Lake Wilcacocha Acclimatization Trek Huaraz Cordillera Negra

Laguna Wilcacocha - half day hike (ca. 5 hours)

Duration: ca. 5 hours
Distance: ca. 10 km/6 mi
Highest altitude: 3.680 m/12.000 ft
Dificulty: easy

Laguna Wilcacocha is a lake in the Cordillera Negra in the vicinity of Huaraz, ideally located and providing a spectacular view over the Huaylas Valley and the mountains of the Cordillera Blanca. One of the best treks to start your acclimatisation to altitude.

Hike to Laguna Wilcacocha

Trekking Wilcacocha Lake Cordillera Blanca

Itinerary:
Pick-up from your hotel at 8:00.
After an approx. 15 minutes drive we reach the village of San Pedro (about 10 km/6 mi South of Huaraz). At the bridge across the Santa River we start our steady climb. Along the way we can observe daily life in the small settlements - often a smile of the inhabitants will greet us. After about 2 1/2 hours walk we reach the Laguna Wilcacocha (3680 m/12.000 ft). From here we have a fantastic view of the Cordillera Blanca.
The partially with Totora reed overgrown lake is habitat for wild ducks and other waterfowl. After a break of about 1 hour, we continue our hike and return in about 1 1/2 hours back to the starting point. At the bridge our vehicle waits for us and brings us back to the hotel in Huaraz.

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