The Huaraz region comprehends numerous natural wonders and activities in northern Peru, which is why you cannot leave this place behind during your adventure through South America.
The Llanganuco lakes are a group of two water bodies surrounded by imposing mountains. Learn everything about it, how to get there, and more while you’re here.
Huaraz is often referred to as the Capital of Trek of Peru since it is home to the Cordillera Blanca, recognized for being the longest tropical snow-capped mountain range with 17 mountain peaks that exceed the 6,000 meters of elevation, more than 500 lagoons, and 722 individual glaciers.
Among all the exciting things to do in Huaraz some may have gone unnoticed, such as the Lagoon 69 and the Llanganuco Lake. Please continue reading and find out everything about this enigmatic destination in Huaraz that will surely blow your mind with its extraordinary scenery!
It is a group of two water bodies, Chinancocha and Orconcocha, which are part of the Huascaran National Parksituated in the Cordillera Blanca. The Llanganuco valley is flanked by a group of mountain formations, such as the Huascaran, Huandoy, Pisco, Chacraraju, Yanapaccha, and Chopicalqui mountains, which elevation range between the 5,700 and over 6,300 meters above sea level.
These lagoons are characterized by their turquoise and crystallized waters, a visually striking spectacle that you can’t miss while visiting this beautiful region.
The Chinancocha Lagoon is a female lake and the most visited lagoon since it is situated next to the Huascaran, a snow-capped mountain with an altitude of 6,768 meters above sea level, making it the highest mountain in Peru. Chinancocha has an altitude of 3,850 meters, a length of 1,450 meters, it is 393 meters wide, and has a depth of 28 meters.
On the other hand, the male lake Orconcocha is not easily accessible because of its highest location. Its turquoise waters have a length of 910 meters, it is 390 meters wide and has a depth of 7 meters. Both lagoons are a few meters away from each other and are surrounded by a varied and abundant biodiversity.
If planning to visit these enigmatic lagoons make sure to follow these recommendations and make the most of your trip! To visit the Huascaran National Park, one must be in Huaraz, which is currently accessible by bus or by taking a flight to the nearest airport:
Taking a Flight: This would be the easiest way to get to Huaraz but also the most expensive. Unfortunately, there is no airport in the city of Huaraz, which is why you’ll have to take a commercial flight to Anta’s airport located 15 minutes away from Huaraz by car.
Keep in mind that Huaraz has an altitude of 3,052 meters above sea level. Therefore, we recommend you to rest at least 2 or 3 days to avoid any symptoms of altitude sickness.
Taking a Bus: This is the recommended way to approach altitude since you’d be slowly and gradually ascending to Huaraz. If your starting point is Lima, the ride will take about 8.5 hours, passing by the most beautiful landscapes Peru has to offer.
If you wish more information about what to do in Huaraz, we highly recommend you visiting FindLocalTrips.com, a platform used to compare tour operators, prices, and quality.
The Llanganuco lakes are, without a doubt, the perfect natural paradise in northern Peru. The Huascaran National Park gathers the most visually striking scenery in the country and the most exciting treks such as the Lagoon 69 trek, which is why it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985.
Peru is full of natural wonders, history, and culture ready to be shared with the world. If wishing more information about the best destinations and short trips from Lima, check out our website and start discovering the real Peru most safely and funnily possible!
