Laguna 69
Laguna 69 - a startlingly turquoise glacial lake beneath Chacraraju in Huascarán NP
The route
The line through Cordillera Blanca, Peru - waypoints, elevation and the day-by-day shape of the walk.
Season & conditions
May-Sep (dry season)
Strong sun, cold wind, afternoon cloud at altitude
Best May-Sep; snow/cold possible; acclimatize in Huaraz first. Confirm.
On the trail
Puna grassland and a glacial valley to a vivid turquoise lake
Non-technical walking/hiking; confirm any exposed or scrambly sections locally
Marked/waymarked route; navigation generally straightforward - carry a map and confirm locally
Suitable for reasonably fit hikers; not wheelchair accessible - confirm specifics
A popular, well-known route - busier in peak season
Turn around at the lower valley if feeling the altitude
Getting there & staying
Cebollapampa, a ~3 h drive from Huaraz
Out-and-back/loop - no shuttle needed
Day route - none needed
Day-hike kit, water, sun/rain protection, sturdy footwear; coverage varies
Services in Huaraz; limited or none on the trail
Not required; self-guided
Permits & safety
Huascarán NP entry fee; a long pre-dawn drive from Huaraz
Permits and operators change - confirm before booking.
Altitude illness is the key risk at these elevations - acclimatize, ascend gradually, know the descent rule (4,600 m with little acclimatization is the main risk), sun, cold
Retrace the route to exit; dial local emergency services; carry a means of calling for help where remote
This profile is desk research, compiled from public sources - not a first-hand trail report. Coordinates are approximate.