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- Destinations
- South America
- Peru
- Huaraz
Huaraz
The resort destination of Huaraz is the most important hiking
and climbing centre in Peru and is situated in the valley of
Callejón de Huaylas at the foot of the Cordillera Blanca mountain
range. Set at an altitude of over 10,000 feet (3,000m), it is
surrounded by snow-covered mountains and icy blue lakes, which has
earned it the moniker the 'Switzerland of Peru'; however, it does
not fit the typical image of a lofty alpine village. Its rather
shabby appearance can be blamed on the destruction caused by
several massive earthquakes, but it has a lively atmosphere and a
spectacular setting, and is the ideal base from which to organise
day walks in the valley or longer hiking expeditions into the
mountains beyond. Huaraz town is well set up for outdoor tourism
and there is a multitude of hiking shops, guide services and
information offices, as well as a wide choice of hotels. While on
holiday in Huaraz, one of the most beautiful and popular day
excursions in the Cordillera Blanca is the trip to Lagunas
Llanhanuco, and for longer hikes, the scenic four or five day
Llanhanuco to Santa Cruz loop is the most well travelled.
Information & Facts
Language
Spanish and Quechua are the official languages, but many
other dialects are spoken. English is spoken only in major tourist
centres and hotels.
Money
The official currency is Nuevo Sol (PEN) divided into 100
céntimos. Visa is the most widely accepted credit card, but all
major international credit cards, including Diners Club and
MasterCard, are accepted in many, but not all, establishments.
Outside Lima facilities may be more limited. Travellers cheques may
also be difficult to exchange in small towns and villages, and
travellers are advised to have cash on hand. US Dollars are the
easiest currency to exchange and plenty of restaurants, hotels and
shops in the main cities accept dollars for payment.
Casas de cambio(exchange bureaux) often give better rates
than hotels and banks and can be found in any town on the tourist
circuit. ATMs are available in the main cities.
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