If you’ve been reading our Huaraz Travel Guide, then you must be aware of the many beautiful lakes in the region. However, there’s one in particular that shouldn’t be overlooked but has been a shadow cast by other similar attractions near the City of Generosity.
Nonetheless, this special natural wonder is the largest fresh-water lagoon in the entire Cordillera Blanca and offers the perfect setting for those looking to get immersed in awe-inspiring landscapes, and nature, and even practicing adventure sports.
The Huascaran National Park certainly holds attractions for every type of traveler, and Laguna Paron is one of the easily accessible lagoons in the region since it only takes a car ride to get there. However, we’ll always highlight that the challenge ahead won’t be the trail but the altitude instead.
Lake Paron is one of the most visually striking emerald-like water bodies in the area and offers unique activities such as boat rides or even kayaking. If you’re up to this adventure, here’s everything you need to know about the day tour!
As we mentioned before, this famous waterbody is the largest freshwater lagoon of the Cordillera Blanca and the Ancash region since it extends to 1,408,489 m2. It is located 32 km away from the city of Huaraz and has an altitude of 4,185 meters above sea level.
Laguna Paron was declared a National Heritage Site in 2010 to protect its authentic scenery. From this location, it is possible to visualize the imposing Artesonraju, Piramide, Huandoy, Pisco, Chacraraju, and Paria snow-capped mountains. Would you like to learn more about it? Here’s a Laguna Paron travel guide for you.
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If you’re interested in taking the trek, keep in mind that due to the high altitude of these lands, one may experience altitude sickness symptoms, which is why it is highly recommended to spend some time in Huaraz before venturing out to these lagoons.
We want you to travel in comfort, therefore, we have structured this itinerary so you can have a fun but also safe experience during your visit:
07:30h - 08:00h | Pick up from the hotel
Our team will pick you up at your accommodation. It will take about 4 hours to get to Laguna Paron from Huaraz.
08:00h - 12:00h | Arrival to Laguna Paron
After a long ride through the beautiful natural scenery of the mountainous range of the Andes, we’ll finally arrive at the largest lake in the region, the Laguna Paron. Before starting the trek, our team will give you some recommendations so you can enjoy your stay to its fullest.
12:00h - 13:00h | Trek to the Laguna Paron Viewpoint
First, we’ll get to the site’s viewpoint where we’ll be able to appreciate the entire natural scenery, where the Huandoy, Pisco, Pirámide de Garcilaso, and Artesonraju snow-capped mountains will welcome us to this paradise on earth.
13:00h - 14:00h | Free time to explore
After our short hike, you’ll have some free time to stroll around the lake and take as many pictures as you’d like. Also, if there’s enough time, ask for the kayak activity, you’ll certainly love crossing this beautiful lake on a boat ride!
14:00h - 18:00h | Return to Huaraz
After finishing our excursion, it’s time to head back to Huaraz, so sit tight and relax while watching the beautiful mountain range as we arrive at your accommodation.
If you wish to experience this tour to its fullest, we have the perfect adventure for you. Keep in mind that you can organize your trip according to your interests, we are here to help you with any inquiry you may have, including assistance during your travel planning process.
To book the Laguna Paron Tour, you just need to contact our travel specialists. Our local expert team will make sure to optimize your time and adventure with a tailor-made travel itinerary for you.
Likewise, we care to provide the best experience to every one of our passengers, which is why we count on certified drivers, professional guides, and an all-time monitored car fleet with GPS tracking.
General Information:
- Duration: 10 hours approx.
- Entrance: Already included in the travel package.
- Included: Transport, entrance ticket, English-speaking guide, pick up at the hotel.
Due to the high elevation of these places, it is usual to see travelers experiencing dizziness, tiredness, headaches, and shortness of breath upon arrival, particularly if coming from low-altitude destinations. Make sure to follow these recommendations that will surely help you avoid and deal with altitude sickness:
- Keep yourself hydrated. Water is the best ally to fight and prevent this condition.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking at all costs. Alcohol is dehydrating, and smoking can worsen or cause shortness of breath.
- Eat a light but high-calorie diet. High altitude increases the need for fuel since you get dehydrated and burn carbs faster.
- Drink Coca tea or chew Coca leaves. This is a medicinal plant of the Andes, known for helping to ease any altitude sickness symptoms and improving acclimatization.
- Take it easy. Don’t commit to a physically demanding activity on the first 2-3 days upon arrival.
Some medicines that can help with any altitude sickness symptoms are Diamox or Soroche Pills. You can get them in almost any drugstore in Peru, nonetheless, we highly recommend consulting with a doctor before taking any of these medications.
Here’s our top pick of things to bring for your adventure through the Peruvian Andes in the Laguna Paron tour:
- Warm Clothes. Keep in mind that you’re going to be over 4,000 meters of elevation. Dress according to the weather conditions and try wearing layers.
- Trekking Poles. Just in case you may not have this with you, remember that you’re visiting the Trekking Capital of Peru, thereby, you should be able to rent them from a trekking gear shop. Trekking Poles are really helpful while going on very steep hikes; if you wish extra support, this is the way to go.
- Trekking Shoes. Make sure to keep your feet comfortable along the way. You could also rent trekking shoes from Huaraz.
- Rain Poncho. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, don’t forget to bring a rain poncho with you, you’ll thank us later.
- Small Backpack. Bring a daily pack with you, you’ll want to have your hands free during the hike, or at least just to take pictures.
Sun protection. Make sure to bring sunscreen and apply it every 45-50 minutes. Also, don’t forget your sunglasses and sun hats at the hotel! The sun can be aggressive at this elevation.
- Water. Keep yourself hydrated, this way you’ll regain energy and help your body to withstand the altitude.
- Snacks. Get some snacks for the way, but try not to eat them all before you get to the lagoon. You’ll need the extra boost later!
If you’d like to know what’s the best place to rent trekking gear, make sure to ask your travel agent, they’ll provide you with the best options to do so!
Would you like to travel off the beaten path? Well, we got you covered! Viagens Machu Picchu cares to provide everything you need to have an authentic experience across our beautiful country. Check our travel packages and uniquely explore Peru with us!
