Exploring the Majestic Landscapes of Huascaran National Park

A Day Among Giants

Today was a day of sensory overload, in the best possible way. From the towering, snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca to the explosion of flavors in Huaraz's restaurants, every moment felt like a postcard come to life. I've always believed that travel is about more than just seeing new places; it's about experiencing them with all your senses, and today was a perfect example of that.


Explore the breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and cultural heritage of the Cordillera Blanca, a must-visit destination in Peru for every traveler.

Our adventure began early, fueled by anticipation and a hearty breakfast at Chilli Heaven. Aaliyah and I shared some delicious curries; the portions were generous, perfect for fueling a day of trekking. The vibrant flavors of the spices were a delightful wake-up call, a promise of the adventures to come. I made sure to order a mild version, remembering Nick Cooper-Soderberg's advice about the 'spicy' actually meaning spicy ! It's these little local tips that make traveling so much richer.


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

With our stomachs full and our spirits high, we set off to explore the Cordillera Blanca. The sheer scale of these mountains is breathtaking. I've seen mountains before, of course, growing up relatively close to the Alps in the Netherlands, and now living in Kelowna. But the Cordillera Blanca is different. They possess a raw, untamed beauty that humbles you. The crisp, clean air, the stark contrast of the white snow against the deep blue sky – it's a vista that imprints itself on your soul. The temperature was cool, around 3°C , but with the sun shining, it was perfect hiking weather. May is a good time to visit, as it's generally dry, although layering is key.

We decided to tackle a portion of the Santa Cruz Trek. Now, I'm no stranger to hiking, but the altitude here definitely adds a layer of challenge. Even though we've been taking it easy to acclimatize, I could feel the thinner air in my lungs. We took it slow and steady, remembering the advice I'd read: stay hydrated, eat carbs, and climb slowly. The trek itself was moderately difficult , but the views were more than worth the effort. Emerald lakes, cascading waterfalls, and those towering peaks – it was like stepping into a painting.


Immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of Trek Santa Cruz, a premier hiking destination in Peru, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir

The Santa Cruz Trek is known as one of the most beautiful in Huaraz. While we only did a portion of it today, I can see why. It's a trek that balances challenge and accessibility. Experienced hikers will find it moderately difficult, but even novice hikers can complete the route with proper preparation. It’s important to prepare your body for the high-altitude terrain with cardio and practice hikes. I made sure to pack my hiking poles, remembering that they would make the downhill sections easier on my knees.

As we hiked, I couldn't help but think about the locals who call this place home. The few people who live in these remote mountains must witness this beauty every day. It must be a hard life, surviving in such a harsh environment, but also incredibly rewarding. I thought about the glaciers, too, and how they're retreating due to climate change. It's a stark reminder of the impact we're having on this planet, and it reinforces my commitment to sustainable travel practices.

After a few hours of hiking, we made our way back to Huaraz, our legs tired but our hearts full. It was time to sample more of the local cuisine. For lunch, we chose PAKTA Restaurante. The restaurant had an intriguing menu. The food was excellent, and the presentation was first-class. We enjoyed the flavors of Peru, expertly prepared and beautifully presented.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at PAKTA Restaurante in Yungay – where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

As the sun began to set, we found ourselves at Wayta - El Chef Andino for dinner. This restaurant is known for blending authentic flavors from the Pacific coast to the Peruvian highlands. I opted for the lomo saltado, while Aaliyah tried the quinoa salad. Both were delicious, a perfect end to a day of physical exertion. The service was friendly and attentive.


Discover the essence of Peruvian cuisine at Wayta - El Chef Andino in Huaraz, where tradition meets modern culinary artistry.

To cap off the evening, we ventured to Kuya Kuya Coctelería Profesional Novoandina. This place is a gem! They specialize in Novoandina cocktails, using typical Peruvian fruits. I tried a cocktail made with local berries, while Aaliyah had a non-alcoholic concoction with passion fruit. The atmosphere was cozy and inviting , a perfect place to unwind after a day of adventure. The barman was an expert, creating innovative and delicious drinks. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking for a unique taste of Peru.


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

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can still feel the mountains in my bones and taste the flavors of Peru on my tongue. It was a day of pure magic, a reminder of why I love to travel. Tomorrow, we're planning to visit Glaciar Pastoruri and Mirador de la cordillera Blanca []. I can't wait to see what new adventures await us.

I’m also reminded of the items we forgot to pack: binoculars and a first aid kit. While we managed without them today, it’s a good reminder to double-check our packing list before heading out on future adventures. And maybe an extra memory card for the camera – I'm already running low on space with all these incredible photos!

Huascaran National Park is truly a special place, a place that deserves to be explored and appreciated. If you're looking for an adventure that will challenge you, inspire you, and leave you with memories that will last a lifetime, then look no further. Just be sure to pack your hiking boots, your camera, and your appetite!

Until tomorrow,
Hendrik Smit