Laguna Parón Tour from Huaraz
The largest turquoise lake in the Cordillera Blanca, facing the Paramount mountain.
Overview
Laguna Parón is the largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca, sitting at around 4,185 m near Caraz. Its turquoise waters mirror some of Peru's most striking snow peaks, and its famous viewpoint (mirador) overlooks Mt Artesonraju, the mountain that inspired the Paramount Pictures logo, alongside the Pirámide de Garcilaso and other peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. It is one of the most photographed landscapes in the Andes.
This full-day tour from Huaraz, passing through Caraz, is perfect if you want high-mountain scenery without a demanding hike. The walk up to the mirador is easy to moderate and rewards you with a panoramic view of the lake and the surrounding glaciers. A great experience for families, photographers and travellers looking to acclimatise while enjoying the Cordillera Blanca.
Highlights
- The largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca (~4,185 m)
- Viewpoint facing Mt Artesonraju (the Paramount mountain) and the Pirámide de Garcilaso
- Turquoise waters framed by snow peaks
- Short, easy-to-moderate hike to the mirador
- Scenic drive through Caraz and the Callejón de Huaylas
- Ideal for families and for acclimatisation
Itinerary
- 5:00 AM
Pickup in Huaraz
We pick you up at your hotel in Huaraz and begin the journey north through the Callejón de Huaylas.
- 6:30 AM
Stop in Caraz
A short stop in the town of Caraz for breakfast and the gateway to the lake.
- 8:30 AM
Climb up the Parón canyon
We drive along a spectacular mountain road that climbs between rock walls up to the lake valley.
- 9:30 AM
Arrival at Laguna Parón
We reach the shore of the largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca and take in its turquoise waters.
- 10:00 AM
Hike to the viewpoint
A short, easy-to-moderate walk up to the mirador for a panoramic view of the lake and the Pirámide de Garcilaso.
- 12:00 PM
Free time and photos
Time to take photos, rest by the lake and admire the surrounding snow peaks.
- 1:30 PM
Return via Caraz
We begin the descent and head back to Caraz for lunch (not included).
- 5:00 PM
Back to Huaraz
We continue through the Callejón de Huaylas and drop you back at your hotel in Huaraz.
What's included
- Round-trip tourist transport from Huaraz
- Professional guide with local experience
- Scenic drive through Caraz and the Callejón de Huaylas
- Assistance throughout the day
- First-aid kit and oxygen tank
Not included
- Local community entrance fee to Laguna Parón (collected at the trailhead, approx. S/ 5)
- Breakfast and lunch
- Tips
- Personal expenses
What to bring
- Warm clothing and a windbreaker
- Sunscreen, hat and sunglasses
- Comfortable trekking shoes or boots
- Water and energy snacks
- Camera or phone with a charged battery
- ID or passport
- Cash in soles for entrances and meals
Frequently asked questions
How difficult is the Laguna Parón tour?
It is an easy-to-moderate tour. The vehicle reaches close to the lake and the hike to the viewpoint is short, making it ideal for families and people with basic fitness.
How high is Laguna Parón?
The lake sits at around 4,185 m above sea level, so we recommend acclimatising in Huaraz for a day or two before the tour.
How long is the tour from Huaraz?
It is a full-day tour, lasting approximately 12 hours, including the drive through Caraz and time at the lake.
What can you see from the viewpoint?
From the mirador you get a full view of the turquoise lake and Mt Artesonraju, the mountain that inspired the Paramount Pictures logo, along with the Pirámide de Garcilaso and other peaks of the Cordillera Blanca.
How much does the Laguna Parón tour cost?
The price is from S/ 50 per person. The exact cost depends on the group and the services included; we confirm it instantly on WhatsApp.
Is it a good option for acclimatising?
Yes. With its short hike and stunning scenery, Laguna Parón is an excellent option to acclimatise before more demanding treks such as Laguna 69.
