Peru: Huaraz & La Cordillera Blanca (Day 239-244)

Laguna 69, amazing day-trek to 4700 m

So instead of having some restful time at the Eco Lodge, we chose to spent 6 days in Huaraz to enjoy the Cordillera Blanca with some trekking and more altitude!!!! Indeed, the city itself is at 3060m above sea level and the Cordillera Blanca includes 33 major peaks over 5500m. Inpressive & amazingly beautiful. We were too tired physically (Thank you Peruvian food!) to embark on a 4-day trek (the well-known Santa Cruz trek would have been one of them) or attempt a climb over 5000m. A shame but we still managed to do some day hikes such as the Laguna 69. The most beautiful 1-day trek so far... 2h30 to go up to 4700m, not bad again we think! And it was so worth it as the color of the laguna was stunning... and the view of the glacier just behind made the scenery even more spectacular... Then, a short rock climbing experience. Hatun Machay is a paradise for rock climbers... not for beginners though... However, the site itself is worth visiting. Rest we wanted, Peace we had! Another walk up to 4800m to enjoy the sunrise of a beautiful morning... It was quite exceptional, even more when you are just both of you up there! Huaraz is not to be missed in Peru, that´s for sure. We could have stayed much longer there as there is so much to do, without forgetting the great hostal were we were staying 'El Tampo' (recommended) where we enjoyed the exquisite breakfasts 'Pancake Banano con Dulce de Leche (Manjar)'! Not sick for that one ;-) Huaraz, you will see us again with a stronger stomach.

 

Hatun Machay... Rock climbing paradise...

I wish it was me... Maybe soon?!

Trek to 4800 m at 6am... Beautiful and peaceful!