Embark on an unforgettable adventure to the magical Lake Parón, a turquoise mirror of water nestled at 4,250 meters above sea level in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca. From Huaraz, you’ll journey through picturesque Andean villages and dramatic glacial canyons until you reach this dreamlike destination, surrounded by towering peaks like Artesonraju—the iconic mountain featured in the Paramount Pictures logo. Enjoy postcard-worthy landscapes, scenic hikes, and a unique connection with nature. An experience that will take your breath away and fill your soul with wonder!
ITINERARY
Our day begins with pick-up from your accommodation in Huaraz between 7:00 and 7:30 AM in a modern and comfortable tourist vehicle. We’ll begin the journey heading northeast through the Callejón de Huaylas, passing through the charming Andean towns of Carhuaz, Mancos, and Yungay, where you’ll be able to appreciate the typical architecture and local daily life.
We then enter Huascarán National Park via the Parón Gorge, an impressive glacial canyon offering spectacular views of deep valleys and the snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. The drive to the lake takes approximately 3 hours.
Upon arrival at Laguna Parón, located at 4,250 meters (13,944 ft) above sea level, we’ll encounter one of the largest and most photogenic lagoons in the region, known for its intensely turquoise waters caused by glacial sediment. This mirror-like body of water is surrounded by majestic mountains such as Pirámide de Garcilaso, Paria, Chacraraju, and the famous Artesonraju — widely believed to have inspired the Paramount Pictures logo.
During your time at the lagoon, you’ll have free time to walk along the shore, take an optional 45-minute hike to a natural viewpoint where you’ll get a stunning panoramic view of the lake and its surrounding peaks, take incredible photos, or simply relax and enjoy nature. Afterward, there will be time to enjoy your food (we recommend bringing snacks or a box lunch, as it is not included in the tour). After the break, we’ll begin the return trip, arriving back in Huaraz around 6:00 PM.
INCLUDED
Included
- Transportation from Huaraz – Caraz – Laguna Parón and return
- Guide
- Entrance ticket
- First-aid kit
- Oxygen tank
Not Included
- Entrance ticket to the local community (5 soles)
- Meals during the tour (we recommend bringing snacks; you may also have lunch at a countryside restaurant on the return)
- Boat or kayak rental at the lagoon (these are rented directly from the local community)
- Personal expenses, drinks, and tips
- Extras
RECOMMENDATIONS
WE RECOMMEND TO BRING:
- Warm clothing
- Trekking shoes
- Windbreaker or rain jacket
- Hat or cap
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Box lunch (sandwiches, cereal bars, chocolates, fresh and dried fruits, etc.)
- Water
- Cash in case you’d like to purchase souvenirs or local products along the way
USEFUL INFORMATION
USEFUL INFORMATION
- This is an ideal trip for those looking to acclimatize before attempting more demanding hikes like Laguna 69 or Nevado Pastoruri
- Schedule: 7:00 – 7:30 AM (departure) / 6:00 PM (return)
- Bringing snacks or a box lunch is highly recommended
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate (great for acclimatization)
- Altitude: 4,250 m.a.s.l.
