Family Adventure in the Heart of Huaraz, Peru

Reaching New Heights: Laguna Churup's Majestic Challenge

Today was a day of pushing limits, both physical and mental. We set out to conquer Laguna Churup, a stunningly beautiful lake nestled high in the Cordillera Blanca. I knew going in that it would be a challenging hike, but nothing quite prepares you for the reality of battling altitude while scrambling up steep inclines. Still, the promise of crystal-blue waters reflecting towering peaks kept me going, and I'm so glad it did.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna Churup, a stunning hiking destination in Peru's Cordillera Blanca, perfect for adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts.

The day started early with breakfast at Creperie Patrick. It was a cozy little spot, and the perfect way to fuel up for the adventure ahead. I opted for a hearty crepe filled with ham and cheese, while Olivia enjoyed a fruit-filled delight, and Ethan devoured a stack of chocolate pancakes. It's amazing how a good breakfast can set the tone for the whole day. Fueled and ready, we hopped into a *colectivo* headed towards the trailhead at Pitec. The drive itself was an experience, winding through narrow mountain roads with breathtaking views at every turn.


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

Arriving at the trailhead, the crisp mountain air hit us immediately. The sun was shining, but there was a definite chill in the breeze. We layered up, double-checked our gear, and started our ascent. The initial part of the trail was relatively gentle, a steady climb through fields dotted with wildflowers. Ethan was full of energy, skipping ahead and pointing out every interesting rock and butterfly he spotted. Olivia and I trailed behind, enjoying the scenery and trying to pace ourselves.

As we climbed higher, the trail became steeper and more challenging. The altitude started to make its presence known, and I found myself pausing more frequently to catch my breath. Ethan, surprisingly, seemed unfazed, his youthful energy carrying him effortlessly up the mountain. Olivia, ever the practical nurse, kept a close eye on us, reminding us to stay hydrated and take small, frequent sips of water.

Sometimes, the most scenic roads in life are the ones with the most obstacles.

Around an hour into the hike, we faced our first major obstacle: a steep rock face with the option of climbing using chains and ropes. I looked at Olivia, a hint of apprehension in my eyes. She gave me a reassuring smile and said, We've got this. Ethan, of course, was already halfway up, scrambling like a little mountain goat. I took a deep breath and started climbing, carefully placing my feet and pulling myself up with the chains. It was definitely a test of strength and coordination, but the sense of accomplishment upon reaching the top was exhilarating.

The trail continued to climb, winding through rocky terrain and past cascading waterfalls. The landscape was raw and untamed, a testament to the power and beauty of nature. We passed other hikers along the way, exchanging words of encouragement and sharing stories of our travels. There was a real sense of camaraderie among us, a shared understanding of the challenges and rewards of this incredible journey.

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, we reached Laguna Churup. And wow, was it worth it! The lake was a mesmerizing shade of turquoise, surrounded by towering granite peaks dusted with snow. The air was still and silent, broken only by the occasional chirping of birds. We found a spot on the shore, sat down, and simply took it all in. Ethan, predictably, was eager to explore, scrambling over rocks and splashing in the icy water. Olivia and I just sat there, hand in hand, marveling at the sheer beauty of the place.

We spent a good hour at the laguna, soaking in the atmosphere and enjoying a picnic lunch. Olivia had packed sandwiches, fruit, and some of Ethan's favorite snacks. Refueled and rejuvenated, we started our descent. The way down was definitely easier on the lungs, but it was still tough on the knees. We took our time, carefully navigating the rocky terrain and enjoying the changing perspectives of the landscape.

Back in Huaraz, we were all exhausted but exhilarated. We headed straight for Hierba Buena Restaurante for a well-deserved late lunch. The food was delicious, hearty Peruvian fare that hit the spot perfectly. I had a flavorful *lomo saltado*, while Olivia enjoyed a vegetarian *causa*, and Ethan devoured a plate of *pollo a la brasa*. We lingered over our meal, recounting the highlights of the day and sharing stories with each other.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Hierba Buena Restaurante in Huaraz – where every meal is a celebration of flavor.

To celebrate conquering Laguna Churup, we decided to check out Kuya Kuya Coctelería Profesional Novoandina. The place had a cool, laid-back vibe, and the cocktails were creative and delicious. I tried a *pisco sour* made with local fruits, while Olivia opted for a non-alcoholic concoction with herbs and spices. Ethan, of course, stuck with juice, but he enjoyed the lively atmosphere and the colorful decorations.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Peru at Kuya Kuya Coctelería Profesional Novoandina, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere.

Before heading back to the hotel, we stopped at Trivio Resto Bar for dinner. The place was buzzing with activity, a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the evening. We ordered pizzas and craft beers, savoring the flavors and reflecting on our incredible day. The staff was friendly and attentive, and the overall atmosphere was warm and inviting.


Experience exquisite Peruvian flavors at Trivio Resto Bar in Huaraz – where culinary tradition meets modern dining.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post from the comfort of our hotel room at Hotel La Joya, my legs are aching, and my face is sunburned. But I wouldn't trade today for anything. Laguna Churup was more than just a hike; it was a test of our limits, a celebration of our family bond, and a reminder of the incredible beauty that exists in this world. It's experiences like these that make travel so rewarding, pushing us out of our comfort zones and creating memories that will last a lifetime.


Discover comfort and convenience at Hotel La Joya, centrally located in Huaraz with modern amenities and friendly service for a perfect getaway.

Tomorrow, we're planning to explore Parque Nacional Huascarán [see: ITINERARY OF TOMORROW], and I'm already excited about the adventures that await. But for now, it's time to rest, recharge, and dream of turquoise lakes and towering peaks. Goodnight from Huaraz!