Exploring the Natural Wonders of Huaraz with David

Chasing Turquoise Dreams in Huascarán National Park

Today was nothing short of epic. David and I ventured deep into the heart of Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, to hike to Laguna Churup. As an environmental consultant, I'm always drawn to places with such raw, untouched beauty, and Huascarán certainly didn't disappoint. The crisp mountain air, the towering peaks, and the promise of a turquoise lagoon – it was a recipe for an unforgettable day. After a hearty breakfast at Hierba Buena Restaurante, we fueled up for the adventure ahead.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Hierba Buena Restaurante in Huaraz – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

The day began early, a necessity when tackling high-altitude hikes. We grabbed a quick and delicious breakfast at Hierba Buena Restaurante. I had read about their innovative take on traditional Ancash cuisine, and it was the perfect way to start our day. Sipping on coca tea, I felt a surge of excitement mixed with a touch of nervousness. I knew the Laguna Churup hike would be challenging, but the allure of its beauty was too strong to resist. We stocked up on water and some snacks, double-checking our gear. I made a mental note to add a power adapter to our 'essentials' list – a forgotten item that already proved to be a minor inconvenience.

Our destination was Parque Nacional Huascarán, a place I had dreamed about since we started planning this trip. The park itself is a sprawling sanctuary of biodiversity and geological wonders. From its snow-capped peaks to its crystal-clear lakes, it's a feast for the senses and a stark reminder of the importance of preserving our natural world. The park covers a huge area, encompassing most of the Cordillera Blanca.

The drive to the trailhead at Pitec was an adventure in itself. The views were incredible, with glimpses of snow-capped peaks through the winding mountain roads. I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to witness such grandeur. As we ascended, I noticed the landscape transforming, with the vegetation becoming more sparse and the air growing noticeably cooler. I was glad I had packed plenty of layers. November in Huascarán means moderately chilly temperatures, with potential for rain.

At Montañas Mágicas Outdoors Equipment, we made a quick stop to pick up some trekking poles. I had read that the Laguna Churup hike involved some steep ascents, and I wanted to give my knees all the support they could get. The shop was well-stocked with everything from hiking boots to climbing gear, a testament to Huaraz's status as an adventure hub.


Discover the best outdoor gear and cycling equipment at Montañas Mágicas, your adventure hub in Huaraz, Peru. Gear up for unforgettable experiences in the Andes.

Reaching Pitec, the starting point of the Laguna Churup trail, was like stepping into another world. The air was thin and crisp, and the surrounding peaks seemed to pierce the sky. After paying the entrance fee to the national park, we began our ascent. The initial part of the trail was relatively gentle, winding through meadows dotted with wildflowers. The sun was shining, and the views were simply breathtaking. David and I set a comfortable pace, mindful of the altitude. Even with minimal exertion, I found myself breathing heavily.

As we gained elevation, the trail became steeper and more challenging. There were sections where we had to scramble over rocks and navigate uneven terrain. The trekking poles proved to be invaluable, helping us maintain our balance and take some of the pressure off our knees. I focused on putting one foot in front of the other, reminding myself that the reward at the end would be well worth the effort.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

The final ascent to Laguna Churup was the most demanding part of the hike. It involved scaling a near-vertical rock face with the aid of chains. I must admit, I was a bit intimidated at first. But with David's encouragement and a healthy dose of determination, I managed to pull myself up, hand over hand. Reaching the top, I was rewarded with a view that took my breath away – literally and figuratively.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Churup, a stunning hiking destination in Peru's Cordillera Blanca, perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

Laguna Churup is a shimmering turquoise jewel nestled at the foot of the snow-capped Nevado Churup. The water was so clear that I could see the reflection of the surrounding peaks. The scene was surreal, like something out of a postcard. I felt an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and gratitude. We had made it. We had conquered Churup.

We spent a blissful hour at the lagoon, soaking in the beauty and enjoying a well-deserved picnic lunch. I couldn't resist dipping my toes in the icy water – a refreshing, albeit brief, experience. As we sat there, surrounded by such pristine nature, I felt a renewed sense of purpose in my work as an environmental consultant. Places like this are worth fighting for.

The descent was just as challenging as the ascent, but with gravity on our side, we made good time. We passed several other hikers along the way, exchanging smiles and words of encouragement. There's a certain camaraderie among those who venture into the mountains, a shared understanding of the challenges and rewards involved.

Back in Huaraz, we treated ourselves to a late lunch at Ajo Picante. The hearty Peruvian cuisine was the perfect way to replenish our energy after a long day of hiking. I savored every bite, knowing that I had earned it. We recounted our favorite moments from the hike, reliving the stunning views and the exhilarating sense of accomplishment.


Discover the authentic taste of Peru at Ajo Picante, where traditional flavors meet modern dining in Huaraz.

For dinner, we headed to El Fogón, a restaurant recommended by our hotel. It was a cozy spot with a rustic charm, and the food was delicious. I opted for a traditional Peruvian dish, while David went for the grilled chicken, which seemed to be a local favorite. As we ate, we discussed our plans for tomorrow. We are thinking of hiking to Churup Lake again, and then heading to Mirador de Rataquenua.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at El Fogón in Huaraz - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

As I reflect on today's adventure, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude and awe. Huascarán National Park is a truly special place, a testament to the power and beauty of nature. I'm so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it firsthand, and I hope that my words and photos can inspire others to explore and protect this incredible treasure. Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the park, perhaps venturing to the Mirador de Rataquenua for another panoramic view. But for now, it's time to rest and recharge, dreaming of turquoise lagoons and snow-capped peaks.

Today was a reminder that the best things in life often require a bit of effort. The hike to Laguna Churup was challenging, both physically and mentally. But the rewards – the stunning views, the sense of accomplishment, and the connection with nature – were immeasurable. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but smile, knowing that I had experienced something truly special. And I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. Good night from Huaraz!

P.S. I also checked Bandsintown to see if there were any local events happening. Unfortunately, nothing caught my eye tonight, but maybe we'll find some live music later in the week!