The stunning Lake Paron

Back on the move, we continued to ascend over rocky roads, passing waterfalls and snow-covered mountains, until we reached the lake we had come to see.  We had to park a short walk away from the lake and had to cross a waterfall to get to the path.  We were both feeling the effects of being at an altitude of 4200 metres and were a bit unsteady on our feet.  Luckily, we made it across without incident!

After a ten-minute walk, our guide showed us the route to the viewpoint.  This involved a steep 40-minute climb up a mountain.  We decided not to do this and, instead, to follow the relatively flat path around the lake.  So, we parted company with most of the rest of the group and went to explore by ourselves.  We had two hours before we needed to be back at the van.

With an area of ​​1,656,330 m², Laguna Paron is the largest natural freshwater reservoir in the national park.  It is 76 metres deep at its centre and is estimated to contain 55 million cubic metres of water.  It is used as a water reservoir to supply the Cañón del Pato Hydroelectric Plant, one of the main energy generators in Peru.

Our first view of Laguna Paron was a real wow moment.  Mark declared it the most beautiful sight we have seen in South America so far, and I have to agree with him!  The water is bright turquoise in colour due to high concentrations of dissolved lime in the glacial meltwater that feeds the lake.  This makes for a photographer's dream!  The contrast of the turquoise against the white of the snow and the green of the trees around the lake is stunning!

We spent the full two hours just drinking in the views and marvelling at Mother Nature!  We didn't need to hike up to the viewpoint to appreciate it.  It was so worth the 8 hours it took to drive there and back!Read more