Besides declaring 2002 the International Year of Mountains, the UN General Assembly designated 11 December as “International Mountain Day” in order to promote the importance of sustainable mountain development in the international community.
As is known, Peru is home to breathtaking peaks all along the Andes mountain range. Below is a list of the seven highest.
1. Huascaran (Ancash region)
Located in the Cordillera Blanca (White Mountain range), Huascaran is the Inca country's highest mountain and the fifth highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere. Its highest peak stands at 6,768 m.a.s.l.
2. Yerupaja (Ancash region)
Peru's second highest mountain (6,6617 m.a.s.l.) is situated in the Huayhuash mountain range, considered the most spectacular one of the Peruvian Andes.
Furthermore, this snow-capped mount is one of the most difficult to climb.
3. Coropuna (Arequipa region)
This peak —located in Ampato mountain range— rises at 6,405 m.a.s.l. and is of volcanic origin.
It should be noted American explorer Hiram Bingham —joined by Yale University members— reached the summit in 1911 and found Inca clothing in the area.
4. Huandoy (Ancash region)
This snowcapped mountain (6,395 m) stands in front of Huascaran. Due to their proximity, legend has it they were a princess and a soldier god Huaylas turned into mountains.
5. Huantsan (Ancash region)
This peak (6,395 m.a.s.l.) is also located in the White Mountain range; it is one of its most impressive mountains.
It boasts an impressive yet dangerous summit for climbers.
6. Ausangate (Cusco region)
This snow-capped peak is situated 100 km from Cusco city. It is part of the Vilcanota mountain range and stands at 6,384 m.a.s.l.
7. Chopicalqui (Ancash region)
Although it is the Inca nation's seventh highest mountain (6,345 m.a.s.l.), Chopicalqui is one of the less complicated to climb, therefore its summit is quite popular among mountaineers.
Another option: Winikunka Rainbow Mountain
Unveiled to the world by global warming ice-melting, the unique Winikunka proves an increasingly popular destination in Andean Cusco region.
Located in Canchis province, the Rainbow Mountain is an innovative option for those seeking natural tourist attractions.
This colorful hill rises at over 5,000 m.a.s.l. and is accessible from a hiking trail that passes through breathtaking landscapes.
Moreover, it has become the second-most popular destination in Peru after the archaeological park of Machu Picchu.
(END) MAO/DTK/RMB
Published: 12/11/2018