3580 m a.s.l.
Laguna Purhuay
1 km Distance
10 m Elevation gain
20 min Duration
Easy Difficulty
Recommended
May–Septemberbut it can be done all year round.
Ideal for
a family day out, kayaking and visiting archaeological remains
Access
Private car.How to get there
From Huaraz
Take the road east towards Chavín de Huántar, then towards Huari, climbing via Acopalca to the lake.
5h
Approximately, by car, passing rural communities and views of mountains such as Huantsan.
Laguna Purhuay
The road climbs via Acopalca directly to the lake, part of Parque Nacional Huascarán.
Start of the trek
Begin exploring the shore, or enjoy the lake without hiking.
Description
Laguna Purhuay is one of the most peaceful natural landscapes in eastern Áncash. Surrounded by hills, grasslands and small Andean communities, it stands out for its calm waters and tranquil surroundings.
It offers various activities, such as trout fishing, camping, viewpoints, restaurants, boat rides and kayaking, as well as the archaeological remains of Llamacorral. You can also walk along the lake's shore (1 km | +11 m | 30 min) to enjoy the scenery.
Unlike the Cordillera Blanca's more-visited glacial lakes, Purhuay offers a more rural experience, closer to the everyday lives of Huari's farming communities.
Flora and fauna
- Ichu
- Andean shrubs
- Andean flowers
- Cultivated fields
- Andean foxes
- Andean ducks
- Coots
- Herons
- Frogs
- Livestock
Recommendations
Hiking shoes
Cap or hat
Sunglasses
Warm jacket
Rain jacket
Sunscreen
Water
Snacks and/or lunch
Map
Map of Laguna Purhuay
GPS track to be added.
Trails can change. Do not use this space as a navigation guide.
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