Tomáš Ondruška
Google
Cordillera Blanca Lodge is a beautiful accommodation located in a quiet, remote setting—ideal for those seeking peace and relaxation. The rooms are comfortable, meeting Western standards, with spacious and cozy beds (especially by local standards). Each room is nicely furnished and includes a terrace with scenic views, adding to the charm of the place.
The atmosphere is calm and serene, perfect for passive rest or short walks to a nearby lake. However, for more active hiking or exploring the region, you will need to arrange transportation. The owner is knowledgeable and offers good advice on trips and hikes, though we felt slightly overwhelmed upon arrival by the amount of manuals and information we received all at once.
On the downside, the lodge is quite expensive by local standards and heavily relies on its location as a selling point. Despite being advertised as well-situated, the truth is that without a car, you’re more or less stuck at the lodge. The taxi services offered by the owner are extremely overpriced—sometimes up to $100 for a return trip to the near valley. We later managed to arrange the same trip ourselves for about a third of the price (!!!) by finding a driver and accomodation in the nearby village.
Meals are another significant cost. While the food was varied and tasty, the pricing felt excessive, especially since purchasing meals is mandatory for guests.
In summary, Cordillera Blanca Lodge is a great choice for those looking to unwind and enjoy nature from the comfort of the garden or a hammock. For active exploration and hiking, however, be prepared to invest considerable time and money in transportation. This place is best suited for peaceful relaxation rather than as a base for intensive trekking.
