Adventuring Through Huascaran National Park with Friends

A Day Among Giants

Today was nothing short of breathtaking. I’ve always felt a pull towards mountains, a sense of grounding and perspective that’s hard to find elsewhere. But Huascarán, well, it’s in a league of its own. The sheer scale of everything here is humbling, and I found myself constantly craning my neck, trying to take it all in. I'm so grateful to be sharing this adventure with my friends, their laughter and camaraderie making each moment even more special. After a hearty Lebanese breakfast of *mana'eesh* made by yours truly [a little taste of home away from home!] we packed our bags and headed out, ready to embrace the day.

Our first stop was Huascarán itself. Just seeing its snow-capped peak against the bright blue sky was enough to make my heart skip a beat. At 6,768 meters, it's the highest mountain in Peru, and you can feel its presence looming over the entire park. The sheer magnitude of the mountain was awe-inspiring, a testament to the power and beauty of nature. I tried to capture its grandeur with my camera, but some things just can't be translated into a photograph. You have to be there, feel the crisp air, and witness the majesty firsthand. I was so glad I remembered to pack my camera; I would have been devastated if I had forgotten it like I had almost done with my portable charger! I made sure to take tons of pictures to show Jihad and Lina when I get back. Lina will be so impressed by the size of the mountains!


Discover the breathtaking beauty of Huascarán, Peru's highest peak, where majestic glaciers and stunning landscapes await adventurous travelers.

The mountains are calling and I must go.

Next, we ventured into the Quebrada de Llanganuco, a stunning valley nestled between Huascarán and Huandoy. The views were simply unreal. Imagine turquoise lakes reflecting the towering peaks, with waterfalls cascading down rocky cliffs. It felt like stepping into a postcard. We spent hours hiking along the trails, soaking in the scenery, and snapping photos. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the gentle breeze and the occasional chirping of birds. I felt a sense of peace and tranquility wash over me, a feeling I hadn't realized how much I needed. I think I might have enjoyed this spot the most, as it reminded me of the beautiful Bekaa Valley back home in Lebanon.


Experience the stunning beauty of Quebrada de Llanganuco, a breathtaking natural wonder in Peru, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

For lunch, we stopped at Don Cuy, a local restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine. I decided to be adventurous and try the *cuy*, or guinea pig, a local delicacy. It was actually quite delicious, with a rich, savory flavor. My friends, however, were a bit more hesitant, opting for the *lomo saltado*, a classic Peruvian stir-fry. We shared stories and laughter over our meal, savoring the flavors of Peru and the joy of being together. The food was delicious, but I think the company made it even better. It reminded me of the big family gatherings we used to have back in Zahlé, filled with laughter, delicious food, and endless conversations. I felt a pang of homesickness, but also a deep sense of gratitude for the new experiences I was having.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Don Cuy in Huaraz – where traditional flavors meet modern culinary artistry.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Kuya Kuya Coctelería Profesional Novoandina in Huaraz for a nightcap. The bar had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, with a modern twist on traditional Andean decor. I ordered a *pisco sour*, a classic Peruvian cocktail, while my friends tried some of the bar's more adventurous creations. The drinks were delicious, and the ambiance was perfect for unwinding after a long day of hiking. We chatted about our favorite moments from the day, reliving the breathtaking views and the delicious food. I felt a sense of contentment wash over me, a feeling of having truly experienced something special.


Discover the vibrant fusion of Andean flavors and modern mixology at Kuya Kuya Coctelería Profesional Novoandina in Huaraz.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Lagunas de Llanganuco and the Campo Santo in Yungay. I'm excited to see more of the park's natural beauty and learn about its history. I’ve heard the Lagunas de Llanganuco are stunning, and I can't wait to capture their beauty with my camera. The Campo Santo, with its poignant history, promises to be a deeply moving experience. I'm also looking forward to trying some new restaurants, especially Chilli Heaven. I've heard they have some amazing spicy dishes, and as someone who loves a bit of heat, I'm eager to give them a try. We might even do a bit of shopping at Comercial Bazar Ninoshka, to pick up some souvenirs for our families. I'm already anticipating another day filled with adventure, laughter, and unforgettable memories.

Today was a reminder of why I love to travel. It's not just about seeing new places, but about experiencing new things, connecting with people, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. As I sit here writing this, I can't help but smile. I'm so grateful for this opportunity to explore Huascarán National Park with my friends. It's an experience I'll never forget.

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to get some sleep. Tomorrow is another day of adventure, and I want to be well-rested and ready to embrace it.

Until next time, *Ma'a Salama* (Goodbye)!