Laguna 69 Huascarán National Park
A jewel of the Andes, Laguna 69 boasts an intensely turquoise glacial lake surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Clearer skies, less rain
Laguna 69 Huascarán National Park
Best Time
Clearer skies, less rain
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A jewel of the Andes, Laguna 69 boasts an intensely turquoise glacial lake surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks.
"This place looks like something out of a movie, a painting, it's too perfect. "
Book a Tour from Huaraz
Most visitors book organized tours from Huaraz for convenience. They handle transport and often include breakfast.
Acclimatize First!
Spend 2-3 days in Huaraz before hiking to avoid altitude sickness.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Electric Blue Lagoon
Laguna 69
An intensely colored glacial lake, a breathtaking reward after a challenging trek. Its vibrant turquoise hue is unforgettable.
Cascades and Waterfalls
On the trail to Laguna 69
The trek itself is a visual feast, featuring numerous stunning waterfalls and rushing creeks along the path.
Panoramic Andean Views
Huascarán National Park
Experience the grandeur of the Cordillera Blanca, with snow-capped peaks and dramatic mountain landscapes surrounding the trail.
+1Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Acclimatize Before You Ascend
Pack Smart for the High Andes
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book a Tour from Huaraz
Most visitors book organized tours from Huaraz for convenience. They handle transport and often include breakfast.
Acclimatize First!
Spend 2-3 days in Huaraz before hiking to avoid altitude sickness.
Bring Snacks & Lunch
No food services at the lagoon. Pack sustenance for the long day.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail can be rocky and muddy. Good footwear is crucial for safety and comfort.
Tips
from all over the internet
Book a Tour from Huaraz
Most visitors book organized tours from Huaraz for convenience. They handle transport and often include breakfast.
Acclimatize First!
Spend 2-3 days in Huaraz before hiking to avoid altitude sickness.
Bring Snacks & Lunch
No food services at the lagoon. Pack sustenance for the long day.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Boots
The trail can be rocky and muddy. Good footwear is crucial for safety and comfort.
Check the Weather
Weather can change rapidly. Be prepared for sun, wind, and rain.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently rave about the breathtaking, almost surreal beauty of Laguna 69, calling it a 'movie-like' or 'painting-like' landscape. The vibrant turquoise water against the backdrop of snow-capped mountains is the undeniable highlight. However, many warn that the hike is strenuous due to the high altitude, and those not properly acclimatized may struggle or be unable to complete it. The long, bumpy drive is also a common point of mention.
"Fantastic scenery. The hike for fit people is a maximum of three hours up and two down.
Unfit Instagrammers who haven’t acclimated should have second thoughts. Indeed there were 7 people on our minibus who were not fit enough to make it to the lagoon."
SEB WALKER
"Did it in mid March 2025. Collectivo rides were organized by a tour company through my hostel (Alpes Huaraz). 3 hours drive with breakfast stop. Hike up support challenging due to altitude. Rainy, cold, muddy. Check out the AllTrails app with it's altitude profile to get a clearer idea.
Well worth it."
Erdin Tokmak
"It's a gorgeous, breath taking colorful lake in the Andes mountains of Ancash, Perú. You must book a tour with a local agency in Huaraz and they'll provide transportation and guidance for 50 soles. You must pay another 30 for the entrance fee. If you plan to go to other places of the national park, you should buy the 3 day pass for 60. The hike can take from 2-3 hours on the way up and 1 to 2 hours coming back. Try to get used to the height before going here because you'll get sick otherwise. Also, take snacks and lunch with you since there are no restaurants around. There are more lakes on the way so have your camera ready!!"
Diego Onomátor Rodriguez
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common way to reach Laguna 69 is by booking an organized tour from Huaraz. These tours typically include transportation to the trailhead, which is about a 3-hour drive, often with a breakfast stop. The roads can be bumpy. +1
While it's possible to arrange private transport, most visitors opt for group tours due to the challenging road conditions and the need for a 4x4 vehicle in some sections.
The hike typically begins from Cebollapampa, which is located within Huascarán National Park. Tours will drop you off here.
The drive from Huaraz to the trailhead at Cebollapampa takes approximately 3 hours each way, often with a stop for breakfast.
