Llanganuco Lakes
Lake High Andean glacial lakes framed by peaks
High in the Cordillera Blanca, Llanganuco Lakes sit within Huascarán National Park; visitors come for glacial lakes, mountain scenery and high-altitude hikes.
How to Get to Llanganuco Lakes #
Drive from Huaraz (approx. 1-1.5 hours) north on the Pativilca-Huaraz road and follow signs to the Llanganuco valley. Local tour operators include the lakes on day trips; private drivers and buses run from Huaraz and Caraz.
Tips for Visiting Llanganuco Lakes #
- Start early to catch the water at its bluest-midday light can be harsh at high altitude.
- Acclimatize: the lakes sit above 3,800 m (around 12,500 ft); allow a day in Huaraz or Yungay before strenuous hikes.
- Hire a licensed guide for routes around the lakes; the trails cross fragile glacial moraine.
Best Time to Visit Llanganuco Lakes #
May-September for stable, clear weather; avoid the Andean wet season for safer trekking.
Weather & Climate near Llanganuco Lakes #
Llanganuco Lakes's climate is classified as Tundra - Tundra climate with consistently warm temperatures year-round. Temperatures range from -2°C to 15°C. Abundant rainfall (1118 mm/year), wettest in March.
January
January is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (139 mm).
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February
February is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 2°C. Significant rainfall (154 mm).
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March
March is cold with highs of 13°C and lows of 2°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (163 mm).
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April
April is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (106 mm).
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May
May is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
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June
June is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of -2°C. The driest month with just 24 mm.
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July
July is the coolest month with highs of 14°C and lows of -2°C. Light rainfall.
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August
August is cold with highs of 15°C and lows of -2°C. Moderate rainfall (37 mm).
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September
September is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm).
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October
October is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (104 mm).
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November
November is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (121 mm).
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December
December is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 1°C. Significant rainfall (123 mm).
