The Cordillera Blanca

Those enthusiastic with the idea of hiking in the Andes are enamoured with the Huascaran National Park, situated in the northern Huaraz region. The Cordillera Blanca Mountain range is chock full of high peaks making for some outstanding scenery and incredible walking routes. Naturally all of this is possible with Aracari and we offer a range of exciting routes for all levels of fitness.

Trekking in the Cordillera Blanca and the nearby Huayhuash range is quite different from similar endeavours in the Cuzco area. Whereas you will encounter local populations, especially along some treks such as the Huayhuash circuit, or archaeology in the Olleros - Chavin Route, here the emphasis is on the breathtaking mountain scenery. There are over 50 peaks that exceed 5,000 metres (15,000ft) and during either the relatively short Santa Cruz-Llanganuco trek or the longer and more strenuous Huayhuash, you are spectacularly close to these giant mountains from the first day of your trek.

The Cordillera Blanca is the highest tropical mountain range in the world which makes a haven for climbers, as it enjoys a longer season than other climbing hotspots such as the Himalayas. It is considered by many experts to be equally or even more beautiful than the Annapurna in the Himalayas.

Access to Huaraz is by air from Lima in less than an hour. From Huaraz, a 2 hour overland transfer can be expected to one of our preferred lodges or straight to the start of a trekking route.

Our most highly recommended Mountain Lodges in the Cordillera Blanca

If you are not a trekking enthusiast and would prefer simply to soak in the mountain air, we have identified these two splendid eco-lodges right in the heart of the mountains. Needless to say, these also offer great access to the mountains for trekkers and act as a comfortable and relaxing base for activities right in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca.