If you’re planning a trip to the famous Huaraz region then you’ve probably heard of the beautiful turquoise-water gems hidden in the Huazcarán National Park. For that reason, we have prepared an adventure that will take you to not only one but two of the most beautiful emerald-like lakes in the region.
The Cordillera Blanca holds authentic scenery, which is why it’s called Peruvian Switzerland, where its snow-capped mountains flank the entire Callejón de Huaylas, offering the perfect setting for adventure sports.
However, we’ll always mention this since some of you may take it for granted while planning a trip to the Andes: Make sure to get used to the altitude before committing to any physically demanding activities! But don’t worry, we’ll surely remind you about it a few more times throughout this post.
Skipping our overprotective rant, we’d love to show you these two water bodies - The Llanganuco Lake and Lagoon 69 are the most in-demand attractions near the city of Huaraz, and what a better way to experience them rather than just taking a day trip! Here we’ll tell you all about it.
1. Llanganuco Lake
As some of you may know, Llanganuco is a ravine composed of two turquoise-water lagoons, located in the Huascarán National Park. These beautiful water bodies are flanked by the Huascarán, Huandoy, Pisco, Chacraraju, Yanapaccha, and Chopicalqui snow-capped mountains.
This ravine offers the perfect setting for boat rides and kayak activities, so if visiting with time, make sure to jump on one of these experiences.
Nonetheless, our tour will make a quick stop so you can take some pictures and enjoy the beautiful views before going to Lagoon 69. If you wish to learn more about these attractions, check out this informative guide we made for you!
2. Lagoon 69
We are sure that most of you adventure seekers have heard of this outstanding lagoon. It is located at 4,604 meters above sea level within the Cordillera Blanca. Laguna 69 is characterized by its crystal-clear water and particular coloration, where the concentration of minerals in its water gives it a vibrant turquoise tone.
The lagoon originated after years of thaw in a nearby glacier on top of the Chacraraju Mountain, one of the many tall peaks of the northern Andean mountain range, reaching up to 6,108 m.a.s.l.
The trail to this natural wonder will take you through the awe-inspiring landscapes of the region, crossing rivers and valleys from where you’ll feel the everlasting energy of the Andes.
It is worth mentioning that the way up to the lagoon may be quite challenging if you’re not properly acclimatized. However, our excursion will give you enough time to complete the trek calmly and slowly. Would you like to know more about the Lagoon 69? Here we have the perfect travel guide for you!
Quick Tip: Planning a trip to Peru but don’t know where to start? Contact our local expert team, they can assist you in organizing the perfect travel itinerary according to your interests and profile. Don’t miss this chance and live an authentic experience in Peru!
If you’re interested in taking the trek, keep in mind that you must be acclimatized before committing to this physically demanding activity.
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:
04:30h - 05:00h | Pick up from the hotel
Our team will pick you up at your accommodation. It will take about 2.5 hours to get to our first stop, the Llanganuco Lake from Huaraz, but first we’ll have a stop for breakfast (optional).
08:00h - 08:15h | Stop at the Llanganuco Lake
Just after the stop at the restaurant, we’ll continue towards Llanganuco Lake, where you’ll be able to experience the first natural attraction of the excursion, the Llanganuco Lake.
08:15h - 08:30h | Arrival to Cebollapampa
Once we’ve finished our time in the Llanganuco Lake, we’ll head towards the starting point of our biggest adventure, the Lake 69 trail.
08:45h - 11:45h | Hike to Laguna 69
As we mentioned earlier, the trek will take you through the exuberant nature of the region. First, you’ll pass by a river stream flanked by the towering Cordillera Blanca, followed by a steep climb before getting to the magical Laguna 69.
11:45h - 12:30h | Free time to explore
Around this time, we’d have reached the lagoon’s shores. Here you’ll have some time to stroll around, take pictures, and just take in the energy of this paradisiac setting for a few minutes.
12:30h - 15:30h | Return to the transport
Once you’ve charged your energy, we’ll start walking down to the buses to finally head back to the city of Huaraz.
15:30h - 18:30h | Return to Huaraz
The trip back to the so-called Generosity City will take about three hours, so feel free to relax and enjoy the sunset as we arrive in Huaraz.
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 Llanganuco Lake & Lagoon 69 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: 14 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 Llanganuco and Laguna 69 tour:
- Warm Clothes. Keep in mind that you’re going to be over 4,000 meters of elevation, even Huaraz is extremely cold. Make sure to 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. These are a must! The trail up to Lagoon 69 can take up to 3 hours to complete, and you surely want 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!
