Family Adventure in the Heart of Huaraz, Peru

Querococha's Calm and Huaraz's Charms

Today was a day of serene beauty and delightful discoveries. From the tranquil waters of a high-altitude lake to the vibrant flavors of Huaraz, it was a day that truly captured the essence of this stunning region. I'm eager to share the moments and experiences that made today so special, highlighting the natural wonders and culinary gems we encountered.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Hierba Buena Restaurante. Olivia had read great reviews and was keen to try it out. The restaurant had a cozy, family-run feel, and the breakfast was just what we needed to fuel our day. Ethan especially loved the fresh juice, declaring it the best he’d had so far on the trip. I enjoyed a traditional Peruvian breakfast with eggs, local cheese and bread. It was a simple yet satisfying start to what promised to be a memorable day.


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

After breakfast, we set off to visit Querococha Lake. The drive itself was an experience, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca. The air was crisp and clean, and the scenery was simply breathtaking. As we ascended, Ethan was glued to the window, pointing out every llama and alpaca we passed. I had completely forgotten my sunglasses, so the glare was a bit intense. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!


Explore the serene beauty of Querococha Lake, a breathtaking destination in the Peruvian Andes, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Querococha Lake is nestled high in the Andes, at an altitude of around 4,200 meters above sea level. The lake is known for its calm, mirror-like surface, which reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The name “Querococha” comes from the Quechua word for “lake,” which is fitting, given its serene and unassuming beauty. As we arrived, the view was stunning. The lake was surrounded by rugged mountains, and the clear blue sky was perfectly reflected in its waters. We took a leisurely stroll along the shore, taking in the fresh mountain air and the sounds of nature. Ethan, of course, couldn't resist throwing a few stones into the water, much to Olivia's amusement. I took the opportunity to snap some photos, trying to capture the sheer beauty of the landscape. The lake was so still, it felt like looking into another world. It was easy to see why this spot is a favorite among travelers seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

The beauty of Querococha Lake lies not just in its stunning views, but also in the sense of peace and serenity it brings to those who visit.

After spending a couple of hours at the lake, we drove back to Huaraz for lunch. We decided to try El Fogón, a restaurant known for its traditional Peruvian dishes. The restaurant had a rustic charm, with wooden tables and colorful decorations. It was bustling with locals and tourists alike, creating a lively atmosphere. I ordered the lomo saltado, while Olivia opted for the trout. Ethan, ever the adventurous eater, decided to try the chicken skewers. The food was delicious, and the portions were generous. The lomo saltado was perfectly seasoned and the meat was tender and juicy. Olivia raved about the trout, saying it was the freshest she had ever tasted. Ethan devoured his chicken skewers, declaring them “super yummy.” We all left feeling satisfied and ready for the next part of our adventure.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at El Fogón in Huaraz - where every dish tells a story of flavor and tradition.

In the late afternoon, we took a stroll through the Plaza de Armas, the central square of Huaraz. The square was bustling with activity, with locals chatting, children playing, and vendors selling their wares. The architecture was charming, with colonial-style buildings and a beautiful cathedral. We stopped to admire the fountain in the center of the square, taking in the vibrant atmosphere. Ethan was fascinated by the pigeons that were fluttering around, trying to catch them (unsuccessfully, of course). Olivia and I enjoyed watching the locals go about their daily lives, soaking in the culture and energy of the city. As the sun began to set, we decided to find a spot for a pre-dinner drink. We stumbled upon John House Restobar, a cozy bar with a relaxed vibe. The bar had a good selection of local beers and cocktails, and the staff were friendly and welcoming. I ordered a pisco sour, while Olivia went for a local craft beer. Ethan, of course, had a juice. We sat outside, enjoying the cool evening air and watching the world go by. The pisco sour was perfectly tart and refreshing, and Olivia enjoyed her beer. It was a great way to unwind after a day of exploring.


Experience the best of Peruvian flavors at John House Restobar in Huaraz, where every meal tells a story of culinary delight.

For dinner, we chose Wayta - El Chef Andino, a restaurant that had been highly recommended for its innovative Andean cuisine. The restaurant had a modern and stylish décor, with colorful artwork and comfortable seating. The menu was extensive, featuring a variety of traditional Peruvian dishes with a modern twist. I started with the quinoa salad, while Olivia opted for the causa. Ethan, always eager to try new things, ordered the alpaca skewers. For our main courses, I chose the pachamanca, Olivia had the trout ceviche, and Ethan stuck with his beloved alpaca skewers. The food was exceptional. My quinoa salad was fresh and flavorful, and Olivia raved about her causa. Ethan loved the alpaca skewers, declaring them his favorite dish of the trip so far. The pachamanca was a hearty and flavorful stew, cooked in a traditional underground oven. Olivia’s trout ceviche was light and refreshing, with a perfect balance of flavors. The service was attentive and friendly, and the ambiance was relaxed and inviting. It was the perfect end to a wonderful day.


Savor authentic Andean flavors at Wayta - El Chef Andino in Huaraz, where tradition meets modern cuisine amid breathtaking mountain views.

As we walked back to Hotel La Joya, the city was quiet and peaceful. The stars were out, and the air was crisp and cool. We reflected on the day’s adventures, feeling grateful for the opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Huaraz. Ethan was already fast asleep, dreaming of llamas and alpaca skewers. Olivia and I lingered for a while, savoring the moment and planning our adventures for tomorrow. Tomorrow, we plan to explore Callejon de Huaylas and the Templo de Wilcahuain. I am particularly excited to see the ancient temple, as I have always been fascinated by pre-Inca civilizations. Olivia is looking forward to seeing the Callejon de Huaylas, as she has heard it is one of the most beautiful valleys in Peru. We also plan to have breakfast at La Casita del Mago, lunch at Ajo Picante, and dinner at Calima - Restaurant & Café. And perhaps a spot of shopping at AZUR boutique. It sounds like another exciting day awaits!


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

As I sit here writing this, I can’t help but feel a sense of contentment. Huaraz has exceeded all of our expectations, and we are already looking forward to the adventures that tomorrow will bring. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to explore new places, and to share my experiences with others. It's about creating memories, connecting with different cultures, and appreciating the beauty of the world around us. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but smile, knowing that our family adventure in Huaraz is far from over. Goodnight from Huaraz!