Laguna Churup :
An unmissable hike near Huaraz

Laguna Churup is a glacial lake located in Huascarán National Park, in the Cordillera Blanca, about 20 kilometres east of Huaraz. It lies in the district of Independencia, province of Huaraz, Áncash region, at an altitude of 4,450 metres.

The lagoon is fed by meltwater from Nevado Churup, which rises to 5,495 metres and whose south-west face overlooks the lake. Its surface area reaches approximately 249,401 m², and the colour of the water varies from turquoise to green depending on the light.

The hike begins in the hamlet of Pitec, at an altitude of about 3,850 metres, where the Huascarán National Park checkpoint is located. The well-marked trail then climbs in zigzags up to the lagoon.

The route covers about 6 kilometres round trip, with an elevation gain of around 600 metres. On average, it takes 3 hours to climb and 2 hours to descend, or 4 to 5 hours in total for an average walker.

A technical section equipped with cables

Shortly before reaching the lagoon, the trail includes a rocky section equipped with metal cables, similar to a via ferrata. This short passage allows you to cross an inclined rock face. In wet weather, the rocks become slippery: an alternative trail on the left then allows you to avoid this technical section, passing by a viewpoint.

The difficulty is considered high, mainly due to the steep slope and the altitude. Good physical fitness and prior acclimatization in Huaraz are recommended.

Laguna Churup can be reached without a tour agency. From Huaraz, you first need to get to the hamlet of Pitec, the starting point of the hike.

By colectivo or minibus

Colectivos leave early in the morning from the intersection of Agustín Gamarra Avenue and Antonio Raymondi Avenue, near the centre of Huaraz. The journey takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour and costs around 10 soles per person each way. The driver usually waits for hikers in Pitec for the return trip in the early afternoon.

By taxi or private vehicle

It is also possible to take a taxi from Huaraz or drive there in a private vehicle, passing through the village of Llupa to the car park in Pitec. The journey is faster and more flexible, but more expensive.

Laguna Churup is located in Huascarán National Park, declared a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve in 1977 and a World Natural Heritage Site in 1985. Entry to the park is subject to a fee.

The lagoon is visited by foreign hikers, but also by students and residents of Huaraz. It offers the opportunity to observe the park's high-Andean flora, including quenual, quishuar, ichu and tsampa estrella, as well as local wildlife such as the vizcacha, the mountain cat and wild ducks.

Laguna Churup is a demanding hike despite its relatively short distance. Here are a few tips to enjoy it in good conditions.

Before you leave

Plan for prior acclimatization in Huaraz or in other high-altitude areas for at least one or two days before undertaking this hike. Bring plenty of water and a snack or picnic, as there is no supply point on the trail.

On the trail

Follow the main path on the right to reach the cable-equipped section. In case of rain or bad weather, take the alternative trail on the left, which avoids the technical section and passes by a viewpoint. For the descent, this same alternative route is often recommended.

Laguna Churup is located at over 4,000 metres above sea level, where the weather can change quickly. Suitable equipment will allow you to fully enjoy the hike in complete safety.

There is no supply point on the trail. So bring everything you will need before setting off. Locals sometimes sell drinks and snacks at the start of the hike, in Pitec.

Laguna Churup is one of the most accessible hikes from Huaraz for discovering the Cordillera Blanca. Its proximity, well-marked trail and spectacular setting make it a day trip particularly suited to acclimatization at altitude.

Between the steep climb, the rocky section equipped with cables and the arrival at the edge of the turquoise lagoon, this hike offers a concrete glimpse of the landscapes and efforts involved in the region's longer treks. It is a natural step for travellers who want to get used to the altitude before undertaking routes such as the Santa Cruz or the Huayhuash.