One of the Cordillera Blanca’s most iconic day hikes, Laguna 69 delivers turquoise waters beneath towering glaciers. This guide explains what to expect on the 7 km ascent, how to prepare for altitude and changing weather, and where to find quieter viewpoints.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step out before dawn on a high Andean road, headlights cutting across puna grass and jagged moraine. The bus pulls into Cebollapampa; the air bites at your lungs and the valley waits—gray rock turning to cobalt as the sun climbs. The final ridge opens onto Laguna 69: a startling turquoise bowl held against the black face of Nevado Chacraraju.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
10–12 hours (door-to-door); 5–7 hours hiking
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to hike 7–10 km with sustained uphill at high altitude; prior acclimatization recommended
Wildlife
History
Laguna 69 sits in Huascarán National Park, an area long used by Quechua-speaking communities for highland grazing and shaped by glaciation over millennia.
Conservation
Visitors should stay on trail, pack out waste and avoid disturbing fragile alpine plants; the park protects high-altitude wetlands and glacial catchments.
Reserve your spot on the Trekking to Laguna 69 today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Huaraz
Spend 24–48 hours in Huaraz before the hike to reduce altitude sickness risk and test exertion on short walks.
Start early
Begin before sunrise to avoid afternoon storms and reduce exposure to wind and cloud cover at the summit.
Pack 2–3 liters and snacks
High-elevation exertion depletes fluids and glycogen quickly—carry water and calorie-dense snacks for the roundtrip.
Footwear and traction
Use broken-in, ankle-supporting boots with good tread; trekking poles help on loose scree during descent.
Sturdy hiking boots
Ankle support and grip for loose scree and rocky trail sections.
Insulating jacket (down or synthetic)
Warm layer for cold summit conditions and windy exposure.
fall
Hydration system (2–3 L)
Keeps you hydrated at altitude when exertion and sun accelerate fluid loss.
summer
Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, SPF)
Strong UV at high elevation requires reliable sun protection even on cool days.
spring