When you think of Huaraz, you think of turquoise glacier lakes and snow-capped mountain peaks. A day trip to Laguna Paron is a must-do when visiting Huaraz. The bright turquoise colored lake is mostly surrounded by massive glaciers, including the world-famous Paramount mountain. Yes, that’s the mountain you see in the Paramount Pictures logo, the largest film studio in the world! Laguna Paron is a perfect day trip for your first day in Huaraz because the hike is short. However, you will still ascend to an altitude of 4,185 meters (13,740 feet), allowing your body to acclimate before more strenuous hikes.

Note: If Huaraz is your first high-altitude destination, it’s better to take it easy on your first day in town. If you’re coming from Cusco and have only spent one night in Lima, you’re already accustomed to the altitude and can easily visit Laguna Paron on your first day.

What does a tour to Laguna Paron look like?

The easiest way to visit Laguna Paron is to take a tour. You’ll be picked up from your hotel around 8 a.m. Laguna Paron is 100 kilometers (62 miles) away from Huaraz, and the journey takes around 3 hours by bus, including an unpaved road through the mountains.
Once you arrive at Laguna Paron, you’ll have about two hours to explore the area. You’re free to do what you like. Almost everyone climbs to the viewpoint along the rocky path. It takes half an hour to walk up, including the last ten minutes scrambling over rocks. Once at the top, you’ll have a phenomenal view of the mountains and, of course, the beautiful Laguna Paron. When you’re back at the bottom, you can also take a boat out onto Laguna Paron or walk along the left side of the lake. You’ll be back in Huaraz around 5 p.m. You can book this tour anywhere in Huaraz starting at $55 per person. However, an English-speaking guide is often not included. If you prefer a slightly better tour with an English-speaking guide, expect to pay around $23 per person.

What should you bring to Laguna Paron?

• Cheap tours don’t include lunch, and since you’ll be out for the whole day, it’s important to bring enough snacks.
• Also bring sunscreen and apply it half an hour before you arrive at Laguna Paron. The sun is very strong at this altitude, and you can quickly get sunburned.
• Dress in layers. Bring a windbreaker and rain gear. The weather can be nice or very cold and harsh. The weather can quickly change at Laguna Paron, so be prepared for any type of weather.
• Bring 5 soles for the entrance fee.
• Don’t forget your sunglasses because the sun can be very bright.
• Water! When you’re at high altitude, you can get altitude sickness. Drinking enough water can help prevent it.
• The path to the viewpoint is quite rocky. Good shoes are a must.

More tips for Huaraz

Are you curious about more fun day trips from Huaraz or tips for a nice hotel? Read all our tips for Huaraz here or click on the banner below for all our articles about Peru.