The Huascarán National Park (PNH), located in the Áncash department, covers over 340,000 hectares (840,159 acres). Visitors to Huascarán can go on a tour through the highest tropical mountain range in the world and discover one of Peru's most biologically and culturally diverse regions.
The park holds around 663 glaciers, 434 lagoons formed by glaciers, and 41 rivers. It also boasts exceptional hydrological potential thanks to snowy peaks that feed the the Santa, Marañón and Pativilca river basin. The park is home to the highest mountains in Peru: Huascarán, at 6,768 meters (22,205 feet) above sea level, and Alpamayo, which stands at 5,947 meters (19,511 feet) above sea level. There are also other snow-capped peaks measuring between 5,000 and 6,768 meters (16,404 and 22,205 feet) above sea level, which attract mountaineers from all over the world who come in search of their peaks and trekking routes. The park boasts close to 25 walking trails and 102 climbing paths, with different levels of difficulty.
The unspoiled natural landscape is dramatic and the ecosystems in the park are thriving. Visiting and exploring PNH is a journey through the history of Peru and its imposing landscapes.
Some of the most-visited and easily accessible attractions within the park are the Llanganuco Lagoons (Chinancocha and Orconcocha), located at the foot of Huascarán. Their turquoise colour and Queñua woods create a unique setting. Tourists can also visit the Querococha, Parón and Purhuay lagoons, among others.
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Activities: Boat rides, rock climbing, mountaineering, trekking, paragliding, mountain biking, camping, visiting archaeological sites, as well as bird, flora and fauna watching.
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Climate: The temperature varies between -2°C and 15°C (28°F and 59°F), with the coldest temperatures occurring in the highest parts of the mountain range. It is sunny during the day and the rainy season is from December to March. The best season for visiting the park is between May and October.
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Access by air: From Lima to Huaraz. Flights take 55 minutes. Huaraz is 20 km from the airport.
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Access by land: From Lima to Huaraz. There are several buses that cover the 8 hour journey.
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Important: Tourists are advised to purchase adventure tourism services in the park through authorised operators only. Hiring a specialised guide and staff for each activity is mandatory. List of authorised companies: here.
More information on entrance costs, here.
Administrative headquarters:
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