From Huaraz: Chacas and Punta Olimpica Tunnel Day Trip
If you’re visiting Huaraz and eager to see more of the rugged beauty of the Ancash region, this day trip offers a well-rounded taste of highland life, breathtaking scenery, and a bit of engineering marvel. For just $30, you’ll spend around 12 hours exploring mountain vistas, a quintessential Andean village, and a legendary tunnel at 4,736 meters above sea level.
What we love about this experience? First, the chance to see some of the most iconic peaks of the region—Huascarán, Chopicalqui, Hualcán, and Ulta—all from the comfort of a bus window or atop a lookout point. Second, walking through Chacas, with its beautifully preserved wooden balconies and vibrant artisan workshops, gives you a real sense of local culture.
A possible consideration? The high-altitude stops, like the Punta Olímpica Tunnel, mean you should be prepared for cooler temperatures and a risk of altitude effects. It’s not suited for everyone, particularly those with respiratory issues or mobility limitations.
This tour is perfect if you’re interested in combining spectacular landscapes with authentic cultural glimpses in a manageable day trip. It’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy photography, scenic drives, and small-town charm—all at a friendly price.
Key Points
- Stunning mountain views of some of the region’s tallest peaks.
- Authentic Andean village atmosphere in Chacas, with traditional wooden balconies.
- Unique engineering feat: crossing the Punta Olímpica Tunnel at nearly 4,736 meters.
- Affordable value: $30 for a full day of scenery, culture, and exploration.
- High-altitude awareness: expect cooler weather and potential altitude effects.
- Informative guide experience: live Spanish guide enhances the journey.
Discovering the Highlights of the Chacas and Punta Olímpica Tunnel Day Trip
On a clear morning, we start our adventure from the heart of Huaraz, heading north around 7:00 AM. Your guide — likely a friendly local who knows the mountains and the history — will point out notable sights along the way. The journey begins on well-maintained roads, climbing gradually from the 2,650 meters of Carhuaz toward the Ulta Valley, a route that’s as scenic as it is picturesque.
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The Road to the Ulta Valley and Punta Olímpica
As we ascend, the landscape transforms from lush, cultivated highlands to rugged, rocky terrain that hints at the adventure ahead. The highlight here is the Punta Olímpica Tunnel, a feat of engineering that cuts through the mountains at 4,736 meters — the highest in the world, as noted in the tour info. Standing at the tunnel entrance, you get a real sense of the scale and daring it took to carve through these peaks.
Expect panoramic views of towering mountains like Huascarán — Peru’s highest peak — along with Chopicalqui, Hualcán, and Ulta. The turquoise lakes and glacial streams below add brilliant splashes of color to the landscape, making it a photographer’s paradise. Some reviews mention how everyone’s phones and cameras are working overtime, attempting to capture the grandeur.
Arriving in Chacas, the Heart of the Day
After roughly 2 hours of travel, we arrive in Chacas, a village famous for wooden balconies and traditional adobe buildings. Walking through its narrow streets, you’ll notice how well-preserved the architecture remains, giving you a genuine feel of highland life. The tour includes visits to the cathedral and a workshop of artisans Don Bosco, run by Italian religious figures committed to preserving local crafts.
Here, the beauty lies not just in the scenery but in the craftsmanship. The artisans carve wood, weave textiles, and create glass art — all of which are exported internationally. Visitors often comment on the quality and uniqueness of these items, making for good souvenirs or just an appreciation of local talent.
The Cultural and Artistic Touches
One traveler mentioned, “The workshop was fascinating — seeing the wood carvings and understanding how much skill goes into each piece.” The artisans’ work is highly regarded, and the fact that these crafts reach Europe and the US adds a layer of authenticity and pride.
More Great Tours NearbyPractical Tips for Your Day
The tour guide generally provides a detailed narrative, helping you understand the significance of what you’re seeing. Remember to wear comfortable shoes—many of the streets are uneven—and bring warm clothing for the high-altitude stops, as temperatures can be quite cool, especially in the early morning and at the tunnel.
A camera is a must-have for capturing the expansive mountain vistas and quaint village scenes. And don’t forget sunscreen and a hat—the sun’s rays are stronger at high elevations. The journey also involves a fair amount of bus travel (around 4-5 hours total), so packing some snacks and water is wise.
Who Will Enjoy This Trip?
This day trip suits travelers eager to see some of the most striking scenery around Huaraz without a strenuous hike or overnight stay. It’s a good option for those interested in mountain vistas, local culture, and engineering marvels. However, it’s important to note that the high altitudes and long bus ride may not be ideal for everyone, especially if you have respiratory issues or mobility concerns.
The Journey Back
The return trip takes you back to Huaraz by late afternoon or early evening. Expect to arrive at your starting point around 5:00 or 6:00 PM, tired but with a camera full of images and a head full of memories.
Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?
All in all, this tour offers an excellent value for $30, packing in a variety of sights that showcase the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Ancash region. It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want a structured day of sightseeing, with the comfort of a guided tour that simplifies logistics and highlights the best views.
While it might not be for those with mobility challenges or altitude sensitivities, it’s a great choice for those who want a manageable, scenic, and culturally enriching experience. For anyone interested in the mountains, authentic local villages, and engineering feats, this trip should definitely make it onto your list.
FAQ – Your Questions Answered
What time does the tour start?
The tour departs from Huaraz around 7:00 AM, but it’s best to check with the provider for exact starting times.
How long is the bus ride?
The total bus journey lasts approximately 4-5 hours, with a few short stops along the way.
Is the tour suitable for children?
While generally suitable for those comfortable with long bus rides and high altitudes, it’s not recommended for very young children or babies under 1 year.
What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing, sun hat, camera, sunscreen, water, and some cash for personal expenses.
Are meals included?
No, meals and drinks are not included, so plan to bring snacks or buy food locally.
Is there any entrance fee?
Entrance tickets are not included, so you might want to check in advance if you plan to visit any specific sites inside Chacas or the workshop.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which provides flexibility in planning.
What language is the guide speaking?
The tour guide operates in Spanish, so some basic understanding or a translation app might be useful.
Is this trip accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments due to uneven streets and high-altitude stops.
Can I do this trip if I suffer from altitude sickness?
It’s not recommended if you are prone to altitude sickness, as some stops reach over 4,700 meters.
To sum it up, this day trip from Huaraz offers a fantastic blend of spectacular mountain views, cultural encounters, and engineering marvels at a price that’s hard to beat. It’s perfect for travelers eager to see the highlights of Ancash without the hassle of planning multiple days. If you’re looking for a well-organized, scenic, and culturally rich excursion, this tour provides a rewarding experience that captures the essence of the high Andes.
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