From Huaraz: Excursion to Chinancocha Lagoon

Huaraz, nestled in the Andes Mountains, offers adventurous travelers an enchanting excursion to the captivating Chinancocha Lagoon. This one-day journey promises to immerse visitors in the region’s stunning natural beauty, from the serene Huaylas Alley to the awe-inspiring Maria Josefa Trail. With professional guidance and included amenities, the experience promises to leave a lasting impression. But what secrets does this lagoon hold, and what surprises await those who embark on this unforgettable expedition?

Key Points

• A one-day excursion from Huaraz to Chinancocha Lagoon, starting at $38 per person with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• The itinerary includes a journey through Huaylas Alley, a stop at Llanganuco ravine and Chinancocha Lagoon, and a 1.5-hour hike to observe quenuales trees.
• Transportation, a professional guide, and all entrance fees are included in the price, with no additional expenses required.
• The excursion is not recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with pre-existing medical conditions due to the physical demands.
• Participants should bring essential items like a passport, sunglasses, sunscreen, and water, and have the correct contact information for WhatsApp communication.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Excursion Overview

The excursion to Chinancocha Lagoon departs from Huaraz and lasts for one day, with a price starting from $38.00 per person.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Plus, a reserve now and pay later option is available.

The excursion covers the highlights of the Huaylas Alley, including the Llanganuco ravine, Chinancocha Lagoon, and the Campo Santo de Yungay, before returning to Huaraz in the evening.

Itinerary and Highlights

The excursion begins with pickup from the hotel in Huaraz at 9:00 am.

Travelers will journey through the stunning Huaylas Alley, situated between the Cordilleras Blanca and Negra.

The stunning Huaylas Alley, nestled between the Cordilleras Blanca and Negra, serves as the scenic backdrop for this journey.

The first stop is the Llanganuco ravine and Chinancocha Lagoon, where a 1.5-hour hike on the Maria Josefa trail allows observation of the unique quenuales trees.

A brief guided tour covers the local flora and fauna.

Before returning to Huaraz, the group will visit the Campo Santo de Yungay.

The excursion concludes with arrival back in Huaraz around 6:30 pm.

Inclusions

The excursion to Chinancocha Lagoon includes hotel pickup within the designated pickup area, transportation by minibus, a professional guide, food, and entrance tickets. Participants can also expect travel insurance and have no additional expenses. The inclusions are summarized in the table below:

| Inclusion | Description |

| — | — |

| Hotel Pickup | Within pickup area |

| Transportation | Minibus |

| Guide | Professional |

| Food | Included |

| Tickets | Entrance tickets |

| Insurance | Travel insurance |

| Expenses | No additional expenses |

Participant Restrictions

According to the information provided, this excursion to Chinancocha Lagoon may not be suitable for certain participants.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, wheelchair users, visually impaired individuals, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. This is likely due to the physical demands of the 1.5-hour hike on the Maria Josefa trail and the overall nature of the excursion.

Participants should ensure they’re physically fit and able to handle the activities involved. It’s essential to review the participant restrictions carefully before booking to determine if this excursion aligns with one’s abilities and needs.

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Essential Information

To ensure a smooth experience, the tour provides a meeting point available on Google Maps.

Participants should bring their passport/ID, sunglasses, sun hat, sunscreen, water, and any necessary personal medication.

It’s also recommended to have cash on hand and ensure the correct contact number, including the country code, is provided for WhatsApp communication.

Last-minute reservations can be checked for availability via email before booking.

Following these essential guidelines will help make the Chinancocha Lagoon excursion from Huaraz a successful and enjoyable adventure.

Exploring Huaylas Alley

As the excursion departs from Huaraz, participants embark on a journey through Huaylas Alley, nestled between the majestic Cordilleras Blanca and Negra mountain ranges.

This scenic route showcases the stunning natural beauty of the Andes, with towering peaks and lush valleys. Along the way, guests catch glimpses of quaint villages, tranquil streams, and diverse flora and fauna.

The drive through Huaylas Alley sets the stage for the day’s adventures, providing a serene and picturesque backdrop as the group makes its way to the Chinancocha Lagoon, the primary destination of the excursion.

Chinancocha Lagoon and Maria Josefa Trail

The Chinancocha Lagoon, nestled within the Llanganuco ravine, serves as the primary destination of the excursion.

Guests will embark on a 1.5-hour hike along the Maria Josefa trail, allowing them to observe the unique quenuales, a species of high-altitude trees.

During the hike, a professional guide will provide a brief overview of the local flora and fauna.

The lagoon itself, with its serene turquoise waters, offers stunning vistas of the surrounding mountain peaks.

After exploring the lagoon, the tour will visit the Campo Santo de Yungay before returning to Huaraz in the evening.

Visiting Campo Santo De Yungay

After exploring the serene Chinancocha Lagoon, the tour visits the Campo Santo de Yungay, a solemn memorial site commemorating the tragic 1970 earthquake that devastated the nearby town.

The Campo Santo contains over 20,000 white crosses representing those who perished. Visitors can observe the memorial and reflect on the disaster that claimed thousands of lives.

The tour then departs the Campo Santo and begins the return journey to Huaraz, arriving at approximately 6:30 PM.

This poignant visit provides a deeper understanding of the region’s history and the resilience of its people.

Since You Asked

Can I Book This Excursion at the Last Minute?

Yes, you can book this excursion at the last minute. The tour operator recommends checking availability via email before booking, as they have a last-minute reservation option available.

Do I Need to Bring My Own Food and Water?

The excursion includes food, so there’s no need to bring your own. However, it’s a good idea to bring water to stay hydrated throughout the day’s activities.

Is This Excursion Suitable for Children?

The excursion may not be suitable for young children, as it involves a 1.5-hour hike that could be challenging for them. However, older children who are active and comfortable with hiking may be able to participate with adult supervision.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Meet My Preferences?

The excursion’s itinerary can’t be customized, but travelers can request modifications, subject to guide and availability. The standard excursion may not accommodate all preferences, so travelers should inquire about personalization options when booking.

What Is the Average Group Size for This Excursion?

The average group size for this excursion is typically between 6-12 participants. However, the exact group size may vary depending on the number of bookings and can’t be guaranteed in advance.

The Sum Up

The Chinancocha Lagoon excursion from Huaraz offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the region’s captivating natural beauty. From the scenic journey through Huaylas Alley to the captivating hike on the Maria Josefa trail and the poignant visit to the Campo Santo de Yungay, this one-day adventure promises an unforgettable experience amidst the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Cordillera Blanca. With convenient inclusions and flexible booking options, this excursion is not to be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: