Discovering the natural beauty of Ancash’s Churup Lagoon is an unforgettable experience. This full-day private hike promises to immerse travelers in stunning landscapes, reaching elevations up to 4,480 meters. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can explore picturesque villages and marvel at the lagoon’s turquoise waters. Though the journey takes approximately 9 hours, the included hotel pick-up, box lunch, and personalized attention ensure a seamless adventure. Those seeking an immersive exploration of Huascarán National Park won’t want to miss this opportunity.
Good To Know
- A full-day private hike from Huaraz to Churup Lagoon, reaching an elevation of 4,480 meters with stunning views of the Cordillera Negra mountains.
- Flexible booking with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- The hike takes approximately 9 hours and includes hotel pick-up, transportation, an English/Spanish guide, a box lunch, and covered entrance fees.
- Proper acclimatization, sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, sun protection, and hydration are essential for the high-altitude trek.
- Maximum group size is 10 for a personalized experience, with pricing starting from $90.00 per person.
Activity Overview
This full-day acclimatization hike takes adventurers from Huaraz to the stunning Churup Lagoon in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range.
The 9-hour journey allows participants to visit one of the most beautiful and popular lagoons near Huaraz. Led by an English and Spanish-speaking guide, the hike reaches an elevation of 4,480 meters above sea level.
The maximum group size is 10 people, ensuring a personalized experience as you take in views of the Huamashraju, Cashan, and Churup Mountains, as well as the Cordillera Negra range.
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Pricing and Reservation
The price for the Churup Lagoon hike starts from $90.00 per person.
The Churup Lagoon hike is priced from $90.00 per person.
Booking is flexible, allowing customers to reserve now and pay later without any upfront payment required.
Plus, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour offers the following:
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Reserve now & pay later: No upfront payment needed.
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Free cancellation: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
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Pricing: From $90.00 per person.
Itinerary Details
After departing from Huaraz, the tour visits several villages before reaching Pitec, where the hike to Churup Lagoon begins.
The hike takes approximately 3 hours to reach the lagoon at 4,480 m above sea level. Along the way, hikers enjoy views of Huamashraju, Cashan, Churup Mountains, and the Cordillera Negra.
They’ll also observe snowmelt forming waterfalls and rivers. Upon reaching Churup Lagoon, hikers take a 1-hour break for lunch and photos, admiring the turquoise waters and surrounding natural landscapes.
Inclusions
The tour includes hotel pick-up service, transportation to and from the hike, an English/Spanish guide, a first aid kit, a box lunch, and entrance fees to Huascarán National Park.
The inclusions make this hiking experience convenient and worry-free:
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An English or Spanish-speaking guide will lead the group and provide valuable insights throughout the trek.
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A box lunch is provided, allowing hikers to refuel during the 1-hour break at the Churup Lagoon.
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Entrance fees to the Huascarán National Park are covered, ensuring seamless access to the protected natural wonder.
Additional Information
Hikers can check availability for starting times on the tour’s website or by contacting the operator.
The meeting point for this Churup Lagoon hike is available on Google Maps, providing a convenient location.
The focus of this excursion is on the natural beauty of the turquoise waters and the stunning surrounding landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca range.
Participants should be prepared for a moderately challenging hike at high altitude, with emphasis on enjoying the breathtaking vistas and observing the snowmelt forming waterfalls and rivers along the way.
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Packing List
When preparing for the Churup Lagoon hike, hikers should pack appropriate clothing and gear to ensure a comfortable and safe experience.
Some essential items to bring include:
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Sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good traction to navigate the rocky terrain.
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Layered clothing, such as a base layer, insulating mid-layer, and a waterproof outer shell, to adapt to the changing weather conditions.
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Sun protection, including a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, as the high altitude can intensify the sun’s rays.
Being well-prepared with the right equipment will help make the Churup Lagoon hike an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Safety Considerations
Hiking to Churup Lagoon requires thoughtful consideration of safety measures. The high-altitude environment poses risks, so participants must come prepared. Proper acclimatization is crucial; those struggling with altitude sickness shouldn’t proceed.
Sturdy hiking boots, layered clothing, sun protection, and ample hydration are musts. Trekkers should exercise caution on the rocky, uneven terrain. The guide carries a first-aid kit, but hikers should also pack essential personal medications.
Emergency procedures are in place, yet self-awareness and responsibility are paramount. By prioritizing safety, trekkers can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Churup Lagoon and the Cordillera Blanca.
About Huarascarán National Park
Huascarán National Park, situated in the Ancash region of Peru, encompasses the stunning Cordillera Blanca mountain range. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its dramatic glacial landscapes, vibrant alpine lakes, and diverse flora and fauna.
Huascarán National Park in Peru’s Ancash region boasts stunning glacial landscapes, vibrant alpine lakes, and diverse flora and fauna.
Some key features of the park include:
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Towering Peaks: The park is home to the highest tropical mountain in the world, the majestic Huascarán, which reaches an impressive 6,768 meters (22,205 feet) in elevation.
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Glacial Lakes: Countless turquoise-hued glacial lakes, such as the Churup Lagoon, dot the landscape, offering breathtaking views and opportunities for exploration.
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Diverse Ecosystems: The park’s varied elevations support a range of ecosystems, from high-altitude grasslands to lush cloud forests, teeming with unique plant and animal species.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Type of Terrain Will We Encounter During the Hike?
The hikers will encounter varied terrain during the trek, including dirt paths, rocky slopes, and steep inclines. They’ll also come across areas with melting snow that form waterfalls and rivers along the way to the scenic Churup Lagoon.
How Difficult Is the Churup Lagoon Hike for First-Time Hikers?
The Churup Lagoon hike is moderately challenging for first-time hikers. It involves a steady climb of around 3 hours to reach the 4,480m lagoon, but the trail is well-maintained, and the scenic views make the effort worthwhile.
Can We Swim in the Churup Lagoon During Our Visit?
Churup Lagoon is not suitable for swimming. The water is very cold, and swimming is not permitted to protect the fragile ecosystem. Visitors can enjoy the stunning views and take photos at the lagoon, but they should not enter the water.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement to Participate in This Hike?
There’s no minimum age requirement for this hike, but it’s recommended for participants aged 10 and up. The hike can be strenuous, so parental discretion is advised for younger children.
What Is the Altitude Difference Between Huaraz and Churup Lagoon?
The hike to Churup Lagoon starts at Huaraz, which is around 3,052 meters (10,000 feet) above sea level. The lagoon itself is located at an altitude of 4,480 meters (14,700 feet), a difference of approximately 1,428 meters (4,700 feet).
The Sum Up
The Churup Lagoon hike offers a captivating glimpse into the natural wonders of Ancash. With a knowledgeable guide, travelers can enjoy the stunning landscapes of Huascarán National Park, culminating in the breathtaking views of the turquoise lagoon. This private adventure promises an unforgettable experience, providing personalized attention and a delightful box lunch to make the most of this remarkable journey.
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