Peru , Kotapalako District

Overview of Cotaparaco District, Peru

Cotaparaco District is an administrative district under the Huaylas Province in the Ancash Region of Peru, located on the western slope of the Andes Mountains, with an average altitude of about 3,500 meters. The district takes agriculture and animal husbandry as its leading industries, and mainly grows traditional crops such as potatoes and corn.

Geographic location and climatic characteristics

Cotaparaco District is located in the Sacred River Basin between the Sierra Blanca and the Sierra Negra, and has a typical highland mountain climate. There is a significant temperature difference between day and night, with a clear distinction between the dry season (May-October) and the rainy season (November-April), and the average annual temperature is about 12℃. There are several streams formed by glacial meltwater in the region, which provide important water sources for agricultural irrigation.

Human Characteristics and Economic Life

The local population is predominantly indigenous Quechua, preserving traditional textile crafts and folklore festivals. The economy is based on subsistence agriculture, and in recent years there has been a gradual development of alpine hiking tourism, which takes visitors to the classic hiking trails of Sierra Blanca. The town of Cotaparaco, the district capital, has a basic medical station and school.

Natural landscape and tourist resources

The region is adjacent to the Huascaran National Park, with a view of the south peak of Huascaran at 6,768 meters above sea level. There are alpine lakes such as Lake Puyuc, and the surrounding area is dotted with camel and sheep pastures and the remains of the Inca Trail. The Festival of the Sun, held every June, attracts many tourists to experience traditional Andean culture.