Huaraz: Rocotuyoc Lagoon – Laguna Helada | Hiking | Huaraz

Exploring Huaraz’s breathtaking landscapes often means venturing into high-altitude terrain where snow-capped peaks and vibrant lakes create picture-perfect scenery. This day tour, costing around $40 per person, takes you through some of the most spectacular spots within the Huascarán National Park—notably Laguna Rocotuyoc and Laguna Helada. Your guide, a Spanish speaker, will lead you through a scenic hike that offers panoramic mountain views, colorful lagoons, and even a visit to waterfalls and cave paintings.

What we love about this experience is how accessible it is—within a single day, you get a taste of the high Andes’ wild beauty with moderate walking. The chance to see multiple lagoons and enjoy spectacular vistas makes it a true highlight. Plus, the inclusion of transportation and a guided experience adds peace of mind for those unfamiliar with the area.

A possible consideration? The altitude can be a challenge for some, with the hike reaching 4,550 meters above sea level. Packing appropriately and being prepared for physical exertion makes this more enjoyable. This tour suits active travelers who are eager to see nature’s finest without committing to multi-day treks, ideal for those with limited time or less intense hiking experience.

Key Points

• Stunning Mountain Vistas: Expect panoramic views of snow-capped peaks like Paccharaju, Bayoraju, and Akillpo.
• Colored Lagoons: The highlight includes the vibrant Rocotuyoc lagoon and the icy, frozen Laguna Helada.
• High-Altitude Hiking: The trek takes you to over 4,500 meters, so altitude awareness is essential.
• Local Culture & Waterfalls: Visit the Paqcharuri waterfall and see cave paintings along the way.
• Flexible Booking & Value: For just $40, the tour includes transport, a guide, and a basic first aid kit.
• Limited Lunch Options: You’ll have time for a self-paid meal in Marcará, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

The Journey Begins: From Huaraz to the Mountains

Your day starts with a hotel pickup near Huaraz’s lively main square—an easy departure point. Once aboard, the drive north takes you through the quiet district of Marcará, a small village that feels worlds away from the bustling city. The scenic ride itself is part of the adventure, with views of rugged terrain and distant peaks setting the tone.

Entering Huascarán National Park

The group then enters the Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This protected area hosts some of Peru’s most impressive mountain scenery. Our guide, who speaks Spanish, will brief you on what to expect and share insights about the landscape. The focus is on appreciating the natural beauty responsibly.

The Hike to Rocotuyoc Lagoon

The main trek begins in the Paqcharuri ravine, where you’ll hike through a trail surrounded by towering peaks. As you ascend to 4,550 meters, the air thins but the views become more spectacular. Along the way, you’ll encounter impressive mountain scenery, including the glaciers and rugged ridges that define the high Andes.

Reaching the Rocotuyoc Lagoon, you’ll be greeted by a vivid display of colors—an oasis of turquoise amid the rocky surroundings. Many reviews highlight how “the scenery is truly stunning,” with some noting that “the vivid blue of the lagoon contrasted beautifully against the snow-capped peaks.”

More Great Tours Nearby

Beyond the Lagoon: Frozen Lagoons and Waterfalls

From Rocotuyoc, the hike continues to the glacier tongue or frozen lagoon, where the stark whiteness of ice meets the vivid mountain terrain. Here, the views of Paccharaju, Bayoraju, and Akillpo are unforgettable. The guide will also lead you to the Paqcharuri waterfall, a refreshing stop after the climb, and point out cave paintings that hint at the area’s cultural history.

Lunch and Local Village Stop

After several hours of hiking, you’ll stop in the village of Marcará, where you can buy a simple lunch (average cost of 30 soles). This pause allows you to rest and soak in the peaceful village atmosphere, away from the high-altitude wilderness.

Return to Huaraz

The return journey begins in the late afternoon, with an estimated arrival back in Huaraz around 5:30 p.m. This timing gives you a full day of exploration without feeling rushed, although altitude and physical effort mean you’ll want to pace yourself.

