Family Adventure in the Heart of Huaraz, Peru

Farewell, Cordillera Blanca!

As our Peruvian adventure neared its end, I felt a bittersweet mix of emotions. The stunning landscapes of Huaraz had captivated us all, and the thought of returning to our routine in Hawthorne was a little disheartening. But, as Olivia always reminds me, every ending is a new beginning, and I knew we'd carry the memories of this trip with us forever. Today was all about soaking in the last bits of Huaraz's magic, and boy, did it deliver!

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Creperie Patrick. After hearing so much about it, we decided to give it a try, and it didn't disappoint. Ethan, of course, went straight for the Nutella crepe, while Olivia and I opted for savory options filled with local cheeses and vegetables. It was the perfect way to fuel up for our main adventure: Túnel Punta Olímpica.


Discover authentic French crepes and delightful cuisine at Creperie Patrick in Huaraz, Peru—a must-visit for food lovers!

The drive to the tunnel was nothing short of spectacular. The winding roads climbed higher and higher, offering panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca. I couldn’t help but think about my construction projects back home and how they paled in comparison to the sheer scale and grandeur of these mountains. Ethan was glued to the window, pointing out every llama and vicuña he spotted along the way. Even Olivia, who usually prefers a leisurely pace, was buzzing with excitement.

As we ascended, I started to feel the familiar effects of altitude. I made sure everyone was drinking plenty of water, and we took a few breaks to acclimatize. Having grown up in Show Low, Arizona, I'm no stranger to high elevations, but even I felt a slight shortness of breath. Ethan, surprisingly, seemed unfazed, his youthful energy boundless. I was glad I had packed some snacks for him, just in case.

Finally, we reached Túnel Punta Olímpica, the highest vehicular tunnel in the world. At 4,735 meters (15,535 feet) above sea level, the air was noticeably thinner, and the temperature had dropped considerably. We took some photos at the entrance, marveling at the engineering feat that made this passage possible. I couldn't help but feel a sense of awe and respect for the people who built this tunnel in such challenging conditions.


Discover Túnel Punta Olímpica in Peru: An engineering marvel amidst breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Driving through the tunnel was a unique experience. The darkness inside contrasted sharply with the bright sunlight outside, and for a moment, it felt like we were entering another world. On the other side, the landscape opened up to reveal even more breathtaking views. We stopped at a viewpoint to take it all in, the snow-capped peaks stretching as far as the eye could see. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated beauty, and I felt grateful to share it with my family.

The journey matters more than the destination, especially when that journey is filled with breathtaking views and shared moments.

After our exhilarating trip to Túnel Punta Olímpica, we descended back into Huaraz, our stomachs rumbling. It was time for lunch, and I had heard great things about Don Cuy, a local restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian cuisine. We found the place without much trouble and were immediately drawn in by its cozy atmosphere.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Don Cuy in Huaraz – a delightful dining experience awaits you!

We ordered a variety of dishes, including, of course, cuy (guinea pig), a local delicacy. Ethan was a bit hesitant at first, but he eventually tried a small piece and declared it “not bad!” Olivia and I savored every bite, appreciating the rich flavors and unique spices. The service was friendly and attentive, making us feel right at home.

As the afternoon wore on, we decided to explore Huaraz one last time. We strolled through the Plaza de Armas, admiring the colonial architecture and soaking in the lively atmosphere. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this vibrant city. We picked up a few souvenirs for friends and family back home, little reminders of our Peruvian adventure.

For our final dinner in Huaraz, we decided to try something completely different: PAULINO'S INDIAN CUISINE. I know, it sounds a bit out of place in Peru, but I had read rave reviews about it, and we were all in the mood for something spicy. The restaurant was cozy and inviting, and the aroma of Indian spices filled the air.


Experience authentic Indian cuisine in Huaraz at Paulino's – where every dish tells a story through rich flavors and spices.

We ordered a selection of curries, naan bread, and samosas, and everything was absolutely delicious. Ethan, surprisingly, loved the butter chicken, while Olivia and I enjoyed the spicier vindaloo. The portions were generous, and the prices were reasonable, making it a perfect end to our culinary journey in Huaraz.

To cap off our final night, we ventured to Bohemia Resto Bar Huaraz for a nightcap. The atmosphere was lively, and the drinks were strong, the perfect way to reflect on our trip. We shared stories, laughed, and reminisced about our favorite moments, from hiking in the Cordillera Blanca to exploring the local markets.


Discover the unique flavors of Huaraz at Bohemia Resto Bar, a cozy gastropub blending local ingredients with international cuisine for a memorable dining experience.

As I sit here writing this, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had in Huaraz. This trip has been more than just a vacation; it's been a chance to connect with my family, explore a new culture, and create memories that will last a lifetime. I am also grateful that I didn't forget any of the essentials this time, even though I was worried about forgetting my portable phone charger and sunglasses before the trip. Peru has a piece of my heart now.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to the UK. While I'm looking forward to seeing our friends and getting back to our routine, I know that a part of me will always remain in the Andes. Until next time, Huaraz!