Tour Overview
Punta Olimpica – Chacas Tour
This fascinating day trip south of Huaraz offers a profound look at the evolving landscapes of the tropical Andes, centered around the majestic Pastoruri Glacier. The journey through the Pachacoto Valley is filled with natural wonders, including the effervescent Pumapampa sparkling springs, ancient cave paintings, and the impressive Puya Raimondi—the world’s largest bromeliad. The experience culminates with a high-altitude hike to the glacier’s edge at over 5,000 meters, providing a rare opportunity to witness the effects of climate change firsthand while surrounded by the stark, raw beauty of the Cordillera Blanca’s frozen peaks.
Location
Cordillera Blanca – Huascarán National Park – Recuay, Ancash
DETAILED ITINERARY
Tour Schedule
7:00 a.m. – Pickup from hotel (Huaraz, 3,090 m.a.s.l.)
- Meet and greet with passengers at their accommodations.
- Brief welcome briefing, tour explanation, and safety
7:30 a.m. – Departure from Huaraz heading south.
- Travel by tourist transport to Recuay, Catac, and Ticapampa.
- Interpretation of the landscape of the Callejón de Huaylas and the high Andean plateau.
9:00 a.m. – Visit to Patococha Lagoon
- Observation of high Andean flora and fauna.
- Possibility of seeing Andean birds such as the Andean duck.
9:30 a.m. – Pumapampa Sparkling Water Fountain
- Tasting of the sparkling water that springs naturally from the earth.
- Explanation of its mineral properties.
10:00 a.m. – La Puya Raimondi (Giant Carp)
- Stop to appreciate this endemic plant, the largest of the bromeliad family.
- Interpretation of its life cycle and adaptation to the high Andean ecosystem.
10:30 a.m. – Huarapukio Cave Paintings
- Brief visit to observe cultural remains of ancient settlers.
11:30 a.m. – Arrival at the base of the Pastoruri Glacier (4,900 m.a.s.l.)
- Start of a 40- to 50-minute hike to the glacier (horse rental optional).
- Explanation of glacial retreat and the impact of climate change.
12:30 p.m. – View of the Pastoruri Glacier (5,000–5,200 m.a.s.l.)
- Contemplation of the glacier mass and free time for photographs.
- Interpretive information about the ecosystem and the importance of its conservation.
1:30 p.m. – Return to base and time for a box lunch/picnic.
- Light lunch overlooking the natural surroundings.
2:30 p.m. – Descent and return by tour bus.
Optional stop in Catac or Ticapampa to taste typical dishes (trout, head soup).
5:30 p.m. – Arrival in Huaraz and transfer to the hotel.
- Tour closure, farewell, and recommendations for future excursions.
What's Covered
Our Services
Included
- Round-trip tourist transportation.
- Official tour guide.
- Entrance to Huascarán National Park.
- Box lunch.
- First aid kit.
Not Included
- Breakfast.
- Horses for the hike (optional).
- Additional expenses not mentioned.
Recommendations
- Bring warm clothing (thermal jacket, gloves, hat).
- Sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Water and light snacks.
- Good physical condition for light hiking at altitude.
- Not recommended for people with heart or respiratory problems.
