Peru holds one of the most impressive mountainous landscapes in South America and Huaraz is certainly one of those unmissable attractions if you’re into outdoor activities and adventure sports. However, the altitude is a factor that can’t be ignored and to help you with that, we have gathered 6 day trips to help you acclimate properly.
If you’ve been doing some research about the region, you must know that the Huascaran National Park holds most of the highest peaks in Peru, as well as the most visually striking lagoons in the entire country.
This northern part of the Peruvian Andes is known as the Trekking Capital of Peru, thanks to its many hiking trails that lead to several natural wonders. Likewise, it also houses a few of the most important archeological sites in Peru, another side to our history that you should know about!
For those adventurous travelers, here you’ll find some of the best things to do in Huaraz, thoughtfully arranged by altitude level and difficulty so you can organize the best acclimatization travel itinerary through the Ancash region.
1. Chavin de Huantar – 3,137 m.a.s.l.
Before going to more challenging treks, it would be best if you start with an easy tour to the main archeological site of the region. Chavín de Huantar is one of the most important pre-Inca settlements of ancient Peru.
The famous structure was built by the Chavin culture, which developed between 1500 and 300 B.C. which according to many archeologists and historians, this ancient civilization could have been the mother to many Andean cultures including the Incas.
The pre-Columbian remains were built around 1500 B.C. and served as the administrative-ceremonial center of the Chavin people. The archeological complex is composed of several structures and covers an extension of 12,000 m2.
Although the site was partially damaged by floods and seismic activity, it has remained nearly intact. It was here that some of the most important archeological findings were discovered, such as the Lanzón Monolith, the Raimondi Stele and the Obelisco Tello.
If you love history as much as we do, then you should include this impressive attraction in your Huaraz travel itinerary. Luckily, we have a Chavin de Huantar Tour for you to check!
2. Wilcacocha Lagoon – 3,745 m.a.s.l.
As you can tell, most of the attractions near Huaraz are located over 4,000 meters of elevation. And if you’re looking for an easy trek to get properly acclimatized and ready for bigger challenges, then the Wilcacocha Lagoon is the way to go.
Huaraz is surrounded by two mountain ranges, the Cordillera Blanca and the Cordillera Negra. However, they are not easily spotted from this beautiful town.
The Laguna Wilcacocha offers an unparalleled view to both mountain ranges, an impressive scenery that can be perfectly spotted from this beautiful location. Besides, this beautiful water body is located at 3,745 meters above sea level and the trek only takes 2 hours.
The way up to the Wilcacocha Lagoon is really easy and on the way you’ll get to visit small villages surrounded by beautiful crop lands and some of the tallest peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. This trail is definitely one of the easiest to complete in Huaraz, as well as a great start to get your body ready for the next adventures!
3. Laguna Paron – 4,155 m.a.s.l.
Laguna Paron is the largest lake in Huascaran National Park, and it’s certainly one of the easiest treks you can join during your stay in Huaraz. The site offers spectacular views from as soon as you hit the road until you get there!
Also, the best thing about this experience is that it only takes about 45 minutes to hike to the lake. However, the altitude is a factor that you certainly can’t underestimate, so it’s best to take this trek on the third day after your arrival.
This is one of the most complete tourist attractions near Huaraz since you don’t only get to trek to this majestic lake but also venture out onto the water on a boat ride or even kayaking! Another thing to do there is camping, though you need to be prepared with camping gear that can withstand temperatures below 0°C.
There are other adventure sports to do around the area since the place offers the perfect setting to do rock climbing and mountaineering. Likewise, we’d like to highlight that these trails are very strenuous and only for experienced trekkers.
If you’d like to include the Lake Parón Tour to your Huaraz itinerary, make sure to contact our team!
4. Churup Lagoon – 4,450 m.a.s.l.
The Laguna Churup is one of those dream-like locations that make you feel as if you were part of a real life fantasy, where it’s colorful and clear waters will leave you spellbound to its greatness while the majestic Churup snow-capped mountain blesses your way to it.
The Churup Lagoon is located a few kilometers away from Huaraz. It is situated at a 45 minute drive from the so-called Generosity City. However, don’t let its closeness fool you since it sits on an elevation of 4,450 meters above sea level.
For that reason, you shouldn’t underestimate this trail since it could be very difficult depending on your physical condition and acclimatization. However, all that hard work will be paid off as soon as you reach the destination.
Thanks to its mineral-rich water, the lagoon has a peculiar coloration that makes it even more impressive. While in direct sunlight, you can spot around seven colors in its water, which is why it is also known as the Lagoon of 7 Colors.
