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

Santa Cruz Reflections

Today marked a significant milestone in our Peruvian adventure: the unforgettable Trek Santa Cruz. As a travel blogger and translator, I find myself constantly seeking experiences that not only broaden my own horizons but also offer a unique perspective to share with my readers. This trek, with its stunning vistas and cultural nuances, certainly delivered. It was a day of physical exertion, breathtaking beauty, and delightful culinary discoveries alongside my dear Jean-Pierre.


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

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Mi Comedia - Pizzeria. It might seem odd to start a day of trekking with Italian food, but this pizzeria came highly recommended, and I was intrigued. Located in Huaraz, it was a cozy spot. The margherita pizza was indeed top-notch; the thin crust and fresh basil transported me back to Italy. Jean-Pierre, ever the traditionalist, opted for a simple espresso, but even he had to admit the pizza was a delightful start to our adventurous day.


Discover Mi Comedia - Pizzeria: A taste of Italy in Huaraz, renowned for delicious pizzas and warm hospitality.

Fueled and ready, we set off to tackle the famed Santa Cruz Trek. The air was crisp and clean, a welcome change from Montreal's humid summer. As we ascended, the landscape transformed into a breathtaking panorama of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and verdant valleys. The scale of the Cordillera Blanca is simply awe-inspiring, dwarfing everything I've seen before. I couldn't help but reflect on the beauty of my homeland, Madagascar, and how different yet equally captivating its landscapes are. I made a mental note to dedicate a future blog post to comparing the natural wonders of these two vastly different corners of the world.

The trek itself was challenging but rewarding. The altitude tested our endurance, but the views at every turn spurred us onward. We passed through valleys carved by glaciers, their paths now traced by crystal-clear streams. Jean-Pierre, with his software developer's mind, was fascinated by the geological formations, pointing out different rock strata and explaining how the mountains were formed. I, on the other hand, was more captivated by the vibrant flora – the hardy wildflowers clinging to the rocky slopes and the unique plant life adapted to the high-altitude environment.

The mountains whisper stories of resilience, reminding us of the enduring strength of nature and the human spirit.

Around midday, we stopped for lunch at Ala qué rico, a local spot known for its grilled dishes. It was a simple, unpretentious place, but the food was incredible. I opted for the grilled chicken, marinated in local spices, while Jean-Pierre devoured a hearty portion of grilled beef. We sat outside, soaking in the sun and enjoying the panoramic views as we ate. It was a moment of pure bliss, a perfect blend of physical exertion and sensory pleasure.


Experience exceptional grilled dishes and gastropub delights at Ala Qué Rico in Huaraz - where culinary tradition meets modern taste.

After lunch, we continued our trek, pushing towards the highest point of our journey. The air grew thinner, and the landscape became more rugged, but the views became even more spectacular. We passed glacial lakes of an impossible shade of blue, their surfaces reflecting the towering peaks above. I felt a profound sense of connection to nature, a feeling of being both humbled and exhilarated by the sheer scale and beauty of the world around me.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back towards Huaraz, our muscles aching but our spirits soaring. Before heading back to our lodging, we stopped at Violeta Fashion Boutique. I had read about this boutique and was eager to see what it offered. While I appreciate the latest fashion trends, I also believe in supporting local artisans and businesses, especially when traveling. I ended up purchasing a beautifully woven scarf, its colors inspired by the Andean landscape. It will serve as a reminder of this incredible journey and a unique addition to my wardrobe.


Explore unique fashion at Violeta Fashion Boutique in Yungay, where local style meets trendy apparel and personalized service.

For dinner, we decided to try Wayta - El Chef Andino, a restaurant that promised an authentic taste of Peruvian cuisine. It was a cozy, intimate space, filled with locals and a few adventurous tourists like ourselves. We started with sopa criolla, a rich, flavorful soup that warmed us from the inside out. For our main courses, Jean-Pierre chose lomo saltado, while I opted for anticuchos, grilled beef heart skewers. It might sound a bit adventurous, but I was determined to try something truly local. The flavors were bold and complex, a testament to the culinary heritage of the Andes. We ended the meal with a natural infusion, a fragrant herbal tea that soothed our tired muscles and prepared us for a good night's sleep.


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

As I sit here, reflecting on the day, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunity to experience the Santa Cruz Trek. It was more than just a hike; it was a journey into the heart of the Andes, a chance to connect with nature, and a celebration of Peruvian culture and cuisine. Tomorrow, we plan to ascend Huascarán, the mountain that lends its name to this park. Before that, we will have breakfast at Jose Olaya, lunch at Callejón restaurante Huaraz, and dinner at PAKTA Restaurante. I'm excited for what awaits us on our final day here in Huascaran National Park.

This trip has also reminded me of the importance of sustainable tourism and responsible travel. As someone who grew up in Madagascar, a country rich in biodiversity but also facing significant environmental challenges, I am acutely aware of the need to protect our planet's natural resources. I hope that my blog can inspire others to travel responsibly, to support local communities, and to minimize their impact on the environment. It's a small step, but every little bit helps.

I am also thankful for the chance to share these experiences with Jean-Pierre. Traveling with my spouse makes every journey more special, as we both share a love for nature and adventure. It's wonderful to explore new destinations together, to learn from each other, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. As we prepare to return to Montreal, I know that the memories of Huascaran National Park will stay with us forever, a reminder of the beauty and wonder of our planet and the importance of cherishing it.

As I prepare for our final day in Huascaran National Park, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. I am eager to see what new adventures await us, what new landscapes we will discover, and what new culinary delights we will savor. But more than that, I am grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with you, my readers. I hope that my blog can inspire you to travel, to explore, and to connect with the world around you. After all, that's what travel is all about – opening our minds, broadening our perspectives, and discovering the beauty that exists in every corner of our planet. So, until tomorrow, keep exploring, keep discovering, and keep traveling responsibly.

And, as a final thought, I must admit that I did forget to pack my binoculars and travel guidebook. While I was able to manage without them, I certainly missed having them on hand. It's a good reminder that even the most seasoned travelers can make packing mistakes. But, as they say, it's all part of the adventure!