11/27/2011

A Myriad of Activities in HATUN MACHAY

HATUN MACHAY


Is a mistical rock formation area high in the Black Mountain Range in northern Peru. The word, which is quechua -the native Inca tongue- means "Big Cave". This area was formed by the erosion caused by the elements over thousands of years, and it is now home to the biggest rock climbing school in Peru and an impressive geologic attraction.


The activities in which we could engage here in Hatun Machay, at almost 14,000 feet above sea level, range from rock climbing, mountain biking, trekking, backpacking, camping, kayaking and much more. All these in the Area called Callejón de Huaylas, definitely one of the most beautiful in the country.

The beautiful town of Huaraz is the center of the region, from which we could depart onto a huge variety of adventures. Hatun Machay is one and a half hour from Huaraz travelling on a mix of roads until we arrive to a rustic shelter which can house up to 50 people. Here is where we set-up camp and begin our fascinating adventures. The refuge -which has a kitchen, bathrooms, dining room, cafeteria, etc.- also offers climbing equipment rental at nominal fees.


Once here, what we, outdoor and adventure lovers can do, is nothing short of paradise due to all the different activities we can engage in. It truly is an adventure-seeking "amusement park"!

As you may have gathered from some of our previous writings, we definitely favor the "path less traveled", and this area is definitely one of them. We do not like crowded areas at all, but how long will these uncrowded areas of Peru continue to be like that, is a question we can not answer. With Machu Picchu having being named one of the 7 Wonders of the World, and the Amazon just making the list of the New 7 Natural Wonders of the World a couple of weeks ago, more and more adventure seeking travelers will flock to Peru. One of our objectives here at Outdoor Peru, is to let you -our avid reader- know about those not-so-well-known gems in Peru.


If you have any questions about getting to Hatun Machay, or any of the different activities while here, please let us know in the comments section below.

Enjoy!