Pucaraju, Mountain peak in Ticapampa District, Peru
Pucaraju is a mountain in the Cordillera Blanca reaching about 5,346 meters with steep slopes and rock formations typical of the Andes. The summit features snow fields and sits among other high peaks that create a rough, exposed high-altitude landscape.
The mountain saw its first recorded climb in 1967 from the southern face, marking an important moment for climbers in the region. A second route over the northwestern ridge was successfully completed in 1973, opening new possibilities for future expeditions.
The name comes from Quechua words "puka" and "rahu", which describe the reddish color of the snow-covered peak. This naming reflects how local people have always observed and named the mountains around them based on what they see.
Climbers access the peak via established routes from Recuay Province, requiring high-altitude gear and time spent acclimatizing to thin air. Most expeditions start from lower elevations and gradually work upward to adapt to the conditions.
The peak stands northeast of Lake Querococha and acts as a natural barrier that shapes local weather patterns. This position supports specialized plant species found nowhere else in the surrounding lowlands.
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