Yes, you can arrange private transport or take a collectivo to Yungay and then hire a taxi to the park entrance, but organized tours are generally more straightforward and cost-effective for most travelers.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee for Huascarán National Park is S/.30 per person for a single day. If you plan to visit other areas of the park over multiple days, a 3-day pass is available for S/.60.
Tickets for the national park can usually be purchased at the entrance or through your tour operator. It's advisable to confirm this with your chosen agency.
Yes, there's a single-day entry fee and a multi-day pass, which is more economical if you plan to explore more of Huascarán National Park.
Tour prices typically cover transportation from Huaraz to the trailhead and back, and sometimes breakfast. The park entrance fee is usually separate.
Information on purchasing tickets online is limited. It's generally recommended to pay the entrance fee upon arrival at the park or through your tour operator.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The hike to Laguna 69 is approximately 13 km (8.6 miles) round trip. The ascent typically takes 2-3 hours, and the descent takes 1-2 hours. +1
The hike is considered challenging due to the high altitude (reaching 4,600 meters or 15,000 feet) and the significant elevation gain. It's best suited for those who are fit and have acclimatized. +1
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking boots. Dress in layers, including a waterproof jacket, as the weather can change quickly. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
Most tours start very early in the morning (around 3:00 AM) to reach the trailhead and begin the hike by mid-morning. This allows ample time to complete the trek and return to Huaraz before dark.
There are no facilities, such as restaurants or restrooms, at Laguna 69 itself. You'll need to bring all your own food, water, and pack out any trash.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire area around Laguna 69 offers stunning photo opportunities. The vibrant blue of the lake against the snow-capped mountains is iconic. Don't miss the waterfalls along the trail. +1
Morning light can be beautiful, but weather can change rapidly. Be prepared to capture shots whenever the clouds part, as the scenery is dramatic throughout the day.
A good quality camera or smartphone with a decent camera will suffice. The natural beauty is the main attraction. Consider a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive landscapes.
Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and the environment. It's best to check park regulations before flying a drone.
Experiment with different viewpoints from the shore of the lagoon. The surrounding peaks offer dramatic backdrops. Capturing the scale by including people in the frame can also be effective.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
If older children or teenagers are experienced hikers and have acclimatized well, they might be able to manage the trek. However, prioritize acclimatization and be prepared for potential altitude sickness. It's a significant physical undertaking for anyone.
💰 Budget Travelers
Remember to factor in the national park entrance fee (S/. 30 soles) and the cost of your own snacks and lunch. Traveling in a group can help split transportation costs if you opt for a private taxi, but tours are usually more economical.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for variable weather conditions. While sunny days offer brilliant light, clouds can roll in quickly, adding a moody atmosphere to your shots. The waterfalls and streams along the trail also provide excellent photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Challenge of Altitude
During the hike, take it slow and steady. Listen to your body and don't push yourself too hard. Staying hydrated and avoiding alcohol and heavy meals in the days leading up to the trek can also help. Many tours offer coca tea, which is a traditional remedy for altitude sickness.
If you experience severe symptoms, it's best to descend immediately. While the trek is rewarding, your health and safety are paramount.
Navigating the Trek to Laguna 69
Your journey will take you through stunning Andean scenery, including lush valleys, glacial streams, and numerous waterfalls. The sound of rushing water is a constant companion. Keep an eye out for local flora and fauna.
The final approach to the lagoon can be particularly demanding, often described as a 'psycho torture' by some hikers due to the steepness and altitude. However, the moment you lay eyes on the vibrant turquoise waters of Laguna 69, nestled beneath towering, snow-capped peaks, all the effort feels incredibly worthwhile.
Huascarán National Park: A Natural Gem
+1The park is a haven for biodiversity, boasting a rich variety of plant and animal life adapted to the extreme Andean environment. Visitors can expect to see dramatic landscapes, from towering snow-capped mountains and glaciers to deep valleys and pristine alpine lakes.
+1Beyond Laguna 69, the park offers numerous other trekking and climbing opportunities, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The sheer scale and beauty of the Cordillera Blanca are awe-inspiring, offering a truly unforgettable experience for anyone visiting the region.
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