4450 m a.s.l. Laguna
Laguna
Churup
6 km Distance
670 m Elevation gain
3h30 Duration
Moderate Difficulty
Recommended
May - September but it can be done all year round
Ideal for
Acclimatise andgo trekking
independently.
Access
Shared minibus, taxi, touror private car.
How to get there
From Huaraz
Take a taxi, shared minibus or private transport towards Pitec, east of the city.
45 min
Approximately, passing rural communities and cultivated fields.
Pitec
The route is part of Parque Nacional Huascarán.
Start of the trek
Begin the approximately 2-hour hike to the lake.
Description
Laguna Churup is one of the best-known hikes near Huaraz and an excellent option for acclimatisation or a few hours away from the city. Its proximity, varied landscapes and the experience of walking in high-mountain surroundings make it one of the area's most recommended routes.
The route climbs through quebrada Churup, crossing grasslands, queñual forests, rock formations and small lakes until it reaches a turquoise-blue glacial lake at the foot of Churup. From the lake, it is worth walking a few more minutes to the viewpoint for a broader view of the landscape.
One of the route's most distinctive stretches is a rock wall equipped with chains, adding a small challenge to the hike. Going up this way and returning via the viewpoint trail is recommended, as the descent is more comfortable.
There is a camping area near the lake, and those wishing to extend the hike can continue to laguna Churupita (+1 h 30 min | +280 m | 2.5 km).
Flora and fauna
- Queñual trees
- Ichu
- High-Andean flowers
- Mosses and lichens
- High-Andean wetlands
- Andean cacti
- Vizcachas
- Andean hummingbirds
- Caracaras
- Condors
- High-altitude ducks
- Mountain birds
Recommendations
Start early (before 8 a.m.) to enjoy the lake with better light and weather, and take the essentials with you.
Hiking
shoes
shoes
Cap or
hat
hat
Sun
glasses
glasses
Warm
jacket
jacket
Rain jacket
Sun
screen
screen
Water
Snacks and/or
lunch
lunch
Map
Trails can change. Follow the map attentively and with care.
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