Solo Adventure in the Huaraz Region

Gaining Altitude, Gaining Perspective

Today was a day for reflection, a chance to breathe in the mountain air and let the vastness of the Cordillera Blanca sink in. After three days of acclimatizing, I felt ready to tackle a moderately challenging hike, and Laguna Wilcacocha seemed like the perfect choice. It promised stunning views and a chance to stretch my legs without pushing myself too hard. Plus, I was keen to explore the nearby archaeological site of Waullac and delve a little deeper into the history of this fascinating region.


Experience the breathtaking beauty of Laguna de Wilcacocha, a serene lake offering stunning views and outdoor adventures in Huaraz, Peru.

I started the day with breakfast at Encuentro Restaurant & Bar. I enjoyed a hearty meal to fuel up for the hike ahead. It was a cozy spot, and I overheard a few other travelers discussing their plans for tackling some of the more challenging treks in the area. It's inspiring to be surrounded by so much enthusiasm for the mountains.


Discover the vibrant tastes of Peru at Encuentro Restaurant & Bar in Huaraz - where every meal is a celebration!

After breakfast, I hopped on one of the local combis heading towards Chiwipampa. The ride itself was an experience, a colorful mix of locals going about their daily lives. It’s a great way to get a feel for the rhythm of the region, far removed from the tourist hotspots. Getting off near the Santa Cruz bridge, I started the ascent towards Laguna Wilcacocha.

The trail wasn't particularly well-marked, and I may have taken a few wrong turns, but that’s part of the adventure, right? The path wound its way up the mountainside, offering glimpses of the valley below and the snow-capped peaks in the distance. It was a steady climb, and I definitely felt the altitude, but I took my time, stopping frequently to catch my breath and soak in the scenery. The air was crisp and clean, and the only sounds were the wind and the occasional bleating of sheep. I even passed a few locals who kindly pointed me in the right direction when I looked completely lost.

Sometimes, the best views come after the hardest climbs.

Reaching Laguna Wilcacocha was a rewarding experience. The lake itself is more of a pond, but the surrounding views are truly breathtaking. The Cordillera Blanca stretched out before me, a majestic wall of snow and ice. It was a clear day, and I could see Huascarán, the highest peak in Peru, towering above the rest. I found a quiet spot on the shore and simply sat there, taking it all in. It’s moments like these that make traveling worthwhile, when you feel a sense of connection to the landscape and a sense of peace within yourself.

After spending some time at the laguna, I made my way to the nearby archaeological site of Waullac. It's a lesser-known site, but I was intrigued by its history. Waullac dates back to pre-Inca times, around 600 AD, and is linked to the Recuay culture, with influences from the Wari period. It's believed to have been used as a funerary complex, and you can still see the remains of stone structures with elevated compartments.


Discover the ancient wonders of Waullac, an archaeological site near Huaraz, Peru, surrounded by breathtaking Andes landscapes.

Exploring Waullac was a fascinating experience. The site is located on a hillside, and the views of the surrounding landscape are impressive. It's easy to imagine what life must have been like for the people who lived here centuries ago. The structures themselves are relatively simple, but they speak to a rich cultural heritage and a deep connection to the land. It's amazing to think that this site was declared a Cultural Heritage of the Nation on December 16, 2005. I spent a couple of hours wandering around, taking photos, and trying to piece together the story of this ancient place.

By late afternoon, I was back in Huaraz, ready for a good meal and a bit of relaxation. I decided to try D’Dos Restaurant for lunch. I had heard good things about their local dishes, and I wasn't disappointed. It was a cozy and welcoming place, and the food was delicious and hearty – just what I needed after a day of hiking.


Discover the rich flavors of Peru at D’Dos Restaurant in Huaraz – where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.

For dinner, I ventured over to Jose Olaya, a street known for its traditional local foods. It's a vibrant and bustling place, especially on weekends, with food stalls lining the street and the aromas of Peruvian cuisine filling the air. I tried a bit of everything, from panchamanca to cuy, tamales and chicha morada. It was a feast for the senses, and a great way to experience the local culture. I ended up ordering way too much food, but thankfully, they were happy to pack up the leftovers for me to take back to the hotel.


Experience authentic Peruvian cuisine at Jose Olaya in Huaraz—where every dish tells a story.

To cap off the day, I headed to El Alquimista Rooftop Bar for a drink. The bar offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding mountains, especially as the sun dips below the horizon. Sipping on a pisco sour, I watched as the lights of Huaraz twinkled into life, feeling grateful for another incredible day in Peru.


Experience the breathtaking views and vibrant atmosphere at El Alquimista Rooftop Bar in Huaraz, a perfect end to your adventurous day.

Tomorrow, I plan to explore Templo de Wilcahuain and Los Andes. It will be another day of delving into the rich history and culture of the Huaraz region, and I can't wait to see what it has in store.