Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Activities
Trekking & Mountaineering
Whether you're arranging a mountain expedition or going for a day hike, Huaraz is the
place to start. Numerous outfits can prearrange entire trips so that all you need to do is
show up. See the section on trekking (
Click here
)
for a list of some popular routes in the
area.
Rock Climbing
Rock climbing is one of the Cordillera Blanca's biggest pastimes. Avid climbers will find
some gnarly bolted sport climbs nearby. (For some big-wall action, ask about Torre de
Parón, known locally as 'the Sphinx.') Most trekking agencies offer climbing trips for be-
ginners and advanced climbers. Many also rent gear.
In Huaraz, Galaxia Expeditions and Monttrek have indoor
rócodromos
(climbing or
bouldering walls).
Mountain Biking
MOUNTAIN BIKE ADVENTURES
( 42-4259;
www.chakinaniperu.com
; Lúcar y Torre 530, 2nd l; 9am-1pm & 3-8pm)
Owned by
Julio Olaza, this company comes well recommended. A lifelong resident of Huaraz, Olaza
speaks English and knows the region's single-track possibilities better than anyone. The
company offers bike rentals or guided tours, ranging from an easy five-hour cruise to
12-day circuits around the Cordillera Blanca. Rates start at S100 per day either for rentals
or for one-day tours.
| Mountain Biking
Tours
Day Tours
Dozens of agencies along Luzuriaga can organize outings. One popular tour visits the ru-
ins at Chavín de Huántar; another passes through Yungay to the beautiful
Lagunas Llan-
ganuco
, where there are superb vistas of Huascarán; a third takes you through Caraz to
Laguna Parón
, surrounded by ravishing glaciated peaks; and a fourth travels through
