Huaraz: 3-Hour Trek to Laguna 69 With Optional Lunch

Huaraz, a picturesque city in Peru’s Cordillera Blanca, offers an exhilarating trek to the stunning Laguna 69. This 3-hour excursion takes adventurers through breathtaking Andean landscapes, culminating in the captivating turquoise waters of the high-altitude lake. While suitable for moderately fit individuals, the trek’s elevation demands proper acclimatization. The full-day tour promises an unforgettable experience, with optional lunch and private or group options to suit various preferences. Prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty that awaits.

Key Points

• A 3-hour trek to the scenic Laguna 69 lake in Peru, lasting 14 hours with hotel pickup and drop-off from Huaraz.
• The tour offers the option to include a lunchbox, or allow for personal food choices.
• Guided tours are available in both Spanish and English, with entrance fees covered.
• The trek reaches an elevation of 4,620 meters, making it suitable for those with moderate fitness levels.
• Positive customer reviews highlighting the tour’s organization, knowledgeable guides, and breathtaking scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a 3-hour trek to Laguna 69, one of Peru’s most beautiful lakes.

The full-day excursion lasts 14 hours and costs from Kč 6,124 per group (up to 1 person). A live tour guide is available in Spanish and English.

Pickup is included from central Huaraz, with the exact time confirmed the day before.

The tour is suitable for those seeking an adventure in Peru’s stunning Huascarán National Park, though it may not be recommended for individuals with mobility issues or low fitness levels due to the high-altitude hike.

Itinerary

The tour departs Huaraz at 5:00 AM. After a breakfast stop in Yungay at 7:00 AM, the group arrives at the stunning Chinancocha and Orconcocha lakes in Huascarán National Park for a photo opportunity at 9:00 AM. The highlight is the 8 km trek to Laguna 69 at 4,620 meters above sea level, renowned for its vibrant blue waters and snow-capped mountain backdrop. Visitors enjoy approximately 30 minutes at the lakeside before descending back to Cebollapampa and returning to Huaraz around 2:00 PM.

| Time | Location |

|——–|——————————————-|

| 5:00 AM| Depart Huaraz |

| 7:00 AM| Breakfast/snack stop in Yungay |

| 9:00 AM| Photo stop at Chinancocha and Orconcocha|

| 9:30 AM| Hike to Laguna 69 |

| 2:00 PM| Return to Huaraz |

Inclusions

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off from central Huaraz.

A lunchbox is provided for the private option, while the group option allows you to bring your own food. Snacks can be purchased during the stops.

Entrance fees are included – S/ 30 for foreigners and S/ 15 for Peruvians with a DNI, valid for one day.

Remember to bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, water, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing.

The tour doesn’t include a lunch stop to maximize time at the lake.

Important Information

Although the tour involves high-altitude hiking, acclimatization is recommended. The trek to Laguna 69 reaches an elevation of 4,620 meters, so it’s essential to come prepared.

Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, plenty of water, and weather-appropriate clothing. The hike may not be suitable for individuals with mobility issues or low fitness levels.

Lunch isn’t provided on the standard tour to maximize time at the lake. Visitors should plan to bring their own food.

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Customer Reviews

According to the reviews, customers have generally had positive experiences with the trek to Laguna 69. The tour holds an impressive 4.7/5 rating based on 7 reviews.

Highlights include:

• Breathtaking scenery of the intensely blue waters and snowy mountain backdrop at Laguna 69

• Well-organized logistics, including reliable hotel pickup and drop-off

• Knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who provide insights in both Spanish and English

However, some customers noted concerns about the high-altitude demands of the hike, as well as the lack of a dedicated lunch stop.

Getting to the Starting Point

Reaching the starting point for the trek to Laguna 69 is a straightforward process. The tour includes pickup from central Huaraz, with the exact time confirmed the day before.

Travelers meet their guide at the designated pickup location, where they’ll board a vehicle for the roughly 2-hour drive to the trailhead. Along the way, there’s a stop for breakfast and snacks in Yungay.

The tour then continues to the Huascarán National Park, where participants have a photo opportunity at the scenic Chinancocha and Orconcocha lakes before beginning the 8km hike to the iconic Laguna 69.

Preparing for the Trek

While the drive to the trailhead provides a scenic introduction to the region, the trek to Laguna 69 itself demands thorough preparation.

The trek to Laguna 69 demands thorough preparation, despite the scenic drive to the trailhead.

Hikers should come equipped with:

• Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots

• Moisture-wicking layers for the changeable mountain weather

• Plenty of high-energy snacks and water

• Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen

Acclimatization is also crucial, as the hike reaches an elevation of 4,620 meters.

Those unfamiliar with high-altitude environments should allow extra time to adjust before tackling the challenging but rewarding trail to Laguna 69.

What to Expect on the Trail

The trek to Laguna 69 requires hikers to navigate a well-marked trail that winds through stunning Andean landscapes.

Trekkers will encounter a gradual ascent, passing glacial lakes and snow-capped peaks. The trail’s terrain varies, with some rocky and uneven sections that demand caution.

Hikers should pace themselves, take breaks, and stay hydrated to manage the effects of high altitude.

The final push to the lake’s edge rewards adventurers with breathtaking vistas of the intensely blue waters and dramatic mountain backdrop.

With proper preparation and a moderate fitness level, the Laguna 69 trek offers an unforgettable experience in Peru’s natural wonder.

Things To Know

Are There Restroom Facilities Along the Trek?

There are no dedicated restroom facilities along the trek to Laguna 69. Hikers will need to plan accordingly and use the natural environment during the hike, as there are no designated restrooms or facilities provided during the trek.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?

Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the trek. The group tour option allows you to bring your own lunch, while snacks are available for purchase during the stops along the way.

Are Walking Poles Provided or Available for Rent?

Walking poles aren’t provided, but they’re available for rent at an additional cost. Customers are encouraged to bring their own equipment if they need extra stability or support during the high-altitude trek.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Bag?

The tour doesn’t mention an option to hire a porter. Hikers will need to carry their own bags during the trek. Walking poles aren’t provided, but they can be rented separately if desired.

Is the Trail Well-Marked and Easy to Follow?

The trail is generally well-marked and easy to follow for most hikers. However, it’s important to stay alert, as the high-altitude terrain can present some challenges. Guided tours can be helpful for ensuring you don’t lose the path.

Sum Up

The trek to Laguna 69 offers an exhilarating experience in the Peruvian Andes. Prepare for a demanding hike, but the stunning lake and breathtaking views make it well worth the effort. Whether you opt for a private tour with lunch or bring your own, this adventure is sure to leave a lasting impression.

You can check availability for your dates here: