Adventuring Through Huascaran National Park with Friends

A Breathtaking Start to Our Andean Adventure

As I sit here, reflecting on our first day in Huascaran National Park, I can't help but smile. The journey from Toronto was long, but the moment we stepped into this breathtaking landscape, all the travel fatigue melted away. The crisp mountain air, the towering peaks, and the vibrant culture have already woven their magic. It feels surreal to be here with my friends, embarking on this adventure together.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Andino in Huaraz. The cafe was cozy, adorned with local art and books, making it a perfect spot to fuel up for the day ahead. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, which included tamales and fresh juice. It was delicious and gave me a taste of what the local cuisine has to offer. My friends tried different variations, and we all agreed that the food was fantastic and the atmosphere inviting.

After breakfast, we made our way towards Huascarán National Park. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. The landscape was dotted with small villages and farms, providing glimpses into the daily lives of the people who call this region home. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the resilience and beauty of this land.

Our first stop was the stunning Laguna de Llanganuco. As we approached, the turquoise waters shimmering under the Andean sun took my breath away. The surrounding snow-capped peaks of Huascarán and Huandoy created a surreal backdrop, making it feel like we had stepped into a postcard. We took a leisurely walk along the shore, soaking in the tranquility and capturing photos of the mesmerizing scenery. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of pine and wildflowers. We even considered taking a boat ride on the lagoon, but decided to simply enjoy the serene ambiance from the shore.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Huascarán Laguna de Llanganuco National Park, a natural wonder in Peru with stunning lakes and majestic mountain views.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are the ones that require no grand plans, just an open heart and a willingness to be present in the moment.

Next, we headed to Mirador de la Cordillera Blanca. The views from the lookout were simply spectacular. From this vantage point, we could see the entire Cordillera Blanca range, with its majestic peaks piercing the sky. The sheer scale and grandeur of the mountains were humbling, reminding me of the raw power and beauty of nature. We spent a good hour at the mirador, identifying the different peaks and marveling at the glaciers clinging to their slopes. It was a photographer's dream, and I snapped away, trying to capture the essence of this breathtaking panorama.


Experience the stunning beauty of the Andes at Mirador de la Cordillera Blanca, a must-visit tourist attraction in Peru offering breathtaking panoramic views.

For lunch, we stopped at Callejón Restaurante Huaraz. This charming restaurant offered a taste of authentic Peruvian cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with a warm ambiance that made us feel right at home. I decided to try the Lomo Saltado, a classic Peruvian dish consisting of stir-fried beef, onions, tomatoes, and potatoes. The flavors were rich and satisfying, and the portion was generous. My friends opted for other local specialties, and we all agreed that the food was exceptional.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Callejón Restaurante in Anta, Huaraz – where every dish tells a story.

As the day drew to a close, we found ourselves at CHAC BAR (CHACPIBAR). It was the perfect spot to unwind and reflect on our first day in Huascaran National Park. The bar had a relaxed atmosphere, with a good selection of local beers and cocktails. We ordered a round of Pisco Sours, a traditional Peruvian cocktail, and toasted to our adventure. The bar was filled with a mix of locals and tourists, creating a lively and convivial atmosphere.


Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chac Bar in Carhuaz, where local culture meets delicious drinks in a lively setting.

For dinner, we decided to try El Fogón, a restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian dishes and cozy ambiance. The restaurant was a bit hidden, located on the second floor of a building on Luzuriaga Avenue. As we climbed the stairs, we were greeted by the aroma of wood smoke and simmering spices. The dining room was rustic and charming, with wooden tables and chairs, and walls adorned with local artwork.


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

We started our meal with some appetizers, including tequeños de queso and cancha serrana. The tequeños were crispy and filled with melted cheese, while the cancha serrana was a crunchy and flavorful snack made from toasted corn. For our main courses, I opted for the pollo a la brasa, a Peruvian-style roasted chicken that was incredibly juicy and flavorful. My friends tried other local specialties, such as anticuchos and pachamanca, and we all agreed that the food was delicious and authentic. The service was friendly and attentive, and the prices were reasonable.

As I mentioned before, I did forget my portable charger and travel guidebook, which I will need to replace tomorrow. It would have been useful to have the guidebook to learn more about the history and culture of the region, and the portable charger would have saved me from having to ration my phone's battery throughout the day.

Reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of Huascaran National Park. The turquoise waters of Laguna de Llanganuco, the majestic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, and the warm hospitality of the Peruvian people have already left an indelible mark on my soul. I am excited to see what tomorrow brings, as we embark on a trek to Laguna 69. I’ve heard it’s challenging, but the promise of turquoise waters nestled beneath towering glaciers is too enticing to resist. I need to make sure I get a portable charger before embarking on the hike. I am also looking forward to visiting REGALOS Y DETALLES EL CHINITO to buy a new travel guidebook to learn more about the area.

Before I turn in for the night, I wanted to share a quick weather update. The forecast for tomorrow is calling for partly cloudy skies with a chance of rain. The temperatures are expected to be in the mid-50s during the day and drop to the low 40s at night. I'll make sure to pack layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable during our trek. I am also aware that December falls within the rainy season in Huascaran National Park, with an average of 18 days of rain during the month. Despite the possibility of rain, I am determined to make the most of our adventure and embrace whatever the weather throws our way.

For now, though, it's time to rest and recharge for another day of exploration. I can't wait to share more of our adventures with you all. Until then, stay tuned and keep exploring!