Huaraz Travel Guide
Quick answer: This Huaraz travel guide covers how to get there (an 8-hour bus from Lima or LC Peru flights to the regional airport), getting around on foot, top sights like Pumacayán Hill, Wilcahuain, Sechín and Chavín de Huántar, cheap market meals from S/.5 and hostel dorms from USD 10.
Huaraz is the jumping-off point for Laguna 69 and numerous other treks in the region. The city sits at 3,090 metres above sea level and is the capital of the Ancash region, home to thirty snow-capped peaks towering over 6,000 metres.
Getting to Huaraz
By Air
Huaraz is served by its regional airport, Comandante FAP Germán Arias Graziani Airport (ATA), 20 kilometres (12 miles) northwest of the city at the village of Anta. LC Peru is the only airline operating a scheduled service between Lima and Huaraz, three times a week.
Taxis and combis run from the airport to the city centre. A taxi costs about S/.12 (USD 3.5).
By Road
Huaraz is approximately an 8-hour coach ride from Lima. Movil Tours, Oltursa and Huaraz Tours run regular services, and tickets usually cost S/.30–80 (USD 10–25).
Transportes Linea has a daily service between Huaraz and Trujillo. The journey takes 9 hours and costs S/.30–65 depending on the type of service.
| Route | Operator | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lima – Huaraz (bus) | Movil Tours, Oltursa, Huaraz Tours | About 8 hours | S/.30–80 (USD 10–25) |
| Trujillo – Huaraz (bus) | Transportes Linea | 9 hours | S/.30–65 |
| Lima – Huaraz (flight) | LC Peru | Three times weekly | Varies |
| Airport – city centre (taxi) | Local taxis | 20 km | About S/.12 (USD 3.5) |
Getting Around Huaraz
Huaraz is quite small and best explored on foot. Tuk-tuks (moto-taxis) and combis serve places on the outskirts.
What to See in Huaraz
Pumacayán Hill
Pumacayán Hill is a viewpoint a few blocks from the main square. There is no entrance fee to reach the top.
Ruins of Wilcahuain
The Wilcahuain archaeological site lies 7 km outside Huaraz. The ruins date to about 600–900 AD and the Wari Empire, and the main three-storey building housed the mummies of Wari ancestors.
Sechín
Sechín, located near Casma, is a ceremonial centre whose outer walls are covered with carved stones, while the walls inside bear mural paintings.
Chavín de Huántar
This UNESCO World Heritage Site dates back to around 1200 BC. The complex is made up of ceremonial halls and pyramid-like structures built in stone.
Where to Eat in Huaraz
Stalls at the Mercado Central serve a full set lunch for S/.5.
For Vegetarians
Comedor Vegetariano (open Mon–Fri 9:00am–3:00pm) is on the 2nd floor of the Mercado Central. It serves a fixed menu of a big soup, small salad, tea and a main dish for S/.6.
Where to Stay in Huaraz
| Hostel | Location | Dorm price | Breakfast |
|---|---|---|---|
| Vaca House Lodging | Quiet area just off the main square | From USD 10 | Included |
| Andes Camp Hostel | 5-minute walk from the main square | From USD 14 (5-bed dorm) | Not included |
| Akilpo Inn | 200 metres from the bus station | USD 10 (6-bed dorm) | Included |
| Casa De Ana B&B | Quiet neighbourhood | USD 17 (4-bed dorm) | Included |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Lima to Huaraz?
By coach it takes about 8 hours with Movil Tours, Oltursa or Huaraz Tours, for S/.30–80. LC Peru also flies three times a week to the airport at Anta.
What is the altitude of Huaraz?
Huaraz is 3,090 metres above sea level.
Where can I eat cheaply in Huaraz?
The Mercado Central serves set lunches for S/.5, and the Comedor Vegetariano on its 2nd floor offers a vegetarian menu for S/.6.
Conclusion
Compact, affordable and surrounded by giant peaks, Huaraz is the perfect base for Laguna 69 and the treks of the Ancash region. Use this Huaraz travel guide to plan your transport, sights, meals and stay.
