Exploring the Natural Wonders of Huaraz with David

Arrival in Huaraz: A Promising Start

After a long journey from Berlin, with a layover in Lima, David and I finally arrived in Huaraz. The air is crisp and clean, a stark contrast to the bustling city we left behind. I’m already feeling a sense of excitement for the adventures that await us in this beautiful corner of Peru. The views of the Cordillera Blanca from our hotel window at Hotel La Joya are simply breathtaking, and I can't wait to get out and explore.


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

Our first day was all about getting acquainted with Huaraz. After settling into our room and grabbing a quick coffee at the hotel, we ventured out to the Main Square of Huaraz, or Plaza de Armas. It's always my favorite thing to do when arriving in a new city. The square was bustling with activity, locals going about their day, children playing, and the impressive cathedral standing proudly at one end. The energy was infectious, and I immediately felt a connection to this place. David, ever the photographer, was already snapping away, capturing the vibrant colors and lively atmosphere. We took a leisurely stroll around the perimeter, admiring the colonial architecture and soaking in the sights and sounds of Huaraz. I made a mental note to return in the evening when the square is illuminated, for a different perspective.


Explore the vibrant Main Square of Huaraz, a cultural hotspot infused with stunning natural beauty and artisan craftsmanship.

For lunch, we decided on Calima - Restaurant & Café, drawn in by its charming exterior and the promise of authentic Peruvian cuisine. We shared a table overlooking the Plaza de Armas, which gave us a great vantage point to people-watch while we ate. I opted for the Lomo Saltado, a classic Peruvian stir-fry, and David chose the Osobuco. Both dishes were absolutely delicious, bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection. The service was excellent, and the staff were incredibly friendly, making us feel right at home. We even got a recommendation for a local craft beer, which was the perfect accompaniment to our meal. The restaurant had a lively ambiance and was wonderfully decorated.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Calima Restaurant & Café in Huaraz – where tradition meets taste.

The best journeys answer questions that in the beginning you didn't even think to ask.

In the afternoon, we immersed ourselves in the history of the region with a visit to the Regional Museum of Ancash. The museum houses an impressive collection of artifacts from the Recuay and Wari cultures, providing a fascinating glimpse into the pre-Inca civilizations that once thrived in this area. I was particularly captivated by the ancient stone sculptures, each one telling a story of a bygone era. David, with his keen interest in history, was engrossed in the exhibits, reading every description and asking insightful questions. The museum also had a display of mummies and trepanned skulls, which, while a bit macabre, were incredibly interesting from an anthropological perspective.


Explore the Regional Museum of Ancash, where the ancient history of Peru comes alive through stunning artifacts and engaging exhibits.

After the museum, we decided to take a break and indulge in a little retail therapy. We wandered through the local markets, browsing the colorful textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. I picked up a beautiful hand-woven scarf, while David found a unique piece of jewelry for his sister. It's always fun to bring back a little piece of the places we visit.

As evening approached, we started thinking about dinner. Based on a recommendation from a fellow traveler, we decided to try Wayta - El Chef Andino. This restaurant is known for its modern take on traditional Andean cuisine, and we were eager to experience it. We started with Pisco Sours, the quintessential Peruvian cocktail, and then ordered a selection of dishes to share. The food was exquisite, each dish beautifully presented and bursting with flavor. The chef clearly has a passion for his craft, and it shone through in every bite. The service was attentive and friendly, and the ambiance was warm and inviting.


Savor authentic Andean flavors at Wayta - El Chef Andino in Huaraz, where tradition meets modern cuisine amid breathtaking mountain views.

To cap off our first day, we decided to check out Kuya Kuya Coctelería Profesional Novoandina - Huaraz, a local bar known for its innovative cocktails. We sampled a few of their creations, each one a unique blend of local ingredients and flavors. The atmosphere was lively and fun, and it was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring. David enjoyed a beer, while I had a cocktail.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru at Kuya Kuya Coctelería Profesional Novoandina, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.

Reflecting on our first day in Huaraz, I'm filled with a sense of excitement and anticipation for what's to come. The city has already captured my heart with its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and friendly people. Tomorrow, we're planning a visit to Parque Nacional Huascarán and Laguna Churup, which I am very excited about. I did forget my power adapter, though, so I will need to purchase one before we go. David is also mentioning needing new batteries for his camera. I can already tell that this trip is going to be one for the books. The blend of adventure and culture is exactly what we were hoping for, and I can't wait to share more of our experiences with you.

Before drifting off to sleep, I journaled a bit, as I always do on trips like these. It helps me to remember all the little details that might otherwise fade with time. As I closed my eyes, I could still hear the sounds of the city, a gentle lullaby that promised more adventures to come.