Ancash
Ancash is a STATE in Peru, South America.
Ancash is Peru's adventure capital, a breathtaking region where the snow-capped Cordillera Blanca—the world's highest tropical mountain range—meets the Pacific coast. This dramatic landscape offers unparalleled trekking, with the iconic Santa Cruz Trek and the challenging Huascarán summit drawing mountaineers globally. The region's crown jewel is Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site dotted with turquoise glacial lakes like Llanganuco and Pastoruri. History whispers from the ancient stone ruins of Chavín de Huántar, a pre-Inca ceremonial center. The charming city of Huaraz serves as the adventure hub, while the Callejón de Huaylas valley provides stunning scenic drives. From surfing in coastal Chimbote to exploring the world's highest railway station at La Cima, Ancash delivers raw natural beauty and rich cultural heritage in one unforgettable package.
Best time to visit Ancash
May to September (dry season) is ideal for trekking and mountaineering, with clear skies and minimal rainfall. June and July are peak months. The wet season (October to April) brings heavy rains, making trails muddy and some areas inaccessible, but it's less crowded. Festivals like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and the Anniversary of Huaraz (July) offer vibrant cultural experiences.
October
NowTypical for October
- Weather
- Transition 12-22°C
Travel notes
- Crowds
- Low
- Prices
- Low
Start of rains
Know before you go
Getting there
Comandante FAP Germán Arias Graziani Airport
Domestic
20 km away
Jorge Chávez International Airport
International
400 km away
Getting around
Stay connected
WiFi speed
15 Mbps
Mobile data
Good
WiFi
Available in Huaraz and major towns
Local SIM
Local SIM available at Huaraz airport or stores from $3
Calling code
+51
Stay safe
Overall
7/10High altitude and remote trails increase risk; use reputable guides.
Night safety
6/10High altitude and remote trails increase risk; use reputable guides.
Transport
8/10Scam risk
6/10Entry and health
Health information
Culture
Local customs
Costs and practicals
Currency
Cost level
Meals
Hotels
Local transport
Cost notes
Timezone
More facts
Population
1,200,000
Area
35,914 km²
Government
Regional Government of Ancash
ISO code
PE-02
Type
Region
Frequently Asked Questions
Also known as: PE-ANC, Ankaŝio, Анкаш, Áncash, ANC, Department of Ancash, Ancash, Departamento de Ancash, アンカシュ県, Departamento de Áncash, Guaras, Huaras, Huarasas, Huaraz, Uaras, Uaraz, Varas, Waras, awaraz, hu'araza, huraza, huyaraja, hwraz, ualaseu, uarasi, wa la si, waras, warasu, Гуарас, Уараз, Уарас, ואראס, اواراز, هوراز, واراس, हुराज़, হুয়ারাজ, ਹੁਆਰਾਜ਼, უარასი, ሁwaraዝ, ሁዋራዝ, ワラス, 瓦拉斯, 우아라스



