"Huaraz: The Acclimatization Project " a Huaraz Travel Page by richiecdisc

Nestled in Peru’s majestic mountain range, the Cordillera Blanca, Huaraz is a Mecca for true backpackers; yet it has surprisingly escaped becoming a tourist trap ala Machu Picchu or Cuzco. Innumerable earthquakes have decimated the city so it lacks the historical buildings of Cuzco or Lima and though there are ruins predating the Incas, they are not as spectacular or famous. It is a true authentic Peruvian city and there is a good tourist infrastructure that has yet to become overwhelming or downright pushy as it has in Cuzco. There is an array of good restaurants, both local and those oriented for tourists looking for a change from Peruvian fare along with a scenic market where locals are in traditional dress not to make more money, but because that is what they actually wear. But it is not the charm of the city itself that draws people here, it is its close proximity to one of the most spectacular mountain ranges in the world. The Cordillera Blanca soars to over 6000 meters in jagged snow covered peaks that are surrounded by diverse tropical vegetation. Huaraz is the place to acclimatize for longer hikes into what is perhaps the most incredible of Peru’s natural wonders.