The Chinancocha Lagoon in Peru’s Huascarán National Park is a captivating natural wonder that draws adventurous travelers. For just $39 per person, visitors can embark on a one-day excursion that promises stunning vistas, a refreshing hike, and the chance to observe the region’s diverse wildlife. With hotel pickup and a scenic drive through the Callejón de Huaylas, this outing offers an immersive experience in the heart of the Andes. But what awaits at the lagoon itself is a true highlight that may surprise even the most seasoned explorer.

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Key Points

One-day adventure to Chinancocha Lagoon priced at $39 per person, including hotel pickup, transportation, guide, entrance fees, and travel insurance.
Scenic drive through Callejón de Huaylas and visits to Andean villages, followed by a 1.5-hour hike to the turquoise Chinancocha Lagoon.
Captivating views of the lagoon and snow-capped peaks, with opportunities to observe diverse flora and fauna in Huascarán National Park.
Tour not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, and individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, and essential items to bring include hat, camera, sunscreen, and cash.
Simple and stress-free booking process with the option to pay later and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview

The trip to Chinancocha Lagoon offers an exciting one-day adventure for travelers. Priced from $39 per person, the tour includes hotel pickup in Huaraz, transportation, a professional guide, entrance fees, and travel insurance.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. The itinerary features a scenic drive through the Callejón de Huaylas, visits to Andean villages, and a 1.5-hour hike to the turquoise Chinancocha Lagoon.

Highlights include admiring the Cordillera Blanca landscape and the flora and fauna of Huascarán National Park. Travelers should bring essentials like a hat, camera, and sunscreen.

Looking for more options in Ancash? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Details

The trip begins with a hotel pickup in Huaraz around 9:00 am.

The trip begins with a hotel pickup in Huaraz around 9:00 am.

Travelers will then journey through the Callejón de Huaylas, a valley situated between the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra mountain ranges. Along the way, they’ll visit Andean villages and admire the stunning landscapes.

Upon arrival at the Llanganuco ravine, they’ll embark on a 1.5-hour walk on the Maria Josefa trail to reach the turquoise waters of the Chinancocha Lagoon.

After a brief guided exploration and lunch, the tour continues to the Campo Santo de Yungay before returning to Huaraz by around 6:30 pm.

Exploring the Chinancocha Lagoon

After arriving at the Llanganuco ravine, travelers embark on a 1.5-hour walk along the Maria Josefa trail to reach the mesmerizing Chinancocha Lagoon.

The lagoon’s captivating turquoise waters reflect the surrounding Cordillera Blanca landscape.

Explorers can:

Admire the stunning views of the lagoon and the towering snow-capped peaks that frame it.
Observe the diverse flora and fauna of Huascaran National Park, including unique Andean plant species and wildlife.
Enjoy a brief guided exploration and have lunch on their own before returning to Huaraz.

The Chinancocha Lagoon offers a true immersion in the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

Admiring the Cordillera Blanca Landscape

As travelers venture along the Maria Josefa trail, they’re greeted by the majestic Cordillera Blanca landscape.

Towering snow-capped peaks rise in the distance, casting their shadows over the lush, green valleys below. The air is crisp and invigorating, filled with the scent of alpine flora.

Hikers pause to take in the breathtaking views, marveling at the juxtaposition of rugged mountains and serene lakes.

The Cordillera Blanca’s natural beauty is truly awe-inspiring, a testament to the power and wonder of the Andes.

Visitors leave with a newfound appreciation for the region’s stunning geography and its enduring allure.

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Experiencing the Rich Flora and Fauna

Hikers on the Maria Josefa trail enjoy the rich flora and fauna of Huascarán National Park. The trail offers a glimpse into the diverse ecosystem of the region:

Vibrant wildflowers, including the iconic Puya raimondii, the world’s largest bromeliad, dot the landscape with vibrant hues.
Andean condors, the world’s largest flying birds, soar overhead, casting shadows on the ground below.
Curious vizcachas, rabbit-like mammals with distinctive long tails, scurry among the rocky outcroppings, providing a delightful sighting for adventurous travelers.

This natural spectacle adds to the overall enchantment of the Chinancocha Lagoon excursion.

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Visiting the Campo Santo De Yungay

The Campo Santo de Yungay is the next stop on the Chinancocha Lagoon excursion. This cemetery, built in the early 20th century, stands as a poignant memorial to the victims of a devastating 1970 earthquake. Visitors can explore the serene grounds and reflect on the region’s history.

| Site | Significance |

| — | — |

| Campo Santo de Yungay | Memorial to earthquake victims |

| Cordillera Blanca | Stunning mountain range backdrop |

| Huascarán National Park | Biodiversity protection |

After the contemplative visit, the tour returns to Huaraz, arriving around 6:30 pm, concluding an immersive day exploring the natural and cultural wonders of the region.

Important Considerations

Although the tour to Chinancocha Lagoon offers a captivating experience, there are a few important considerations travelers should keep in mind.

First, the tour isn’t suitable for certain individuals, including pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

The tour to Chinancocha Lagoon may not be suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Secondly, participants are advised to bring essential items such as a hat, camera, sunscreen, and cash.

Lastly, the use of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited during the excursion.

Booking and Communication

To book the tour to Chinancocha Lagoon, travelers can conveniently reserve their spot and pay later.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing flexibility.

Travelers must provide their WhatsApp number with the country code to ensure effective communication throughout the process. This will allow the tour operator to send updates, reminders, and coordinate the pickup smoothly.

With these booking options and communication channels, exploring the stunning Chinancocha Lagoon is made simple and stress-free for all participants.

Since You Asked

What Is the Level of Difficulty for This Hiking Trip?

The hiking trip is moderately difficult, involving a 1.5-hour uphill walk. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. Participants should be prepared for the physical demands of the trail.

Will There Be Any Opportunities to Purchase Local Souvenirs?

The trip includes a visit to the Campo Santo de Yungay, where travelers may have the opportunity to purchase local souvenirs. However, the itinerary doesn’t specifically mention dedicated time for souvenir shopping during the trip.

Are There Any Additional Costs or Hidden Fees Not Mentioned?

The tour price includes all the major expenses, and there are no additional costs or hidden fees mentioned. However, any personal purchases or optional activities would be at the traveler’s own expense.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trip?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and snacks on the trip. The itinerary doesn’t mention any restrictions on bringing your own provisions, so you’re free to pack a lunch or snacks to enjoy during the day.

Is There a Minimum or Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

There is no minimum or maximum group size specified for this tour. The tour operates with a flexible group size to accommodate the number of participants who have reserved spots. The exact group size can vary.

The Sum Up

The Chinancocha Lagoon excursion offers a captivating one-day adventure in Peru’s stunning Huascarán National Park. This affordable trip includes hotel pickup, a scenic drive, and a moderate hike to the turquoise lagoon, where visitors can enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscape and observe the diverse local flora and fauna. An unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts exploring the heart of the Andes.

You can check availability for your dates here: