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The Llanganuco Lakes, located in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca mountain range near Huaraz, Peru, are among the most scenic and accessible natural attractions in the region. These two stunning glacial lakes, Chinancocha and Orconcocha, are part of the Huascarán National Park and are known for their vivid turquoise waters, dramatic Andean landscapes, and peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, high-altitude forests, and natural wildlife, the Llanganuco Lakes offer a perfect retreat for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers.
The Llanganuco Lakes are situated about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) northeast of Yungay and roughly 75 kilometers (47 miles) from Huaraz. The journey to the lakes is scenic, with panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca and surrounding valleys.
By Tour: The most convenient way to visit is by joining a full-day tour from Huaraz. Most tours include transportation, a guide, and sometimes a stop at nearby attractions like Campo Santo or Caraz. Travel time is around 2.5 to 3 hours each way.
By Car: You can rent a car or hire a private taxi. The road is mostly paved but has some narrow and winding sections as you enter the national park.
By Public Transport: From Huaraz, take a colectivo (shared van) to Yungay. From there, you can hire a taxi or mototaxi to reach the lakes. This method is budget-friendly but may require negotiation and flexibility.
Due to their high-altitude location (between 3,850 and 3,900 meters), the weather around the Llanganuco Lakes is cool and can change rapidly.
Dry Season (May to September): This is the best time to visit. Skies are typically clear, and the vibrant lake colors are most visible. Daytime temperatures range from 8°C to 18°C (46°F to 64°F), though it can get cold early in the morning and late in the afternoon.
Wet Season (October to April): Rain and clouds are more frequent. Although the scenery is still beautiful, cloudy conditions may limit visibility. Mornings are usually clearer, with rain more common in the afternoon.
Visitors should dress in layers and bring both sun protection and rain gear.
The Llanganuco Lakes are located inside Huascarán National Park, which is open to visitors from approximately 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily. It is recommended to arrive in the morning for the clearest views and to enjoy more time exploring the area.
Tour operators from Huaraz typically depart between 7:00 AM and 8:00 AM and return in the late afternoon.
The Llanganuco Lakes are famous for their crystal-clear turquoise waters and the awe-inspiring backdrop of Peru’s highest mountains, including Huascarán, Yanapaccha, and Chopicalqui. Chinancocha (meaning “female lake” in Quechua) is the larger and more visited of the two, while Orconcocha (“male lake”) lies further along the valley and is quieter.
These lakes are not only natural treasures but also cultural icons, often featured in local legends and traditional Andean stories. They provide some of the most photogenic and peaceful landscapes in the Ancash region.
As part of the Huascarán National Park, entry to the Llanganuco Lakes requires a park entrance fee. These fees help preserve the ecosystem and support local conservation efforts.
Entrance Fee:
Tickets can be purchased at the park entrance. Visitors are required to carry valid ID (such as a passport). Tour companies usually include the park fee in their package price—confirm at the time of booking.
Though the lakes are natural formations, the area holds historical and spiritual significance for the local Quechua communities. The lakes have long been considered sacred, with Chinancocha and Orconcocha representing divine male and female energies in Andean cosmology.
Geologically, the lakes were formed by glacial activity during the last Ice Age. Meltwater from surrounding glaciers continues to feed the lakes, maintaining their striking color and supporting a high-altitude ecosystem. The region became protected as part of Huascarán National Park in 1975 and was later recognized by UNESCO as a World Biosphere Reserve.
There are several activities you can enjoy during a visit to the Llanganuco Lakes:
The Llanganuco Lakes are among Peru’s most beautiful natural gems. Whether you visit as part of a day trip or combine the visit with a longer trek through the Cordillera Blanca, the serene beauty of these turquoise lakes will remain a highlight of your journey through Huaraz.
