Lake Lauricocha

Lake Lauricocha is a high Andean lake in Peru’s Huánuco Department. It lies in the upper Andes and forms part of the headwater region for major river systems.

Visitors encounter high-elevation landscapes, pastoral communities and access to highland trails. The area is of interest to people on trekking routes and to those studying Andean hydrology and pre-Columbian sites nearby.

The lake and surrounding valley have long been occupied by Andean communities and were noted in exploratory and mapping accounts of the region. The lake basin has cultural and hydrological importance as part of the upper river systems that feed into larger Amazon tributaries.

Situated in the Peruvian Andes within Huánuco Department, the lake lies at high altitude amid rugged mountain terrain and puna grasslands, accessible via regional highland roads.

• Source region of major rivers: Located in the high Andes and forming part of the upper Marañón watershed, making it one of the lakes contributing to Amazon headwaters.

Drive: Access from the town of Yanahuanca or nearby regional centers via mountain roads. Overland travel typically requires a sturdy vehicle and acclimatization to altitude.

• This is high-Andean country-pack for cold nights and strong UV at altitude.
• Combine with treks to pre-Inca trails and local archaeological sites for cultural context.
• Bring cash for small markets and services; rural towns may not accept cards.