Preparing for Your Laguna 69 Day Trip

Trekking to Laguna 69 is not a walk in the park. The altitude is the biggest challenge for most hikers. The lake sits at 4,600 meters above sea level. You must spend at least two days in Huaraz before trying this hike. This allows your body to get used to the thin air.

You can find many Huaraz acclimatization hikes to help you prepare. Start with lower lakes or viewpoints first. Drink plenty of water and try local coca tea. Avoid heavy meals the night before your journey starts. Most tours leave Huaraz around 5:00 AM.

Proper gear makes a huge difference on the trail. Wear moisture-wicking layers and a high-quality rain jacket. The weather in the Andes changes very quickly. Bring plenty of snacks with complex carbohydrates for energy. Sunscreen is essential because the sun is stronger at high elevations.

10 Must-See Stops on a Laguna 69 Day Trip Journey

Your journey to the lake includes several notable locations. Each stop offers a unique view or cultural experience. Most guided tours follow a specific route through the valley. Here are the top items to see during your trek.

1. Name: Llanganuco Lakes (Chinancocha)
   Type: sight
   Why go: These twin lakes are remarkably blue and clear.
   Best for: Photographers and nature lovers.
   Where: 1.5 hours north of Yungay.
   Time: 20-30 minutes for a photo stop.
   Cost: Included in park entry fee.
   Getting there: Tour bus or private taxi.
   Tip: Sit on the right side of the bus for the best views coming in.
2. Name: Huascarán National Park
   Type: nature
   Why go: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site with diverse flora.
   Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts.
   Where: Surrounds Huaraz and the Cordillera Blanca.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: 30 soles for a 1-day pass.
   Getting there: Included in your trip logistics.
   Tip: Check the National Park guide for current rules.
3. Name: Cebollapampa Trailhead
   Type: experience
   Why go: This is where the physical trekking actually begins.
   Best for: Everyone starting the hike.
   Where: End of the gravel road past the lakes.
   Time: Start of the 6-hour trek.
   Cost: Free (after park entry).
   Getting there: Tour van or collectivo.
   Tip: Use the rustic toilets here before you start walking.
4. Name: The Laguna 69 Shoreline
   Type: iconic sight
   Why go: The final destination with bright turquoise glacial water.
   Best for: Achieving your hiking goals.
   Where: At the very end of the trail.
   Time: 1 hour for lunch and photos.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: 3-4 hours of uphill hiking.
   Tip: Do not swim unless you are prepared for freezing temperatures.
5. Name: Mount Chacraraju
   Type: viewpoint
   Why go: This jagged peak looms directly over the lake.
   Best for: Seeing high-altitude glaciers up close.
   Where: Directly behind Laguna 69.
   Time: Visible during the entire final ascent.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Hike to the lake.
   Tip: Look for avalanches in the distance; they are common here.
6. Name: Yungay Memorial Site (Campo Santo)
   Type: sight
   Why go: A moving tribute to the 1970 earthquake victims.
   Best for: History buffs.
   Where: On the road between Huaraz and LLanganuco.
   Time: 30-45 minutes.
   Cost: Small donation or entry fee.
   Getting there: Standard stop on most tours.
   Tip: Notice the four palm trees that survived the disaster.
7. Name: Huaraz Central Market
   Type: local experience
   Why go: The perfect place to buy cheap trekking supplies.
   Best for: Buying coca leaves and snacks.
   Where: Downtown Huaraz.
   Time: 30 minutes.
   Cost: Varies by purchase.
   Getting there: Walk from any central hostel.
   Tip: Buy snacks here the night before your trip.
8. Name: Laguna Willcacocha
   Type: activity
   Why go: The best warm-up hike for your Laguna 69 day trip.
   Best for: Acclimatization.
   Where: Cordillera Negra, across from Huaraz.
   Time: 3 hours round trip.
   Cost: Free.
   Getting there: Take Willcacocha sunset hike transport.
   Tip: This hike is at a much lower altitude.
9. Name: Laguna Paron Lookout
   Type: day trip addition
   Why go: The largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca range.
   Best for: Stunning views without a long hike.
   Where: Near the town of Caraz.
   Time: Full day.
   Cost: 5 soles local fee.
   Getting there: Laguna Paron tours from Huaraz center.
   Tip: Go here after Laguna 69 if your legs are tired.
10. Name: Pastoruri Glacier
    Type: day trip addition
    Why go: See one of the few high-altitude glaciers remaining.
    Best for: Seeing climate change impact.
    Where: South of Huaraz.
    Time: Full day.
    Cost: Park entry fee applies.
    Getting there: Pastoruri Glacier tours are daily.
    Tip: It is a very easy walk compared to Laguna 69.

Logistics for Your Laguna 69 Day Trip from Huaraz

Most explorers book a group tour for convenience. Tours typically cost between 50 and 80 soles. This price usually excludes national park fees. You will be picked up at your hostel early. The drive takes about 3 hours each way.

You can also go independently using local collectivos. First, take a van from Huaraz to Yungay. Then, find another van heading toward Cebollapampa. This is cheaper but requires more coordination. Ensure you arrange a return time or have a plan for late transport.

The park entry fee for a single day is 30 soles. If you plan more hikes, consider a multi-day pass. The 3-day pass is better value for active travelers. Keep your ticket safe as rangers often check it. Always carry cash in small denominations for these fees.