From Huaraz: Lake 69 Trek Day Tour – White Mountain Range

Planning a day trip to one of Peru’s most iconic natural sights? This Lake 69 trek from Huaraz offers an immersive experience in the White Mountain Range, with a chance to see the turquoise waters of Lake 69, a highlight for any landscape lover. For just $35 per person, you’re in for a full day of hiking, breathtaking views, and learning about this UNESCO Natural Heritage site. Guides are Spanish-speaking, and the tour takes about 14 hours, making it a long adventure, but one packed with stunning scenery.

What we especially like about this experience is how well it balances adventure with comfort—you’ll get a professional guide who explains the area’s natural features and an itinerary that showcases the best sights of the Huascarán National Park. Two standout points: the panoramic views of high peaks like Huascarán and the clear, almost unreal turquoise waters of Laguna 69.

On the flip side, the altitude can be a challenge, especially if you’re not well-acclimatized. The tour is physically demanding, with a significant ascent at high elevations, so it’s best suited for those in good shape who are prepared for a full day of hiking. This trip is ideal if you’re eager to see Peru’s most stunning mountain lakes and don’t mind a bit of a workout to get there.

If you love spectacular mountain landscapes, enjoy guided hikes, and are ready for an all-day adventure, this tour is a real winner. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to learn from knowledgeable guides and are comfortable with high-altitude walking.

Key Points

• Stunning scenery: Expect breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca and peaks like Huascarán.
• Expert guide: Guides are knowledgeable and provide detailed explanations about the park and its features.
• Photo opportunities: Plenty of chances to capture the crystal-clear turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks.
• Inclusion of transportation and pickup: Convenience of hotel pickup and comfortable transport makes the long day easier.
• Physical challenge: The hike involves some altitude gains, so fitness and acclimatization are important.
• Limited group size: Small groups (up to 10) mean more personalized attention and a better experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Lake 69 Trek

Starting Point and Journey to the Mountainous Wilderness

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Huaraz, a standard feature that saves you the hassle of navigating public transit early in the morning. From there, the journey takes about 2.5 hours by bus through the scenic Callejón de Huayhuash, which is famous for its stunning mountain vistas and small Andean towns.

As we pass through Yungay—an area with a poignant history—and arrive in the Llanganuco Valley, the views start to impress. You’ll notably pass by beautiful lakes like Chinancocha and Orconcocha, which are part of the park’s stunning backdrop. This drive alone is part of what makes the experience worthwhile—seeing the snow-capped peaks and lush valleys unfold outside your window.

Entering Huascarán National Park

Once you arrive at Cebolla Pampa at 3,900 meters, the real hike begins. The park’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site highlights its importance—not just for its striking beauty but for its ecological significance. The park covers 3,400 square kilometers, making it a vast natural sanctuary.

Here, we start with a gentle, flat walk for about an hour, allowing us to admire the imposing Huascarán, the tallest mountain in Peru, and get used to the thinner air. The initial movement is easy, but the scenery is already jaw-dropping—towering peaks, waterfalls, and glacial lakes that seem to glow.

The Trek to Laguna 69

The climb becomes more noticeable as we switch to a switchback trail heading upward, a moderate but steady ascent. The trail offers multiple vantage points for photos, with views of Chacraraju, Yanapaccha, and Chopicalqui. According to reviews, the guides do a good job of checking on everyone’s well-being, which is important given the altitude.

You’ll love the way the landscape changes as you ascend—snow-capped peaks enveloping the sky, glaciers glinting in the sunlight, and waterfalls cascading down rocky slopes. The highlight is reaching Laguna 69 at 4,600 meters, where you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the stunning turquoise waters. One reviewer noted, “The water is so turquoise that it seems fake,” and we agree—it’s a real visual treat.

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Authentic Experience & Photo Opportunities

The lake itself is a photographer’s dream, with reflections of surrounding peaks and glaciers. The shallow, clear water makes it perfect for photos, and the peaceful setting provides a moment to soak in the natural beauty.

After about an hour of exploration, you’ll descend the same way, retracing steps through the rugged landscape back to Cebolla Pampa, where your transport awaits. The return trip provides opportunities to reflect on the day’s highlights and enjoy the scenic drive back to Huaraz.

How the Tour Fits Into Your Travel Plans

This full-day trek is perfect if you want a high-impact nature experience during your stay in Huaraz. The tour is designed to cater to those who are in good physical condition, since the altitude and hiking intensity can be demanding. But the payoff—getting to see one of the most beautiful lakes in the world—is well worth it.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention from your guide, and the inclusion of hotel pickup adds convenience. The price, at $35, offers excellent value considering the transportation, guiding, and the opportunity to visit a UNESCO site.

You’ll want to prepare yourself with good hiking shoes, layers for variable weather, and altitude acclimatization. Since food and drinks are not included, bringing snacks and plenty of water is advisable.

Final Thoughts

This Lake 69 trek from Huaraz delivers on its promise of spectacular scenery and a memorable mountain adventure. We loved how accessible the trek is, yet how it still offers a real challenge for those up for some physical activity. The guides’ local knowledge enriches the experience, and the scenery—especially the crystal waters of Lake 69—is genuinely breathtaking.

If you’re after a full day of mountain vistas, photo ops, and learning about Peru’s natural wonders, this tour is hard to beat for the price. Be prepared for a long day, but rest assured you’ll leave with unforgettable memories. It’s best suited for travelers in good shape who want to push themselves a bit and see some of the most gorgeous landscapes in the Andes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts about 14 hours, including transportation, hikes, and sightseeing stops.

What is the starting time?
Check availability for specific starting times; the tour runs early enough to make the most of daylight hours for hiking.

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup is optional and available if you provide your hotel details when booking.

What should I bring on the tour?
Bring sunglasses, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, hiking shoes, a jacket, and cash for the entrance fee and snacks.

Is the tour suitable for children or older adults?
It’s recommended for those in good physical condition; it’s not suited for travelers over 65 due to the altitude and strenuous nature of the hike.

What is the entrance fee?
The entrance fee of 30 Peruvian Soles is payable locally.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which makes planning flexible.

This Lake 69 trek truly offers a glimpse into the rugged beauty of the Andes. For anyone eager to see a world-class mountain lake and enjoy a day full of scenic highlights, it’s an experience worth considering. Just be prepared for a physically demanding but deeply rewarding adventure.

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