In Yungay, you can plan your stay around commemorative dates, cultural sites, or excursions in the surrounding area. Two event dates provide a special framework for planning: the annual day of remembrance on May 31 and Semana Turística, which usually takes place in the last week of July. If you are traveling at another time, you can focus on the cultural and natural attractions of the city and its immediate surroundings.

Commemorations and Events

Every year on May 31, Yungay commemorates the victims and missing persons of the 1970 earthquake and avalanche. The commemoration includes a pilgrimage from the Plaza de Armas to the Campo Santo. The program also includes a regional food and handicrafts fair. The day thus combines collective remembrance with a public program of events.

Another highlight is Semana Turística de Yungay. Its food fair offers typical dishes made with guinea pig, chocho, and bread. It usually concludes with a music festival in the Plaza de Armas and folk dances from Yungay Province; the program may vary. If you are planning to travel for these events, check the exact dates before making your plans.

Cultural Sites and History

The Capilla María Auxiliadora stands in the town of Cochahuain, near Yungay. It was built between 2003 and 2006 with support from people in Yungay and Shilla to commemorate the nine people who survived the earthquake and avalanche of May 31, 1970. The chapel houses workshops run by artisans from Yungay, as well as a permanent exhibition featuring elaborate furniture, sacred art, wood sculptures, and oil paintings. Its commemorative purpose and handicrafts give the site different cultural associations. Check current visiting arrangements before your visit.

Nearby, at Punyan, stands Cerro Pan de Azúcar. It is a historic site of the Battle of January 20, 1839, which ended the Peru–Bolivia Confederation. A 1.28-kilometer footpath leads to Cerro from Plazuela de Punyan; the stated walking time is about 40 minutes. This is a guideline, as trail conditions may change. Those looking to combine history and exercise will find both at this named historic site.

Nature and Activities Around Yungay

East of the city, Laguna Chinancocha lies at an altitude of 3,850 meters in Huascarán National Park. In the area designated for tourism, visitors can go boating and walk along an interpretive trail on the shore to the other lagoon. This makes two different activities available on the same outing: a trip on the water or a walk along the shore. As services and conditions may change, check the latest information before planning your visit.

Hiking and trekking are mentioned as ways to explore Yungay’s landscapes and nature. Mountain biking is another option: routes to local attractions include, among others, landscapes near Campo Santo and Cueva de los Guitarreros. These activities offer a different focus from the commemorations and cultural sites. Which ones you include in your stay depends on whether you want to set aside more time for scenery, exercise, or Yungay’s history.

Getting There and Getting Around

The listed overland routes run via Lima–Pativilca–Huaraz–Yungay, Huaraz–Yungay, or Santa–Huallanca–Caraz–Yungay. Another option is a flight from Lima to Anta. From there, you can reach Yungay by taxi or shared minibus in about 30 to 45 minutes. Check the flight schedule and road conditions before traveling.

Approximate travel times are given for the route from the Plaza de Armas to Campo Santo: about three minutes by mototaxi, two minutes by private car, or 20 minutes on foot. The routes follow a paved road; the times are estimates. Comparing them can help you plan your day and decide whether to walk or use a vehicle.

When looking for a hotel in Yungay, the purpose of your trip is a practical starting point: May 31 is the day of remembrance, while Semana Turística usually takes place in the last week of July. If you are traveling for an event, check the current event dates and accommodation availability before booking.

Discover more destinations: Santo Toribio District, Huarmey, Chimbote, Chavin de Huantar, Buena Vista, Huari, Caraz, Carhuaz.

View the broader travel guide: Ancash.