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.
Llanganuco Lakes at a Glance#
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.
Dry Season (Best)
May-September · 0-15°C (32-59°F)
Clear skies and stable weather-optimal for hiking and photography.
Wet Season
October-April · 5-12°C (41-54°F)
Afternoons bring rain and cloud; avalanches and landslides are more likely in upper valleys.
Weather & Climate near Llanganuco Lakes#
Climate
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.
Air Quality:
AQI 62
Moderate
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
15°
Warmest Month
-3°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | 2° - 14° | 6° | 139 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | 2° - 13° | 6° | 154 mm | - | - | 3.1 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | 2° - 13° | 6° | 163 mm | - | - | 2.9 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | 1° - 14° | 6° | 106 mm | - | - | 3.0 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | 0° - 14° | 5° | 61 mm | - | - | 3.2 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | -2° - 15° | 3° | 24 mm | - | - | 3.6 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | -3° - 15° | 3° | 26 mm | - | - | 3.9 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | -2° - 15° | 3° | 37 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 0° - 14° | 4° | 60 mm | - | - | 4.0 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | 1° - 14° | 5° | 104 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | 1° - 14° | 5° | 121 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | 1° - 14° | 5° | 123 mm | - | - | 3.5 m/s | - | - |