The Amazonas Ancash Regions of Peru

The region of Amazonas is a land of microclimates each containing an extensive amount of biodiversity. Additionally, the department was home to pre-Columbian civilizations which have left stunning remnants of their once great culture. The capital of the department, Chachapoyas adds to the diversity of ecology and culture as it is home to picturesque colonial architecture. The streets of this city are narrow and it contains a main square as common throughout Peruvian cities and maintains colonial mansions and balconies which add to the flavor of the area's mixed culture. Arguably the most impressive destination of the department is the ancient fortress of Kuélap. Often referred to as the Machu Picchu of the north, Kuleap was built by the Chachapoyas civilization, an ancient tribe of warriors who resisted the Incas imperial expansion. The Gocta Waterfall is also located in this department and is the third highest waterfall in the world. As it was only recently discovered in 2005, the Peruvian government is making plans to develop it for tourism.

The region of Ancash his home to the Cordillera Blanca, the highest mountain range in Peru. The department is the epicenter of Peru's adventure tourism sector and attracts visitors seeking to participate in all sorts of activities. The department is a paradise for trekkers and hikers as there is a vast network of trails ranging in difficulty. The benefit of trekking in Ancash is that only a select few trails have been commercialized. The scenery along these pre-Columbian trails is spectacular and there are more than 12,000 lakes. Picturesque villages are scattered throughout the department and are very hospitable. The most popular treks in the department are that of the Llama trek, the Cordillera Blanca, and the Cordillera Huayhuash.

The capital city, Huaraz, has a small but reasonably developed skiing industry. Mountain biking is the fastest growing sport in the region. Mountain bikes ranging in quality are available to the traveler at each level of expertise. White water rafting is also a significant activity in the department. Rapids range in difficulty from novice to expert. Mountain climbing is a very large industry in the area. The department has a high concentration of peaks and is not very crowded. The weather is mild year-round and is easily accessible from Huaraz. Twelve of Peru's twenty tallest mountains are located in the department ranging from 5,000 to 6,700 meters or 15,000 to 22,000 feet. To the cultural tourist Ancash also has much to offer. The Callejon de Huaylas is home to Chavin de Huantar, an ancient archeological complex built over 3,200 years ago. The area is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Picturesque cities litter the Callejon such as that of Recuay, Carhuaz, Yungay, and Caraz. These cities retain a unique blend of European and Andean architecture. One of the principal attractions of the department is the Huascaran National Park which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is home to Peru's highest mountain, Mt. Huascarán.