Activity Level: Strenuous

Far from urban zones, Ancash shines a spotlight on Peru’s rich biodiversity. Keep an eye and ear open wandering through Huascaran National Park, which is home to 300 lagoons, the stunning snow-capped Alpamayo mountain, and notable wildlife including the spectacled bear, North Andean deer, and Andean condor, all of which are endangered. Soak in the silence as a kayak paddle skims along a mountain lake like Laguna Llanganuco. Sip a steaming mug of Peruvian coffee while watching the sunrise after a night of camping beneath Pisco Mountain. Whether biking along the rough mountain trails or embarking on a multi-day trek through the Huayhuash Mountain Range, Ancash’s vast, natural landscape is ready for adventurous exploration.

Activity Level: Family Friendly

From the lush greenery fed from towering waterfalls to the flight of multicolored macaws and parakeets taking off from the cloud forest floor, the Amazonas is a nature lover’s dream. Turn an eye to the sky at Lagoon of the Condors to see one of the namesake birds of prey flying above the Chachapoyas settlement. Marvel at the detail of Kuélap Fortress, an archaeological complex with hundreds of buildings, and applaud the impressive ancient tombs at Sarcophagi of Karajia and Revash’s mausoleums, which have stood the test of time. Stand in the splash of Gocta Waterfall, one of the highest waterfalls in the world. Accessible for families and well suited for soft adventure, this region of northern Peru offers a balance of outdoor activity, cultural immersion, and historical admiration.