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Lagoon · Huaraz, Áncash
Lagunas de Llanganuco
Two green-blue lakes in the Llanganuco valley, at the foot of Huascarán and Huandoy, at about 3,850 meters: Chinancocha, with a path along the shore and boat rides, and Orconcocha, higher up.
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 Lagunas de Llanganuco
The Lagunas de Llanganuco lie in a narrow valley of the Cordillera Blanca, about 25 km northeast of Yungay, inside Parque Nacional Huascarán. There are two: Chinancocha, the most visited, at about 3,850 meters, and Orconcocha, roughly 1 km higher, at the bottom of the valley. The Quechua names are usually translated as female lake and male lake.
The valley walls rise almost vertically on both sides, with Huascarán and Huandoy above, and the water is greenish-blue because of glacial sediments. On Chinancocha’s shore there is a path through queñual woods, the reddish-barked trees that shed in strips, and rowing boats for a short trip.
The road that runs past the lakes keeps climbing to the Portachuelo pass, at about 4,750 meters, from where you can see the other side of the range.
Llanganuco is often the first outing for visitors to Huaraz: the walk is short and helps to acclimatize to altitude before Laguna 69.
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
1 to 2 hours at the lakes; the trip from Huaraz takes the whole day.
Best time
From May to September, in the morning, when the sky is usually clearer and the water looks more colorful in the sun. In the afternoon clouds tend to close in over the peaks.
How to get there
From Huaraz you follow the Callejón de Huaylas to Yungay, about 55 km, and from there drive up the valley roughly 25 km. Huaraz agencies run day tours with stops in Carhuaz and Yungay.
Tip
Walk the shoreline trail to the end of Chinancocha, through the queñual trees. Bring a jacket: it’s cold in the valley shade even when the sun is out.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Lagunas de Llanganuco
At what altitude are the Lagunas de Llanganuco?
Chinancocha is at about 3,850 meters. It is a trip recommended for the first days, before higher trails.
Can you go boating on the lagoon?
At Chinancocha there are usually rowboats for a short ride. Check locally.
Why does the water have that color?
Because of fine sediments that flow down with glacier melt, which reflect the light in shades of green and blue.
How long does the tour from Huaraz take?
A full day, with stops in Carhuaz and Yungay along the way.