Huascarán National Park:
Access, Advice and Practical Information

Located in the Cordillera Blanca, in the heart of the central Andes of Peru, Huascarán National Park protects a vast portion of this spectacular mountain range in the Áncash region. It takes its name from Huascarán, the peak that dominates the Cordillera Blanca at 6,768 metres above sea level and is the highest point in Peru.

With its snow-capped mountains, tropical glaciers, numerous high-altitude lagoons, deep valleys and high plateaus, the park forms one of the country's great high-mountain natural ensembles. Its territory covers 340,000 hectares, or approximately 3,400 km², and encompasses a remarkable diversity of landscapes and ecosystems.

Huascarán National Park fact sheet

A territory in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca

The park covers a large part of the Cordillera Blanca, a tropical mountain range characterised by its snow-capped peaks and highly rugged terrain. The protected territory encompasses landscapes that change considerably with altitude, from the lowest areas up to the glaciers and peaks exceeding 6,000 metres.

Huascarán National Park is spread across several provinces of the Áncash region: Huaylas, Yungay, Carhuaz, Huaraz, Recuay, Bolognesi, Huari, Asunción, Mariscal Luzuriaga and Pomabamba. The city of Huaraz, located near the Cordillera Blanca, is one of the main starting points for discovering its landscapes and routes.

This proximity to Huaraz provides access to many areas of the park for day trips, while other routes require several days of hiking or are intended for experienced mountaineers. Among the major spaces and tourist sites are Llanganuco, Laguna 69, Laguna Parón, Laguna Churup, the Santa Cruz circuit, Alpamayo, Nevado Pisco, the Climate Change Route and Laguna Purhuay.

The park is not limited to its landscapes and mountain activities, however. It is also home to significant biological diversity and bears witness to an ancient human presence, with several archaeological remains found within and around its territory.

A territory inhabited for thousands of years

The territory of Huascarán National Park has been visited and inhabited by Andean populations for millennia. The traces left by these societies bear witness to their adaptation to the particular conditions of the high mountains.

Several pre-Columbian remains are present in the region, including agricultural terraces, enclosures, paths, canals, hydraulic works, rock paintings, burials and various archaeological remains. These elements remind us that the Cordillera Blanca is not only an exceptional natural space: it is also a territory marked by a long human history.

Huascarán National Park listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site

In 1985, Huascarán National Park was inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list. This international recognition highlights both the exceptional beauty of its landscapes and the importance of its natural and geological characteristics.

The inscription concerns a vast high-mountain ensemble in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca, considered the highest tropical mountain range in the world. The park notably contains 27 peaks exceeding 6,000 metres in altitude, including Huascarán, which rises to 6,768 metres and is the highest peak in Peru.

Exceptional high-mountain landscapes

The scenic richness of Huascarán National Park is one of the main elements of its international renown. The contrast between snow-capped peaks, tropical glaciers, glacial lagoons, high plateaus, deep valleys and torrents creates particularly spectacular landscapes.

The park also presents a remarkable diversity linked to altitude. From the valleys located at around 2,500 metres up to the highest peaks, the terrain and climate change considerably, allowing the presence of different natural environments, from Andean vegetation to the high-altitude zones near the glaciers.

This combination of peaks over 6,000 metres, glaciers, lagoons and high-altitude ecosystems largely explains the importance of Huascarán National Park in Peru's natural heritage.

A geology shaped by glaciers and the movements of the Earth

The park's natural heritage is not limited to its landscapes. The Cordillera Blanca is also of major geological and geomorphological interest, the result of millions of years of transformations of the terrain.

The uplift of the Andes, tectonic movements, folding and faults have helped shape today's mountains. Volcanism and the characteristics of the rock formations also contribute to the geological diversity of the region.

Glaciers then played an essential role in shaping the landscape. Their advance and retreat profoundly modelled the valleys, reliefs and basins where many glacial lagoons of Huascarán National Park are found today.

This natural evolution continues to influence the region's hydrology. Glaciers are indeed an essential resource for the ecosystems and populations settled in the surrounding valleys.

Why was Huascarán National Park created?

