4 Lakes Trek
The 4 Lagoons Route - The Most Challenging One-Day Trek Near Huaraz
The 4 Lagoons Route is the most challenging one-day trek you can do near Huaraz. With over 20 km of trail and a cumulative positive elevation gain of +1,600 meters, this circuit tests your physical endurance and acclimatization while rewarding you with some of the most spectacular views of the Cordillera Blanca. The route connects four dreamlike lagoons - Ahuac, Mullaca, Carhuac, and Radián, each with its own personality and beauty. From the natural viewpoint of Huaraz at Laguna Ahuac to the imposing "Fox Pass" at over 5,000 m, where the twin lagoons Mullaca and Carhuac reflect the majestic Vallunaraju. The descent takes you through forests of quenuales and finally to the peaceful Laguna Radián, a water mirror capturing the grandeur of Peru's highest peaks. An experience designed for true lovers of high-altitude trekking.
Itinerary
Day 1:The 4 Lagoons Route
This challenging full day trek of 10-11 hours starts very early with the departure from Huaraz in private transport to the village of Willcahuain (20 minutes). From there, we begin a pronounced ascent with zigzags that takes us to Laguna Ahuac (4,500 m), an incredible natural viewpoint of the city and the Cordillera Negra. We continue the ascent over rocky terrain until we reach the highest point of the route, the Fox Pass (5,000+ m), where we enjoy spectacular views of Vallunaraju and the twin lagoons Mullaca and Carhuac. We descend to visit both lagoons of intense blue color and take advantage of lunch with views. The descent continues through a beautiful Quenual forest accompanied by waterfalls, until we reach the peaceful Laguna Radián (4,350 m), where the peaks of the Cordillera Blanca reflect in its waters. Finally, we complete the return to Willcahuain to take the transport back to Huaraz, concluding this demanding but gratifying adventure.
What's Included
- Transport according to itinerary
- Group equipment
- First aid kit and oxygen
What's Not Included
- Breakfast and dinner
- Bottled water and alcoholic drinks
- Personal equipment
- Entrance fee to Huascaran National Park
- Medical care and insurance
- Emergency rescue or evacuation
- Additional expenses resulting from leaving the trek early
- Travel insurance
- Hotel
- Flights
- Tips (optional)
Route Map
FAQ
? What level of fitness do I need for the 4 Lagoons Route?
This trek is very demanding, considered the most difficult full-day hike in the Cordillera Blanca. You need excellent physical condition, proven experience in hikes above 4,000 m, and to be fully acclimated in Huaraz (at least 3-4 days beforehand). The route is over 20 km with +1,600 m of elevation gain and reaches up to 5,000 m. It is not recommended for beginners.
? What should I bring for this trek?
You should bring technical clothing (thermal underwear, waterproof jacket, trekking pants), hat, gloves, scarf, sunscreen, sunglasses, water (2-3 liters), energy snacks, picnic lunch, camera, trekking poles (required), front headlamp and personal first aid kit. A 30-40L backpack is ideal. Breakfast is not included, take it in Huaraz before leaving.
? What is the best time to do this circuit?
The best time is during the dry season, from May to September, when the days are longer, sunny, and there is a lower chance of rain. Outside of this season (October to April), the trek can become more dangerous due to slippery trails, reduced visibility, and a higher risk of thunderstorms in the high areas.
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