La Casa de Zarela - Parque Nacional Huascarán

La Casa de Zarela is a guesthouse near Parque Nacional Huascarán.

Location
Parque Nacional Huascarán, Central Andes & Amazon Foothills, Peru, Central & South America
Coordinates
-9.531338, -77.523620
Phone
+51 43421694
Email
[email protected]
Website
http://www.lacasadezarelahuaraz.com/
Activities
guesthouse

Best Time to Visit La Casa de Zarela

The best months to visit La Casa de Zarela are April, May, June, based on temperature, rainfall, weather conditions, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Month-by-Month Safari Conditions

  • January: Poor, temperature -1.68°C, rainfall 223.4mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 88.3%
  • February: Poor, temperature -1.23°C, rainfall 201.3mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 87.4%
  • March: Poor, temperature -1.71°C, rainfall 247.1mm, sunshine 8.5 hrs, humidity 89.9%
  • April: Good, temperature -1.13°C, rainfall 142.5mm, sunshine 10.2 hrs, humidity 84.2%
  • May: Good, temperature -0.77°C, rainfall 91.4mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 80.1%
  • June: Good, temperature -1.23°C, rainfall 48mm, sunshine 10.8 hrs, humidity 69.7%
  • July: Good, temperature -1.53°C, rainfall 28.3mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 62.3%
  • August: Good, temperature -1.02°C, rainfall 50.2mm, sunshine 11.2 hrs, humidity 63.8%
  • September: Good, temperature -1.2°C, rainfall 105.2mm, sunshine 11.1 hrs, humidity 75.1%
  • October: Poor, temperature -1.22°C, rainfall 171.5mm, sunshine 10.6 hrs, humidity 81%
  • November: Poor, temperature -1.34°C, rainfall 197.7mm, sunshine 9.3 hrs, humidity 83.2%
  • December: Poor, temperature -1.48°C, rainfall 230.1mm, sunshine 8.9 hrs, humidity 86.2%

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the best way to get to La Casa de Zarela from Lima, and what should we expect on arrival?

We usually fly into Huaraz, which is the closest major town to La Casa de Zarela. From there, it's a scenic, albeit sometimes bumpy, taxi ride. The lodge itself feels like a warm hug after a long journey; the staff greet you with genuine smiles and often a cup of coca tea, which is a lifesaver at altitude.

Beyond hiking in Huascarán National Park, what other unique experiences does La Casa de Zarela offer its guests?

While the park is the main draw, we love the lodge's own little touches. They often organize stargazing sessions on clear nights, and the Andean cooking classes are a must. Learning to prepare traditional Peruvian dishes with local ingredients right there at the lodge is an unforgettable culinary adventure.

What kind of wildlife can we realistically hope to see on day trips from La Casa de Zarela, and when is the best time to visit for sightings?

During our visits, we've spotted vicuñas and condors on the higher trails, and if you're lucky, perhaps even a spectacled bear. The dry season, from May to September, offers the best visibility and generally calmer weather for wildlife spotting. Even if you don't see many large animals, the birdlife is abundant and spectacular.

We're concerned about the altitude. What are La Casa de Zarela's recommendations for acclimatization and what's the general vibe of the lodge?

The lodge is at a significant altitude, so take it easy the first day. We recommend drinking plenty of water and the local coca tea provided. The atmosphere at La Casa de Zarela is wonderfully relaxed and intimate; it feels more like staying with friends than in a hotel, which really helps you unwind and adjust.

What are the approximate costs we should budget for a stay at La Casa de Zarela, including meals and activities?

While prices can fluctuate, we found La Casa de Zarela to be excellent value. Expect to budget around $150-200 per person per night, which typically includes delicious, hearty meals and guided excursions into the park. It's a worthwhile investment for the quality of the experience and the stunning location.

Other Safari Lodges in Parque Nacional Huascarán

Parks in Central Andes & Amazon Foothills

Health & Travel Info

Health & vaccination info for Peru

Travel advisory for Peru