Laguna 69 Day Trek

Experience the Beauty of Laguna 69: A Full-Day Trek Near Huaraz

If you’re visiting Huaraz and craving a full day surrounded by towering mountains, sparkling lakes, and fresh mountain air, the Laguna 69 Day Trek offers a compelling option. For $35 per person, you’ll spend around 11 hours in the great outdoors, with a certified guide leading a small group into one of the most breathtaking spots in the Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This tour is perfect for those who enjoy moderate physical activity and want to see some of Peru’s most iconic alpine scenery.

What we love about this experience is its small-group atmosphere, which means more personalized attention from your guide and fewer crowds. Plus, the scenic stop at Llaganuco Lake allows for some great photos early in the morning, setting the tone for a day full of natural beauty and memorable moments. The round-trip transportation from Huaraz makes logistics easier, helping you focus on the views rather than the travel details. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour can be quite long—around 11 hours—so it’s best suited for travelers with decent stamina and comfort with early mornings.

This trek is ideal if you’re looking for an authentic outdoor adventure with expert guidance. It’s best for travelers who don’t mind a bit of physical exertion and want to avoid overly commercialized tours. If you’re comfortable starting early and enjoy hiking through varied terrains, this tour offers a wonderful taste of Peru’s high-altitude landscapes.

Key Points

• Early start allows you to beat the crowds and enjoy the scenery in peace.
• The small group size enhances the experience with more guide interaction.
• Round-trip transport simplifies logistics, making it easier to focus on the adventure.
• You’ll visit Llaganuco Lake en route, perfect for photos and a scenic overview.
• The moderate hike covers meadows, waterfalls, streams, and smaller lakes before the final ascent.
• Entrance fees are not included, so budget around 30 Soles for non-residents.

A Detailed Look at the Laguna 69 Day Trek

Starting the Day: Early Mornings and Pickup

Your adventure begins at 5 am with a pickup from your Huaraz accommodation. This early start is key because the high-altitude environment becomes more accessible and less crowded in the morning. The tour staff picks you up at Andean Summit, a common meeting point, and quickly gets you underway. From here, you’ll head toward Llaganuco Lake, arriving around 8 am—a perfect time to stretch your legs and snap some photos of the tranquil water reflected against the surrounding mountains.

The Scenic Drive and First Stop: Llaganuco Lake

Llaganuco Lake is a highlight in itself—flat, mirror-like water encased by snowy peaks. It’s an ideal spot to pause, breathe in the fresh mountain air, and admire the landscape. One reviewer shared, “We loved the way the early start allowed us to enjoy the lake with fewer people around.” The photo opportunities here are plenty, so bring your camera!

The Hike Begins: Meadows, Waterfalls, Streams, and Smaller Lakes

At around 8:30 am, the actual hiking begins. You’ll hike through lush meadows interwoven with streams and small waterfalls, all with towering mountains as your backdrop. Your guide, often praised for their knowledge, will point out local flora and fauna, adding an educational touch to your walk.

Expect to ascend gradually through varied terrain, reaching the base of Laguna 69 around 12 pm. The trail is considered moderate, but altitude is a factor—you’ll be walking at over 4,600 meters (about 15,091 feet). Some reviewers noted that moderate physical fitness is recommended, but the views and sense of achievement make it worthwhile.

Reaching the Main Attraction: Laguna 69

Laguna 69 is the star of the show—an irresistibly blue mountain lake nestled among rugged peaks. Its color, often described as vibrant, contrasts sharply with the surrounding snow and rock. This is the perfect spot to relax, take photos, and soak in the scenery. Spending approximately an hour here allows ample time for photos and a quick snack.

The Return Journey: Scenic Stops and Homeward Bound

The descent begins around 1 pm, with a return to the starting point scheduled for 3:30 pm. Expect to be back in Huaraz by around 6 pm. The journey home offers chances for more photos and reflection on your day’s adventure.

What’s Included & What’s Not

Your guide, a certified professional, makes sure you’re safe and informed throughout the trek. Private transportation ensures comfort and punctuality, but note that admission fees (30 Soles for non-residents, 15 Soles for residents) are not included in the tour price. Also, meals—breakfast and lunch—are not included, so bringing snacks and water is advisable to keep energized.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews, guides are often praised for their knowledge and friendliness, adding depth to the experience. One traveler wrote, “The guide was very attentive, which made the long day much easier.” Being prepared for early mornings and the altitude will make your day more enjoyable. Light layers, sun protection, and sturdy shoes are essential.

The Downsides: A Few Caveats

While most travelers enjoy the tour, some found the logistics less smooth. For instance, one reviewer noted that pick-up times can vary slightly, and waiting around isn’t unusual. Also, the long day may be tiring for some, especially if altitude sickness is an issue or if you prefer more relaxed pacing.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This trek suits active travelers who appreciate scenic hikes and don’t mind early mornings. It’s especially good for those wanting to see one of Peru’s iconic lakes with minimal crowds and with a guide who can enrich the experience with local insights. If you’re comfortable with moderate physical exertion and are prepared for a lengthy day, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For $35, this tour offers a solid way to explore Huascarán National Park and see Laguna 69 without the hassle of planning transportation or navigation. The inclusion of a knowledgeable guide and small group size enhances the experience, making it more personalized and educational. The scenic stops, especially at Llaganuco Lake, add great value to the day, creating plenty of opportunities for photos and quiet reflection.

However, it’s worth considering the length and physical demands. If you’re someone who loves outdoor adventures and can handle early mornings, this is an excellent way to spend a day in the Peruvian mountains. If comfort or a more leisurely pace are your priorities, consider whether a slightly more expensive tour with better reviews might be worth the extra dollars.

In sum, Laguna 69 Day Trek is a worthwhile experience if you value guided mountain walks, stunning scenery, and are prepared for an active day. It’s an authentic way to connect with Peru’s high-altitude landscapes and create lasting memories.

FAQ

How early do I need to wake up for this tour?
You’ll be picked up at 5 am, so an early start is necessary. This helps you beat the crowds and enjoy the scenery in the morning light.

What should I bring for the hike?
Bring snacks, water, sun protection, layers for warmth, and sturdy shoes. Since meals aren’t included, packing some food is a good idea.

Is this trek suitable for beginners?
It’s considered moderate in difficulty, but be mindful of altitude and physical fitness. Travelers with moderate fitness levels will likely manage well.

Are entrance fees included?
No, admission to Huascarán National Park costs 30 Soles for non-residents and 15 Soles for residents, payable on the day.

How long does the whole trip last?
The entire experience is roughly 11 hours, from pickup at 5 am to return around 6 pm.

Can I expect crowds at Laguna 69?
Starting early helps avoid the busiest times, but it’s still a popular spot, so some crowds are inevitable during peak season.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour provider offers a full refund or a change of date if weather conditions prevent hiking. Good weather is a requirement for the trip.

Would I recommend this tour?
Yes, especially if you want an organized, guided hike with excellent scenery and don’t mind a full day of activity. It’s well suited for those who enjoy nature, photography, and moderate trekking.

This full-day trek to Laguna 69 stands out as an affordable, scenic, and guided adventure perfect for active travelers eager to see one of Peru’s most stunning lakes. While it’s a long day, the views and company make it worthwhile for those ready for a mountain adventure.