The turquoise Lake Llangunuco near Huaraz

The Andean city of Huaraz - 400km north of Lima - is a bustling high-altitude hub ringed by the jagged snowcapped mountain peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.

As well as being close to a number of significant archaeological sites, the region around Huaraz offers superb opportunities for ice climbing, rock climbing, trekking, paragliding and even skiing.   

Most travellers take a couple of days to acclimatize to Huaraz's altitude (3090m) by exploring the city, stocking up on warm clothing and embarking on easy day hikes. 

Easy day trips from the city include the hot springs at Monterrey and the ruins of the thousand-year-old-plus hilltop temple of Wilkawain. Also a short bus ride away is the series of hot spring caves at Chancos and the haunting memorial site of the old town of Yungay, which was buried in a devastating landslide triggered by a massive earthquake in 1970.

Ideal day trips from Huaraz include the Llangunuco Lakes (turquoise stunners lying 3850m above sea level, surrounded by glaciers and sheer granite cliffs) and the ancient Chavín de Huantar temple complex -  predating the Inca civilization by 2,000 years and the former centre of a cat-worshipping, San Pedro cactus-indulging religious cult whose influence once extended throughout much of Peru. 

But for most people who venture to Huaraz, the main draw is the magnificent multi-day hikes, the most popular of which is the four-to-five-day Santa Cruz loop track.

The two-to-three-day climb to Pisco (a 5752m peak) and Alpamayo (a difficult 5947m mountain) are also popular.

For those with the time and stamina, the Chiquián Loop is an epic 184 kilometre walk, taking 14 days and weaving through highland villages, beneath soaring mountains and past glacial lakes and rivers.

Numerous adventure tour companies in Huaraz offer all-inclusive hiking trips starting from US$80, which includes a guide, camping equipment, all meals and donkeys to transport the gear.