The creation of Huascarán National Park responds to the need to protect the landscapes, glaciers, lagoons, wildlife and flora of the Cordillera Blanca. Before this protection was put in place, certain species and natural environments were subject to heavy pressure, particularly due to hunting and resource exploitation.

The situation of the vicuña, once threatened by intensive hunting, as well as the need to preserve remarkable plant species such as puya raimondii, notably contributed to strengthening protection measures in this high-mountain region.

A national park created in 1975

Huascarán National Park was created in 1975 by supreme decree, under Peruvian legislation relating to the protection of forests and wildlife. It now covers approximately 340,000 hectares spread across several provinces of the Áncash region.

The park is managed by SERNANP, the body responsible for protected natural areas in Peru. The protection of the territory must, however, take into account the long-standing presence of local populations and certain traditional practices, particularly livestock farming and the use of natural resources.

A biosphere reserve in the heart of the Cordillera Blanca

Huascarán National Park is also part of the Huascarán biosphere reserve, recognised by UNESCO in 1977. This recognition encompasses a larger territory than the national park alone and aims to promote the conservation of ecosystems while taking into account human activities and the development of local communities.

The park constitutes the protected core zone of this biosphere reserve. This organisation allows for better consideration of the links between the high-mountain natural spaces, the surrounding valleys and the populations that depend directly on the water resources and ecosystems of the Cordillera Blanca.

Conservation in the face of glacier retreat

The protection of Huascarán National Park represents a particularly important issue today in the face of climate change. The glaciers of the Cordillera Blanca are retreating, gradually modifying the high-mountain landscapes and the formation of new glacial lagoons.

This evolution also concerns the water resources on which the ecosystems and populations settled in the valleys depend. The conservation of glaciers, lagoons, soils and high-altitude vegetation is therefore an issue that goes far beyond the boundaries of the park.

A landscape dominated by the glaciers of the Cordillera Blanca

The glaciers of Huascarán National Park are one of the most spectacular features of the Cordillera Blanca. They cover the slopes of the highest Andean peaks and contribute to the formation of the landscapes surrounding Huaraz and the main valleys of the Áncash region.

The park is home to approximately 712 glaciers, associated with particularly rugged terrain alternating between snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, high plateaus and torrents. Huascarán, which reaches 6,768 metres, dominates this exceptional ensemble alongside many other peaks over 6,000 metres.

Glacial lagoons: an exceptional natural heritage

The melting and retreat of glaciers have helped shape numerous glacial lagoons. Huascarán National Park contains approximately 434 of them, in highly varied shapes, colours and sizes.

Some have become among the best-known natural sites of the Cordillera Blanca. Their turquoise or deep blue waters contrast with the rocky walls, glaciers and snow-capped peaks that surround them.

Among the most famous are Laguna 69, Laguna Llanganuco, Laguna Parón, Laguna Churup and Laguna Purhuay. They reveal very different landscapes depending on their altitude and the area of the park in which they are located.

Laguna Llanganuco: the famous turquoise waters

In the Llanganuco area, the lagoons of Chinancocha and Orconcocha occupy a spectacular glacial valley located between the Huascarán and Huandoy massifs. The turquoise colour of their waters, combined with the quenual forests and surrounding peaks, makes this one of the park's emblematic landscapes.

The area also allows for hiking, observation of landscapes and flora, and birdwatching. Chinancocha also has an interpretation centre providing a better understanding of the natural environment.

Laguna 69: one of the must-do hikes

Laguna 69 is one of the most sought-after sites for travellers visiting Huascarán National Park. It lies at the foot of Chacraraju and Nevado Pisco, in a high-mountain environment marked by glaciers and snow-capped peaks.

Access requires a high-altitude hike from the Cebollapampa area. The route gradually offers views of the mountains, waterfalls, rock formations and Andean vegetation before reaching the lagoon.

Laguna Parón: the largest lake in the park

Located in the Parón area, Laguna Parón is presented as the largest lagoon in Huascarán National Park. It occupies a vast glacial basin surrounded by several peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.

