Exploring the Majestic Landscapes of Huascaran National Park

A Day of Andean Wonders

Today was a symphony of sights and sounds, a true immersion into the heart of Huascaran National Park. From the tranquil turquoise waters of Quebrada de Llanganuco to the sweeping vistas from Mirador Tres Huancas, every moment felt like a postcard come to life. It’s days like these that remind me why Aaliyah and I traded our comfortable life in Kelowna for the unpredictable thrill of travel.



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


Our day began in Huaraz, where we fueled up for the day at Cafe Andino. This cozy spot, nestled in the urban heart of Huaraz, has been serving up coffee since 1997. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee mingled with the crisp mountain air, creating the perfect ambiance for a traveler's breakfast. Aaliyah opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, while I, ever the creature of habit, stuck with my usual strong coffee and a pastry. It's funny how even in the most remote corners of the world, you can find a place that feels like home.


With our bellies full and our spirits high, we set off towards Quebrada de Llanganuco. The drive itself was an adventure, the road winding its way through the rugged Andean landscape. As we climbed higher, the scenery transformed into a tapestry of snow-capped peaks, jagged cliffs, and verdant valleys. It was a stark reminder of the raw, untamed beauty that defines this part of the world.


Finally, we arrived at Quebrada de Llanganuco, a stunning gorge cradling two jewel-like lagoons: Chinancocha and Orconcocha. The turquoise waters, fed by the melting glaciers of Huascarán and Huandoy, were mesmerizing. The names Chinancocha and Orconcocha translate to female and male lagoon in Quechua. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of wildflowers and the distant rumble of glacial streams. We spent hours simply wandering along the shores, soaking in the tranquility and snapping photos of the breathtaking scenery. I tried my hand at capturing the perfect reflection of the snow-capped peaks in the still waters, while Aaliyah, ever the adventurer, ventured off to explore the surrounding trails.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found in the quiet corners of the world, where nature speaks louder than words.

The legend of the lagoons tells a tale of forbidden love, where the daughter of a tribal chief and a soldier from another tribe created the two lagoons. Whether fact or folklore, I found myself captivated by the story.


After our time at the lagoons, we continued our journey towards Mirador Tres Huancas. The drive was a bit challenging, with narrow, winding roads that tested my driving skills. But the reward was well worth the effort. As we reached the viewpoint, we were greeted by a panoramic vista that stretched as far as the eye could see. Before us lay a dramatic landscape of towering peaks, deep valleys, and patchwork fields, all bathed in the golden light of the afternoon sun. The Three Huancas themselves are striking rock formations that add a unique touch to the already stunning scenery.



Discover the stunning views and serene atmosphere of Mirador Tres Huancas, a must-visit tourist attraction in Huayapon, Peru.


We lingered at the viewpoint, watching as the shadows lengthened and the sky transformed into a canvas of fiery hues. It was a moment of pure magic, a reminder of the incredible beauty that exists in our world, if only we take the time to seek it out. I couldn’t help but reflect on how lucky Aaliyah and I are to experience this together, a shared memory etched in our minds forever.


As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to Huaraz, our hearts full of unforgettable experiences. For lunch, we stopped at Callejón restaurante Huaraz. It was a culinary gem that captured the essence of Peruvian cuisine, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Aaliyah tried the ceviche, and I had the lomo saltado.


Before dinner, Aaliyah and I decided to do some shopping at Boutique miracle. Aaliyah found a beautiful, hand-woven scarf. While I didn’t find anything for myself, I enjoyed watching Aaliyah explore the local crafts. I did manage to remember to buy some extra memory cards for my camera at a shop we passed, finally rectifying one of the items we forgot from our essentials list.


For dinner, we decided to try Mi Comedia - Pizzeria. After a day of exploring the Andes, a hearty pizza seemed like the perfect way to end the day. We shared a pizza, savoring every bite of the delicious Italian flavors in the heart of the Peruvian mountains. It was a delightful end to a day filled with natural beauty and cultural immersion.


Reflecting on the day, I realized that the true beauty of Huascaran National Park lies not only in its stunning landscapes but also in its ability to connect us to something larger than ourselves. It’s a place where you can lose yourself in the immensity of nature and find yourself in the process.


Tomorrow, we plan to hike to Huascarán itself, followed by a visit to a local Catarata. I’m looking forward to experiencing more of what this incredible region has to offer. And perhaps, at the end of the day, we'll find ourselves at CHAC BAR (CHACPIBAR), unwinding with a well-deserved drink, reflecting on the day's adventures.


Until then, I bid you adieu from the enchanting landscapes of Huascaran National Park.