Huaraz
Huaraz sits at 3,052 metres in the Callejon de Huaylas valley, flanked by the Cordillera Blanca — the highest tropical mountain range on earth. The trekking here is world-class: the Santa Cruz circuit, the Huayhuash circuit, the day hike to Laguna 69. Unlike the Inca Trail or Torres del Paine, most routes here can be done without booking months in advance. The city is a working Andean town rather than a tourist bubble, with good infrastructure for trekkers without the performed authenticity of Cusco.
Why visit
The Cordillera Blanca contains some of the highest tropical glaciers on earth. Laguna 69 is spectacular. World-class trekking without Patagonia prices or permit queues.
Crowd level
Popular with serious trekkers but nowhere near Cusco volumes. Santa Cruz and Huayhuash circuits see some traffic; most other trails are quiet.
Best time
May to September — dry season for trekking
Getting there
Bus from Lima (8hrs) or short flight. Hub for the Cordillera Blanca treks.
Tradeoffs
Huaraz city itself is not particularly attractive — largely rebuilt after a 1970 earthquake. High altitude requires same acclimatisation as Cusco.
Direct comparisons
Layers
Region
At a glance
- Country
- Peru
- Region
- Ancash
- Fresh Air Score
- 82/100
- Cost level
- $
- Distance from Cusco
- 650 km