Ancash: Excursion to Hatun Machay in Two Days

The Ancash region of Peru is home to a remarkable natural wonder known as Hatun Machay – a stone forest that offers adventurous travelers a truly unforgettable experience. This two-day excursion, priced affordably from $310 per person, promises an exhilarating journey filled with stunning vistas, ancient rock art, and thrilling climbing routes. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, participants can expect a seamless and secure adventure, with all the necessary equipment and accommodations provided. For those seeking to enjoy Peru’s breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Hatun Machay excursion presents an opportunity not to be missed.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best 2 Day Tours In Huaraz.

Key Points

• A 2-day guided excursion to the stone forest of Hatun Machay in the Ancash region of Peru, priced from $310 per person.
• Includes hotel pickup, transportation, climbing equipment, meals, and accommodation in tents for an immersive experience.
• Exploration of ancient cave paintings, petroglyphs, and climbing opportunities ranging from 15 to 60 meters.
• Suitable for adventurers with necessary fitness and skills, but not recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
• Booking process allows for reservation without upfront payment, ensuring a straightforward planning experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the Excursion

This 2-day excursion to Hatun Machay, the stone forest of Peru, offers an opportunity to explore a unique geological wonder.

Priced from $310 per person, the excursion includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Expertly guided tours are available in both English and Spanish, ensuring a seamless experience.

The 2-day journey takes travelers through picturesque Andean towns, culminating in a 20-minute walk to the Cultural Heritage site of Hatun Machay.

Adventurers can expect to marvel at cave paintings, petroglyphs, and captivating rock formations, as well as engage in thrilling climbing activities ranging from 15 to 60 meters.

With meals, equipment, and accommodation included, this excursion provides an immersive glimpse into Peru’s stunning natural landscape.

Itinerary Details – Day 1

The first day of the excursion begins with a pick-up at the traveler’s hotel in Huaraz.

The group then travels through the towns of Recuay, Ticapam, and Catac, before embarking on a 20-minute walk to the Cultural Heritage site of Hatun Machay, the stone forest.

At Hatun Machay, visitors can explore:

1. Cave paintings and petroglyphs.
2. Unique rock formations.
3. Climbing routes ranging from 15 to 60 meters in height.

After the day’s activities, the group enjoys dinner at the base camp and settles in for an overnight stay in tents.

Itinerary Details – Day 2

Typically, the second day begins with breakfast at the base camp. After fueling up, the group returns to the stone forest for additional climbing opportunities.

The routes here range from 15 to 60 meters, allowing participants to challenge themselves further. Throughout the day, the expert guide provides instruction and support, ensuring everyone’s safety and enjoyment.

As the sun begins to set, the group bids farewell to the captivating stone formations and heads back to Huaraz, arriving at the hotel around 2:00 p.m.

This two-day excursion offers a unique chance to take in the natural wonders of Hatun Machay and leave with lasting memories.

Included Services

Included in the excursion to Hatun Machay are several key services to enhance the experience. The package includes:

1. Convenient pickup and drop-off at the hotel, ensuring a seamless start and end to the journey.

2. Comfortable minibus transportation to navigate the scenic towns and reach the stone forest destination.

3. The guidance of a knowledgeable Spanish-speaking tour guide to provide insights and lead the exploration.

Meals, climbing equipment, tents, and climbing shoes are also provided, allowing participants to fully enjoy the adventure without the need to bring additional gear.

This comprehensive offering ensures a well-rounded and enjoyable excursion to the renowned Hatun Machay.

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Important Information

Not everyone may be suitable for this excursion. The 2-day adventure to Hatun Machay, the stone forest of Peru, isn’t recommended for pregnant women or wheelchair users.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, camera, and cash, as pets, alcohol, and drugs aren’t allowed. The challenging terrain and climbing routes ranging from 15 to 60 meters may not be suitable for everyone.

Visitors should be prepared for a physically demanding experience and ensure they’ve the necessary fitness and skills. The tour operator emphasizes the importance of following safety protocols and respecting the cultural heritage site during the exploration of the cave paintings, petroglyphs, and rock formations.

Booking Information

You can reserve your spot on the Hatun Machay excursion without any upfront payment.

To book your adventure, simply check the availability for your preferred start time and select the number of participants and your desired date. The booking process is straightforward:

1. Choose your preferred start time and date.
2. Indicate the number of people in your group.
3. Proceed to checkout, where you can pay later to secure your reservation.

Once your booking is confirmed, you can relax and look forward to your unforgettable journey to the stone forest of Peru.

What to Expect

Visitors can expect an unforgettable adventure exploring the mysterious stone formations of Hatun Machay. This 2-day excursion takes travelers through picturesque towns before reaching the Cultural Heritage site.

Here, they’ll discover ancient cave paintings, petroglyphs, and towering rock formations. Adventurous souls can even try their hand at climbing, with routes ranging from 15 to 60 meters.

Meals and camping equipment are provided, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free experience. While the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, it’s an excellent opportunity to take in Peru’s stunning natural wonders.

With an English and Spanish-speaking guide, travelers can fully appreciate the magic of Hatun Machay.

Additional Details

The 2-day excursion to Hatun Machay provides ample opportunities for visitors to fully enjoy Peru’s stunning natural landscape. The itinerary includes:

1. A 20-minute walk to the Cultural Heritage site of Hatun Machay, where guests can explore cave paintings, petroglyphs, and remarkable rock formations.

2. Climbing routes ranging from 15 to 60 meters, catering to adventurers of all skill levels.

3. Overnight camping at the base camp, with delicious meals and the chance to witness the serene beauty of the stone forest under the stars.

The excursion includes comprehensive services, from transportation and equipment to an experienced guide, ensuring a seamless and memorable experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size?

The excursion doesn’t specify a minimum or maximum group size. Travelers can book individually or in groups, and the tour accommodates groups of various sizes without restrictions.

What Is the Difficulty Level of the Climbing Routes?

The climbing routes at Hatun Machay range from 15 to 60 meters in height, offering a variety of difficulty levels for both experienced climbers and beginners. The guided excursion provides all necessary equipment and supervision.

Can We Bring Our Own Food and Drinks?

Participants can’t bring their own food and drinks on this excursion. The included services cover meals and necessary equipment. Bringing outside food or beverages is not permitted.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements for Participants?

There are no specific age or fitness requirements, but the excursion may not be suitable for very young children or those with limited mobility. Participants should be in reasonable physical condition to handle the hiking and climbing activities.

Can We Extend the Excursion or Add Additional Activities?

The excursion can be extended or additional activities added for an extra fee. Travelers should contact the tour operator to discuss customized options that fit their interests and schedule.

Recap

The Ancash excursion to Hatun Machay offers an unparalleled two-day adventure in Peru’s awe-inspiring stone forest. Travelers can expect an immersive experience, exploring ancient cave paintings, scaling thrilling rock formations, and camping under the stars, all while enjoying the guidance of knowledgeable professionals. With its stunning natural scenery and rich cultural heritage, this excursion promises an unforgettable journey for those seeking an outdoor adventure in the heart of the Andes.

You can check if your dates are available here: