Peru: Ancash department

Location: North of Lima
Extension: 35 459 km2
Capital: Huaraz (3091 masl)
Altitude:
Minimum: 4 masl (Chimbote)
Maximum: 3910 masl (Shilla)

Huaraz

Amidst the high Andean pastures and cropfields that make up the department of Ancash

Chavín de Huántar

The unique remains of the intricate past of an entire nation, the archaeological site of Chavín de Huantar is a symbol of Peru's ancient northern cultures.

Huascarán National park

The park is located in the department of Ancash, in the Cordillera Blanca massif, the world's highest tropical mountain chain. It was established as a national park in 1975.

Hot springs

Monterrey, Chancos and Chavín.

Sports and Adventure

Trekking in the Cordillera Blanca | Trekking in the Cordillera Huayhuash | Llama Trek Olleros-Chavín | Mountaineering in the Cordillera Blanca | Mountaineering in the Cordillera Huayhuash | Biking in the Cordillera Blanca

Tradicional Festivities

Virgen del Rosario.

Ancash Region Tourism

This valley lies 400 km northeast of Lima, wedged between the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra mountain ranges. The Cordillera Blanca, so-called for its snow-capped peaks, is the highest mountain range in the Andes and the world's highest tropical mountain region. The region is reached from the Peruvian capital by the Lima-Pativilca road as far as the city of Huaraz, capital of the department of Ancash. The journey takes around seven hours by car or bus. Huaraz is the center of operations for the region.

The Callejón de Huaylas offers attractions, services and infrastructure for adventure sports lovers. Climbers have at their disposal an expert rescue team which is backed by a helicopter. The area features climbing routes that take just a few days and others that can take two weeks. In addition to mountain climbing, adventure seekers can also try rafting, hang gliding, mountain biking, skiing and trekking in the Callejon de Huaylas.

Visitors can tour the towns of Recuay, Carhuaz, Yungay and Caraz. Life here follows the old traditions, and the local inhabitants rear livestock, sow their fields and live tranquil lives.

The best time to visit the area is from May to September. Visitors should take it easy the first day of arrival due to the high altitude. Take along a heavy jacket and warm clothing and plenty of water or other beverages.