From its shores, the landscapes allow you to observe the massifs of Caraz, Artesonraju, Huandoy, Paria, Pirámide, Chacraraju and Pisco. The site is suitable for hiking, landscape observation and camping in authorised areas.

Glaciers essential to water resources

The glaciers of the Cordillera Blanca also play an essential role in the region's hydrological functioning. Water from their melting feeds the rivers and lake systems that flow down to the valleys.

This function makes glacier retreat particularly important for the future of Huascarán National Park and the surrounding territories. Climate change is gradually modifying the glaciers and may also lead to the formation or evolution of certain glacial lagoons.

Remarkable biodiversity in the Andes

Despite the extreme conditions of the high mountains, Huascarán National Park is home to particularly rich biodiversity. The significant differences in altitude, the valleys, high plateaus, wetlands and areas near the glaciers create a wide variety of natural environments.

The park records approximately 901 species of flora, 201 species of birds and 25 species of mammals. This diversity makes Huascarán one of Peru's most important protected areas for the conservation of mountain ecosystems.

The park's emblematic mammals

Several mammals characteristic of the Andes live within the park's territory. The vicuña is one of the emblematic species of the high plateaus. It has adapted to the difficult conditions of the puna and the sometimes very low temperatures of the high mountains.

The North Andean deer, the puma, the spectacled bear and the Andean cat are also part of the wildlife present in the region. Some of these species are particularly discreet and observing them in the wild remains a matter of chance.

Birds of the Cordillera Blanca

Huascarán National Park is also home to a significant diversity of birds. More than 200 species have been recorded in the park's different environments, from the valleys to the high-altitude zones.

Among the most emblematic species are the Andean condor and the giant hummingbird. The lagoons, watercourses and wetlands also host various species adapted to the particular conditions of the Cordillera Blanca.

For visitors, wildlife observation is an interesting complementary activity during hikes. It is important, however, to keep your distance and not attempt to attract or feed the animals.

Flora adapted to high-mountain conditions

The park's vegetation varies greatly with altitude. It includes high-mountain grasslands and plant formations, as well as native trees and shrubs, and aromatic, medicinal and ornamental plants.

In some areas, quenual forests are a characteristic feature of the Andean landscape. These native trees can form stands in the valleys and on certain slopes of the Cordillera Blanca.

Puya raimondii, an emblematic plant of the Andes

Among the most remarkable plants of Huascarán National Park is puya raimondii, also known as the "queen of the Andes". This spectacular plant, characteristic of the high Andes, can reach an impressive size when it reaches maturity.

Its presence is particularly interesting for visitors wishing to discover Andean flora. It is also an important species of the Cordillera Blanca's natural heritage and is subject to conservation measures.

Ecosystems that change with altitude

The biodiversity of Huascarán National Park is closely linked to the terrain. The lower parts of the valleys may contain areas of wooded vegetation, while the higher altitudes are dominated by puna grasslands and shrubs. Even higher up, vegetation becomes much scarcer in the areas near the glaciers and peaks.

This succession of environments over several thousand metres of altitude explains the exceptional diversity observed within a single protected area. It is also one of the main reasons for the park's importance for the conservation of Andean ecosystems.

Huascarán National Park covers a vast territory of the Cordillera Blanca. To discover its landscapes and main natural sites, visitors access different tourist areas, each offering specific landscapes and activities.

The Llanganuco area: lagoons and major peaks

The Llanganuco area is one of the most famous in the park. It is located in a spectacular glacial valley dominated by the peaks of Huascarán and Huandoy. The lagoons of Chinancocha and Orconcocha, recognisable by their turquoise waters, are the main points of interest.

This area allows for hiking, observation of landscapes, flora and birds. At Chinancocha, visitors will also find an interpretation centre dedicated to the area's natural environment.

The Llanganuco area is also the starting point for several important routes in the Cordillera Blanca, notably towards Laguna 69 and for certain multi-day hikes.

Laguna 69: a must-do hike

Laguna 69 is one of the best-known natural sites in Huascarán National Park. Set in a high-mountain environment at the foot of Chacraraju and Nevado Pisco, it is renowned for the intense colour of its waters.

