Huaraz, the capital city of Ancash department, is located in the central part of Callejón de Huaylas, between Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra, in the northern Andes, at 3'060 meters above sea level (10'039 ft). It is a region with a rich historic past where pre-Incas cultures emerged. It was home to Chavín culture (1'200 years B.C.), leaving us numerous proof of their advanced knowledge. Cordillera Blanca is considered as a paradise for winter sports. As a matter of fact, athletes from all over the world come climb its snowy peaks. Huascarán, its highest peak, is 6'768 meters above sea level (22'204 ft).