Exploring the Natural Wonders of Huaraz with David

Echoes of the Past: Discovering Chavín de Huántar

Today, David and I embarked on a journey that transcended time, a pilgrimage to the heart of ancient Peru. We ventured into the highlands, to a place where the echoes of a civilization long past still resonate within the stones. It was a day of exploration and discovery, a chance to connect with the spiritual and cultural roots of this fascinating land.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at D’Dos Restaurant.

Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at D’Dos Restaurant in Huaraz, where every dish tells a story.
Fuelled up with local flavors, we set off towards the archaeological site of Chavín de Huántar.

Explore the ancient marvels of Chavín de Huántar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and uncover the mysteries of Peru's pre-Columbian civilization.
The drive itself was an experience, winding through the stunning landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca. The mountains stood as silent sentinels, their snow-capped peaks piercing the clear blue sky. As we ascended, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation, a thrill of venturing into the unknown. I made sure I had my camera ready, wanting to capture all the beauty of the region. I was also glad I had packed my hiking boots, I knew we would need them.

Arriving at Chavín de Huántar was like stepping into another world. The site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985 , is nestled high in the Andes, at an elevation of over 10,000 feet. The air was thin and crisp, carrying with it the whispers of the ancients. The site is located where the Mosna and Huachecsa rivers merge. According to what I read, the convergence of two rivers, or tinkuy, represents the harmonious meeting of opposing forces and may have been seen as a spiritually powerful phenomenon.

As we walked through the temple complex, I was struck by the sheer scale and complexity of the architecture. The Chavín culture, which flourished between 1200 BC and 200 BC , was a sophisticated society with advanced religious practices and engineering skills. The temple is comprised of two building phases: the U-shaped Old Temple, built around 900 B.C.E., and the New Temple (built approximately 500 B.C.E.), which expanded the Old Temple and added a rectangular sunken court. The structures, built from roughly-shaped stones , feature a network of underground galleries and chambers.

Chavín de Huántar was not just a temple; it was the spiritual heart of a vast belief system that culturally unified populations separated by hundreds of kilometers.

Exploring the underground galleries was an unforgettable experience. The darkness was profound, broken only by the occasional shaft of light filtering through narrow openings. The air was heavy with the scent of damp earth and ancient stone. I could almost feel the presence of the priests and pilgrims who once walked these same passages, performing rituals and seeking guidance from the oracle. The interior of the temple was riddled with a multitude of tunnels, called galleries. Some of the maze-like galleries are connected with each other, some are separate. The galleries all existed in darkness—there are no windows in them, although there are many smaller tunnels that allow for air to pass throughout the structure.

One of the most impressive features of Chavín de Huántar is the Lanzón Monolithic , a massive stone sculpture located in the heart of the Old Temple. The Lanzón is a 4.53-meter-long carved granite shaft displayed in the temple. The shaft extends through an entire floor of the structure and the ceiling. It is carved with an image of a fanged deity , a recurring image throughout the Chavín civilization.

I was also fascinated by the tenon heads , stone sculptures that once adorned the outer walls of the temple. These heads depict transformed faces, possibly under the influence of hallucinogenic substances. They offer a glimpse into the spiritual practices of the Chavín people, their beliefs in the power of transformation and the connection between the human and animal worlds.

After spending hours exploring the archaeological site, we visited the Chavin National Museum, located a short distance away.

Explore the Chavín National Museum, a gateway to Peru's ancient past, showcasing the remarkable heritage of the Chavín civilization amidst stunning Andean landscapes.
The museum houses a collection of artifacts recovered from the site, including ceramics, textiles, and sculptures. It provided valuable context for our visit, helping us to understand the history and significance of Chavín de Huántar within the broader context of Andean civilization. The architectural design is inspired by the Chavín tradition. The museum has thirteen permanent exhibition halls and two for temporary exhibitions.

Among the highlights of the museum's collection are the Tello Obelisk and the pututos, or trumpets from the Gallery of the Shells. The Tello Obelisk is a stone shaft decorated with complex reliefs depicting mythological beings, plants, and animals.

Before heading back to Huaraz, we stopped at Gatos ropa y accesorios de aventura/souvenirs where I bought a small replica of a tenon head as a memento of our visit.

Explore Gatos, the premier fashion accessories store in Huaraz, offering unique adventure gear and souvenirs that embody the spirit of the Andes.
I can't wait to get back home and put it on display!

For lunch, we stopped at Don Cuy, a local restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine.

Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Don Cuy in Huaraz – a delightful dining experience awaits you!
David and I shared a plate of cuy, or guinea pig, a local delicacy. It was surprisingly delicious, with a rich, gamey flavor. The restaurant is quite beautiful and has a lovely atmosphere. The staff are very friendly and the food is very good.

In the evening, we had dinner at LA CHOSITA, a cozy restaurant known for its authentic Peruvian dishes.

Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of La Chosita National Reserve in Huaraz, Peru, a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers.
I ordered the lomo saltado, a stir-fried beef dish with onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. It was a flavorful and satisfying end to a day of exploration and discovery.

As I reflect on our visit to Chavín de Huántar, I am filled with a sense of awe and wonder. This ancient site is a testament to the ingenuity and spiritual depth of the Chavín people. It is a reminder that even in the remote corners of the world, there are hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. I am so glad that David and I decided to come here. It has been an amazing experience and one that I will never forget!

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the natural beauty of the Huaraz region, with visits to Waullac and Puka Ventana. I am excited to see what other wonders await us in this stunning corner of the world.

To travel is to discover that everyone is wrong about other countries. - Aldous Huxley