Huaraz: Hiking in the Churup Lagoon |Private|

If you’re craving an outdoor escape that combines striking mountain scenery with a touch of adventure, this private tour to Churup Lagoon near Huaraz offers just that. For $165 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring the Huascarán National Park, one of the most impressive natural areas in Peru. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel, whisking you away in a comfortable vehicle to start this memorable trek, with a route that offers both stunning views and a good dose of physical challenge.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the extraordinary turquoise lagoon sitting at the foot of Nevado Churup, a snow-capped peak reaching 5,450 meters, provides a perfect photo opportunity and a sense of awe. Second, the tour is designed as a one-day acclimatization hike, ideal if you’re planning higher-altitude adventures later.

On the flip side, be prepared for some steep sections where ropes are used, which might be a little daunting if you’re not comfortable with heights or uneven terrain. However, with an experienced guide helping us through these parts, most travelers find it manageable and rewarding. This tour suits active travelers, nature lovers, and those wanting a taste of the Andes’ grandeur without a multi-day commitment.

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy the vibrant colors of Churup Lagoon against a backdrop of towering snow peaks.
• Expert Guidance: Local guides speak both Spanish and English, making it easy to learn and navigate.
• Physical Challenge: Some steep sections require ropes, but assistance is provided.
• Inclusive Convenience: Transportation, hotel pickup, and drop-off are included, adding to the hassle-free nature of the tour.
• Ideal for Acclimatization: The hike helps your body adapt to higher altitudes for future mountain adventures.
• Good Value: At $165, you gain access to a memorable day with professional support and transportation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Huaraz Churup Lagoon Experience: A Detailed Look

Starting Out: From Huaraz to Pitec

The day begins early, with hotel pickups at 7:00 am, giving you a head start before the crowds arrive. Riding in a cozy minibus, the scenic drive takes you through typical Andean villages. We loved the way the landscape steadily shifts from bustling town streets to wide-open mountain vistas—each turn revealing more of the rugged beauty that defines the region.

Reaching Pitec at 3,850 meters, your guide will point out key snow-capped peaks like Vallunaraju, Ocshapalca, and the imposing Nevado Churup itself. This spot marks the beginning of the trek, giving you time to acclimate and take in the majesty of the surrounding mountains.

The Trek: Challenging but Rewarding

The route along the ridge offers a mix of terrain—some flat stretches, but also steep sections that demand a bit of physical effort. Expect to use ropes in parts, which might be a concern if you’re wary of heights or technical climbs. Our guide was clear and helpful throughout, ensuring safety without making the hike feel overly technical.

The two-hour ascent is tough but doable, especially with the support of your guide and fellow hikers. We appreciated the opportunity to test our endurance in a manageable setting, perfect for acclimatization. The views along the way are breathtaking, with expansive vistas over the park’s rugged landscape and snow-dusted peaks.

The Highlight: Churup Lagoon

Reaching the lagoon, you’ll be greeted by water so clear it almost looks unreal. The vivid turquoise color contrasts beautifully with the snow-capped Churup mountain towering overhead. It’s a picture-perfect spot where you can rest, take photos, or simply soak in the serenity of this high-altitude jewel.

According to reviews, many travelers find the lagoon’s water so clear and inviting that it’s hard not to linger. One comment notes, “The water was so crystal clear, I could see every pebble at the bottom,” which captures the lagoon’s enchanting clarity and vibrancy.

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Return Journey: A Scenic Descent

After some well-deserved rest and photos, the return walk is shorter and more relaxed, with the minibus waiting at Pitec to take you back to Huaraz. We were back at our hotel around 4:00 pm, leaving plenty of time to relax or explore the city further.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by minibus, and a guide speaking both Spanish and English. It’s a well-organized package that offers good value, especially considering the convenience and guidance provided.

Not included are meals outside of the plan, extra expenses, and travel insurance, so travelers should prepare accordingly, perhaps bringing snacks and water for the hike.

The Experience: Authentic, Adventurous, and Scenic

What we loved most was the authentic feeling of venturing into the mountains, away from crowds, with a guide who made sure everyone felt safe and informed. The landscapes are truly impressive, and the technical sections add a bit of excitement—perfect for those who enjoy a physical challenge with a rewarding payoff.

Travelers have praised the views and the value for money, noting that the trek offers more than just a walk—it’s a genuine mountain experience. One reviewer mentioned, “The scenery was truly spectacular, and the guide made it all accessible,” which echoes much of what makes this tour special.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a day trip that combines physical activity with stunning scenery, this tour fits the bill. It’s suitable for travelers who are comfortable with some steep sections and altitude. Since it’s designed as an acclimatization hike, it’s ideal if you’re planning longer trekking adventures in the area.

Families with older children might find it a bit challenging, but active seniors or seasoned hikers will enjoy the physical aspect and the incredible views. It’s also a great choice for anyone wanting an authentic, guided experience that takes you into the heart of the Andes without overextending your schedule.

The Sum Up

This private hike to Churup Lagoon offers a real treasure for those seeking stunning mountain scenery, a touch of adventure, and the comfort of guided support. At $165, it’s a fair deal considering the transportation, guidance, and exclusive access to such a beautiful location. The views are unforgettable, and the experience is genuinely immersive, allowing you to connect with the rugged beauty of the Peruvian highlands.

While it does involve some steep sections and technical bits, the overall experience is manageable with a good guide, making it suitable for active travelers wanting a memorable day outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a scenic acclimatization or simply want to enjoy the natural wonder of the Andes, this tour delivers.

For those seeking a balanced mix of challenge, beauty, and convenience, this hike to Churup Lagoon is a solid choice that will leave you with photos and memories to cherish.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
The pickup in Huaraz begins at 7:00 am, but check availability for precise starting times as they may vary.

How long is the trek?
The trek involves approximately two hours of ascent along a ridge, with some steep sections. The total tour lasts about nine hours, including transportation and stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
It’s best for active travelers comfortable with altitude and some steep terrain. Very young children might find parts of the hike too challenging.

What should I bring?
Bring water, snacks, a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable hiking shoes. The guide provides ropes for steep sections, but good footwear is essential.

Does the tour include meals?
No, meals are not included, so consider packing a lunch or snacks to enjoy at the lagoon.

Is this a good acclimatization hike?
Yes, the elevation and physical effort make it perfect for acclimating to higher altitudes before more demanding treks.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How is the guide’s language support?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, making the experience accessible to a broad range of travelers.

Interested in exploring further? You might want to check similar experiences like the full-day Paron Lagoon tour or the hike to Lake 69 in the Cordillera Blanca for even more breathtaking scenery.

In short, this tour is a thoughtfully designed, scenic, and physically engaging way to discover one of Huaraz’s most beautiful spots—Churup Lagoon. It’s perfect for those who want a well-organized trip with authentic mountain views, and it offers excellent value for the memorable experience it provides.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby