LAGUNA PARON: A BEAUTIFUL HIKE FROM HUARAZ
Having hiked Laguna 69, Laguna Churup and spent a day doing the acclimatisation hike to Laguna Wilkacocha, I wondered if doing another hike in Huaraz would maybe be overdoing it. I weighed up staying another night and decided I couldn't miss out on hiking Laguna Paron.
Why visit Laguna Paron
There's no doubt you're spoilt for choice when it comes to hiking trails in Huaraz. There were at least a dozen different Lagunas and not to mention the 4 day Santa Cruz trek across the Cordillera Blanca. So why hike Laguna Paron?
The largest lake in the Cordillera Blanca and it sits at over 4150m above sea level. The altitude can at first seem somewhat intimidating but what's great about hiking Laguna Paron is that you're not obliged to hike at all unless you're particularly up for it.
It's absolutely stunning. A crystal turquoise lake nestled in surrounding snow-coned mountains, depending on the time of day you go and the weather, the lake might seem more green or blue.
It's becoming more popular however its popularity is nothing like that of neighbouring Laguna 69. Whether you choose to walk around the lake or take a short hike to the viewpoints, there'll be plenty of opportunities to enjoy the views without crowds of people.
Mirador Laguna Paron
Those mountains!!
How to get to Laguna Paron with a tour
I really wanted to do this solo, however given the large distances, wouldn't be cost effective and it would also require an overnight stay in nearby town Caraz.
So I settled for a tour, organised through my hostel Casa de Ana. If you're looking for a cheap dorm room or private, Casa de Ana was not only clean, I had an entire dorm to myself for 5 nights at 16 Soles (£3.65) a night.
The tour promptly picked me up at me hostel at 7:30 am. From there it was a long drive, 4 hours to be exact to the lake entrance.
Entrance of Laguna Paron
Once at the lake, you have around 2-3 hours before you need to head back. During this time you can choose to hike up to see the lake from a higher view point.
Or if you don't fancy hiking you can take a stroll around the lake.
Both are amazing and offer stunning perspectives of Laguna Paron. Personally I preferred the hike. Just be aware that it is very rocky and there are a lot of boulders, so it can be tricky on your toes.
Laguna Paron | Huaraz
It's a rocky hike!
How to get to Laguna Paron solo
The advice I received was to take a collectivo from Huaraz to Caraz and stay overnight. From the market in Caraz the next morning you'll be able to take a collectivo at 7 am to Laguna Paron. The last collectivo heading back to Caraz in the afternoon, leaves at around 5/6 pm.
I didn't take this option so I can't be 100% sure on the details. If you do want to get there without a tour, there's definitely a way. :)
Laguna Paron | Huaraz
Perching precariously on a rock - Laguna Paron
Things to know before you go
The tour cost 47 Soles + 5 Soles entry into the park
When you arrive at Laguna Paron, there's a toilet which you can use for 1 Sole.
At an altitude of 4150 m above sea level, wrap up warm, wear good shoes and most importantly acclimatise beforehand to avoid any health issues later.
To get to the beautiful views and perspectives, you'll have to hike past the mirador along the jagged boulders and rocks but it's totally worth it!
Bring a camera and enjoy!!
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