Exploring the Natural Wonders of Huaraz with David

Reaching New Heights in Huaraz

Today was all about embracing the grandeur of the Cordillera Blanca. It was a day where nature's artistry met human ingenuity, leaving me in awe of the Peruvian landscape and the spirit of its people. From serene lakes reflecting the sky to a tunnel piercing through a mountain, every moment was a testament to the beauty and wonder that Huaraz holds.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at El Fogón. The restaurant had a cozy, old-school cantina vibe, and it was the perfect way to fuel up for the day's adventures. David and I shared some delicious crepes and, of course, the highly recommended Pollo a la brasa. I made sure to grab an extra bottle of water, remembering the importance of staying hydrated at altitude. It's amazing how much the little things matter when you're exploring these high-altitude environments; I was glad I had packed my reusable water bottle [TRIP DETAILS].


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

Fueled and ready, we set off towards Querococha Lake. The drive itself was stunning, with the landscape transforming at every turn. As we ascended, the air grew crisper, and the views became increasingly panoramic. The town of Recuay was charming. I couldn't help but marvel at the quaint villages clinging to the mountainsides. I imagined what life must be like for the people who call this place home. The landscape was dotted with small houses and grazing animals. It was a reminder of the simple, yet profound connection between people and nature.


Explore the serene beauty of Querococha Lake, a breathtaking destination in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Reaching Querococha Lake was like stepping into a postcard. The water was a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks like a mirror. The lake sits at almost 4,000 meters above sea level, and the air was noticeably thinner. We took our time, walking along the shore, soaking in the tranquility. I took countless photos, trying to capture the sheer magnificence of the scene. There's something incredibly humbling about being surrounded by such immense natural beauty. I made sure to apply sunscreen, remembering the essentials I had packed [TRIP DETAILS, 14].

The mountains are calling and I must go.

One of the unique features of Querococha is the naturally formed 'map of Peru' on a nearby mountain. It's a quirky geological formation, and it added a touch of whimsy to the already stunning landscape. David, ever the pragmatist, was fascinated by the geology of the area, while I was simply content to admire the view. We spent a good hour just wandering, breathing in the fresh air, and marveling at the scenery. It was exactly the kind of peaceful, restorative experience we needed after a busy week in Berlin.

Leaving Querococha, we continued our journey towards the Túnel Punta Olímpica. This tunnel is an engineering marvel, cutting through the Punta Olímpica peak at an altitude of 4,736 meters. It's the highest road tunnel in the Americas, and the sixth highest in the world. The road leading to the tunnel was an adventure in itself, with hairpin turns and steep inclines. I was glad David was driving; he's much more confident behind the wheel than I am. I was so glad that we decided to rent a car for this trip [TRIP DETAILS].


Discover Túnel Punta Olímpica in Peru: An engineering marvel amidst breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

As we approached the tunnel, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation. The entrance loomed before us, a dark portal into the heart of the mountain. Driving through the tunnel was surreal. The air was cool and damp, and the sound of the engine echoed off the walls. It was a strange mix of awe and slight claustrophobia. Emerging on the other side, we were greeted with a completely different landscape. The views were even more dramatic than before, with snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye could see.

We stopped at a viewpoint to take in the panorama. The scale of the mountains was simply breathtaking. I tried to imagine the effort it must have taken to build this tunnel, the challenges the engineers and workers faced at such a high altitude. It was a testament to human ingenuity and perseverance. I also thought about the communities this tunnel connects, the way it has opened up access to remote regions and facilitated trade and travel.

After our high-altitude exploration, we descended back into Huaraz, our minds still buzzing with the day's experiences. For lunch, we stopped at Ajo Picante. It was a cozy spot, and we enjoyed some traditional Peruvian dishes. I tried a local specialty, while David opted for something a bit more familiar. It's always fun to sample the local cuisine when we travel. I'm always looking for inspiration for my own cooking back in Berlin.


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

In the afternoon, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local culture with a visit to the Mercado Central de Huaraz. This bustling market is the heart of the city, a place where locals come to buy and sell everything from fresh produce to handmade crafts. The market was a riot of colors, sounds, and smells. We wandered through the narrow aisles, taking in the sights. I was fascinated by the variety of fruits and vegetables, many of which I had never seen before.


Explore the heart of Huaraz at Mercado Central, a vibrant market brimming with local flavors, crafts, and cultural experiences.

We bought some local snacks and chatted with the vendors, practicing our (still imperfect) German. I was tempted to buy a waterproof jacket, but I resisted the urge. I already have too many clothes, and I'm trying to be more mindful of my consumption habits. The Mercado Central was definitely a sensory overload, but it was also an authentic and unforgettable experience. I was glad we took the time to explore it.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at Kaypacha Restaurante for dinner. The restaurant has a warm and inviting atmosphere, and the food was delicious. We savored traditional Andean flavors, reflecting on the day's adventures. The world of Kay Pacha represents tradition, nature, and flavor all in one place. David and I shared stories and laughed about the day's adventures. As we ate, we talked about our plans for tomorrow, which include exploring Callejon de Huaylas and the Templo de Wilcahuain.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Kaypacha Restaurante in Huaraz - where every dish tells a story.

Back at Hotel La Joya, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the experiences of the day. Huaraz had exceeded all my expectations. The natural beauty, the rich culture, and the warm hospitality of the people had all combined to create an unforgettable experience. I'm so glad we decided to come here [TRIP DETAILS]. As I drifted off to sleep, I couldn't help but wonder what tomorrow would bring. I knew that whatever it was, it would be another chapter in our incredible journey through the Peruvian Andes.


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

What a day! I’m off to dream about snow-capped peaks and the cozy El Alquimista Rooftop Bar tomorrow night!