The Parón Lagoon excursion from Huaraz is a must-do for nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive outdoor experience. At just $34 per person, this tour offers convenient hotel pickup, transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and entrance fees – ensuring a seamless journey. Visitors can expect to witness the stunning turquoise waters and majestic Andean peaks, while enjoying opportunities for hiking and exploring the area’s natural wonders. However, customer feedback suggests there may be some logistical challenges that could impact the overall experience.
Key Points
- The excursion to Parón Lagoon from Huaraz is priced at $34.00 per person and includes hotel pickup, transportation, guide, and entrance fees.
- The tour starts at 8:00 am with a stop in Carhuaz before traveling 70 km to Caraz and ascending an unpaved road to reach the lagoon.
- Opportunities to walk along the edge of the turquoise Parón Lagoon and observe Andean flora in a high mountain environment are available.
- The tour includes a 40-minute optional hike to a lookout point for panoramic views of the Artesonraju and Piramide Garcilazo mountains.
- Previous customer feedback suggests potential operational challenges, and it is recommended to inquire about any extra fees or issues before booking.
Tour Overview
The Parón Lagoon excursion offers visitors a chance to explore the stunning turquoise waters and surrounding Andean landscape from Huaraz. Priced from $34.00 per person, the one-day tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a live Spanish-speaking guide, and entrance fees.
The excursion starts at 8:00 am with a brief stop in Carhuaz before traveling 70 km north to Caraz. From there, the group ascends an unpaved road to reach the majestic Parón Lagoon. Participants can walk along the lagoon’s edge, observe the Andean flora, and enjoy views of the Artesonraju and Piramide Garcilazo mountains.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance.
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Tour Details
As part of the tour, hotel pickup is included, and participants are asked to wait in their hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled 8:00 am departure. The tour starts with a brief stop in Carhuaz for food and drinks before heading north 70 km to the town of Caraz. From there, the group will ascend an unpaved road to reach the stunning Laguna Parón.
| Tour Details | | |
| — | — | — |
| Pickup Location | Departure Time | Destination |
| Hotel Lobby | 8:00 AM | Laguna Parón |
| Stop in Carhuaz | Travel Distance | Road Conditions |
| Food & Drinks | 70 km | Unpaved |
The tour includes hotel pickup, tourist transportation, a live tour guide, entrance fees, a first aid kit, and meals.
Activities and Highlights
One of the main highlights of the Parón Lagoon excursion is the opportunity to walk around the stunning turquoise waters of the lagoon.
Visitors can observe the diverse Andean flora thriving in the high mountain environment. The tour also provides impressive views of the Artesonraju and Piramide Garcilazo mountains, two of the most prominent peaks in the region.
For those seeking an even more immersive experience, there’s an optional 40-minute hike to a lookout point that offers panoramic vistas of the lagoon and surrounding landscape.
Inclusions and Exclusions
According to the tour details, the excursion to Parón Lagoon includes hotel pickup, tourist transportation, a tour guide, entrance ticket, a first aid kit, and meals.
The tour doesn’t specify any extra expenses, though it’s possible there may be additional costs not listed. The inclusions cover the core aspects of the day trip, providing a comprehensive package for the advertised price of $34 per person.
However, the previous customer feedback suggests there may have been some operational challenges, so it’s advisable to inquire about any potential extra fees or issues before booking.
More Great Tours NearbyCustomer Feedback
The customer reviews for the Parón Lagoon excursion paint a mixed picture. While some found the tour route satisfactory, operational challenges dampened the overall experience. One reviewer noted issues with the meeting point and transportation, while the guide’s problem-solving skills were deemed inadequate in handling these disruptions.
| Overall Experience | Logistics | Guide Performance |
| — | — | — |
| 2/5 | Poor | Inadequate |
Despite the operational hiccups, the tour’s highlights – including the turquoise waters of Laguna Parón and views of the Andean mountains – seem to have resonated with customers. However, the mixed feedback suggests room for improvement in the tour’s execution.
Meeting Point and Pickup
The tour includes hotel pickup, with the guide waiting in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled 8:00 am departure.
Travelers should be ready and waiting in the lobby at the specified time to ensure a prompt start to the day’s activities.
Be ready and waiting in the lobby at the scheduled time to ensure a prompt start to the day’s activities.
The drive from Huaraz to the Parón Lagoon takes approximately 70 km north to the town of Caraz, where the group will make a brief stop for food and drinks before continuing the ascent on an unpaved road to the scenic mountain lake.
Punctuality and coordination are key for a seamless start to this excursion.
Preparing for the Excursion
As travelers prepare for the Parón Lagoon excursion, they’ll want to ensure they’re equipped with the necessary gear and attire.
The tour departs early at 8:00 am, so packing a hearty breakfast or snacks is recommended. Comfortable walking shoes are a must, as there’s an optional 40-minute hike to a scenic lookout point.
Bringing layers of clothing is advisable, as the high-altitude environment can be chilly, especially around the turquoise waters of the lagoon. Plus, sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen, is essential.
With the right preparation, travelers can fully enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Parón Lagoon.
Exploring the Parón Lagoon
After the scenic drive north from Huaraz, travelers arrive at the trailhead leading to the breathtaking Parón Lagoon.
They’ll embark on a gentle hike through the Andean countryside, surrounded by towering peaks and lush vegetation.
Upon reaching the lagoon, they’re greeted by the stunning turquoise waters reflecting the snow-capped Artesonraju and Piramide Garcilazo mountains.
Visitors can stroll along the shore, observing the diverse Andean flora and fauna.
For those seeking a better vantage point, an optional 40-minute hike leads to a lookout with panoramic views of the stunning alpine landscape.
Things To Know
Is There an Option to Bring My Own Food and Drinks?
The tour overview doesn’t specify whether participants can bring their own food and drinks. However, it does mention a brief stop in Carhuaz for food and drinks, so it’s likely that bringing your own provisions is not required.
Can I Rent Equipment for the Optional Hike?
According to the tour details, there’s an optional 40-minute hike to a lookout point, but it doesn’t mention if hikers can rent equipment. Guests would need to bring their own hiking gear if they want to do the optional hike.
How Physically Demanding Is the Hike to the Lookout Point?
The hike to the lookout point is moderately challenging, with a 40-minute duration and an ascent of around 200 meters. It’s suitable for hikers with moderate fitness levels, though those with mobility issues may find it quite strenuous.
Are There Any Restrictions on Photography at the Lagoon?
There are no reported restrictions on photography at Laguna Parón. Visitors can freely capture the stunning turquoise waters and mountain scenery during the tour. However, it’s always best to check with the guide on any local guidelines before taking photos.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Parón Lagoon?
The best time to visit Parón Lagoon is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this period, the weather is generally clear, and the water levels are at their highest, providing the most scenic views of the turquoise waters and surrounding peaks.
Sum Up
The excursion to Parón Lagoon from Huaraz offers a captivating experience for nature enthusiasts. The tour’s reasonable price of $34.00 per person and its inclusions, such as hotel pickup, transportation, and a knowledgeable guide, ensure a hassle-free journey. While some logistical challenges have been reported, the stunning views of the turquoise waters and the Andean mountains, along with opportunities for hiking and immersion in the natural beauty, make this excursion a worthwhile adventure for those seeking to explore the region’s natural wonders.
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