Top Easiest Day Hikes Near Huaraz for Beginners

When planning your trip, consider how many days for Huaraz you actually need. Most people stay for at least four or five days. This gives you time to finish these easy hikes before trying harder treks. These trails are located across the Cordillera Blanca and Cordillera Negra. Some are very close to the city of Huaraz itself.

• Best overall: Laguna Wilcacocha
• Best for views: Laguna Paron
• Best for history: Honcopampa
• Best for families: Pastoruri Glacier

1. Name: Laguna Wilcacocha
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is the perfect first-day hike. It is located in the Cordillera Negra. It offers incredible views across the valley to the snowy Cordillera Blanca peaks.
   Best for: Acclimatization
   Where: 15 minutes south of Huaraz
   Time: 3 hours
   Cost: Free (plus transport)
   Getting there: Take a local collectivo (line 10 or E) from town.
   Tip: Hike slow and bring plenty of water to fight the altitude.
2. Name: Pastoruri Glacier
   Type: experience
   Why go: It is one of the easiest ways to see a glacier. The walk from the parking lot is paved and mostly flat. It is high up, so just walk slowly.
   Best for: Glacial views with minimal effort
   Where: Huascaran National Park
   Time: 4-5 hours including drive
   Cost: Tour fee plus national park entry
   Getting there: Most people join a group tour from Huaraz.
   Tip: Drink coca tea before heading up to manage the 5,000m altitude.
3. Name: Laguna Paron
   Type: sight
   Why go: This is arguably the most beautiful lake in Peru. The road takes you directly to the shore. You can walk along the flat lake edge easily.
   Best for: Incredible blue water and photography
   Where: Near Caraz
   Time: Full day (drive is long)
   Cost: Entrance fee and tour/private car
   Getting there: Take a tour or hire a private taxi from Huaraz.
   Tip: Climb to the viewpoint only if you feel strong; the lake edge is enough!
4. Name: Laguna Radian
   Type: activity
   Why go: This is a hidden gem that many tourists skip. The trail is gentle and follows an old canal road. It offers a very quiet experience compared to popular spots.
   Best for: Avoiding crowds
   Where: North of Huaraz center
   Time: 4 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Take a collectivo to Wilcahuain and start walking.
   Tip: Download a map because the trail is not well-marked.
5. Name: Honcopampa Ruins & Waterfall
   Type: experience
   Why go: You get two sights in one trip. See the pre-Inca ruins and then walk to a beautiful waterfall. The path is mostly flat and very green.
   Best for: Cultural history and gentle walks
   Where: Cordillera Blanca side
   Time: 3-4 hours
   Cost: Small entrance fee
   Getting there: Take a collectivo from the transport hub in Huaraz.
   Tip: Visit the ruins first to beat the afternoon clouds.
6. Name: Pukaventana
   Type: activity
   Why go: This is a massive "window" rock formation above the city. It offers a great panoramic view of Huaraz. The incline is steady but short.
   Best for: Short afternoon activity
   Where: Southeast hills of the city
   Time: 2 hours
   Cost: Free
   Getting there: Walk directly from the main square toward the hills.
   Tip: Go at sunset for the best photos of the city lights.
7. Name: Laguna Llanganuco (Chinancocha)
   Type: sight
   Why go: These twin lakes sit in a deep glacial valley. A flat trail runs between and around the turquoise waters. It is part of a protected UNESCO World Heritage site.
   Best for: Nature lovers
   Where: Near Yungay city
   Time: Full day trip
   Cost: Park entry fee
   Getting there: Group tours or private taxi
   Tip: You can take a boat ride on the lake for a small extra fee.
8. Name: Monterrey Hot Springs Walk
   Type: activity
   Why go: Walk from the village of Monterrey toward the hills. The area is lush and full of local farms. Finish your walk with a soak in the hot springs.
   Best for: A relaxing day
   Where: Just north of Huaraz
   Time: 2 hours
   Cost: Small fee for the springs
   Getting there: Collectivo line 1 or taxi
   Tip: Go on a weekday to avoid the local weekend crowds.
9. Name: Chavín de Huántar
   Type: sight
   Why go: While it is an archaeological site, exploring it involves light hiking. You walk through underground tunnels and stony plazas. It is a world-class historical experience.
   Best for: History buffs
   Where: 3 hours by bus from Huaraz
   Time: Full day
   Cost: Entrance ticket
   Getting there: Almost all travelers use a guided day tour.
   Tip: Bring a headlamp to see more details in the dark tunnels.

How to Prepare for Huaraz Beginner Hiking

Altitude is the biggest challenge on even the easiest day hikes near Huaraz. Many trails start above 3,000 meters. You should drink plenty of water daily. Avoid heavy meals before your first few walks. Most easy hikes are well-trodden, but you should stay on the path. Local residents are often helpful if you get lost. Always check the weather before leaving your hostel.

Hiring a guide is not always necessary for these easy paths. However, a reputable travel guide can offer deeper insight. They know the local history and the names of the peaks. If you travel solo, tell someone your plan. Most of these trails have cell service, but it can be spotty in deep valleys. Safety is generally good on these popular paths.

Essential Gear for Your Easy Huaraz Hikes

Even for short trips, you need the right beginner hiking gear for Huaraz. The sun is very strong in the Andes. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and use high-SPF sunscreen. Temperatures drop quickly when the sun goes behind a mountain. Bring a light down jacket or a fleece. This prevents you from getting too cold during breaks.

Footwear is also very important. You do not need heavy boots for these easy trails. Good sneakers with grip or light hiking shoes work well. Always carry a small backpack with snacks. Local markets sell cheap nuts, fruits, and bread. Finally, bring a reusable water bottle to reduce plastic waste. For more ideas on what to see, check out other top attractions near Huaraz.