Yungay Attractions

Old Yungay is the site of the single worst natural disaster in the Andes. The earthquake of May 31, 1970, which caused so much devastation throughout this region of the Andes, literally wiped out the old town of Yungay. The earthquake caused a landslide of ice, rock, and water from Huayarán which came thundering down on the town, killing 18,000 people.

There is a huge statue of Christ on the quake site, known as Campo Santo. There are other markers in the area as well which commemorate the victims who are buried below. A portion of the top of the cathedral tower can still be seen.

A new town of Yungay has been built in a nearby location. The new town is a good base for those heading for Lagunas Llanganuco or the Pisco and Huascarán peaks.