· PE

Ancash

Ancash, Peru

Ancash: Where Andean Peaks Meet Ancient Mysteries Nestled in the heart of Peru, Ancash is a region where towering Andean peaks pierce the sky, turquoise lagoons shimmer in glacial valleys, and the echoes of ancient civil…

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Ancash.

Top Hotels in Ancash

Top Flights to Ancash

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Ancash.

Tours

Huascarán National Park

Explore the stunning landscapes of Huascarán including the highest peak in Peru, diverse flora, and fauna.

Chavín de Huantar

Visit the archaeological site of Chavín de Huantar, an ancient ceremonial center.

Llanganuco Lakes

Discover the turquoise waters of the Llanganuco Lakes set against dramatic Andean peaks.

Callejón de Huaylas

Travel through a valley surrounded by the Cordillera Blanca and Negra with picturesque towns and outdoor activities.

Huaraz City Tour

Explore the vibrant city of Huaraz, visiting local markets, historical sites, and enjoying Andean cuisine.

Pastoruri Glacier

Witness the shrinking yet amazing Pastoruri Glacier, a sign of climate change impacts.

Outdoor

Cordillera Blanca

The world's highest tropical mountain range, perfect for trekkers and climbers.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Ancash.

Currency

S/ | PEN | Peruvian Sol

Population

1.2 million

Languages

Spanish, Quechua

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Ancash.

What people love

Ancash, located in Peru, offers a wide range of attractions and activities for travelers to enjoy. Some of the pros of traveling to Ancash include:

Natural Beauty: Ancash is known for its stunning natural landscapes, including the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range and the turquoise waters of Lake Paron. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities for hiking, trekking, and exploring the region's diverse ecosystems.
Adventure Sports: Ancash is a popular destination for adventure sports such as rock climbing, mountaineering, mountain biking, and white-water rafting. The area's rugged terrain and challenging peaks provide an ideal playground for thrill-seekers.
Cultural Heritage: Ancash is home to several ancient archaeological sites, including the ruins of Chavin de Huantar, a pre-Columbian temple complex that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can learn about the region's rich history and cultural heritage by exploring these fascinating sites.
Local Cuisine: Travelers to Ancash can sample delicious traditional Peruvian dishes, such as ceviche, lomo saltado, and rocoto relleno. The region's culinary scene offers a unique blend of flavors and ingredients that are sure to delight food enthusiasts.
Friendly Locals: Visitors to Ancash will have the opportunity to interact with the friendly and welcoming local population, who are known for their hospitality and warmth. Engaging with locals can provide insight into the region's culture and way of life.

Overall, traveling to Ancash, Peru, offers a mix of natural beauty, adventure activities, cultural experiences, and delicious cuisine, making it a fantastic destination for those seeking an authentic and enriching travel experience.

What to know

Traveling to Ancash, Peru, specifically the region of Ancash, has several potential cons that travelers should be aware of:

Altitude sickness: Ancash is known for its high altitude locations, including the city of Huaraz which sits at over 3,000 meters above sea level. Travelers who are not acclimated to high altitudes may experience symptoms of altitude sickness such as headaches, dizziness, nausea, and difficulty breathing.
Limited infrastructure: Some areas in Ancash may have limited infrastructure in terms of transportation, communication, and healthcare facilities. Travelers should be prepared for potential challenges in accessing services and amenities in more remote areas.
Weather variability: The weather in Ancash can be unpredictable, with changes in temperature and conditions depending on the season and altitude. Travelers should pack accordingly and be prepared for sudden changes in weather patterns.
Safety concerns: Like many regions in Peru, Ancash may have safety concerns related to petty crime, scams, and natural hazards such as landslides or earthquakes. Travelers should take precautions to ensure their safety and well-being while exploring the region.
Limited English proficiency: While tourism is growing in Ancash, English proficiency among locals may be limited outside of major tourist areas. Travelers who do not speak Spanish may encounter challenges in communication.

It's important to research and plan ahead when traveling to Ancash to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Ancash is a region in north-central Peru known for its rich history and significant cultural and natural landmarks. Here is a detailed overview of its history:

Pre-Columbian Era

Ancash has been inhabited for thousands of years. It is home to some of the earliest known civilizations in Peru.
The Chavín culture (circa 900-200 BC) is one of the most notable ancient cultures in the region. The archaeological site of Chavín de Huántar, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located here and was a major religious and cultural center during its time.
The Recuay culture (200-700 AD) succeeded the Chavín and is famous for its ceramic art and stone sculptures.

Inca Period

Ancash was later incorporated into the Inca Empire. The Incas built several roads and structures in the region, contributing to their extensive network across the Andean highlands.

Spanish Conquest and Colonial Era

During the Spanish conquest, the region became part of the Viceroyalty of Peru. The Spanish influence led to the introduction of new agricultural practices, architecture, and Christianity.
Several colonial towns were established, including the city of Huaraz, which is now the capital of the Ancash Region.

Independence and Republican Era

Ancash played a role in Peru's independence from Spain in the early 19th century. The region's rugged terrain provided refuge for independence fighters.
Post-independence, Ancash became an important area for mining, which contributed to its economic development.

20th Century

1970 Ancash Earthquake: On May 31, 1970, a devastating earthquake hit Ancash, causing a massive avalanche that buried the town of Yungay and killed thousands. This event is one of the worst natural disasters in Peruvian history.
The earthquake led to significant changes in infrastructure and disaster management in the region.

Significant Figures

Antonio Raimondi (1826–1890): An Italian-Peruvian scientist and geographer who conducted extensive research in the Ancash region, contributing greatly to the knowledge of its geography and natural resources.

Important Landmarks

Huascarán National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the park is home to the highest tropical mountain in the world, Huascarán, and is a popular destination for trekking and mountaineering.
Chavín de Huántar: As mentioned, this archaeological site is significant for its historical and cultural value.
Laguna 69: A stunning glacial lake in the Cordillera Blanca, a popular spot for hikers.

Ancash continues to be a region of cultural richness and natural beauty, drawing visitors for its archaeological sites, dramatic landscapes, and vibrant local traditions.