Situated in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru, Laguna 69 is a stunning blue glacial lake surrounded by majestic mountains. Visiting Laguna 69 has been on my bucket list ever since I first saw photos of the lake on social media. However, that is easier said than done. Hiking Laguna 69 is quite demanding as the hike starts around 12,600 ft (3,850 m) and ascends to an altitude of over 14,000 ft (4,550 m). This place will figuratively and literally take your breath away. The good news is that with a bit of preparation, you will be ready for the hike. I have put together this guide on everything you need to know about Laguna 69 to best prepare you for your hike!
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Guide to Hiking Laguna 69
Getting to the Trailhead
Let’s start with getting to the trailhead of the hike.
As mentioned earlier, Laguna 69 is located in the Cordillera Blanca region of Peru which is about 300 miles (480 km) north of Lima. Huaraz is the main town you pass through to get to Laguna 69.
Lima to Huaraz
The easiest way to get from Lima to Huaraz is by bus. There are many notable bus companies that run this route such as Cruz del Sur, Oltursa, and Civa. The route runs multiple times daily, and it takes around 9 hours. I traveled from Lima to Huaraz on Cruz del Sur and found the ride to be quite comfortable. The bus had large reclining leather seats, and the fare included lunch. If you want to save time, you could also take an overnight bus so you won’t have to waste time during the day (I took an overnight bus back to Lima).
Huaraz to Laguna 69
Laguna 69 is only accessible by car or bus. From Huaraz, Laguna 69 is a 3-hour ride away.
First, you have to decide whether you want to go on a tour or do the trek on your own. If you do go on a tour, there are plenty of tour companies in Huaraz that offer day treks to Laguna 69. The schedules for these tours will be relatively the same. Compare tour prices online or in-person so you’re not paying more than you should. If you want to do the trek on your own, the trail is clearly marked that you won’t need a guide. However, doing the trek on your own adds the stress of securing your own transportation to and from the Laguna 69 trailhead. Taking a taxi could cost a lot more than a guided tour. I found it much easier to just do a tour. It was inexpensive, and the guide gave me an additional sense of reassurance.
Recommended Tour
If you’re interested in a tour, I used Huascarán Adventure Travel Agency. My point of contact, Paulino, was very responsive, and we communicated through email prior to the trek. The tour was $15/person and included roundtrip transportation and a guide. The bus picked us up at 4:30 AM and then we made a stop for breakfast (not included) before driving to the trailhead. I highly recommend you to eat breakfast before the tour and load up on protein and carbs.
What to Expect During the Trek
The trek typically starts early, because it’s a 3-hour drive to the trailhead from Huaraz.
The trek takes about 5 hours roundtrip and covers 7.5 mi (12 km). This hike is classified as medium-hard. It starts out flat and then gradually increases in elevation. The path is easy to follow. You ascend one mountain and then reach a flat plateau. Then, you hike up another mountain to reach the lake.
The hike to the actual lake takes 3 hours. Then, most people take an hour lunch break at the lake before heading back down. However, I took almost 4 hours to reach the lake due to not being acclimatized to the altitude (more on this later). It is another 2-hour trek to get back to the trailhead.
People go at different paces depending on how the altitude affects them and their level of fitness. If you go on a tour, the guide will check in on you and help you keep track of time. Do not rush yourself if you notice yourself falling behind the group.
Don’t forget to enjoy the beautiful nature as you hike! You’re surrounded by mountains, rivers, waterfalls, and grazing cattle. Take in the wonderful views, and remember to listen to your body, taking breaks as needed.
Preparing for Laguna 69
The hardest part about the trek is the high elevation. You reach an incredibly high altitude, so you need to be well prepared for the hike. I suggest spending at least one full day in Huaraz before you attempt the hike. Altitude sickness is very real.
I only arrived in Huaraz the evening before my trek, and it was a huge mistake. I did not have a chance to acclimatize yet. During my hike, I struggled a lot. The thin air made my heart race, and it felt like it was going to jump out of my chest. I had to stop every few steps just to slow down my breathing. This hike was the most difficult hike I’ve ever done, and it was because I was not prepared for the altitude. Later in my trip, I hiked Rainbow Mountain, which is even higher than Laguna 69, and found that hike to be much easier because I was acclimated by that point.
If you came from a place of high altitude like Cusco and your body is used to the thin air, then you should be fine. However, if your body isn’t used to the high altitude, you should spend as many days in Huaraz as you can before the trek. Some people also take prescribed altitude sickness pills and drink cocoa tea to deal with the altitude.
Additionally, you need to be well-rested, well-nourished and hydrated before the trek. It is a full day of trekking, and you will need the energy.
What to Bring
You should bring some Peruvian soles and a backpack for the trek. Include snacks, lunch (I packed peanut butter sandwiches, bananas, and granola bars), and water (at least 2.5 liters). Don’t forget to bring sunscreen due to the exposure at such a high altitude.
What to Wear
I recommend wearing layers for hiking Laguna 69. You depart from Huaraz early and return later in the evening. The morning and evening are cold, but the weather warms up significantly during the trek. Wear comfortable layers, and you will be prepared for the temperature changes.
Additionally, wear either hiking or tennis shoes for the trek. Bring a hat and sunglasses for sun protection. Now you’re ready to hike Laguna 69!
The most important information that you should take away from this guide is to go at your own pace. It is not a competition, and everyone’s body reacts to the higher altitude differently. Take a break when you need to and listen to your body. Being prepared for hiking Laguna 69 is key to a fun and enjoyable trek!
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