huaraz enchanting lake odyssey

Day 1 begins with a warm welcome from an Explorandes representative who will be there to assist you with your 7:30 am land transfer to Carhuaz. Transportation: 8:30 hour private van transfer (L)

We leave our hotel in the morning, embarking on a captivating journey through the Peruvian Andes. Our path takes us southward along the main road to Lima, leading us to the enigmatic temple nestled in this ancient land. In Catac village, we turn eastward, venturing into the Huascaran National Park. Our first stop is Querococha, a picturesque lake perched on the slopes of the Cordillera Blanca at 3,980m (13,057ft). Continuing our ascent, we reach the Cahuish Tunnel at 4555m (14,927ft), marking our transition from the Pacific side to the Amazon side. Descending through zigzagging roads, we arrive at Chavín de Huantar, a charming town home to a remarkable archaeological site. Here, we explore the sacred ritual complex, considered the cradle of Andean civilization, dating back to 900-200 years B.C. Adorned with impressive stone sculptures and artistic reliefs, this mysterious place was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985. After a guided tour and a delightful lunch in town, we visit the site museum before making our way back to Huaraz. Just 20 minutes away, our comfortable hotel awaits, offering a relaxing retreat after a day of exploration. (B/L) Driving time: approx. 06:00 hours Driving distance: approx. 280 Km / 173.1 miles Visit time: approx. 02:30 hrs. (The monument and the Museum)

The lake adventure continues on a scenic drive north to Caraz, followed by an ascent over a dirt road to Paron. The journey through the picturesque Paron Valley offers breathtaking views of towering rock walls, diverse vegetation, and the tranquil Paron Lake. Upon reaching the parking area at 4,202m (13,786ft), take a hike up a little hill for approximately 50 minutes to witness the awe-inspiring beauty of Paron Lake, one of the largest in the Cordillera Blanca. Marvel at the dramatic mountain views, including Chacraraju, Pisco, and Huandoy and the iconic Mount Artesonraju, a distinctly pyramid-shaped peak often likened to the one portrayed in the Paramount Pictures logo. For the adventurous souls, there's an optional two-hour hike along the lake's northern tip, providing an up-close encounter with Mount Artesonraju. Immerse yourself in the remarkable landscapes and embrace the magic of the Andean mountains during this unforgettable excursion. (B/L) Driving Time: approx. 05:30 hours Driving Distance: approx. 128.2 Km / 80 miles Hiking Time: approx. 1:30 hours Hiking Distance: approx. 1 km.

We drive east through a race to reach the Control of Huascarán National Park, arriving at the starting point of the trek (Km.42) after an hour. At an altitude of 4,571m (14,996ft), we enjoy a panoramic view of stunning mountains like Huandoy, Pisco, Chopicalqui, Chacraraju, Yanapaccha, and Huascaran standing at 6,768m./22,204ft. The hike begins on a small trail in the Yanapaccha mountain moraine, leading us to a beautiful lookout at 4,645m (15,239ft) below Yanapaccha mountain. Surrounded by mountains and the lakes of Llanganuco Valley, we descend to the head of Demanda Valley (4,230m/13,877ft), passing through an enchanting forest of Quenual. Continuing on the main trail, we cross an open plain, encounter Suspiro Lake, and ascend the last switchbacks to reach Lake 69, framed by Chacraraju and Pisco peaks. This pristine aqua-colored glacial lake sitting at 4,605m./15,108ft. is considered to be one of the most breathtaking and scenic day hikes in Huascaran National Park. After admiring the view, we hike down to Cebollapampa (3,915m./12,844ft.) following the Demanda Valley, where our private transportation waits for us. (B/L) Driving Time: Approx. 02:15 hours Driving Distance: Approx. 50 Km / 31.1 miles Hiking Time: Approx. 6 hours Hiking Distance: Approx. 12.1 Km / 7.5 miles

We begin our day with a hotel pickup and scenic drive to Yungay town, then we head south along the Callejón de Huaylas valley, marveling at the majestic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. In Carhuaz, we head east towards the Ulta Valley, registering at the Huascaran National Park checkpoint before embarking on a scenic hike. We cross the Ulta grassy valley, wetlands, and a small river, surrounded by the beauty of Ulta and Contrahierbas mountains. The ascent begins with a well-marked zigzagging path, revealing stunning views of glaciated peaks like the towering Huascaran, Chopicalqui, and Hualcan. We traverse leafy Quenuales forests, observing wildflowers and mushrooms, while our guide provides insightful commentary about the UNESCO World Heritage site, Huascaran National Park. As we reach the lake, we are captivated by its beauty and rewarded with a close-up view of the Hualcan and Chequiaraju mountains. Relax and take pictures we have lunch enjoying the landscape surrounded then descend on the same way to Ulta Lake, where our transportation is waiting to drive you back to Carhuaz. (B/L) Driving Time: approx. 03:30 hours Driving Distance: approx. 108 Km / 67.2 miles Hiking Time: approx. 5 hours Hiking Distance: approx. 7 Km / 4.6 miles

Embark on a remarkable day as we will pick you up from your hotel and head east through Huascaran National Park. Along the way, witness the beauty of Andean villages and catch a glimpse of local shepherds and farmers in action. As we enter the park, soak in the splendid views of Huascarán mountain. Our hike begins with a gentle trail leading to the entrance of the Shonquil Valley, followed by an ascending path with switchbacks alongside the Chucchún River. Reach the breathtaking Rajupaquinán lake at 4,110 m, nestled below Mount Hualcan. After enjoying a scenic lunch by the lake's edge, we descend the same way, where our transportation awaits to return you to your Carhuaz hotel.

You’ll be transferred by land back to Lima early in the morning, on a private bus transfer. Transportation: 8-hour private van transfer