Huaraz: Mountains and Lagoons 3 Days Tour — A Deep Dive into Peru’s Natural Beauty

If you’re dreaming of a trip that combines spectacular mountain landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and glacier adventures, this 3-day tour from Huaraz offers just that. For $214 per person, you’ll be led through some of Peru’s most breathtaking sights, including the Parón Lagoon, the Pastoruri Glacier, and the iconic Laguna 69. Guided by friendly local experts like Juan, the trip promises immersive natural beauty, active exploration, and the chance to breathe in the crisp Andean air.

What we love about this tour is how it balances accessible adventure with spectacular scenery. The stops at Parón Lagoon offer postcard-perfect views of snow-capped peaks reflected in vibrant waters—an unforgettable sight. Also, experiencing Pastoruri Glacier, with its icy walls and frozen lake, shows off the dramatic power of glaciers in a way that’s both awe-inspiring and educational.

A possible consideration is the altitude—since much of this tour takes place above 4,000 meters, some travelers might experience mild altitude effects. Also, the schedule is packed, with early starts and active hikes, which may not suit those looking for a very relaxed pace. However, if you’re eager for authentic high-altitude landscapes and don’t mind the physical activity, this trip is a fantastic fit.

This experience is best suited for adventure travelers who enjoy outdoor exploration, scenic photography, and are comfortable with small group tours. It’s also ideal for those looking to see iconic lagoons and glaciers close-up without the hassle of organizing transportation and guides themselves.

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Key Points

Stunning scenery: Enjoy some of the most picturesque lakes, glaciers, and mountain views in the Andes.
Expert guidance: Local guides speak Spanish and are knowledgeable about the landscapes and their significance.
All-inclusive price: Entrance fees and three lunches are covered, adding great value.
Active days: Expect hikes, scenic drives, and photo stops—suitable for those in good physical condition.
Small group format: Limited to 15 participants, fostering a more intimate experience.
Altitude awareness: Much of the tour occurs above 4,000 meters, so acclimatization can enhance your experience.

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The Complete Experience: What to Expect on This 3-Day Mountain and Lagoon Tour

Day 1: Journey to Parón Lagoon

We start early, with a hotel pickup around 8:00 a.m. in Huaraz, heading north to the town of Caraz. The 70 km drive offers a glimpse of the Andean countryside, which is dotted with small farms and rugged peaks. Upon arrival in Caraz, your guide, like Juan, will lead you on a hike uphill along a dirt road toward the Parón Lagoon.

This part of the journey is where we love the opportunity to observe Andean flora—small shrubs and hardy plants that thrive at high altitudes—and to get our first views of Cordillera Blanca’s iconic peaks, such as Artesonraju and the Pyramid of Garcilazo. The real star? The turquoise waters of Laguna Parón, which seem almost unreal against the snowy backdrop. The reflective surface of Parón is a perfect spot for photos, and the sense of scale is staggering.

After exploring, we return by the same route to Caraz, then head back to Huaraz, arriving around 6:00 p.m. The day’s activities are physically manageable but involve some hiking and altitude, so be prepared.

Day 2: Exploring the Pastoruri Snow Cap

This day takes us south of Huaraz, into the high Andes. Our first stop is the Carpa sector, where we visit Patococha Lagoon, famed for its wild ducks and natural beauty. The waters here are naturally emerging from the ground, a reminder of the geothermal activity beneath the surface.

Next, we visit Pumapampa to see the Laguna de los 7 Colores—a vibrant, multi-hued lagoon that’s a favorite for photographers—and walk through the Puyas Raymondi forest, a unique plant that’s a symbol of the region’s rugged ecology.

The highlight of the day is the Pastoruri Glacier—a true glacier of the Andes. Here, you’ll see frozen lakes, ice walls, and snowfields that seem to stretch forever. Walking among these icy formations, you can appreciate the glaciers’ fragility and their importance to the local water cycle.

This day’s pace is active but satisfying—expect some altitude challenges and chilly conditions, so dress warmly.

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Day 3: The Iconic Laguna 69 Trek

We depart around 5:30 a.m., heading into the Llanganuco Valley. The drive offers sweeping views of Chinancocha and Orconcocha Lagoons—smaller but equally stunning blue lakes framed by towering peaks.

Our trail to Laguna 69 begins at Cebollapampa, where we start a roughly 3-hour hike. The trail ascends gradually, with some switchbacks, offering views of Chacraraju (6,112 meters) looming overhead. The lake itself is a small but mesmerizing body of water, with a bright blue hue, set against dramatic mountain scenery.

The return hike takes about 2 hours, and the entire experience is physically demanding but hugely rewarding. We’ll arrive back in Huaraz in the late afternoon, tired but exhilarated.

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What’s Included, What’s Not — Is It Good Value?

The price of $214 covers all transportation, entrance fees, three lunches, and a professional Spanish-speaking guide. Given the costs of park entries and meals on your own, this package offers good value—especially considering the logistics are all handled for you. The small group size (limited to 15 people) means more personalized attention and fewer crowds.

However, hotels, drinks, and dinners outside the included lunches are not covered, so budget accordingly. Also, last-minute reservations are possible but check with the provider for availability.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Since most activities are above 4,000 meters, altitude sickness can be an issue. Drink plenty of water, avoid heavy meals before hikes, and consider bringing altitude medication if you’re sensitive. Also, pack essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and camera—the scenery is vivid and worth capturing.

The tour is not suitable for pregnant travelers, those with back or respiratory problems, or wheelchair users, given the active nature and high-altitude stops.

Be prepared for early mornings, especially on Day 3, and a full day of hiking. The group size tends to be small and cozy, which works well for a more intimate experience but requires a bit of flexibility and good humor.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour a Good Fit?

If you’re after spectacular mountain views, crucial glaciers, and lakes with amazing colors, this tour delivers. It’s perfect for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy active days and don’t mind gaining some altitude along the way. The inclusion of transportation, guiding, and meals makes it a convenient way to see the highlights of the Cordillera Blanca without the hassle of planning.

While the physical demands and early starts might not suit everyone, those prepared for the altitude and activity will find this a memorable, authentic way to experience some of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
Transportation, all park entrance fees, three lunches, a professional Spanish-speaking guide, and a first aid kit are included. Hotel pickups near Plaza de Armas in Huaraz are also part of the package.

Are drinks and dinners outside the included lunches covered?
No, drinks and personal expenses are not included, so bring cash for snacks, drinks, or additional meals.

How long are the hikes?
The hike to Laguna 69 takes about 3 hours uphill and 2 hours back. The hike at Parón Lagoon is shorter but involves some uphill walking. Expect active days with lots of walking.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly?
The activity involves high altitudes and moderate physical exertion, so it’s more suitable for active travelers in good health. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with back or respiratory issues, or wheelchair users.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, cash, a daypack, and binoculars if you like. Warm clothing is advisable for the glacier day.

How early do we need to wake up?
On Day 3, the departure is around 5:30 a.m. to reach Laguna 69 early and avoid crowds.

What is the group size?
Limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience and less crowding at popular spots.

Do I need travel insurance?
While not specified, it’s always wise to have travel insurance that covers high-altitude activities and possible cancellations.

Can I book last minute?
Yes, but check with the provider for availability before booking, especially in peak seasons.

Is there an option to cancel?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This 3-day tour from Huaraz offers a well-rounded introduction to the stunning landscapes of the Andes, combining accessible hikes with spectacular scenery that will leave you with lasting memories. Whether you’re captivated by the vibrant lagoons, icy glaciers, or towering peaks, it’s a trip that reveals the raw beauty of this high-altitude region — an adventure worth considering for your Peruvian itinerary.