What’s Included & What’s Not

The tour includes hotel pickup near the main square, round-trip transportation, a Spanish-speaking guide, and a basic first aid kit—everything needed for a safe, guided experience. The entrance fee to Huascarán National Park (10 soles) and lunch (about 30 soles) are additional expenses, so budget accordingly.

Not included are personal expenses or extras, and the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with certain medical conditions. The physical demands of high-altitude hiking mean a reasonable level of fitness is recommended.

Why This Tour Stands Out

This day trip offers a great value for its price—covering transport, guiding, and access to some of the most iconic high-altitude lakes in Huaraz. The stunning vistas are what make this experience memorable, with many reviewers praising the dramatic mountain views and the vibrant colors of the lagoons. The moderate length and manageable pace make it accessible for active travelers who want to see top sights without multi-day commitments.

The inclusion of waterfalls and cave paintings adds cultural and natural diversity, making the hike more than just about the lakes. It’s a well-rounded experience that balances physical activity with awe-inspiring scenery.

One reviewer remarked, “The views are absolutely incredible—it’s hard to find words to describe how beautiful the mountains and lagoons are. Truly a highlight of Huaraz.” Another appreciated the peaceful village stop, noting it’s a nice break from the trail.

Things to Consider

Altitude is the main factor to keep in mind. If you’re sensitive to high elevations, consider your physical condition and hydration. Also, since lunch is not included, bringing snacks or planning meals in Marcará ensures you won’t go hungry.

Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re active, love mountain scenery, and want an affordable way to see the high Andes’ most striking lakes, this tour is a solid choice. It’s perfect for those with a day free from other excursions, wanting to experience spectacular viewpoints and colorful lagoons without the need for overnight camping or long treks. It’s also suitable for travelers looking for a guided experience with transportation included.

However, if you’re not comfortable at high altitudes or have mobility issues, this might be less suitable. The hike’s altitude and physical demands require some level of fitness and acclimation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cost of this tour?
The tour costs about $40 per person, which includes transportation, a guide, and basic first aid. Extras like park entrance fees and lunch are additional.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sun hat, camera, hiking shoes, sunscreen, cash for lunch or souvenirs, and hiking pants. It’s also wise to pack water and snacks for energy.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical demands suggest it’s better suited for older children or teens comfortable with high-altitude hikes. Check with your guide about specific age restrictions.

How long is the hike?
The total activity lasts roughly 8-9 hours, including transportation, stops, and hiking, with the hike itself reaching about 4,550 meters above sea level.

What is the difficulty level?
Expect moderate difficulty—good fitness and acclimatization are recommended due to the altitude and hike length.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, allowing some flexibility if plans change.

Are there any restrictions?
Weapons, sharp objects, smoking, alcohol, and drugs are not allowed. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those with certain medical conditions.

How do I book?
You can reserve in advance, and many providers offer the option to pay later, giving you flexibility in planning.

Final Thoughts

This Huaraz day hike to Laguna Rocotuyoc and Laguna Helada offers a well-balanced mix of natural beauty, cultural spots, and physical activity. It’s a chance to witness some of Peru’s most spectacular mountain scenery, with the added bonus of visiting colorful lagoons and waterfalls. The tour is priced fairly, considering the included transportation and guide, making it an excellent value for adventurous travelers.

For those eager to see the high Andes’ best without the commitment of multi-day treks, this experience provides a manageable yet memorable window into the region’s rugged beauty. Make sure you’re prepared for the altitude and bring your camera—these views are worth every step.

Whether you’re after stunning vistas, a taste of local culture, or just want to challenge yourself with a rewarding hike, this tour is a fantastic choice. It’s perfect for active travelers who appreciate natural wonders and don’t mind a bit of physical effort to see some of the most beautiful lakes in the Peruvian Andes.

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