Overview

The city of Huaraz is located in the Santa Rio Valley, and is surrounded by the Cordilleras Blanca, Negra and Huayhuash. Because of its location, this area has become the stomping grounds for hikers, backpackers and mountaineers from all over the world.

Huaraz, like most Peruvian towns, surrounds a central plaza, the Plaza de Armas. Avenida Luzuriaga, the main throughfare of the city, runs along the western side of the Plaza. Here you'll find tour companies, restaurants, shops, street vendors and hostels. The town spreads east and west away from Av. Luzuriaga.

To help protect and conserve the region's spectacular mountain landscape and culture, the Parque Nacional Huarscaran was established in 1975. It encompasses all of the Cordillera Blanca above 4000 meters -- some 3400 square kilometers. The current S/.65 ($18.50) multiple day park fee, while affordable to the international tourist, is well beyond the reach of the average Peruvian. If you hike in the park you will see few if any locals, especially deep in the range.

When to go

There is a definite wet and dry season for the Cordillera Blanca and Huayhuash. The rainy season, which is the off-season for the region, is relatively predictable and runs from October through April. The dry season is from May to September. Be aware that even in the dry season rain is possible, and waterproof equipment is essential. This is also the busy season. Expect to run into higher prices than during the off-season, as well as more trekkers and climbers on the popular trails and peaks.

Resources

Various online resources for Huaraz and the region:

• Weather information for Huaraz [1]
• www.huaraz.com [2]
• Huaylas climbing info [3]
• Andean Explorer [4]