ITINERARIES IN PERU

Peru is a country of contrasts: Rainforest and desert, fertile valleys, white sandy beaches and snow-covered mountains - you will find a bit of everything in Peru. Our recommended roundtrips are suggestions how you can explore the diversity of Peru.

Peru Intensive - On the trace of the Inca - Mystic North
Additional programmes: Rainforest - Inca Trail - Enjoy the beach - Huaraz/Cordillera Blanca

Huaraz is the starting point for trips in one of the most beautiful Andean landscapes - the Cordillera Blanca. Nearly all of the surrounding mountains are protected by the National Park Huascarán: 663 glaciers, 269 turquoise mountain lakes, 41 rivers and many mountains, with 26 peaks over 6000 m. Another attraction are the archaeological sites. Huascarán National Park is one of the most impressive in Latin America and a renowned centre for outdoor and adventure sports. Huaraz is located at an altitude of 3090 m, which is why acclimation is recommended. The colourful market with many handicrafts and other typical souvenirs is a nice opportunity to stroll around and get in touch with the traditions of this region.

Day 1: Lima - Huaraz
Nightbus from Lima to Huaraz (8 hours in a comfortable sleeping-coach) Acclimation. Overnight in Huaraz.

Huaraz is located on 3090 m. That's why acclimation is necessary. The colourful market with handicrafts and many souvenirs invites the guests to stroll around and feel the exotic atmosphere. In the Museum Regional de Ancash cash situated on the main square Plaza de Armas is an interesting exhibition of stone sculptures from the Recuy Culture.

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Day 2: Lagunas de Llanganuco
Excursion to the National Park Huascarán, visit of the villages of Carhuaz and Yungay as well as of the lagoons. Overnight stay in Huaraz.

The excursion to the mountain lakes of Llanganuco passes beautiful landscapes, the majestic Huascarán (6768 m), Peru´s highest mountain, and the Huandoy (6428 m). The first lagoon is called Chinacocha. Visitors will be impressed by the turquoise coloured water and the beautiful Qenual-Woods surrounding it. Additionally you will have the opportunity to hike to the second lagoon called Oroncocha.

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Day 3: Archaeological site of Chavin de Huantar
Excursion to the archaeological site of Chavin de Huantar (110 km). In the evening return to Huaraz. Overnight in Huaraz.

The area of Chavin de Huantar spreads over 17 hectares and was declared World Heritage Site some years ago. The buildings date back to the 12th century BC. All buildings were built from rocks. In ancient periods, Chavin was a religious ceremony center. Relieves and pictures on rock walls are still witnesses of the former Culture of Chavin and very impressing for visitors.

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Day 4: Pastouri Glacier and the Puya Raimondi Plant
Excursion to Pastouri Glacier (4950 m). On the way passing the rare Puya Raimondi Plant. Return to Huaraz. Night-Transfer by bus back to Lima or another additional program.

The Pastoruri Glacier is situated South of Huaraz and considered one of the nicest and most-visited places in the National park Huascarán. The way passes mountain lagoons and the gigantic Puya Raimondi Plant, which can reach an altitude of 10 m. Other attractions are the mineral fount at the Pumapampa and the tarn Pumapashima, its water has different colors. To climb the glacier you must pass the snow line either walking or riding a horse..

The surroundings of Huaraz are a paradise for outdoors sportsmen. There is a big choice of different hiking routes. The favored, and also possible for beginners is the Santa Cruz Trek (4 days, the Pass altitude 4750 m).
Best period for more-day hiking tours is the time between May and September.
In the raining period from November to April outdoor activities could be difficult.

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