huaraz enchanting lake odyssey

Day 1 begins with a warm welcome from an Explorandes representative who will be there to assist you with your 7:30 am land transfer to Carhuaz. Transportation: 10:00-hour private van transfer (L)

We leave our hotel in the morning, embarking on a captivating journey through the Peruvian Andes. Our path takes us southward along the main road to Lima, leading us to the enigmatic temple nestled in this ancient land. In Catac village, we turn eastward, venturing into the Huascaran National Park. Our first stop is Querococha, a picturesque lake perched on the slopes of the Cordillera Blanca at 3,980m (13,057ft). Continuing our ascent, we reach the Cahuish Tunnel at 4555m (14,927ft), marking our transition from the Pacific side to the Amazon side. Just 20 minutes away, our comfortable hotel awaits, offering a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. (B/L) Visit time: Approx. 02:30 hrs. (The monument and the Museum)

Nestled at the foot of the majestic Paccharaju snow peak, this frozen lagoon is a breathtaking natural wonder surrounded by cascading waterfalls that flow down the mountain slopes. Formed by the melting glaciers of Paccharaju—a striking reminder of climate change—the lagoon is filled with floating icebergs and shimmers with an intense turquoise-blue hue. From this spot, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped mountains such as Paccharaju and Copa, along with stunning waterfalls, ancient rock paintings, and native vegetation. The mirror-like surface of the lagoon beautifully reflects the surrounding peaks, making it a truly unforgettable experience for nature and adventure lovers.

Relax and take pictures we have lunch enjoying the landscape surrounded then descend on the same way to Ulta Valley, where our transportation is waiting to drive you back to Carhuaz.

Once we arrive at the starting point in the Shonquil Valley, we'll begin our hike along an almost flat path, gradually ascending in switchbacks parallel to the Chucchún River. This glacier lake, known as Laguna 513, is considered one of the most beautiful lakes in the Cordillera Blanca. Its strategic location beneath Hualcan mountain lends it an intense blue reflection in its waters.

This trek is considered by many hikers to be one of the most impressive scenic day hikes in the entire Cordillera Blanca. On a clear day, you’ll be mesmerized by the resplendence of this sparkling lake, as you gaze upon its crystalline blue reflective waters. A cascading waterfall adorns one side of the lake, adding to the natural beauty of the scene. As for the hike itself, the first hour is fairly level, as we pass through forests of Quenual (Polyepis) trees, with a backdrop of the summits of Huascaran Mountain, the highest peak in the Cordillera Blanca, as well as Chopicalqui and Yanapaccha. A winding ascent brings us to the first small lake, whilst we enjoy views of the snow-capped summits of Chacraraju, Yanapaccha, Huascaran, and Chopicalqui. We’ll be able to observe some cascading white waterfalls along the way. As we continue our ascent, we’ll finish with a short but somewhat challenging push up the track, and then we are at the lake!

You’ll be transferred by land back to Lima early in the morning, on a private bus transfer. Transportation: 8-hour private van transfer