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Llanganuco Lakes
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Lake
The Llanganuco Lakes are a pair of breathtakingly turquoise glacial lagoons set in a narrow, high-altitude valley within the Huascarán National Park. Situated at 3,850 meters between the massive peaks of Huascarán and Huandoy, the two lakes, Chinancocha (Female Lake) and Orconcocha (Male Lake), are famous for their intense color and clear waters. The lagoons are surrounded by ancient 'Polylepis' or Quenual forests, whose twisted, paper-barked trees add to the mystical atmosphere of the site. According to local legend, the lakes were formed from the tears of two forbidden lovers. Today, they are a primary destination for those seeking the quintessential beauty of the Cordillera Blanca, offering memorable reflections of the highest peaks in Peru.
- Location: Peru
- Top sights: Puchkayuq Punta · Llanganuco lakes · Portachuelo de Llanganuco
- Nearby: Huaraz (16 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug–Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 9 | 9 | 8 | 9 | 8 | 7 | 7 | 8 | 9 | 9 | 9 | 9 |
| Rain mm | 50 | 57 | 62 | 40 | 33 | 14 | 15 | 12 | 16 | 33 | 49 | 65 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The lakes are typically reached via organized tours or taxis starting from Huaraz, winding through the spectacular mountain roads of Huascarán National Park.
Best season
The dry season, from May to September, is generally considered the best time to visit for clear skies and optimal visibility of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
Terrain & paths
The immediate surroundings feature relatively flat and well-marked walking paths along the lakeshores, while further exploration involves rugged and steep high-altitude mountain trails.
What to bring
Layered clothing is essential due to the high altitude and unpredictable weather, along with sturdy walking shoes, sun protection, and a reliable waterproof jacket for sudden changes.
Parking
Designated parking areas are typically available near the entrance to the lower lake, often managed by local authorities or park rangers, accommodating both private vehicles and tour buses.
Safety
Altitude sickness is a realistic concern in this region, so visitors should acclimatize properly in Huaraz beforehand, stay well-hydrated throughout the day, and pace their physical activities.
Time needed
A typical visit ranges from a couple of hours for a brief sightseeing stop at the lakeshores to a full day if incorporating extended hikes into the surrounding valleys and mountain passes.
Geography
Facts
- A pair of turquoise glacial lakes: Chinancocha (3,850m) and Orconcocha (3,860m).
- Located in the Ancash region at the foot of Mount Huascarán, Peru's highest peak.
- The intense turquoise color is due to the presence of 'rock flour' (glacial silt).
- Surrounded by the world's highest-growing trees, the Quenual (Polylepis).
- A primary entry point for many classic trekking and climbing routes in the Cordillera Blanca.
- The Llanganuco Creek eventually flows into the Santa River and the Pacific Ocean.
- Chinancocha offers boat rides for visitors to experience the water up close.
- The lakes were significantly affected by the 1970 earthquake and subsequent avalanches.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Llanganuco Lakes (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is special about the Llanganuco Lakes?
They are famous for their bustling turquoise color and location between snow-capped peaks.
Is access easy?
Yes, they are easily accessible by car from Huaraz.
Can you hike there?
Yes, there are beautiful hiking trails around the lakes.
Do you need a ticket for the national park?
Yes, entrance to the Huascarán National Park is required.
Best time of day to visit?
Mornings offer the best light to see the color of the water.
Llanganuco Lakes: where is it located?
Llanganuco Lakes is located in Peru.
Llanganuco Lakes: what is there to see?
Highlights include Puchkayuq Punta, Llanganuco lakes, Portachuelo de Llanganuco.
Llanganuco Lakes: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Aug, Oct.
Llanganuco Lakes: why is it worth visiting?
The Llanganuco Lakes are a pair of breathtakingly turquoise glacial lagoons set in a narrow, high-altitude valley within the Huascarán National Park.
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History & landmarks
More places
Artesonraju
A pyramid-shaped mountain in the Peruvian Andes, often believed to have inspired the Paramount Pictures logo.
Huascarán
Huascarán is the highest mountain in Peru and the entire tropics, standing at 6,768 meters.
Huandoy
A striking mountain in the Cordillera Blanca with four distinct peaks, rising right next to the higher Huascarán.
Alpamayo
Alpamayo is often called the most beautiful mountain in the world due to its perfect pyramidal shape.
Chopicalqui
Chopicalqui is a popular 6000m peak in the Cordillera Blanca, often climbed as preparation for more difficult peaks.
Huascarán National Park (Flora & Fauna)
In addition to glaciers, this national park protects Puya Raimondii plants, spectacled bears, and Andean condors.
Cordillera Blanca
The highest tropical mountain range in the world, famous for its snow-capped peaks and turquoise glacier lakes.
Duck Canyon
A narrow, spectacular rock gorge separating the Cordillera Blanca from the Cordillera Negra.