Access is on foot from Cebollapampa, after crossing various mountain landscapes. The route notably allows you to observe waterfalls, rock formations, Andean vegetation and several peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.

The Parón area: a large lagoon surrounded by peaks

The Parón area is home to the largest lagoon in the park. Laguna Parón occupies a vast glacial basin surrounded by several emblematic peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.

Among the mountains visible from the area are Caraz, Artesonraju, Huandoy, Paria, Pirámide, Chacraraju and Pisco. The site can be explored on foot and camping is possible in authorised areas.

The Santa Cruz-Huaripampa area: a major mountain route

The Santa Cruz-Huaripampa area is particularly renowned for its landscapes and constitutes one of the great trekking routes of the Cordillera Blanca. The route crosses high-altitude valleys and allows you to approach several peaks and glacial lagoons.

Among the landscapes and peaks observed are Taulliraju, Alpamayo, Artesonraju and Rinrihirca, as well as the lagoons of Jatuncocha and Taullicocha. The route includes crossing the Punta Unión, at approximately 4,750 metres in altitude.

Hiking and camping are the main activities in this area, generally explored over several days.

The Carpa area: discovering the effects of climate change

The Carpa area offers a different approach to the park with the Climate Change Route. This itinerary allows you to observe the transformations of the high-mountain landscape and the effects of glacier retreat.

The area notably includes Patococha, the interpretation centre, Aguas Gasificadas and Pumapashimin. The visit can combine landscape observation, hiking, flora discovery and supervised activities such as horseback riding.

Laguna Churup: a natural site near Huaraz

Laguna Churup, in the Carpa area, is one of the most accessible excursions from Huaraz for discovering the park's high-mountain landscapes.

Located at the foot of Churup, it is surrounded by rocky walls and Andean peaks. Depending on the light, the lagoon's waters can show green or turquoise hues. The route also offers views of Huaraz, as well as the Cashan and Shaqsha mountains.

The Ichic Potrero area: Laguna Purhuay and Andean nature

In the Ichic Potrero area, Laguna Purhuay is one of the main tourist sites of the Conchucos region. The site is appreciated for its natural environment and its landscapes surrounded by Andean vegetation.

Activities notably include hiking, boat rides, kayaking, mountain biking and camping, depending on conditions and authorised areas. The area also allows you to discover native plants and certain local gastronomic products.

Huascarán National Park is one of the great trekking destinations in Peru. The Cordillera Blanca offers highly varied routes, from day hikes around the lagoons to multi-day treks crossing the high-mountain valleys.

Conditions are demanding, however, due to the altitude. Good acclimatisation in Huaraz is strongly recommended before undertaking a long hike or a route involving a high pass.

The Santa Cruz trek: one of the great classics of the Cordillera Blanca

The Santa Cruz trek is one of the most renowned routes in Huascarán National Park. It crosses particularly varied landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca, between valleys, glacial lagoons, high-altitude grasslands and snow-capped peaks.

The classic route links Cashapampa to Vaquería and is generally completed in 4 days and 3 nights. Depending on the variant chosen, the route covers approximately 43 to 50 kilometres and is not a loop.

The classic route from Cashapampa to Vaquería

The first day generally begins at Cashapampa before gradually ascending the valley to Llamacorral, in an environment dominated by the mountains of the Cordillera Blanca.

The second day leads from Llamacorral to Jatuncocha and Taullipampa. The landscape gradually becomes more spectacular with the peaks and glacial lagoons surrounding the route.

The third day is the most demanding stage, with the crossing of Punta Unión, at approximately 4,750 metres in altitude. From the pass, the landscapes open up onto several emblematic peaks, notably Alpamayo, before the descent to the Paria valley and then Vaquería.

The fourth day is devoted to the descent and the return to Huaraz.

Other must-do hikes

Huascarán National Park also offers several particularly popular day hikes. They allow you to discover the glacial landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca without undertaking a multi-day trek.

Laguna 69 is one of the best known. The route from Cebollapampa leads to a high-altitude lagoon surrounded by snow-capped peaks, notably Chacraraju and Nevado Pisco.

