Hike to Laguna 69

So we continued making the most of the incredible hiking opportunities of the Cordillera Blanca by hiking a bit further and higher to Laguna 69.

We set off at 5.30am and drove 3 hours to the start of this walk. Despite the longer distances and slightly higher altitude (we maxed out at 4,604m) we found this walk easier as we must be more acclimatised.

The drive in was impressive with a very high canyon supporting several lakes where I added 3 new species of bird from the drive. Then walking through grazing land we added a few more birds which left me (Michael) on 999 for the trip.

As the climb kicked in we ignored the birds to make it up the hill enjoying amazing views and surroundings. Unfortunately the mountains were covered in cloud but the cover did make the climb a bit less draining as we got a bit dehydrated on the previous day.

Once we reached the lagoon we ate some lunch and took some photos but it was quite cold and started to hail so we headed back down which left some time for birding before our bus would leave.

A pair of Rusty-Crowned Tit-Spinetail’s would provide my 1,000 species of the trip which was a nice moment (ended the day on 1,005). We also saw our first wild llama.

We made it back to the van and back to Huaraz by 6.30. We then got presented with Guinea Pig soup at dinner! (We wouldn’t have ordered this but for info it tastes quite like chicken).

A rest day today before I (Michael) attempt my first 5000m mountain.Read more