Tour Overview
Punta Olimpica – Chacas Tour
This full-day expedition offers a perfect blend of high-altitude engineering and deep-rooted Andean artistry, crossing the Cordillera Blanca through the Punta Olímpica tunnel at 4,732 meters. The journey begins with breathtaking views of Huascarán, Ulta, and Contrahierbas, leading into the Callejón de Conchucos where the charming town of Chacas awaits. Here, visitors explore the stunning Andean Baroque architecture of the Minor Basilica and witness the world-class craftsmanship of the Don Bosco workshops, famous for their intricate wood carvings. It is a comprehensive experience that connects the raw natural beauty of the Huascarán National Park with the rich cultural heritage and hidden gems of the eastern slopes of the Andes.
Location
Huascarán National Park – Asunción Province, Ancash
DETAILED ITINERARY
Tour Schedule
7:00 a.m. – Pickup at hotel (Huaraz, 3,090 m)
- Welcome to guests at their respective accommodations.
- Introductory briefing: explanation of the day’s program and safety recommendations.
7:30 a.m. – Departure from Huaraz to the Punta Olímpica tunnel.
- Tour along the longitudinal route of the Cordillera Blanca.
- Stops at natural viewpoints with views of the Huascarán, Chopicalqui, Ulta, and Contrahierbas snow-capped mountains.
- Interpretation of high Andean geography and ecosystems.
10:00 a.m. – Arrival at Punta Olímpica (4,732 m.a.s.l.)
- Visit to the highest vehicle tunnel in the world.
- Light hike in the surrounding area to take photographs of Mount Ulta, Huascarán, and the Cordillera Blanca.
- Explanation of the importance of Huascarán National Park as a World Heritage Site.
11:30 a.m. – Descent to Chacas (3,350 m.a.s.l.)
- Stops at panoramic points in the Ulta Ravine and the Callejón de Conchucos.
- Interpretation of the history and culture of the Conchucos region.
12:30 a.m. – Arrival in Chacas and lunch
- Lunch
- Guided tour of the Plaza de Armas and its cobblestone streets.
- Visit to the Andean Baroque-style Minor Basilica of Chacas.
- Tour of the Don Bosco Workshop, famous for its Italian-Andean-style handicrafts and wood carvings
- Free time
4:00 p.m. – Return to Huaraz
- Panoramic tour of the Cordillera Blanca.
- Photo stops in natural landscapes.
7:00 p.m. – Arrival in Huaraz and transfer to hotels
- End of tour and farewell.
What's Covered
Our Services
Included
- Private tourist transportation (Huaraz – Punta Olímpica – Chacas – Huaraz).
- Official tour guide.
- Entrance to Huascarán National Park.
- Lunch in Chacas.
- First aid kit.
Not Included
- Breakfast.
- Additional expenses not mentioned.
- Personal handicraft purchases.
Recommendations
- Bring warm, light clothing (for changing weather).
- Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses.
- Water and light snacks.
- Camera.
- Good physical condition (there are light hikes at altitude).
