Huaraz: Top 10 things to do
Here we look at the Top 10 things to do in and around Huaraz, Peru.
Huaraz is Peru’s famous trekking capital and is nestled between the stunning mountain chains of the Cordillera Blanca and Negra.
Andean Trails’ owner and founder Kathy Jarvis was very much inspired by this region into setting up this independent adventure travel company, and Huaraz and its environs still inspire.
Here Kathy takes a look at the Top 10 things to do in Huaraz before or after a trek you won’t forget.
Top ten things to do in and around Huaraz
Biking
One day bike trip Cordillera Negra or Blanca, swooping on single track (or wider, depending on skill levels). Mountain biking in Huaraz is an increasingly popular sport. It’s easy to see why – technical and easy trails abound and take you to the heart of some beautiful Andean villages.
Drinking fine ales
Spend the afternoon watching the Sierra Andina beer production process – from fermenting to pouring and drinking of course – at the brewery, a five minute taxi ride from town, Tuesday–Sundays from 15.00–22.00.
These ales from Sierra Andina have captured the imagination of locals and visitors alike and are very welcome after a hard trek.
The market
Eat and shop in Huaraz’s main market. Located on Avenida Raymondi, this indoor market has everything from day-to-day clothes to fruit, an amazing array of local vegetables, meat, handicrafts and a lively food and drink area. Open daily, free entry.
Laguna Churup day hike
A short colectivo ride to Llupa, and then hike to Pitec (1 hour) and you are at the start of one of the best day hikes from Huaraz – Laguna Churup.
This sparkling Andean lake, nestling at the foot of an imposing glacier, is the perfect acclimatisation hike with great views, a lovely path and even a bit of fun chain scrambling at the end.
Indulge in a massage
Massage, sauna, mud treatments and more to ease those post-trek aching bones.
Centro Terapeutico Holistico has opened on Avenida Villo 756. Appointments necessary and one hour massage from around 80 soles (subject to change).
More indulgence – hot springs
Hot springs of Monterrey. Take a taxi (5 soles) or a colectivo (1 sole) to Monterrey and soak away aches and pains. Daily 07.00–18.00, entry 4 soles.
Horse riding
Horse riding from the Lazy Dog Inn. Just 12km from Huaraz is the Lazy Dog Inn, which offers a variety of rides – book ahead to discuss levels and prices.
Boogie nights
Salsa at Makondos, especially at weekends, and dance the night away.
Makondos on José de la Mar y Av Simón Bolívar is the place to do it after midnight. Locals flock here to salsa and strut. You can even try the brilliantly named Gin con Gin (gin with gin).
Rock climbing at Hatun Machay
75km south of Huaraz, these stunning formations are a must for rock climbers.
There is a refuge there so you can stay the night. For more information, ask at Casa del Guias.
Drink a Pisco Sour
At El Fogon – with a choice of more than 50 piscos, this is the place to try Peru’s national cocktail.
This is also one of the best places to eat in Huaraz, so after warming up with a pisco, why not try a guinea pig (30 soles) or any number of tasty local meats on offer.
