before settling down for a picnic lunch amidst the wildflowers. It was moments like these, away from the crowds and immersed in nature, that made this trip so special.


Explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture at Puquio Yauri Garcia in Musho, Peru - a hidden gem for every traveler.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand gestures, but in the simple act of being present in nature, together.

In the afternoon, we returned to Huaraz, where I wanted to do some last-minute shopping for souvenirs. We stopped by ISAHUI PERÚ, a local shop known for its authentic Peruvian crafts. I picked up a few hand-woven textiles and a beautiful ceramic piece, each item a tangible reminder of our time here. Lila, of course, chose a cuddly alpaca toy, a new friend to add to her collection.


Discover the beauty of Peru at ISAHUI PERÚ, where local and international beauty products meet exceptional service in Carhuaz.

For our final dinner in Huaraz, we decided to try Wayta - El Chef Andino. The restaurant had been recommended to us by several locals, and it did not disappoint. The food was a delightful fusion of traditional Andean flavors with a modern twist. I savored the lomo saltado, while Hans-Peter opted for the quinoa salad. Lila, ever adventurous, tried the causa, a layered potato dish that was both delicious and visually stunning. The service was friendly and attentive, adding to the overall experience. Wayta offers a blend of authentic flavors from the Pacific coast to the Peruvian highlands.


Discover the essence of Peruvian cuisine at Wayta - El Chef Andino in Huaraz, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

As we walked back to our campsite under the starlit sky, I couldn't help but reflect on the past eleven days. We had hiked through breathtaking landscapes, encountered unique wildlife, and immersed ourselves in the rich culture of the Andes. More importantly, we had strengthened our bonds as a family, creating memories that would last a lifetime. I thought about how fortunate I am to be able to share these experiences with my family, to watch Lila's eyes light up at the sight of a soaring condor, to feel Hans-Peter's hand in mine as we navigated a challenging trail. These are the moments that make life truly meaningful.

This trip to Huascaran National Park was more than just a vacation; it was a journey of discovery, connection, and appreciation. It reminded me of the importance of slowing down, of being present in the moment, and of cherishing the simple things in life. As we prepare to leave this beautiful place, I know that a part of it will always remain with us, inspiring us to seek out new adventures and to embrace the beauty of the natural world.

I am already looking forward to sharing more of our travel adventures with you all soon. Until then, may your own journeys be filled with wonder and discovery.

P.S. I almost forgot to mention our lunch at Restaurant Chifa Polleria Guilla. We wanted to try something different, and it was a fun experience. The restaurant was bustling with locals, and the food was hearty and flavorful, a perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring. While it wasn't quite as refined as Wayta, it was a genuine taste of local cuisine, and we all enjoyed it.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Restaurant Chifa Polleria Guilla in Huaraz – a culinary gem blending tradition with unique tastes.

Tomorrow, we will be heading to the airport to begin our journey back to Munich. It's always a bittersweet moment, leaving behind a place that has captured our hearts. But I know that we are taking with us memories that will last a lifetime, and that is the greatest souvenir of all.

One thing I will say is that I am glad we decided to camp instead of booking a hotel. While hotels such as Hotel Suiza Peruana and Hatun Wasi Huaraz look like nice options , there is nothing quite like sleeping under the stars.

I will miss Peru, but I know that this is not goodbye, and that we will be back again some day!