Lake Hualcacocha in Ulta valley

Lake Hualcacocha Private Trek

Hidden gem in Ulta valley at 4,355 m with dramatic views of Mount Ulta. Exclusive private trek experiencing untouched alpine wilderness.

Non-technicalDemand: Medium
Duration
1 day
Max altitude
4,355 m
Season
Jan-Dec

You don't need to be an expert, just willing. We guide you step by step; you just enjoy.

Lake Hualcacocha is one of the most magnificent hidden treasures in the Cordillera Blanca. Nestled inside the tranquil Ulta Valley at 4,355 m elevation, this pristine lake enchants travelers with deep blue-green hues and direct reflections of Mount Ulta's colossal glaciated cliffs (5,875 m).

Lake Hualcacocha at 4,355 m in pristine Ulta valley
Spectacular views of glaciated Mount Ulta (5,875 m)
100% private mountain experience away from crowded trails
Total mountain tranquility and high-Andean birdwatching

Itinerary

1 day · 5h hiking · no overnight
1
Day 1

Huaraz - Ulta Valley - Lake Hualcacocha - Huaraz

Private pickup at 6:30 AM from Huaraz driving through the Santa Valley into Carhuaz and Quebrada Ulta. We start our hike along crystal glacial streams, climbing steadily on an uncrowded trail to reach secluded Lake Hualcacocha (4,355 m). Enjoy a peaceful box lunch admiring Mount Ulta's hanging seracs before a smooth descent back to our vehicle, returning to Huaraz around 4:30 PM.

3,052 → 4,355 → 3,052 m5 h hikingReturn to Huaraz

Included

Dedicated private round-trip transport from Huaraz.
Certified official trekking guide (Spanish / English).
Gourmet mountain box lunch and hot Andean herbal tea.
First aid kit and medical oxygen canister.
Medical oxygen and pulse oximeter.
First aid kit.

Not included

Huascarán National Park entrance fee.
Personal travel or medical insurance.
Trekking poles and tips.
Hiking footwear with good grip.
Waterproof, fleece, and windproof jacket.
UV sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen.
Refillable water bottle.
Daypack of 20 to 30 liters.

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).

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USD 120S/ 400