Nestled in the heart of the Andes, Huaraz, Peru serves as the gateway to one of the most stunning hiking destinations in the world: the Cordillera Blanca. Known for its breathtaking landscapes, turquoise glacial lakes, and towering peaks, this region is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and trekkers alike. If you’re planning a trip to Peru, make sure to include a hike in the Cordillera Blanca on your itinerary for an unforgettable experience.
Discovering the Cordillera Blanca
The Cordillera Blanca is part of the larger Andes mountain range, which is recognized as the largest mountain range in the world. This majestic range boasts some of the highest peaks in Peru, including Huascarán, the country’s tallest mountain. As you trek through the Cordillera Blanca, you’ll be surrounded by stunning vistas that showcase the region’s natural beauty.
Starting your journey in Huaraz, Peru, you’ll have access to a range of hiking trails suitable for all experience levels. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a beginner looking to explore the great outdoors, there are plenty of options to choose from. Popular routes include the Santa Cruz trek and the Laguna 69 hike, both of which offer incredible views and unique opportunities to connect with nature.
Olleros to Chavin
Days: 3-4 days, the 3rd night in the town of Chavin for a visit to the Chavin de Huantar ruins the next day.
Level: Easy to Moderate
Length: 37 km (23 mi)
Elevation Gain: 1,280 m (4,200 ft)
Peru is one of the few countries that does a spectacularly good job blending incredible scenery with ancient ruin sites, and the Olleros to Chavin trek exemplifies these two strengths. The hike starts in the small indigenous town of Olleros, goes through Huascaran National Park overpass that leads you to the city of Chavin, known for its UNESCO world-heritage site Chavin de Huantar.
The Chavin’s were a pre-Incan group made up between the time period of 1300 and 400 BC. The group was believed to be very religious, drinking the hallucinogenic cactus San Pedro as a frequent ritual, their herbal muse of choice in the creation of wild statues that represented their animal deities with beauty and detail unparallel to anything done by the Incan culture. There are seven underground chambers holding the finest stonework with a large sacrificial stone in the center of the complex. Half of the trail is on a pre-Incan, ancient road where you can actually follow in the literal footsteps of the areas ancient civilizations and see their routes for travel and for pasturing their animals, with Chavin being your reward at the end.
Quilcyhuanca to Cojup via Huapi Pass
Length: 3 Days
Level: Moderate
Distance: 27 km (17 mi) with an additional 5 km (3 mi) to walk back to the inn from Cojup
Elevation Gain: 4,100 feet or 1,250 meters
This Cordillera Blanca trek not only has some impressive lakes and massive glaciers, but it also allows you to reach 5,100 m (16,732 ft) via Huapi Pass without actually climbing a mountain. Huapi pass is a notch in between the glaciated peaks of Chinchey, measuring in at an impressive 6,309 mt (20,698 ft), Pucaranra at 6,156 mt (20,197 ft), Ranrapalca at 6,162 mt (20,216 ft), and Huapi Mountain just to the right of the pass at 5,421 mt (17,785 ft).
This route is virtually empty most of the dry season and is teeming with glacial views and crystal colored lakes. As if the impressive views weren’t enough, the route has pre-Incan pictographs at the beginning of the valley, along with remnants of old Incan roads and pre-Incan tombs.
Preparing for Your Hike
Before you embark on your hiking adventure in the Cordillera Blanca, make sure you’re prepared for the conditions. Altitude can be a challenge in this mountainous region, so it’s essential to acclimatize properly. Spend a few days in Huaraz, Peru, to allow your body to adjust before tackling the more strenuous hikes.
Pack appropriate gear, including sturdy hiking boots, warm layers, and plenty of water. It’s also a good idea to have a local guide who knows the trails and can provide valuable insights into the region’s history and culture.
Hiking the Cordillera Blanca just outside of Huaraz, Peru is an adventure that should not be missed. With its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and incredible trails, this region offers something for everyone. Whether you’re trekking to Laguna 69 or taking on the Santa Cruz trek, you’ll create lasting memories in one of the most beautiful parts of the world. Make sure to include Huaraz, Peru in your travel plans and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Andes firsthand.
If you’re ready to take on some off-the-beaten-path Cordillera Blanca treks, Good Life Expeditions is here to help! Our expert travel team can take care of all the logistics and arrangements, as well as help you pick the best route suited to your taste.
Contact us today to start planning your next expedition!