Huascaran stands as both Peru's highest summit and an expansive nature reserve. The Huascaran mountain rises to 6,768 meters, offering a magnificent playground for hiking, mountain sports, and mountaineering. The Huascaran park is a Peruvian nature reserve that has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located just 43 kilometers from the city of Huaraz, the park spans nearly 340,000 hectares.

The area is exceptionally rich in biodiversity, boasting no fewer than 41 rivers, stunning canyons, impressive valleys, 660 glaciers, 269 fabulous lakes, and 27 mountain peaks exceeding 6,000 meters in the surrounding region!

Huascaran park is a trekking paradise

Huascaran park is a nature reserve, so even though hiking trails abound, it is mandatory to arrange your treks through an agency. With keen observation and a bit of luck, you might spot wildlife such as Andean cats, condors, deer, spectacled bears, or giant hummingbirds! The reserve is home to no fewer than 112 bird species.

Whether you're seeking leisurely trekking or high-level mountaineering, Huascaran park offers something for everyone. The reserve features numerous enjoyable activities, including horseback riding, mountain biking, skiing, and more.

Another must-see destination within the Huascaran reserve is the renowned Llanganuco lagoon. A magical place of rare beauty that enchants every visitor. You'll find crystal-clear turquoise waters with stunning glaciers forming a breathtaking backdrop.

Practical information about Huascaran park

Here are some useful tips to help you organize your trip easily.

To reach Huaraz, the easiest option is to take buses departing from the capital, Lima, daily—both day and night services are available.

What are the entrance fees for Huascaran park?

Huascaran park distinguishes between two types of tourism within the reserve, as they have different environmental impacts on this area protected by the Peruvian government.

• Conventional tourism, which is quite affordable: 5 soles for an adult and less than 2 soles for children under 12 years old.
• Sports tourism, extreme sports, trekking, climbing, mountaineering, etc., for which you need to budget 65 soles as park entrance fee.

The simplest way is to go directly to the visitor center in Huaraz at Jiron Federico Sal y Rosas, 555. You can pay the access fee there and obtain detailed information. Opening hours are Monday to Friday from 8:30 am to 8:00 pm, and Saturday and Sunday from 8:30 am to 12:00 pm.