An avalanche on Huascarán in Peru causes around 4,000 deaths.

Huascarán, known in Quechua as Waskaran and also historically referred to as Mataraju, is an imposing mountain located in the Peruvian province of Yungay, within the Ancash Department. This majestic peak is a prominent feature of the Cordillera Blanca, a spectacular mountain range that forms part of the Western Andes.

The Cordillera Blanca is renowned as the highest tropical mountain range globally, characterized by its numerous glaciated peaks and deep valleys. Huascarán itself is enveloped within the protective boundaries of the Huascarán National Park, established in 1975. This park is not only a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve (designated in 1977) but also a revered UNESCO World Heritage site (since 1985), safeguarding its exceptional biodiversity, unique high-altitude ecosystems, and significant geological formations.

The highest point of this colossal massif is its southern summit, officially known as Huascarán Sur, which towers at an impressive elevation of 6,768 meters (approximately 22,205 feet) above sea level. This makes Huascarán Sur the undisputed highest point in Peru, a nation celebrated for its Andean landscapes. Furthermore, it holds the distinction of being the loftiest peak in the entire northern Andes, specifically north of the vast Lake Titicaca, a significant geographical marker. Perhaps most remarkably, Huascarán Sur stands as the highest mountain anywhere in the Earth's Tropics, offering a unique convergence of equatorial latitude and extreme altitude that supports a specialized environment.

Globally, Huascarán holds a prestigious position among the world's great mountains. It is recognized as the fourth highest mountain in both the Western Hemisphere and the continent of South America. Its superior counterparts include: Aconcagua in Argentina (6,961 meters / 22,838 feet), the highest peak in the Americas; Ojos del Salado, situated on the Chile-Argentina border (6,893 meters / 22,615 feet); and Monte Pissis, also in Argentina (6,793 meters / 22,287 feet). These rankings underscore Huascarán's significant stature within the global mountaineering and geographical communities, making it a key destination for high-altitude adventurers and a subject of intense scientific interest.

Frequently Asked Questions about Huascarán

Where is Huascarán located?
Huascarán is located in the Peruvian province of Yungay, within the Ancash Department. It is a central feature of the Cordillera Blanca range in the Western Andes.
What is the elevation of Huascarán Sur?
Huascarán Sur, the highest summit, has an elevation of 6,768 meters (22,205 feet) above sea level.
Why is Huascarán considered significant geographically?
It is the highest point in Peru, the northern Andes (north of Lake Titicaca), and uniquely, the highest mountain within the Earth's Tropics. It is also the fourth highest mountain in the Western Hemisphere and South America.
Is Huascarán part of a protected area?
Yes, Huascarán is located within the Huascarán National Park, which is a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its ecological and geological importance.
What does the name "Mataraju" mean?
Mataraju is an alternative name for Huascarán, derived from Quechua, meaning "Snow Peak" or "Ice Mountain."