A Peruvian mountain town beneath the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range in the world.

Why Visit Huaraz

Huaraz sits beneath the Cordillera Blanca, the highest tropical mountain range on Earth, home to Peru’s tallest peaks and some of South America’s best high altitude trekking, including the renowned Santa Cruz trek and the turquoise glacial lake Laguna 69. It offers a genuine mountaineering and trekking base distinct from Peru’s more visited Cusco and Machu Picchu circuit.

Top Experiences

  • Laguna 69 day hike: A demanding but rewarding hike to a stunning turquoise glacial lake beneath towering snow capped peaks.
  • Santa Cruz trek: A multi day trek through the Cordillera Blanca considered one of South America’s finest hiking routes.
  • Pastoruri Glacier: An accessible glacier visit, though visibly retreating, offering an accessible high altitude experience.
  • Chavin de Huantar: An ancient pre-Inca archaeological site with underground galleries, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Book these experiences and more through guided tours from Huaraz.

HHuayhuash-One of the most impressive hikes in the world

HHuayhuash-One of the most impressive hikes in the world

★ 5.0 (45)
From USD 1065.6
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Tour Climbing Nevado Mateo | Your First 5,150 m Summit | 12 Hours

Tour Climbing Nevado Mateo | Your First 5,150 m Summit | 12 Hours

★ 5.0 (41)
From USD 110
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Snowy Mateo - Cordillera Blanca Expedition

Snowy Mateo - Cordillera Blanca Expedition

★ 5.0 (27)
From USD 140
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Parón Lake - Cordillera Blanca - Private Service

Parón Lake - Cordillera Blanca - Private Service

★ 5.0 (10)
From USD 195.46
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
Climbing Alpamayo "The most beautiful mountain in the World"

Climbing Alpamayo "The most beautiful mountain in the World"

★ 5.0 (7)
From USD 2500
View Price & Book Tour on Viator
The Best of Huayhuash Mini Trek – Siula Grande Mountain (5D /4 N)

The Best of Huayhuash Mini Trek – Siula Grande Mountain (5D /4 N)

★ 5.0 (6)
From USD 750
View Price & Book Tour on Viator

Practical Tips

  • Spend a day or two acclimatizing in Huaraz before attempting high altitude hikes like Laguna 69.
  • The Santa Cruz trek typically requires four days and can be arranged with local guide agencies.
  • Trekking season runs roughly May through September, during the dry months.

FAQ

What is the Cordillera Blanca?
The highest tropical mountain range in the world, home to Peru’s tallest peaks and centered around Huaraz.

Is Laguna 69 hard to hike?
It is a demanding high altitude day hike, but achievable for reasonably fit travelers who have acclimatized in Huaraz first.

Is Huaraz a good alternative to Cusco for trekking?
Yes, it offers world class high altitude trekking, including the renowned Santa Cruz trek, with far fewer crowds than the Cusco region.