A day in Laguna 69

Waking up at 4am today was not easy but it was totally worth it!

We spent a few hours on the bus to the start of the trail and our journey led us through a scenic pit stop at Valle Llanganuco where we were mesmerised by the turquoise waters of Laguna Chinancocha.

The 14km return hike in Huascaran National Park, which has Peru’s highest peak at 6,700m, started at 3,900m, with a 700m elevation gain to Laguna 69 at 4,600m.

Most of the way was a gradual winding uphill, with most of the elevation gained in the last (very steep) kilometre. It was drizzling the whole way and the altitude was a bit tough so there wasn’t much conversation happening with the lovely french gals. 🥖

The last Km was particularly tough for one of the girls who was starting to battle altitude sickness but once she made it to the top, she was all better! 😮‍💨

It also stopped raining then and the sun came out shining on on the lake! We were so lucky to enjoy our lunch with the most amazing of views ☀️

The whole way down was also full of sunshine and the clouds cleared to show some of Peru’s majestic peaks! And this beautiful weather only added to the jaw-dropping scenery! 🏔️

After we got back, a well-deserved dinner in town marked the end of a day where altitude demanded its toll. 🥱Read more