Adventuring Through Huascaran National Park with Friends

A Day of Serenity and Remembrance

Today was a day of stark contrasts, a poignant reminder of life's beauty and fragility. We journeyed through the stunning landscapes of Huascaran National Park, where the vibrant turquoise waters of Lagunas de Llanganuco captivated our senses, and then we walked through the solemn grounds of Campo Santo Yungay, a place of profound loss and quiet reflection. It was a day that touched my heart deeply, and I'm eager to share the experience.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Lagunas de Llanganuco, where turquoise lakes meet majestic Andean peaks in a natural paradise.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Ala qué rico in Huaraz. The name promised something delicious, and it delivered! I enjoyed a traditional Peruvian breakfast of tamales and fresh juice, fueling up for the day's adventures. My friends and I chatted excitedly about the day ahead, our anticipation growing with each bite. It's always a joy to start the day with good food and even better company. We made sure to grab some snacks for the road, knowing that the day would be filled with exploration and that we needed to be prepared.

The drive to Lagunas de Llanganuco was breathtaking. As we ascended into the mountains, the scenery transformed into a majestic panorama of snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys. The air grew crisper, carrying the scent of pine and damp earth. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe at the sheer scale of nature's grandeur. The Andes are truly magnificent, a testament to the raw power and beauty of our planet.

Finally, we arrived at the Lagunas de Llanganuco, and I was immediately struck by their ethereal beauty. The two lagoons, Chinancocha and Orconcocha, shimmered with an otherworldly turquoise hue, reflecting the surrounding mountains like giant mirrors. The color was so intense, so vibrant, that it almost seemed unreal. I've seen many beautiful lakes in my travels, but nothing quite like this. The water's color comes from the mineral content and glacial origin.

We spent the morning hiking along the shores of Chinancocha, the larger of the two lagoons. The trail was easy and well-maintained, perfect for a leisurely stroll. Along the way, we marveled at the diverse vegetation, from the towering quenual trees to the delicate orchids that clung to the rocks. The air was alive with the sound of birdsong, and the occasional rustle of leaves hinted at hidden creatures in the undergrowth.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are born from the collision of beauty and sorrow.

I took countless photos, trying to capture the essence of this magical place, but no image could truly do it justice. It's one of those scenes you have to witness with your own eyes to fully appreciate. The sheer scale of the landscape, the vibrant colors, the crisp mountain air – it all combines to create an unforgettable sensory experience. I made a mental note to try and capture the essence of the lagoons in a painting when I returned home to Toronto. I think Lina would enjoy painting that with me.

After a couple of hours of hiking, we decided to take a boat ride on the lagoon. It was a wonderful way to experience the scenery from a different perspective. As we glided across the water, the mountains seemed to grow taller, their reflections shimmering in our wake. Our guide shared stories about the local flora and fauna, as well as the history and legends of the area. I learned that the lagoons are considered sacred by the indigenous people, who believe they are home to powerful spirits.

For lunch, we stopped at Jose Olaya restaurant in Yungay. The reviews promised tasty dishes, and they weren't wrong! I savored a traditional Peruvian meal of puchero, a hearty stew made with various meats and vegetables. It was the perfect comfort food after a morning of hiking in the cool mountain air. The restaurant had a lovely panoramic view, which added to the overall experience. I made sure to try some local mazamorra as well.

In the afternoon, we visited Campo Santo Yungay, a place of somber reflection. This site was once the town of Yungay, a vibrant community nestled in the shadow of Huascaran Mountain. However, in 1970, a devastating earthquake triggered a massive landslide that buried the entire town, claiming the lives of over 20,000 people.


Experience the serene beauty and historical significance of CampoSanto Yungay, a unique park in Yungay, Peru.

Today, Campo Santo Yungay stands as a memorial to that tragic event. The site has been transformed into a park, with rose gardens and grassy paths winding through the ruins of the old town. As we walked through the grounds, we saw remnants of the past – a crumbling wall, a toppled statue, the foundations of a long-lost home. It was a poignant reminder of the fragility of life and the enduring power of nature.

One of the most striking features of Campo Santo Yungay is the replica of the old cathedral's facade, which stands overlooking the former Plaza de Armas. It's a hauntingly beautiful monument, a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable loss. I paused for a moment to reflect on the lives that were lost here, and to pay my respects to the victims of the tragedy.

We also saw the four palm trees and a statue of Christ the Redeemer, which remained after the disaster.

As we explored the park, we came across a small museum that told the story of Yungay and the 1970 earthquake. The exhibits included photographs, artifacts, and personal accounts of the tragedy. It was a powerful and moving experience, one that left a lasting impression on me. I was struck by the stories of survival and resilience, of people who had lost everything but still found the strength to rebuild their lives. It reminded me a lot of stories Jihad told me about the war in Lebanon.

Before leaving Campo Santo Yungay, I took a moment to sit by a memorial and reflect on the day's experiences. The contrast between the beauty of Lagunas de Llanganuco and the tragedy of Yungay was stark, yet somehow fitting. It was a reminder that life is full of both joy and sorrow, and that we must cherish every moment we have.

For dinner, we decided to try Chilli Heaven in Huaraz, drawn in by the promise of diverse flavors. The menu offered a mix of Indian, Thai, and Mexican dishes, which was a welcome change after days of traditional Peruvian food. I opted for the tofu korma, which was flavorful and satisfying. My friends tried the fajitas and the curry, and everyone seemed happy with their choices. It wasn't exactly like the Lebanese food I make at home, but it was a good way to end the day.


Experience the vibrant flavors of authentic Indian cuisine at Chilli Heaven in Huaraz – a culinary haven for food lovers.

After dinner, we did a little bit of shopping at Comercial Bazar Ninoshka. Though I didn't forget any essentials this time, I wanted to get a few souvenirs for Jihad and Lina. I found a beautiful hand-woven scarf for Jihad and a cute little llama plushie for Lina. I know they'll both appreciate the thought.


Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Comercial Bazar Ninoshka in Yungay, where shopping meets local culture and delightful dining.

As I write this, I'm sitting in my room, reflecting on the day's events. It was a day of intense emotions, a day that challenged me to confront both the beauty and the fragility of life. I'm grateful for the opportunity to have experienced both the splendor of Lagunas de Llanganuco and the somber history of Campo Santo Yungay. These are the kinds of experiences that stay with you long after you've left a place, shaping your perspective and enriching your understanding of the world.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Glaciar Pastoruri and Catarata de Cunca. I'm excited to see more of Huascaran National Park's natural wonders. But for now, I'm content to savor the memories of today, a day of serenity and remembrance that I will never forget.