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Lagoon · Huaraz, Áncash
Laguna 69
A turquoise-water lake at about 4,600 meters, beneath the neveado Chacraraju, at the end of a high-altitude trail that climbs from Cebollapampa in the Llanganuco valley. Visits are made with an authorized agency.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Laguna 69
Laguna 69 is one of more than 400 lakes in Parque Nacional Huascarán. The number comes from the order in which the region’s lakes were cataloged. It sits at about 4,600 meters, in the upper part of quebrada Demanda, at the foot of neveado Chacraraju, from which a meltwater waterfall feeds the lake.
The trail starts at Cebollapampa in the Llanganuco valley and climbs along the bank of a stream with several waterfalls, passing past pastures with cows, a smaller lake and switchbacks in the final section. The ascent typically takes 3 to 4 hours, and the return 2 to 3. Along the way you may see Puya raimondii, queñual trees and, if lucky, condors.
The turquoise water with the glacier right above made Laguna 69 one of Huaraz’s most popular hikes. Visits are now allowed only with park-authorized agencies, which buy tickets through the official channel.
It is a high-altitude trail: it is usually recommended after a few days in Huaraz and after doing an easier outing like Llanganuco or Churup.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
A full day from Huaraz: about 5 to 7 hours of walking round trip, plus around 3 hours of road travel each way.
Best time
From May to September, during the dry season. Leave early: clouds usually arrive around noon and the return needs to finish in daylight.
How to get there
From Huaraz, agencies depart at dawn and travel via Yungay and the Llanganuco valley to Cebollapampa, at about 3,900 meters, where the trail begins.
Tip
Save Laguna 69 for your third or fourth day in Huaraz. Bring water, snacks, sunscreen, a hat and a waterproof jacket, and walk at your own pace.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Laguna 69
How long is the trail to Laguna 69?
The ascent usually takes 3 to 4 hours from Cebollapampa, and the return 2 to 3 hours. With the drive from Huaraz, it's a full day.
Do I need to go with an agency?
Yes. Visits to Laguna 69 are now only conducted with agencies authorized by the park. Check the rules before you go.
At what altitude is the lagoon?
About 4,600 meters. Many travelers feel the altitude: leave the trail for after a few days in Huaraz.
Why is it called 69?
It's the number the lagoon received when the region's lagoons were catalogued.