Lake Parón

Visit the largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca: Lake Parón (4,200 m), renowned for its vivid turquoise water and views of Paramount's Artesonraju.

Non-technicalDemand: Low

Duration

1 day

Max altitude

4,200 m

Season

Jan-Dec

Duration

1 day

Max altitude

4,200 m

Hiking

1.5h

From Huaraz

3 h

Season

Jan-Dec

"Friend, Huaraz isn't a trip, it's an energy recharge. Let's go, I'll take you to the best hidden corners."

Looking to witness the largest and most dramatic glacial lake in the entire Cordillera Blanca? Lake Parón, resting at 4,185 meters above sea level, is one of Peru's most photogenic natural wonders. Its electric turquoise waters are cradled by colossal granite walls and majestic glaciated peaks, most notably Mount Artesonraju, famous for inspiring the iconic Paramount Pictures mountain logo.

Departing from Huaraz, our scenic journey travels north through the Huaylas Valley to Caraz before winding up the breathtaking Parón Canyon right to the water's edge. Once at the lake, you can take an optional 45-minute hike up to the rocky viewpoint for an incredible 360-degree panorama, rent a kayak to paddle through pristine waters, or simply stroll along the peaceful shoreline admiring summits like Pirámide de Garcilaso and Chacraraju.

This day tour is exceptionally rewarding and versatile, ideal for active travelers, families, and photographers who want to acclimate while enjoying world-class alpine scenery without exhausting multi-hour treks. With comfortable transportation, certified local guides, and personal attention, you will experience an unforgettable day in the Andes.

The largest natural glacial lake in the entire Cordillera Blanca

Front-row view of Mount Artesonraju, the Paramount Pictures peak

Optional short hike up to the panoramic rock viewpoint at 4,200 m

Option to enjoy kayaking or boat rides on vibrant turquoise waters

Itinerary

1 day · 1.5h hiking · no overnight

Day 1

Huaraz - Caraz - Parón Canyon - Viewpoint - Huaraz

Departure at 6:00 AM from Huaraz to Caraz along the paved road of the Callejón de Huaylas. Drive up the Parón valley to the refuge on the lakeshore (4,185 m). Optional 45-minute hike over boulders to the main viewpoint (4,200 m) to admire Artesonraju, Pirámide and Chacraraju. Free time for photos, a walk along the shore, optional kayak rental or box lunch. Return in the afternoon, arriving in Huaraz around 6:30 PM.

3,100 → 4,200 → 3,100 m1.5 h hikingReturn to Huaraz

Included

Shared round-trip tourist transportation from Huaraz (pick-up at central lodging).

Certified official tour or hiking guide (Spanish / English).

Guided accompaniment to the rocky viewpoint and lake shoreline.

Medical oxygen tank aboard and pulse oximeter.

Complete first aid kit.

Not included

Local community entrance fee to Parón (Cruz de Mayo community, S/. 10 PEN per person).

Meals (breakfast and lunch / box lunch).

Optional kayak rental or boat ride on the lake (approx. S/. 20 to S/. 30 PEN).

Trekking shoes with good grip (necessary for stepping safely across the viewpoint boulders).

Layered warm clothing: windbreaker jacket, fleece, or warm sweater (lake wind can be brisk).

Sun hat or cap and sunglasses with 100% UV protection.

Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and insect repellent.

Water bottle and midday picnic box lunch or snacks.

Cash in local currency (soles) for the community fee, optional kayak, and snacks in Caraz.

Tips for the guide and driver.

Recommendations

Acclimatize for 2 or 3 days in Huaraz (3,050 m) before tours that ascend above 4,500 m.
Get a good night's sleep before and eat light meals: easily digestible foods the day before and the day of the tour.
Altitude sickness medication: consult your doctor before your trip. Acetazolamide requires a prescription, should be started the day before, and is ineffective if you already have symptoms.
Travel with insurance that covers mountain activities and rescue.
Do not drink alcohol for the first 48 hours at altitude.
Drink water constantly, without forcing yourself: drinking too much does not prevent altitude sickness.
Inform your guide if you experience a severe headache, nausea, or dizziness. The rule is not to continue ascending if you have these symptoms.
Bring water (2 liters) and water purification tablets if you plan to drink from streams. There is livestock in the area, and these tablets are sold in pharmacies in Huaraz.
Bring energy snacks.
Bring sunscreen with SPF 50+, sunglasses with UV protection, and a hat: the radiation at high altitude is very strong.
Bring layers of clothing and waterproof gear, even during the dry season.
Bring a personal first-aid kit with your usual medications.
Bring your passport (there is a checkpoint at Huascarán National Park).