Huaraz: 3-Hour Trek to Laguna 69 With Optional Lunch

Huaraz, Peru’s renowned trekking destination, beckons adventure-seekers with its stunning Laguna 69. This 3-hour trek, set at an impressive elevation of 4,620 meters, promises breathtaking vistas of the Cordillera Blanca. Whether one chooses to savor a packed lunch by the lake or simply enjoy the natural beauty, this 14-hour excursion offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for those in good physical condition. With early morning pickups, scenic stops, and an 8 km hike, this tour invites travelers to explore Huaraz’s natural wonders and uncover the delights that await beyond the first step.

This experience made our list of the 3 Best Lunch Experiences In Huaraz.

Key Points

• Laguna 69 trek is a 3-hour hike to a stunning lake at an elevation of 4,620 meters in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range near Huaraz, Peru.
• Tour pricing starts at $265.00 per group (up to 1 person) and includes pickup, drop-off, and entrance to Huascarán National Park.
• Participants can choose between a packed meal by the lake (private) or bringing their own food (group) for lunch during the trek.
• The trek is recommended for individuals in good physical condition with prior hiking experience due to the high altitude and challenging terrain.
• Proper acclimatization and packing essential gear, such as sturdy hiking boots and layered clothing, are crucial for a successful and enjoyable Laguna 69 trek.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Laguna 69 trek offers a captivating 3-hour hike to one of Peru’s most stunning lakes, with a price ranging from $265.00 per group (up to 1 person).

The tour lasts 14 hours and includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot without immediate payment, allowing them to book now and pay later.

This trek is an excellent opportunity to take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca while experiencing the natural beauty of Laguna 69 at an elevation of 4,620 meters above sea level.

Itinerary and Highlights

The tour’s itinerary begins with an early 5:00 AM departure from Huaraz, followed by a breakfast stop in Yungay at 7:00 AM.

The group then heads to Huascarán National Park, where they’ll make a photo stop at the beautiful Lakes Chinancocha and Orconcocha.

The main event is an 8 km trek to the stunning Laguna 69, situated at an elevation of 4620 meters.

After approximately 30 minutes at the lake for photos and rest, the group descends to Cebollapampa and returns to Huaraz around 2:00 PM.

Along the route, they’ll enjoy scenic views of the Cordillera Blanca and local villages.

Inclusions and Options

What does the tour include and what optional extras are available?

The tour includes pickup and drop-off from central Huaraz and the entrance ticket to Huascaran National Park.

For lunch, you can opt for a packed meal by the lake (private option) or bring your own food (group option). Snacks are available for purchase during the breakfast stop.

The standard tour doesn’t include a lunch stop to maximize time at Laguna 69.

Keep in mind that the entrance fee is S/ 30 for foreigners and S/ 15 for Peruvian citizens.

Recommended Fitness Level

Because the trek to Laguna 69 involves a significant hike at high altitudes, the tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or low fitness levels.

The 8 km hike to the lake is at an elevation of 4620 meters, which can be challenging for those not accustomed to such high altitudes.

The tour operator recommends that participants be in good physical condition and have prior experience with hiking at altitude.

Acclimatization is also strongly advised, as the tour isn’t recommended for those in poor physical shape.

Ensuring one’s readiness for the trek is crucial to fully enjoy the stunning views of Laguna 69 and the Cordillera Blanca.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Packing Essentials

Packing the right gear is key to a successful and enjoyable trek to Laguna 69. Bring along:

• Sturdy hiking boots with good traction to navigate the uneven terrain.

• Layered, moisture-wicking clothing to adapt to the changeable mountain weather.

• Plenty of water and high-energy snacks to fuel the hike.

• Sun protection, like a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, to shield against the intense UV rays.

Don’t forget to pack your passport or ID, cash for the park entrance fee and any additional purchases, and any personal medication you may need.

Staying prepared will help make your Laguna 69 adventure a memorable one.

Acclimatization Advice

Typically, proper acclimatization is crucial when trekking to the high-altitude Laguna 69. The trek reaches an elevation of 4,620 meters, where the air is thin and oxygen levels are low.

Those with mobility issues or low fitness levels aren’t recommended to attempt this challenge. To prepare, the tour operator advises arriving in Huaraz a few days early to allow your body to adjust.

Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and take it slow during the hike. Headaches, nausea, and fatigue are common symptoms of altitude sickness. Listening to your body and turning back if needed is advised.

With the right preparation, you can safely enjoy the stunning Laguna 69.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Frequently, customers rate the Laguna 69 trek highly, with an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 based on 6 reviews.

Common feedback suggests the hike is "beautiful" but "challenging" due to the high altitude. However, some issues have been reported, such as inconsistencies in pickup and drop-off.

To ensure a positive experience, the tour company recommends that guests:

• Ensure they’re physically prepared for the demanding trek
• Bring necessary supplies like a passport, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate clothing
• Consider the packed lunch option to maximize time at the stunning Laguna 69

Pickup and Drop-off Information

The tour company provides pickup and drop-off services from central Huaraz. Guests are picked up from their accommodations in the city and transported to the trailhead. At the end of the trek, they’re brought back to their original pickup location. This convenience ensures a seamless start and finish to the day’s adventure.

Pickup Location	Pickup Time	Drop-off Location	Drop-off Time
Central Huaraz	5:00 AM	Central Huaraz	~2:00 PM
Hotel / Hostel	5:00 AM	Hotel / Hostel	~2:00 PM
Airbnb	5:00 AM	Airbnb	~2:00 PM
Private Residence	5:00 AM	Private Residence	~2:00 PM
Meeting Point	5:00 AM	Meeting Point	~2:00 PM

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food on the Trek?

Yes, you can bring your own food on the trek. The standard tour option recommends bringing your own lunch, while a packed lunch at the lake is available as a private option.

Is There an Option to Extend the Time at the Lake?

Yes, there is an option to extend the time at Laguna 69. The standard tour allows 30 minutes, but customers can choose a private lunch option to spend more time enjoying the lake’s scenic beauty.

How Difficult Is the Trek in Terms of Difficulty Level?

The trek to Laguna 69 is moderately challenging due to the high altitude, with a 8km hike and an elevation gain of 1,000 meters. It’s not suitable for those with mobility issues or low fitness levels, requiring proper acclimatization and physical preparation.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Hike?

The hike to Laguna 69 doesn’t have any dedicated restroom facilities along the route. Hikers will need to use the natural environment discreetly. It’s recommended to plan ahead and use the restrooms before and after the trek.

Can I Add a Guide to Provide More Information During the Trek?

Yes, you can add a guide to provide more information during the trek. Guided tours include an experienced local guide who can share insights about the natural surroundings and Andean culture along the hike to Laguna 69.

Recap

The Laguna 69 trek in Huaraz offers an unforgettable outdoor experience for those in good physical condition. Visitors can expect breathtaking views of the Cordillera Blanca, a scenic breakfast stop, and the option to enjoy a packed lunch by the stunning glacial lake at 4,620 meters. This 14-hour adventure provides an opportunity to take in the natural beauty of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: