Planning Your Huascaran Adventure

Preparing for this high-altitude region is vital for success. Most activities start above 3,500 meters (11,480 feet). You should spend at least two days in Huaraz first. This helps your body adjust to the thin air. Read our huaraz acclimatization hikes list for early trip ideas.

You will need a park entrance permit for most visits. You can buy daily passes or multi-day tickets. Many travelers find the multi-day pass offers the best value. Check the current rates at the park office in Huaraz. Always carry cash for entrance fees and small purchases.

Safety should be your main priority in the mountains. Weather in the Andes can change in minutes. Wear several layers of clothing to stay warm. Bring plenty of water and sun protection on every trail. You might also want to hire a local mountain guide.

10 Must-See Places in Huascaran National Park

Huascaran National Park offers endless beauty and adventure. There are spots for both beginners and experts. Here are the top specific attractions you cannot miss. Many of these require a day trip from the city of Huaraz.

1. Name: Laguna 69
   Type: activity
   Why go: This is arguably the most famous hike in Peru. The bright turquoise water against white peaks is breathtaking.
   Best for: Fit hikers
   Where: Llanganuco Valley
   Time: 6-8 hours
   Cost: Park fee + tour (approx. $15-20)
   Getting there: Take a tour or colectivo from Huaraz.
   Tip: Book a Laguna 69 day trip and start very early to avoid crowds.
2. Name: Pastoruri Glacier
   Type: sight
   Why go: See one of the few glaciers remaining in the tropical Andes. It offers a rare look at climate change impacts.
   Best for: Families and non-hikers
   Where: Southern portion of the park
   Time: 4-5 hours
   Cost: Park fee + tour (approx. $15)
   Getting there: Join a Pastoruri glacier tour from Huaraz.
   Tip: Drink coca tea before arrival to help with the 5,000m altitude.
3. Name: Laguna Paron
   Type: viewpoint
   Why go: It is the largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca. The view of Pyramid Peak from the lookout is legendary.
   Best for: Photographers
   Where: Caraz area
   Time: Full day
   Cost: Park fee + tour (approx. $20)
   Getting there: Secure a Laguna Paron lookout point tour or private taxi.
   Tip: Hike up to the higher mirador for the best photography angles.
4. Name: Santa Cruz Trek
   Type: experience
   Why go: This is one of the world's top multi-day treks. You will cross high passes and see iconic peaks like Alpamayo.
   Best for: Adventure seekers
   Where: Northern park circuit
   Time: 4 days
   Cost: Guided tours cost $200-$400
   Getting there: Follow a Santa Cruz trek itinerary starting from Cashapampa.
   Tip: Hire a donkey driver to carry your heavy camping gear.
5. Name: Chavin de Huantar
   Type: sight
   Why go: Visit an ancient pre-Inca stone temple and UNESCO site. It sits just outside the eastern park boundary.
   Best for: History buffs
   Where: Chavin district
   Time: Full day
   Cost: Site entry (approx. $4)
   Getting there: Book Chavin de Huantar ruins tours from Huaraz.
   Tip: Bring a flashlight to explore the dark underground stone tunnels.
6. Name: Laguna Wilcacocha
   Type: activity
   Why go: This lake offers incredible views of the entire Cordillera Blanca range. It is perfect for your first day of hiking.
   Best for: Beginners
   Where: Cordillera Negra (facing the park)
   Time: 3-4 hours
   Cost: Free (outside main park gates)
   Getting there: Use our guide for Huaraz hiking for beginners to find the colectivo.
   Tip: Go in the afternoon for a spectacular mountain sunset.
7. Name: Llanganuco Lagoons (Chinancocha)
   Type: sight
   Why go: These twin lakes sit at the base of Mount Huascaran. The water is a vivid shade of blue-green.
   Best for: Easy nature walks
   Where: Yungay province
   Time: 2-3 hours
   Cost: Park entry fee
   Getting there: Most Laguna 69 tours stop here for a short break.
   Tip: You can rent a small rowboat to explore the water.
8. Name: Laguna Churup
   Type: activity
   Why go: A challenging day hike close to Huaraz city. You will climb some rocky sections using fixed cables.
   Best for: Confident hikers
   Where: Near Pitec
   Time: 5-6 hours
   Cost: Park entrance fee
   Getting there: Take a colectivo toward Pitec from Huaraz.
   Tip: Start by 8:00 AM to finish before the highland rain.
9. Name: Mount Huascaran
   Type: experience
   Why go: It is the highest peak in Peru and all tropical regions. Seeing it from the base is a humbling experience.
   Best for: Mountaineers (summit) or observers
   Where: Yungay / Musho
   Time: 5-7 days for summit
   Cost: Significant (gear and local guides)
   Getting there: Expeditions leave from Huaraz or the village of Musho.
   Tip: Only attempt the summit with professional ACMGM-certified guides.
10. Name: Ishinca Valley
    Type: experience
    Why go: This valley serves as a base camp for several beginner-friendly peaks. The scenery along the river is peaceful and wide.
    Best for: Campers
    Where: Central park area
    Time: 2-3 days
    Cost: Park fee + camping gear
    Getting there: Take a taxi to Pashpa and hike inward.
    Tip: Stay at the Refugio Ishinca for a comfortable mountain bed.

Best For Different Types of Travelers

Not everyone wants to trek for four days straight. This park has something for every type of traveler. Families might prefer visiting the official PromPerú site for scenic drive ideas. The Llanganuco Lakes are very easy to reach by car.

Expert hikers should focus on the Santa Cruz or Huayhuash circuits. These routes offer the most remote and dramatic vistas. For those who love culture, the temple at Chavin is essential. It provides a nice break from intense physical activity.

Photographers should prioritize Laguna Paron and Wilcacocha. These spots offer the best wide-angle views of the peaks. Always check the weather forecast before you head out. High-altitude clouds can hide the mountain tops for many hours.

Best Time to Visit Huascaran

The best time to visit is during the Andean Summer. This season runs from May through September. During these months, you can expect clear blue skies. It is the peak time for trekking and climbing activities.

Expect very cold nights even when the days are sunny. Temperatures can drop below freezing once the sun sets. The wet season begins in October and ends in April. Heavy rain and snow are common during this period.

If you visit in the rainy season, trails can be muddy. However, the landscapes become much greener and lush then. Many Lonely Planet guides suggest visiting in May. This month offers a great balance of dry weather and green views.