The trail has a moderate to challenging difficulty level and takes about 3.5 hours to complete on the way up. If you’re up to this adventure, we have the right excursion for you! Check our Laguna Churup Trek itinerary on this blog.
5. Lagoon 69 – 4,600 m.a.s.l.
We are sure that most of you adventure seekers have heard of this outstanding lagoon. It is located at 4,604 meters above sea level within the Cordillera Blanca. Laguna 69 is characterized for its crystal-clear water and particular coloration, where the concentration of minerals in its water give it a vibrant turquoise tone.
The lagoon originated after years of thaw in a nearby glacier on top of the Chacraraju Mountain, one of the many tall peaks of the northern Andean mountain range, reaching up to 6,108 m.a.s.l.
The trail to this natural wonder will take you through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the region, crossing rivers and valleys from where you’ll feel the everlasting energy of the Andes.
It is worth mentioning that the way up to the lagoon may be quite challenging if you’re not properly acclimatized. However, most excursions will give you enough time to complete the trek calmly and slowly.
Since there’s so much to know and visit in Huaraz, we have included this attraction along with another magical natural wonder of the region. Check our Llanganuco Lake & Lagoon 69 Trek while you’re here.
6. Nevado Pastoruri – 5,240 m.a.s.l.
Although while traveling we look to escape from our reality, there are certain factors that can’t be ignored. And if you’re into a more natural-focused experience, then you should know about how our world has been changing and reacting to global warming.
The Nevado Pastoruri is one of the most sought-after attractions due to its impressive scenery and because of how easily accessible it is. In spite of the fact that this natural wonder is located at 5,240 meters above sea level, you can get there by just taking a car ride and a short walk to its summit.
However as time passes by and climate change continues to drastically impact our planet, the Pastoruri snow-capped mountain has lost over 40% of ice in the past 60 years. On top of that, some specialists say that this natural wonder might lose its entire glacier surface in 10 years from now.
Therefore, if you’re looking to experience this and other snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca as beautiful as they are, now it’s the time.
The Climate Change Route looks to raise awareness of climate change and human impact on our planet. With this excursion, you’ll get to know more about this matter while also experiencing one of the most visually-striking landscapes of the Huascarán National Park.
How to Prevent and Deal with Altitude Sickness
As you may know, Altitude Sickness is a common condition that affects most travelers visiting places over 1,000 meters of elevation. Tiredness, dizziness, shortness of breath and headaches are some of the usual symptoms of ‘Soroche,’ though it can escalate drastically if not treated.
Therefore, here we have gathered some tips so you can successfully prevent altitude sickness symptoms. Luckily, not everyone gets to experience it, but it’s always best to be cautious rather than losing a few days from your itinerary.
- Keep yourself hydrated
The water will be your best ally to fight and prevent this condition, so make sure to drink enough liquid throughout your stay. Higher altitudes are associated with dehydration as a result of dryer air and more rapid breathing, causing a greater loss of bodily fluids.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking at all costs
Yes, we know this is hard and even worse if you’re on vacation but trust us, it’s best to wait at least 48 hours before drinking alcohol or smoking. These could worsen dehydration and shortness of breath if ingested on the first days of your stay.
- Drink Coca tea or chew Coca leaves
The Coca plant is a medicinal herb used since pre-Columbian times. It is known for helping to ease any altitude sickness symptoms and improving acclimatization. You can either drink tea or just chew on the leaves.
- Eat a light but high-calorie diet
Higher altitudes increase our need for fuel, which is why it is best to have a calorie-based diet. Make sure to eat healthy snacks including lots of whole grains in your meals.
- Take it easy
The key to everything in life! Don’t rush yourself, take the necessary time to get used to the altitude and don’t do any physically demanding activities during your first days. In the meantime, you can take a Huaraz Walking Tour or simply rest.
If you’re wondering if there are any medicines that can help you with the altitude sickness symptoms, you could buy Diamox or Soroche Pills from any drugstore in Peru. However, we recommend consulting with a doctor first before taking any of these medications.
If you’re wondering what’s the best way to approach altitude in Peru, here we have prepared a full section about the best Peru itinerary to avoid altitude sickness, along with some recommendations for your trip through the Andes.
Would you like to discover everything Huaraz has to offer? We got you covered! Check our Peru travel packages and start planning the trip of your life!
Our country has the most exciting adventures, and here in Viagens Machu Picchu, we want you to have all the options so you can make your way through Peru like a total expert!