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Located in the department of Ancash, this interesting and novel form
of trekking is aimed at promoting eco-tourism in the region
by reviving its traditional customs. The llama and alpaca,
key pack animals in the Peruvian Andes, will captivate hikers
on a tour of some of the most spectacular trails of the Cordillera
Blanca and the Huascarán National Park.
The
route sets out from the picturesque village of Olleros (30
km south of Huaraz), where the llamas are loaded up with
the necessary gear for the trek. During the four-day hike,
in addition to walking through breath-taking mountain scenery
and taking in Mount Shaqsha (5,703 meters), Cashan (5,686
meters) and Tuctupunta (5,343 meters), hikers can take part
in the customs and traditions of peasant farming communities
such as Shongo (home to the imposing Huancas complex of
sacred stone monoliths and Nunupata.
The trail comes to an end at the vast Chavín de Huántar
temple, an important administrative and ceremonial center
of the first Pan-Andean pre-Colombian civilization.
Climate: Heavy rains from December
to March and a markedly dry season from May to October,
where sunny days post temperatures of 25°C and freezing
nights.
Access: The community of Olleros
lies 30 km from the city of Huaraz.
Services: The towns of Chavín
and Huari feature rustic hotels and restaurants.
Travelers are advised to take plenty of warm clothing. The
afternoons are cold and windy.
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