Exploring the Peaks of Peru: A Journey to Huascaran National Park

Arrival in Huaraz: A Promising Start

After a long journey from Montreal, with a layover in Lima and a connecting flight to Huaraz, Jean-Pierre and I finally arrived in this bustling city nestled in the Andes. The air is crisp, the sky a brilliant blue, and the energy palpable. Huaraz, they say, is the gateway to Huascaran National Park, and I can already feel the adventure humming in my veins.

The flight into Huaraz was nothing short of spectacular. As the plane descended, the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca came into view, piercing the sky like jagged teeth. It was a breathtaking introduction to the natural wonders that await us. Jean-Pierre, ever the pragmatist, double-checked our hiking gear, while I gazed out the window, lost in the sheer beauty of the landscape.

Once we landed, we took a taxi to our accommodation. The city itself is a vibrant mix of old and new, with colonial-style buildings sitting alongside modern shops and restaurants. The streets are alive with activity, vendors selling everything from fresh fruit to hand-woven textiles. It's a sensory overload in the best possible way, a far cry from the quiet streets of Montreal, but a welcome change of pace.

Our first order of business was breakfast at Cafe Andino. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as we stepped inside, a welcome comfort after our travels. The cafe was a cozy haven, with a crackling fireplace and walls adorned with travel photos and local art. I ordered a cappuccino and a plate of avocado toast, while Jean-Pierre opted for a more traditional Peruvian breakfast of tamales and strong coffee. It was the perfect way to fuel up for the day ahead.


Experience the authentic flavors of Peru at Café Andino in Huaraz – where great food meets cozy ambiance.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step, and today, our adventure in Huascaran National Park begins with a hearty breakfast and a sense of boundless anticipation.

After breakfast, we decided to explore the city a bit. We strolled through the Plaza de Armas, the heart of Huaraz, admiring the architecture and soaking in the atmosphere. The plaza was bustling with locals and tourists alike, all eager to experience the charm of this Andean city. We stopped to admire the cathedral, a grand structure that dominates the skyline, its bell tower reaching towards the heavens. It's amazing to think about the history imbued in these streets, so different from my upbringing in Miarinarivo, Madagascar, yet equally compelling.

We then ventured into the local market, a kaleidoscope of colors, sounds, and smells. Vendors hawked their wares, offering everything from fresh produce and spices to handcrafted souvenirs. I was particularly drawn to the textiles, their vibrant patterns and intricate designs a testament to the skill and artistry of the local artisans. I picked up a few small items as gifts for friends and family back home, eager to share a piece of Peru with them.

For lunch, we chose El Fogón, a restaurant recommended by several locals. Tucked away on the second floor of a building, it offered a cozy atmosphere and a menu filled with traditional Peruvian dishes. I opted for the lomo saltado, a stir-fry of beef, onions, tomatoes, and peppers served with rice and potatoes, while Jean-Pierre chose the trout ceviche, a refreshing and flavorful dish made with fresh fish marinated in citrus juices and spices. Both were delicious, a testament to the rich culinary heritage of Peru.


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

In the afternoon, we focused on preparing for our upcoming treks. We visited a local gear shop to pick up a few essentials, including a couple of items I had forgotten to pack: binoculars and a travel guidebook. It was a rookie mistake, but thankfully easily rectified. We also spent some time reviewing our itinerary, making sure we were well-prepared for the challenges ahead.

As the sun began to set, we made our way to El Alquimista Rooftop Bar, a popular spot known for its stunning views of the city and surrounding mountains. We ordered a couple of pisco sours, the national cocktail of Peru, and settled in to watch the sunset. The sky was ablaze with color, the snow-capped peaks glowing in the fading light. It was a magical moment, a perfect end to our first day in Huaraz.


Discover El Alquimista Rooftop Bar in Huaraz, where breathtaking views meet exceptional cocktails in a vibrant atmosphere.

Before dinner, we took a moment to reflect on our journey so far. It's incredible to think that just a few hours ago, we were still in transit, eager to reach our destination. Now, here we are, immersed in the vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty of Peru. It's a reminder of why we love to travel, to explore new places, and to connect with different cultures. It’s a sentiment that resonates deeply within me, echoing the values of sustainable tourism and cultural immersion that I champion on my blog.

Dinner was at Wayta - El Chef Andino, a restaurant that promised an authentic Andean dining experience. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, with traditional decor and a menu filled with local specialties. I decided to try the pachamanca, a traditional dish of meat and vegetables cooked in an underground oven, while Jean-Pierre opted for the cuy, or guinea pig, a local delicacy. Both were delicious, a testament to the unique flavors of the Andean region.


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

After dinner, we took a leisurely stroll back to our accommodation, the city streets quiet and peaceful under the starlit sky. We chatted about our plans for tomorrow, our excitement building as we anticipated our first trek into Huascaran National Park. Tomorrow, we plan to visit Huascarán Laguna de Llanganuco National Park and Lagunas de Llanganuco, and I can't wait to share the experience with you all.

As I settle into bed tonight, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible opportunity. To be here, in this beautiful place, with my beloved Jean-Pierre by my side, is a dream come true. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings, and I look forward to sharing our adventures with you all. Goodnight from Huaraz! I’ll be sure to pack my hiking boots, waterproof jacket, camera, reusable water bottle, and sunscreen, along with my portable charger. I’m kicking myself for forgetting the binoculars and travel guidebook, but luckily, I was able to purchase a new guidebook today. I’m excited to see what the next few days hold for us.

Perhaps we'll stop by one of the bars mentioned, such as Bonustrack Bar, El Tambo, or even Tio Enrique, depending on our mood. For now, though, sleep calls. Tomorrow, the adventure truly begins!