Laguna Churup, accessible from the surroundings of Huaraz, is another major hike. The route gradually reveals the high-mountain landscapes before reaching the lagoon at the foot of Churup.

Laguna Parón offers a spectacular glacial landscape dominated by several major peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. The site can be explored on foot and is also a starting point for certain mountain routes.

When to trek in Huascarán National Park?

For the great treks of the Cordillera Blanca, the generally most favourable period is the dry season, from May to September. The days are then often more suitable for hiking, even though conditions can change rapidly at altitude.

The months of October to April correspond to a wetter period. Rainfall can make certain routes more difficult and alter trail conditions.

Acclimatisation: an essential step before hiking

Altitude is one of the main difficulties of treks in the Cordillera Blanca. Even a person accustomed to hiking may feel the effects of altitude during the first days in Huaraz.

It is therefore preferable to allow several days of acclimatisation in Huaraz before a major trek. The first excursions can be chosen according to their difficulty in order to allow the body to adapt gradually.

Beyond hikes and treks, Huascarán National Park is a major destination for mountaineering and mountain sports in Peru. Its many snow-capped peaks, glaciers and rocky walls offer routes suited to different levels of experience, but high-mountain activities require specific preparation and professional supervision.

Ascents of the peaks of the Cordillera Blanca

The Cordillera Blanca brings together some of the most emblematic peaks of the Peruvian Andes. Several of them are located within Huascarán National Park or in its immediate surroundings and are visited by mountaineers from around the world.

Among the particularly well-known peaks are Huascarán, Alpamayo, Pisco, Vallunaraju and Copa. The difficulties and conditions vary considerably from one ascent to another.

Alpamayo: an emblematic peak of Peru

Alpamayo has been considered since the 1960s to be one of the most beautiful mountain peaks in the world. Its highly distinctive profile and snow-covered walls have made it an emblematic mountain of the Cordillera Blanca.

Its ascent is reserved for experienced mountaineers. The route generally requires several days and includes a significant technical section on the final part. Supervision by high-mountain professionals is strongly recommended.

From the approach areas, mountaineers can also observe several major peaks of the Cordillera Blanca, notably Quitaraju, Huascarán, Pirámide Garcilaso, Huandoy and Artesonraju.

Nevado Pisco: an acclimatisation ascent

Nevado Pisco is a particularly well-known ascent in the Cordillera Blanca and can serve as an acclimatisation objective for mountaineers preparing for more demanding peaks.

The summit offers vast panoramas of several emblematic mountains, including Chacraraju, Artesonraju, Huandoy, Chopicalqui and Huascarán. The ascent nevertheless requires good preparation for high altitude and glacial conditions.

Ice climbing and rock climbing

The glaciers and rocky terrain of Huascarán National Park also allow for ice climbing and rock climbing. These activities are intended for practitioners with the necessary technical skills and equipment.

Mountain conditions can change rapidly. For this reason, climbing and mountaineering activities must be carried out with specialised supervision and in authorised areas.

High-mountain skiing and other adventure sports

The park also offers possibilities for high-mountain skiing, notably in the areas of the Cordillera Blanca's peaks. Vallunaraju, Pisco and Copa are among the mountains cited for these activities.

Other activities allow you to discover the park in a different way, notably mountain biking on certain routes, with renowned trails around Punta Olímpica and the Portachuelo de Llanganuco.

In certain areas, navigating the lagoons, kayaking or boat rides also complement the range of outdoor activities.

A mountain to discover with preparation and caution

The diversity of activities makes Huascarán National Park an exceptional destination for mountain enthusiasts. However, the altitude, the cold, the glaciers, rapid weather changes and the difficulty of certain routes mean that the risks should not be underestimated.

Visitors must respect the park's rules, use authorised routes and find out about conditions before any activity. For mountaineering, climbing and other high-mountain activities, a professional organisation suited to the participant's level is an essential safety element.

Huascarán National Park extends over a vast part of the Cordillera Blanca and has several access areas. The city of Huaraz is the main starting point for organising excursions, hikes and treks in the park.

The choice of access depends on the site you wish to discover: Llanganuco, Laguna 69, Parón, Churup, Santa Cruz-Huaripampa or the other tourist areas are not all reached by the same route.

