Family Adventure in the Heart of Huaraz, Peru

A Day of Discovery

Today was a day filled with exploration and cultural immersion as we ventured through the Callejón de Huaylas and delved into the mysteries of Templo de Wilcahuain. The blend of stunning landscapes and ancient history made for an unforgettable experience, one that truly enriched our family adventure here in Huaraz.


Explore the stunning Callejon de Huaylas, a breathtaking ravine in Peru, perfect for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at La Casita del Mago. The cozy atmosphere and the promise of traditional Peruvian flavors set the perfect tone for our explorations. Ethan was particularly excited about the chochos, a local delicacy we'd read about. Olivia, ever the early bird, had already scoped out the best options, and we settled into a comfortable corner, ready to fuel up for the day's adventures.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine in a magical setting at La Casita del Mago in Huaraz - where every meal tells a story.

With our bellies full, we set off to explore the Callejón de Huaylas. The drive itself was breathtaking, with the Cordillera Blanca looming majestically to one side and the Cordillera Negra providing a stark contrast on the other. The valley stretched out before us, a tapestry of green fields and quaint villages, each with its own unique charm. I couldn't resist stopping every few minutes to capture the stunning vistas with my camera, much to Ethan's amusement and Olivia's patient indulgence.

Our first stop was the Templo de Wilcahuain, an ancient pre-Inca site that promised a glimpse into Peru's rich history. As we approached the temple, I was immediately struck by the impressive stone structures and the intricate architecture. The temple, believed to have been a burial site, exuded an aura of mystery and reverence. Ethan, surprisingly engaged, peppered our guide with questions about the people who had built this place and their way of life. Olivia, ever the nurse, was more concerned about the altitude, reminding us to take it slow and stay hydrated.


Discover the ancient wonders of Templo de Wilcahuain, an archaeological gem in Independencia, Peru, blending history, culture, and modern amenities.

Exploring the temple's chambers and passageways, I felt a deep connection to the past. It was humbling to think about the civilizations that had thrived here centuries ago, leaving behind these remarkable structures as a testament to their ingenuity and cultural advancements. Ethan even tried to imagine what it would be like to live in those times, sparking a lively discussion about history and archaeology.

Sometimes, the most profound experiences are found not in grand monuments, but in the quiet echoes of the past.

After immersing ourselves in history, we drove back through the Callejón de Huaylas, stopping at a local market to soak in the vibrant atmosphere. The market was a sensory explosion, with colorful textiles, exotic fruits, and the lively chatter of vendors hawking their wares. Ethan, always drawn to anything sweet, insisted on trying some local candies, while Olivia haggled for a beautiful handwoven blanket. I, of course, couldn't resist sampling some of the local cheeses, each with its own unique flavor and texture.

For lunch, we decided to try Ajo Picante, a restaurant recommended for its authentic Peruvian cuisine. The restaurant was bustling with locals, a sure sign of its quality and popularity. We ordered a variety of dishes, including lomo saltado and aji de gallina, each bursting with flavor and spices. Ethan, surprisingly adventurous, even tried a bit of the aji, though he quickly regretted it, his face turning a delightful shade of red.


Discover the authentic taste of Peru at Ajo Picante, where traditional flavors meet modern dining in Huaraz.

In the afternoon, Olivia was keen to do some shopping, so we headed to AZUR boutique. While Olivia browsed the clothing and accessories, Ethan and I explored the nearby streets, discovering hidden courtyards and charming cafes. I found a small, family-run coffee shop where I enjoyed a cup of rich, locally grown coffee, savoring the moment of peace and tranquility amidst the bustling city.


Shop unique local crafts and exquisite fashion at AZUR Boutique, Huaraz's premier destination for authentic Peruvian treasures.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way to Calima - Restaurant & Café for dinner. The restaurant, known for its stunning views of the Plaza de Armas, offered a perfect setting for our final meal of the day. We enjoyed a delicious dinner of traditional Peruvian dishes, accompanied by a bottle of local wine, as we watched the city lights twinkle below.


Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Calima Restaurant & Café in Huaraz – where tradition meets taste.

Reflecting on the day, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Huaraz with my family. From the ancient wonders of Templo de Wilcahuain to the vibrant flavors of the local cuisine, every moment had been a treasure. Even Ethan, initially skeptical about a trip focused on hiking and history, admitted that he had enjoyed himself, a testament to the magic of Huaraz.

Tomorrow, we're planning to visit the Túnel Punta Olímpica, a thrilling adventure that promises even more breathtaking views and unforgettable memories. The highest road tunnel in the world is something I don't want to miss, and I'm sure the family will enjoy it too. I'm a little concerned about the altitude, but we'll take it slow and steady, as Olivia always reminds us. I'm also looking forward to trying some cuy (guinea pig) at Don Cuy for lunch – a local delicacy that I've been curious about. And to cap off our last night, we'll try PAULINO'S INDIAN CUISINE, a surprising find in the heart of Peru.

As I sit here, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of contentment. Our family adventure in Huaraz has been everything I had hoped for and more. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best experiences are found in the most unexpected places.

Trip End
Our final day in Huaraz began with a hearty breakfast at Creperie Patrick, a charming spot known for its delicious crepes. Ethan was particularly excited, as crepes are one of his favorite treats. After breakfast, we set off to explore the Túnel Punta Olímpica, the highest road tunnel in the world. The drive up was breathtaking, with stunning views of the surrounding mountains. The tunnel itself was an impressive feat of engineering, and we all marveled at the accomplishment. At the summit, we took some time to soak in the panoramic views and capture some memorable photos.

For lunch, we ventured to Don Cuy, a local restaurant famous for its cuy (guinea pig), a traditional Peruvian delicacy. I was curious to try it, and while Olivia was a bit hesitant, she agreed to a small taste. Ethan, on the other hand, was completely grossed out and stuck to his usual chicken. The cuy was surprisingly flavorful, with a crispy skin and tender meat. It was definitely a unique culinary experience.

In the evening, we decided to try something completely different and headed to PAULINO'S INDIAN CUISINE for dinner. It was an unexpected find in the heart of Peru, but the food was delicious and a welcome change from the local cuisine. We enjoyed a variety of Indian dishes, from flavorful curries to tandoori chicken, all expertly prepared and bursting with spices.

As our trip comes to an end, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude. We explored ancient ruins, marveled at stunning landscapes, and savored the flavors of Peru. We created memories that will last a lifetime and strengthened our bond as a family. Huaraz, with its breathtaking beauty and rich culture, has captured our hearts, and we'll definitely be back to explore more of its hidden gems.

As we prepare to leave, I realize how much this trip has meant to us. It wasn't just a vacation; it was an opportunity to connect with each other and with the world around us. It was a chance to learn, to grow, and to create memories that will last a lifetime. And as we head back to our busy lives in Hawthorne, I know that we'll carry the spirit of Huaraz with us, a reminder to embrace adventure, to appreciate the beauty of nature, and to cherish the moments we share with our loved ones.

The trip to Huaraz was more than just a vacation; it was an experience that enriched our lives in countless ways. From the ancient wonders of Templo de Wilcahuain to the vibrant culture of the local markets, every moment was filled with discovery and adventure. We hiked through stunning landscapes, savored the flavors of Peruvian cuisine, and connected with the warmth and hospitality of the local people. As we prepare to leave, I know that we'll carry the memories of Huaraz with us, a reminder to embrace the beauty of nature, to appreciate the richness of different cultures, and to cherish the bonds of family. And who knows, maybe one day we'll return to explore more of the hidden gems that this magical region has to offer.