Laguna Churup
Laguna Churup est un étonnant lac glaciaire niché dans la Cordillera Blanca, près de Huaraz. Il est connu pour ses eaux turquoises cristallines et ses paysages montagneux spectaculaires. Pour atteindre le lac, les visiteurs s'engagent dans une randonnée difficile qui implique des montées abruptes et un terrain rocailleux. L'effort est récompensé par des vues à couper le souffle sur le lac et les sommets environnants. Laguna Churup offre un cadre alpin immaculé qui attire les randonneurs aventureux et les amateurs de nature à la recherche d'une expérience de plein air mémorable dans la Cordillera Blanca.
Emplacement et comment s'y rendre
Laguna Churup is a stunning glacial lake located approximately 28 kilometers northeast of Huaraz in the Cordillera Blanca mountain range, Central Peru. The trailhead begins near the village of Pitec, accessible by car or organized transport from Huaraz.
- From Huaraz: Shared taxis or colectivos depart from Huaraz to Pitec (1.5-hour drive). Private tours often include transportation.
- Hiking: The trek to Laguna Churup takes 3–4 hours one way, depending on fitness levels. The trail is steep and rocky in parts.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
The area is accessible year-round, but the best conditions are during the dry season (May–September). There is no formal entrance fee, but visitors must pay a small conservation fee (around 10–15 PEN) at the trailhead.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
Early mornings (6–8 AM) are ideal to avoid crowds and enjoy clearer skies. The dry season offers stable weather, while the wet season (October–April) may bring rain and fog, making the trail slippery.
Durée de la visite
Plan for a full day (6–8 hours) including transportation, hiking, and time at the lake. The round-trip hike alone takes 6–8 hours.
Activités
- Hiking through scenic Andean landscapes with views of snow-capped peaks.
- Photography of the turquoise lake and surrounding mountains.
- Birdwatching (Andean species like the Andean condor may be spotted).
Installations
Facilities are minimal. There are no restrooms or cafes at the lake or trailhead. Bring all necessities, including water and snacks. Parking is available near Pitec.
Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir
- Sturdy hiking boots with good grip.
- Layered clothing (temperatures vary; mornings are cold).
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses (high-altitude sun is intense).
- Plenty of water and high-energy snacks.
- Camera or binoculars for wildlife and scenery.
Règles et règlements
- Pack out all trash; leave no trace.
- No swimming in the lake (cold temperatures and conservation rules).
- Respect local wildlife and vegetation.
Informations sur le contact
For guided tours, check with Huaraz-based agencies. No official website or phone number is available for the lake itself.