From Lima to Huaraz

Huaraz is located approximately 400 kilometres from Lima. By road, the journey between Lima and Huaraz generally takes around 8 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.

For travellers arriving by air, Comandante FAP Germán Arias Graziani airport, located in the Anta area, is the air access point to the Huaraz region. From Anta, Huaraz is approximately 20 kilometres away, or roughly 20 minutes by road under normal conditions.

Accessing the different areas of the park

Once in Huaraz, travel times vary considerably depending on the area chosen. Excursions to the lagoons and the starting points of treks generally require transport to the valleys of the Cordillera Blanca before beginning the hike on foot.

For example, the Llaca area is located approximately 22 kilometres from Huaraz, for a journey of around 1 h 20 according to SERNANP information.

Access to Llanganuco and Laguna 69

The Llanganuco area is reached from Huaraz in the direction of Yungay, then by going up the Llanganuco valley. The lagoons of Chinancocha and Orconcocha are the main points of interest in this area.

To reach Laguna 69, the journey continues to the Cebollapampa area, which is the starting point of the hike. Access to the lagoon is then exclusively on foot via a mountain route.

Access to Laguna Parón

Laguna Parón is another major natural site accessible from the Huaraz region. The route allows you to reach the Parón glacial basin before possibly continuing on foot in authorised areas.

As with the park's other excursions, access conditions may depend on the weather, road conditions and the area's management rules. It is therefore preferable to check conditions before departure.

Access to Laguna Churup from Huaraz

Laguna Churup is one of the sites of Huascarán National Park closest to Huaraz. Road access allows you to reach the starting point of the hike, then the route continues on foot to the lagoon.

This excursion is particularly interesting for discovering the landscapes of the Cordillera Blanca without undertaking a multi-day trek.

Preparing your access to Huascarán National Park

The vast territory of the park means that there is no single entrance providing access to all sites. It is therefore important to determine in advance which lagoon, which trek or which area you wish to visit.

For excursions and mountain activities, SERNANP information also indicates the use of authorised tour operators, notably to guarantee safe and responsible visiting conditions.

Opening hours and organisation of the visit

Visits to Huascarán National Park are managed by SERNANP, which ensures the management and protection of this natural area. Opening hours and access conditions may vary depending on the areas and planned activities.

According to information provided by SERNANP, tourist attention hours are currently set from Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. It is nevertheless recommended to check the conditions in force before your excursion, particularly for high-mountain areas.

Do you need a ticket to enter the park?

Access to Huascarán National Park is subject to an entrance fee that depends notably on the duration of the visit, the category of visitor and the area concerned.

Specific rates apply for certain sites, notably Laguna 69 and Pico Mateo. Children under 5 years of age are admitted free of charge according to the conditions indicated by SERNANP.

Please note: rates, opening hours and access conditions may change. It is therefore preferable to consult the official SERNANP information before your departure.

Should you visit the park with a tour operator?

For tourist activities and particularly mountain routes, SERNANP information provides for the use of authorised tour operators. This supervision aims to improve visitor safety and promote responsible tourism practices within the protected area.

This recommendation is particularly important for multi-day treks, mountaineering, climbing and high-mountain activities, which require an organisation suited to the terrain conditions.

What to bring for an excursion?

Even for a day hike, conditions can change rapidly in the Cordillera Blanca. It is advisable to bring warm clothing, sun protection, hiking-appropriate footwear and clothing to protect against rain and wind.

For a hike of several hours, a small bag containing water, an extra warm layer, a lamp, sun protection and a snack can be particularly useful.

Altitude and acclimatisation

Altitude is an essential factor to take into account during a visit. Several lagoons and routes of Huascarán National Park are located above 4,000 metres, while some passes and peaks far exceed this altitude.

Before a major hike, it is recommended to allow for a period of acclimatisation in Huaraz and to gradually choose excursions suited to your level. If symptoms related to altitude occur, you should avoid continuing the effort and descend if necessary.

