Lake 69

Hike to the turquoise crown jewel of Huascarán National Park: mystical Lake 69, framed by dramatic waterfalls and glaciated peaks.

Non-technicalDemand: High

Duration

1 day

Max altitude

4,600 m

Season

Jan-Dec

Duration

1 day

Max altitude

4,600 m

Hiking

From Huaraz

3 h

Season

Jan-Dec

You don't need to be an expert, you need the will. We bring the route; you bring the spirit.

Looking for the quintessential Andean postcard? The day hike to Lake 69 is the most celebrated and sought-after trek in Peru's Cordillera Blanca. Nestled at 4,600 meters (15,090 ft) beneath the towering summit of Mount Chacraraju, this glacial gem mesmerizes hikers worldwide with its brilliant electric-blue waters, cascading waterfalls, and sheer mountain amphitheatres.

The adventure departs early from Huaraz, winding through the scenic Huaylas Valley and the Llanganuco Gorge past its iconic twin lakes. From the Cebollapampa trailhead, you'll embark on a 5 to 6-hour round-trip hike traversing tranquil meadows, gushing alpine streams, and the invigorating final switchback ascent. Every ounce of effort dissolves the instant the turquoise surface comes into view.

Perfect for energetic hikers acclimating for multi day expeditions or travelers longing for an unforgettable alpine day tour. With comfortable round-trip transport, certified local guides setting an enjoyable and safe pace, and constant support, all you need to do is lace up, breathe the crisp mountain air, and take in the magic.

Lake 69 at 4,600 m beneath Mount Chacraraju

Panoramic stop at Llanganuco lakes (Chinancocha)

Hike through waterfalls, alpine streams, and quenual forests

The most famous acclimatization day hike in the Cordillera Blanca

Itinerary

1 day · 6h hiking · no overnight

Day 1

Huaraz - Llanganuco - Cebollapampa - Lake 69 - Huaraz

Hotel pick-up at 4:30 AM driving north through the Huaylas Valley. Photo stop at Llanganuco lakes before starting the hike at Cebollapampa (3,900 m). A 3-hour climb reaches Lake 69 (4,600 m) for lunch and photos, followed by a 2-hour descent and return to Huaraz by ~6:30 PM.

3,100 → 4,600 → 3,100 m6 h hikingReturn to Huaraz

Included

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

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

Photo stop at Llanganuco lakes (Chinancocha).

Medical oxygen tank on board and along the trail.

First aid kit and pulse oximeter.

Not included

Huascarán National Park entrance ticket (S/. 30 foreigners / S/. 15 Peruvians per day).

Meals (breakfast and lunch / box lunch).

Trekking poles (available for rent).

Personal travel insurance and medical assistance.

Trekking shoes or boots with good grip (broken-in).

Layered clothing: breathable shirt, fleece/warm jacket, and windproof/waterproof shell.

Warm beanie / chullo and sun hat or cap.

Lightweight gloves for morning cold and high altitude.

Sunglasses with 100% UV protection.

Small daypack (20 to 30 L).

Tips for the guide and driver.

Reusable water bottle or flask (at least 1.5 to 2 liters).

Energy box lunch: sandwiches, dried fruits, granola bars, fresh fruit, and chocolates.

Telescopic trekking poles (highly recommended for the descent).

Waterproof rain poncho or light shell (in case of sudden showers).

Cash in local currency (soles) for the Huascarán National Park entrance fee and small purchases.

Sunscreen (SPF 50+) and UV lip balm.

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).