Hike to the Wilcacocha Lake
4.7 Miles
1640.4 Feet
Camping, Photography, Hiking
Beginner
Year Round
Out-and-Back
It's a great and easy hike with spectacular views over the Cordillera Blanca. No matter if you just came to Huarez and want to acclimatize or you take this hike as an afternoon stroll to digest the great Peruvian food, it's worth it!
To get to the trailhead from Huaraz, walk to the main street PE-3N that goes through town and hop in a southbound collectivo, just confirm with the driver that he is going to Puente Santa Cruz. It will take 15min and cost you 1 sol (30 cents). Let the driver drop you off at the Puente Santa Cruz and you are all set.
Start to walk across the bridge on your right hand side (looking South) and you will be right away on the start of the trailhead. After a couple of meter, there will be a sharp left curve that you need to take. Now simply follow the blue tap water signs all the way to the top.
The trail is quite steep, so take it slow and enjoy the fantastic views while walking. It will take you between 1 and 2 hours to get to the top.
Come the same way back down and simply flag down a collectivo to bring you back to town, they are passing every couple of minutes. Alternatively you can also camp near the lake and enjoy the splendid views all to yourself early in the morning.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