Respecting the park's rules

Huascarán National Park is a protected natural area. Visitors must stay on authorised trails, respect wildlife and flora, leave no waste and avoid disposable products whenever possible.

It is also important not to feed the animals, not to pick plants and to respect the instructions given by the rangers and those responsible for the different areas.

Preparing your visit according to your level

Huascarán National Park presents very different conditions depending on the area. An excursion around a lagoon does not require the same preparation as a multi-day trek or a high-mountain ascent.

Before choosing a route, it is important to take into account the distance, elevation gain, maximum altitude, walking duration and your hiking experience. For technical or glacial routes, specialised supervision is essential.

Acclimatising to altitude before a hike

Altitude is one of the main factors to take into account in the Cordillera Blanca. Many routes in the park take place above 4,000 metres and some passes far exceed this altitude.

It is therefore advisable to allow a few days of acclimatisation in Huaraz before undertaking a demanding trek. Starting with less difficult excursions allows you to adapt more gradually to the altitude.

If you feel unwell or experience significant symptoms related to altitude, you should not continue the effort. Priority should be given to rest and, if necessary, to descending to a lower altitude.

Checking the weather before setting off

In high mountains, weather conditions can change rapidly. Before a hike or trek, check the weather forecast and find out about the particular conditions of the area you wish to visit.

The dry season, generally between May and September, is the most favourable period for many treks. The wetter season, from October to April, can make certain routes more difficult.

Respecting the trails and the park's rules

Huascarán National Park is a protected natural area. It is essential to stay on authorised trails and routes, follow the instructions of park rangers and respect the rules specific to each area.

You should not pick plants, disturb animals, feed wildlife or leave waste in nature. Reusable bottles and bags also help limit the use of single-use plastic.

Adopting responsible tourism in the Cordillera Blanca

A responsible visit contributes directly to preserving the park's landscapes and biodiversity. Respecting local communities, natural spaces and tourist infrastructure also helps promote tourism that is better integrated into the territory.

Whenever possible, favouring local services and authorised operators helps support the economy of the communities living around the Cordillera Blanca.

Useful emergency numbers

For high-mountain activities, it is recommended to have the contact details of the relevant services before setting off. Information provided by local organisations notably indicates the following contacts for the high-mountain rescue service of the Peruvian National Police:

As emergency numbers and procedures may change, it is preferable to verify them before your departure with the competent authorities or organisations.

What is the best time to visit Huascarán National Park?

The generally most favourable period to visit Huascarán National Park and trek in the Cordillera Blanca is from May to September, during the dry season. Conditions may nevertheless vary depending on altitude and the area.

Which city should you choose as a starting point to visit Huascarán National Park?

Huaraz is the main base for discovering Huascarán National Park. The city allows you to organise excursions to the different lagoons and areas of the Cordillera Blanca, as well as multi-day treks.

What is the altitude of Huascarán National Park?

The park's territory extends from approximately 2,500 metres in altitude up to the highest peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. Huascarán, the highest point in Peru, reaches 6,768 metres.

What are the main lagoons of Huascarán National Park?

Among the best-known lagoons are Laguna 69, the Llanganuco lagoons, Laguna Parón, Laguna Churup and Laguna Purhuay. They offer very different landscapes and are accessible from several areas of the park.

Can you visit Huascarán National Park in one day?

Yes. Several sites can be visited as part of a day trip, notably the Llanganuco lagoons, Laguna 69 or Laguna Churup. Other routes, such as the Santa Cruz trek, require several days.

Do you need to be an experienced hiker to visit the park?

Not necessarily. Some sites are accessible as part of day trips, while multi-day treks and especially high-mountain ascents require excellent physical preparation, acclimatisation to altitude and, for technical routes, specialised supervision.

Is Huascarán National Park listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

Yes. Huascarán National Park has been inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1985. This international recognition is notably due to the exceptional beauty of its high-mountain landscapes and its geological and glacial importance.

How much does entry to Huascarán National Park cost?

The rate depends on the duration of the visit, the category of visitor and sometimes the area concerned. As an indication, the general rate indicated by SERNANP is currently S/ 30 for one day. As rates may change, it is recommended to check the official conditions before your visit.