Exploring the Natural Wonders of Huaraz with David

Reaching New Heights in Huaraz

Today was all about pushing our limits and rewarding ourselves with some truly breathtaking views. Huaraz has a way of making you feel incredibly small yet utterly invigorated, and today’s adventures were a perfect example of that. From the challenging climb to Churup Lake, it was a day filled with awe and a sense of accomplishment.


Explore the serene beauty of Churup Lake in the Peruvian Andes, a stunning destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Our day started with a hearty breakfast at Creperie Patrick. It's a cozy spot that Patrick, a Frenchman who has been in Huaraz since 1986, runs with his family. I opted for a savory crepe filled with local cheese and avocado, while David went for a classic ham and cheese. It was the perfect fuel for the day ahead, and I made a mental note to try one of Patrick’s homemade jams before we leave Huaraz.


Discover authentic French crepes and delightful cuisine at Creperie Patrick in Huaraz, Peru—a must-visit for food lovers!
Fueled up, we set off for Laguna Churup, known as one of the most popular day hikes in the Cordillera Blanca. The drive to Pitec, the starting point of the trek, was stunning in itself, with traditional villages and picturesque landscapes unfolding before us. It took us about 40 minutes to get there. The air was crisp and clean, a stark contrast to the bustling streets of Berlin. As an environmental consultant, I am always appreciative of these moments where nature's beauty takes center stage. I made sure David had plenty of water in his reusable water bottle; I would never forgive myself if he got dehydrated after I'd been preaching about reducing plastic waste for years!

The hike itself was no joke. It’s rated as moderate to difficult, and I would definitely agree with that assessment. The altitude, reaching 4,450 meters (14,600 feet), made every step a conscious effort. The trail is about 7 kilometers round trip, and most people take about 5-6 hours to complete it. The initial part of the trail was a steep climb with uneven steps that lasted for about 20 minutes. Luckily, there were shelters where we could stop and catch our breath.

About an hour into the hike, we reached a split in the path. We had two options to get to Laguna Churup: one involved climbing rocks using ropes and rope ladders, and the other was a longer route with steep stairs. We opted for the rope climb, and I must admit, it was a bit daunting. But with David’s encouragement and a few deep breaths, I managed to pull myself up. It felt like a real accomplishment, and the adrenaline rush was incredible. I even forgot about the extra camera batteries I had forgotten to pack, so I guess the view would have to stay in my memory!

Sometimes, the most challenging paths lead to the most rewarding destinations.

Finally, after about three hours of uphill trekking, we reached Laguna Churup. And it was worth every ounce of effort. The clear blue waters of the lagoon were mesmerizing, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. It was a scene straight out of a postcard, a reward for our hard work and perseverance. The peaks surrounding the Laguna created a breathtaking rock and ice cirque. I took a moment to simply soak it all in, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty. We spent some time walking along the lakeshore, taking photos, and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.

After descending from Laguna Churup, we were both ravenous. We headed to Kaypacha Restaurante for a well-deserved lunch. This restaurant is known for its traditional Andean flavors, and it certainly didn’t disappoint. I had a delicious quinoa and chicken dish, while David opted for the grilled fish. The portions were generous, and the food was hearty and flavorful. It was the perfect way to refuel after our strenuous hike. The restaurant had a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, making it a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Kaypacha Restaurante in Huaraz - where every dish tells a story.
With our bellies full, we decided to visit Mirador de Rataquenua. This natural viewpoint is located about 7 kilometers southeast of Huaraz, on the eastern side of a hill. It’s a strategic spot for viewing the city and offers panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca. It took us about 15 minutes to drive there from Kaypacha. The ride up to the Mirador was quite bumpy, but David handled it like a pro, skillfully navigating the winding roads. He loves driving, and I enjoy the views, so it works out perfectly.


Experience breathtaking views of the Peruvian Andes at the stunning Mirador de Rataquenua, a must-visit attraction for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
As we ascended, the landscape transformed, with eucalyptus trees lining the road and traditional agricultural fields dotting the hills. The air was fresh and crisp, carrying the scent of eucalyptus. When we arrived at the Mirador, the view was simply stunning. From this vantage point, we could see the entire city of Huaraz spread out below us, surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. The Huandoy, Huascarán, Chopicalqui, Copa, Vallunaraju, Tullparaju, Rima Rima, and Churup peaks were all visible, creating a breathtaking panorama. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the landscape.

We spent some time taking photos and simply enjoying the view. There’s a large cross at the Mirador, which is a pilgrimage site for the city's patron saint. The Mirador de Rataquenua is a natural viewpoint on a hill about 4 kilometers east of Huaraz, at an altitude of 3,314 meters above sea level. The climate varies from temperate to temperate-cold, depending on the time of day and year.

For dinner, we decided to try PAULINO'S INDIAN CUISINE. I’d read some great reviews about it, and we were both craving something different after days of traditional Peruvian food. The restaurant is located on Avenida Luzuriaga, on the second floor, with views of Parque del Periodista. The atmosphere was cozy, and the staff was friendly. We ordered a variety of dishes, including chicken curry, lentil curry, and saffron noodles. The portions were generous, and the flavors were authentic and delicious. It was a welcome change of pace, and we both agreed that it was one of the best Indian meals we’d had outside of India.


Experience authentic Indian cuisine in Huaraz at Paulino's – where every dish tells a story through rich flavors and spices.
To cap off the evening, we stopped by Trivio Resto Bar for a nightcap. This bar is known for its artisanal beers and cozy atmosphere. I opted for a local craft beer, while David enjoyed a glass of wine. The bar was lively, with a mix of locals and tourists chatting and laughing. It was the perfect way to unwind after a long day of hiking and sightseeing. The name Trivio comes from the Latin word Trivium, meaning the meeting of three roads, representing a place where people meet and converse. It was a fitting end to a day of exploration and connection.


Discover Trivio Resto Bar in Huaraz: A delightful culinary experience with fresh local flavors and a warm atmosphere perfect for all diners.
As I reflect on today’s adventures, I’m filled with a sense of gratitude and accomplishment. Huaraz has a way of challenging you physically and rewarding you with unparalleled natural beauty. It’s a place that stays with you long after you’ve left, a reminder of the power and majesty of the Andes. Tomorrow, we're planning to delve into the ancient history of the region with a visit to the Sitio Arqueológico Chavín de Huántar and the Chavin National Museum [Tomorrow Itinerary]. I'm excited to see what stories these ancient stones have to tell.

Back at Hotel La Joya, I am looking forward to a good night's sleep. I am grateful for the hotel's amenities and personalized service, which make our stay so comfortable. It is so lovely to have a comfortable base to return to after a long day of exploring. I'm also grateful for David, who always encourages me to push my limits and experience new things. Traveling with my spouse makes these adventures even more special, and I wouldn't trade it for the world.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel La Joya, centrally located in Huaraz with modern amenities and friendly service for a perfect getaway.