The beautiful Ancash region is surrounded by the most impressive scenery of Peru, where from one side you can spot the beautiful snow-capped mountains of the Cordillera Blanca, whilst on the other, the towering mountains of the Cordillera Negra flank the opposite side of the region.
Laguna Wilcacocha is the perfect spot to see that scenery, and it’s one of the easiest treks to do from Huaraz. This deep green lagoon is the perfect acclimatization hike for those who want to experience a beautiful part of the Andes before heading for a bigger challenge.
However, this waterbody is located at 3,745 meters above sea level, which is why you should at least have spent 1-2 days in Huaraz before committing to this activity. If you’re up to this adventure, here we have a special itinerary for you!
If you’re interested in taking this 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 the Wilcacocha Lagoon.
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:
07:00h - 07:30h | Pick up from the hotel
Our team will pick you up at your accommodation. It will take about 1 hour to get to the starting point of the trek from Huaraz.
08:00h - 10:00h | Trek to Laguna Wilcacocha
Once we get to the starting point, our team will give you recommendations about the trek. Make sure to take the trail calmly, there will be plenty of time to complete it.
10:00h - 12:00h | Free time to explore
Once we get to this majestic lagoon, you will pass by the viewpoint so you can fully appreciate the entire scenery. Later, you’ll be free to explore and take the best pictures of the site.
12:00h - 14:00h | Return to the transport
After finishing our adventure, we’ll return to the car so we can head back to the city of Huaraz.
14:00h - 15:00h | Return to Huaraz
It will take us about one hour to get to your accommodation, so lay back and enjoy the view from the window, taking in the everlasting energy of the Andes before arriving at Huaraz.
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.
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 Wilcacocha Trek, 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: 08 hours approx.
- Included: Transport, English-speaking guide, pick up at the hotel.
