Family Adventure in the Heart of Huaraz, Peru

A Day of Discovery

Today was a fantastic blend of breathtaking views and historical exploration here in Huaraz. The family and I ventured out to soak in the natural beauty and delve into the region's rich past. It's days like these that truly make a trip memorable, offering a perfect mix of adventure and cultural insight.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafe Andino. The aroma of fresh coffee and the promise of a delicious meal were the perfect start. Olivia enjoyed her usual tea, while Ethan devoured a stack of pancakes. I opted for a traditional Peruvian breakfast, which fueled me up for the day's adventures. The cozy atmosphere and friendly service made it a delightful experience. It's a great spot, and I can see why it's so highly recommended.


Experience the flavors of Peru at Cafe Andino, where cozy ambiance meets exceptional cuisine in the heart of Huaraz.

After breakfast, we headed to Montañas Mágicas Outdoors Equipment. I needed to pick up a few extra carabiners for our hikes, and Olivia wanted to look at some warmer gloves. Ethan, of course, was fascinated by all the gear, pretending to be a mountaineer ready to conquer Huascarán. The staff were incredibly helpful, offering advice and ensuring we had everything we needed for our upcoming treks.


Discover the best outdoor gear and cycling equipment at Montañas Mágicas, your adventure hub in Huaraz, Peru. Gear up for unforgettable experiences in the Andes.

Our first major stop was the Mirador de Rataquenua. The taxi ride up was an adventure in itself, winding through narrow streets and offering glimpses of local life. Once we arrived, the view was simply stunning. Huaraz sprawled beneath us, framed by the majestic Cordillera Blanca. Even Ethan was captivated, pointing out the different landmarks and asking about the snow-capped peaks.


Explore the stunning landscapes of the Andes at Mirador de Rataquenua, a must-visit viewpoint near Huaraz, Peru, perfect for unforgettable experiences.

I spent a good while snapping photos, trying to capture the panoramic beauty. Olivia just sat and absorbed the scenery, a peaceful smile on her face. Ethan, ever the explorer, found a small trail and was soon scrambling around, pretending to be an intrepid adventurer. I made sure to keep a close eye on him, of course, but it was wonderful to see him so engaged with nature.

Sometimes, the best travel experiences are the ones that combine natural beauty with a touch of historical intrigue.

Next on our itinerary was Waullac, an archaeological site just a short drive from Huaraz. This ancient site offered a fascinating glimpse into the pre-Columbian cultures that once thrived in this region. Wandering through the ruins, I couldn't help but imagine what life must have been like for the people who built these structures.


Experience the archaeological marvels of Waullac in Huaraz, Peru, where history and stunning landscapes intertwine.

Olivia was particularly interested in the history of the site, reading aloud from our guidebook and sharing interesting facts with Ethan and me. Ethan, surprisingly, was also quite engaged, asking questions about the people who lived there and imagining what their daily lives were like. It was a great opportunity to teach him about the rich history of Peru and the cultures that came before the Incas.

After a morning of sightseeing, we were all quite hungry, so we headed to Don Cuy for lunch. I had heard great things about their traditional Peruvian dishes, and I was eager to try their namesake dish, cuy (guinea pig). Olivia, ever adventurous, decided to try it as well, while Ethan opted for something a little less exotic. The restaurant had a lovely atmosphere, and the staff were friendly and attentive.


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

The food was delicious. The cuy was flavorful and tender, and the other dishes we ordered were equally impressive. Ethan even surprised us by trying a bite of the cuy and declaring that it was actually quite good. It was a satisfying meal, and we left feeling full and content.

For dinner, we decided to try something completely different and went to PAULINO'S INDIAN CUISINE. I know, Indian food in Peru might sound strange, but I had read some great reviews, 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. The menu had a wide variety of options, including many vegetarian dishes, which was great for Olivia. We ordered a selection of curries, naan bread, and rice, and everything was absolutely delicious.


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

Ethan, who can be a bit picky, even enjoyed the butter chicken, declaring it one of the best things he had ever tasted. It was a delightful end to a wonderful day. The portions were generous, and the prices were very reasonable.

As we walked back to Hotel La Joya, I reflected on the day's adventures. From the stunning views at Mirador de Rataquenua to the historical insights at Waullac and the delicious meals at Don Cuy and PAULINO'S INDIAN CUISINE, it had been a day filled with memorable experiences. Huaraz continues to surprise and delight us, and I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.


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 hike to Churup Lake. I've heard it's a challenging but rewarding trek, and I'm excited to see the stunning turquoise waters. We'll be having breakfast at Calima - Restaurant & Café before we head out. For lunch, we're planning to stop by Creperie Patrick, and we'll finish the day with dinner at BUEN GUSTO Restaurant Fusión Selvática. If we have any energy left, we might even check out El Alquimista Rooftop Bar for a nightcap. It’s going to be another packed day, but I’m sure it will be filled with unforgettable moments.

I did forget to pack my sunglasses, though! I'll need to pick some up tomorrow before we head out to Churup Lake.