Solo Adventure in the Heart of Huaraz

A Day of Discovery in Huaraz

Today was a day of gentle exploration and appreciation for the beauty that Huaraz has to offer. It was a day to wander, observe, and simply soak in the local atmosphere. I am grateful for the opportunity to experience these serene moments amidst such stunning scenery.

My Sunday began with a hearty breakfast at Don Cuy. I had heard wonderful things about their traditional Peruvian dishes, and it was the perfect way to fuel up for a day of sightseeing. The restaurant had a warm and inviting atmosphere, and I enjoyed a lovely chat with the staff about local culture and cuisine. Remembering Mei-Ling and Lin, I wished they could have been here to share this experience with me.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Don Cuy in Huaraz – where every dish tells a story!

After breakfast, I decided to take a leisurely walk through Leones Park. The park was a tranquil oasis in the middle of the city. Families were enjoying picnics, children were playing, and couples were strolling hand-in-hand. I found a quiet bench and spent some time simply observing the locals and enjoying the peaceful ambiance of the park. I took a few photographs, trying to capture the essence of this simple, joyful scene. It reminded me of the parks back in Kelowna, where Lin loves to run around and play.


Discover the serene beauty of Leones Park in Huaraz, a perfect blend of nature and recreation in the stunning Peruvian Andes.

For lunch, I ventured to Jose Olaya, a restaurant known for its authentic Peruvian flavors. I opted for a traditional ceviche, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. The restaurant had a lively, local feel, and I enjoyed watching the cooks prepare the meals with such care and passion. It was a reminder of the vibrant food culture I grew up with in Douliu.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Jose Olaya in Huaraz—where every dish tells a story.

Sometimes, the most rewarding experiences are found in the simple act of observing and appreciating the beauty around us.

The highlight of my day was undoubtedly my visit to Mirador de Rataquenua. The mirador, a natural viewpoint located on a hill, offered panoramic views of Huaraz and the surrounding snow-capped mountains of the Cordillera Blanca. The climb was a bit challenging, but the breathtaking views at the top were well worth the effort. I spent a long time at the mirador, taking in the stunning scenery and reflecting on my journey so far. The vastness of the mountains made me feel both humbled and inspired. I could even see the open-pit mine of Pierina on the Cordillera Negra. The crisp mountain air and the stunning vista were invigorating.


Experience the stunning panoramic views of Huaraz at Mirador de Rataquenua, a breathtaking tourist attraction in the heart of the Andes.

As the afternoon wore on, I decided to do some shopping at Blue Birds Huaraz. This charming gift shop was filled with local handicrafts and souvenirs. I picked up a few small gifts for Mei-Ling and Lin, wanting to bring back a piece of Huaraz for them. The shopkeeper was incredibly friendly and shared some interesting stories about the local artisans and their craft. It’s always a pleasure to support local businesses and bring home unique, handcrafted items.


Explore the heart of Huaraz at Blue Birds Huaraz, where unique gifts and artisanal treasures await to remind you of your Peruvian adventure.

For dinner, I chose Restaurante Del Sole, drawn in by its inviting atmosphere and diverse menu. I decided to try their lasagna, and it was absolutely delicious. The restaurant had a cozy, family-run feel, and the staff were incredibly welcoming and attentive. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploring Huaraz.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors amidst stunning Andean scenery at Restaurante Del Sole in Huaraz.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, I plan to visit Quechcap and Plazuela de la Soledad. I’m also looking forward to trying out Bohemia Resto Bar Huaraz in the evening. I'm excited to see what new adventures tomorrow will bring. Tonight, though, I’m content to relax and reflect on the beauty and experiences of today.