Explore Rocotuyoc: Glacial Landscapes and Queñual Forests in Huaraz
Rocotuyoc: Where Turquoise Water Meets Ice
Traveling through the district of Marcará and the community of Vicos with this tour is a transformative experience. It’s a physical and emotional transition from the temperate valleys to the heart of the glaciers in the Honda and Paccharuri ravines. Many call it “Huaraz’s best-kept secret” because of the absolute peace that permeates its trails. This service is designed to offer you safety and comfort, with expert guides who will accompany you to the very edge of the ice. Here you will feel the true power of the Andes as you contemplate the Frozen Lagoon, a unique landscape covered in abundant frost and snow.Why choose the Rocotuyoc Lagoon Tour with Andina Travel?
Our route has been designed to offer you a safe day of discovery and adventure. The geography invites you to explore trails filled with native vegetation and local wildlife before reaching 4,550 meters. It allows you to enjoy a rewarding hike that connects two bodies of water with completely different personalities: the turquoise Rocotuyoc and the white Frozen Lagoon. The reward is not only the scenery, but also the satisfaction of hiking in one of the most beautiful spots in the Callejón de Huaylas. Trust our logistics and let yourself be enveloped by the mystique of the Rocotuyoc Lagoon Tour in Huaraz.Itinerary
- Hotel Pickup: We begin our adventure by picking you up from your accommodation in the city of Huaraz.
- Marcará: A brief stop in this district before continuing our journey east through the Callejón de Huaylas.
- Vicos and Chancos: We will pass through traditional communities and near the famous Chancos Hot Springs.
- Quebrada Honda: A scenic drive through queñua forests, waterfalls, and crystal-clear streams.
- Laguna Rocotuyoc: We reach an altitude of 4,550 meters to admire its turquoise waters at the foot of Nevado Copa.
- Trekking to Laguna Congelada (Frozen Lagoon): A 40-minute hike along the edge of the lake to reach the area of permanent ice.
- Break and Box Lunch: Free time for photos and to enjoy our snack in a glacial setting.
- Return: We return along the same scenic route to our vehicle.
- Arrival in Huaraz: We end the service by dropping you off at your hotel after a day of total relaxation.
Include
- Transportation: Tourist vehicle equipped for mountain and trail routes.
- Guiding: Certified bilingual mountain guide.
- Entrance Fees: Official entrance ticket to Huascarán National Park.
- Safety: First aid kit and personalized assistance.
- Meals: Energy-rich boxed lunch for the day’s hike.
Not Included
- Equipment: Thermal clothing, trekking poles, or sunglasses.
- Insurance: Does not include personal travel or accident insurance.
- Personal Expenses: Additional snacks, drinks, or tips.
Recommendations
- Acclimatization: It is very important to have completed lower altitude tours in the days prior.
- Clothing: Layered technical clothing (thermal base layer, fleece, and waterproof/windproof jacket).
- Footwear: Trekking boots with good grip for rocky and potentially icy terrain.
Sunscreen, UV sunglasses, and a hat.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is of moderate difficulty. The walk is about 40 minutes per leg and the terrain is mostly flat, but the altitude (4,550 m) requires additional effort.
Yes, due to its location and altitude, it usually maintains ice and snow formations for most of the year.
Rocotuyoc is much less commercial, which guarantees a more private experience and direct contact with the Frozen Lagoon.
The return is usually around 6:00 p.m., depending on the pace of the group and road conditions.
It is recommended for children over 10 years old who are used to the height and walking short distances.
We recommend acclimatizing for at least two days in Huaraz. If you feel unwell, the guide has oxygen and a first-aid kit.
The main view is the imposing Nevado Copa, along with other peaks of the eastern Cordillera Blanca.
There are no formal restroom facilities at the lagoon. It is recommended to use them in Marcará or Vicos before beginning the final ascent.
The dry season (May to September) offers clear skies and spectacular visibility of the glaciers.
Yes, you just need to coordinate it with us at the time of your booking.
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