Churup Lake is one of the most visited in the Ancash region, famous for its turquoise waters and its surroundings with snow-capped mountains. With an altitude of 4,450 m.a.s.l., it has become one of the most popular trekking routes near Huaraz. Its natural beauty, plus the imposing Churup snowy peak, attracts both hikers and climbers looking for unforgettable experiences in the White Mountain Range.
The hike to this lake usually lasts a full day, according to most programs offered by tourist agencies. So, if you want to get to this place, your best option is to start early to enjoy the trip without rushing, make rest stops, and avoid possible accidents. What’s more, the route is considered to have a moderate to high difficulty, especially in sections where you need to climb with the help of ropes, in areas near waterfalls.
In addition to the main lake, it is possible to visit other smaller lakes that are nearby. The route is ideal for those looking to practice hiking, mountaineering, and adventure sports, but also for those who want to enjoy the tranquility of the mountains and the beauty of the Andean landscapes.
Huaraz, in the Ancash region, is one of the most sought-after destinations for adventure lovers in Peru. Among its main attractions is Laguna de Churup, located at the foot of the snow-capped mountain of the same name and known as the "Lagoon of the Seven Colors" for the intense green and turquoise shades that its waters take on under the sunlight.
Access to the lagoon is a hike full of nature and challenges along the way, with trails surrounded by spectacular landscapes where you can see waterfalls and the Shaqsha and Cashan mountains.
Churup Lake is located about 28 kilometers east of the city of Huaraz, in the Áncash region, inside the majestic Huascarán National Park, declared a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It is at an approximate altitude of 4,450 meters above sea level, in the Churup gorge, surrounded by impressive snow-capped peaks and rock formations. This lake is one of the most visited attractions in the Cordillera Blanca, not only for the beauty of its turquoise waters, but also because it is considered an ideal place to acclimate before doing more demanding hikes, such as Laguna 69 or the Pastoruri Glacier.
The Churup snow-capped mountain is a perfect destination to get in direct contact with nature. Here you can practice mountaineering under the supervision of specialized guides, who provide the necessary equipment and safety measures to have the experience in a responsible way.
In addition to the classic hike, there is a two-day route that includes a night of camping in authorized areas. This option allows you to enjoy unforgettable sunsets and unique sunrises by the lagoon, surrounded by the impressive landscape of the Cordillera Blanca. Choosing this alternative not only gives you more time to explore the surroundings, but also the opportunity to watch the change of colors of the mountains and the Andean sky at different times of the day.
It is one of the most important in Huaraz and is among those preferred by travelers. If you are going to do it on holidays, such as Easter, National Holidays or during New Year's activities, try to book a tour days or weeks in advance.
The tour lasts at least one day (the walk can take four hours one way and four hours back). We recommend that you first visit the historical attractions in the city of Huaraz, in order to acclimatize. Laguna Churup is located at 4,450 meters above sea level and the difficulty of the route there is moderate, so previous experience in trekking routes will help you.
The path begins in the town of Pitec, which you can get to by bus or private mobility from the tourist agency from the city of Huaraz. From this town you leave first thing in the morning (almost at dawn) so that there are no time problems on the journey. Remember that the walk is not easy and that to enjoy the landscapes more and without physical impediments it is better to take your time. The route is full of rock formations, so you have to be very careful not to slip and for this you also need the correct footwear. Almost the entire walk is through the Quebrada de Churup, as is the return journey.
From Lima to the city of Huaraz, the bus ticket costs an average of 60 soles, with a travel time of about 8 hours. Once in Huaraz, it is a good idea to check which travel agency offers the best services, as you will need a full-day tour to do the hike.
Regarding the route, access starts in the small town of Pitec, which is considered the official starting point for the trail. From there, you go up a steep path that has both dirt and rocky parts, offering panoramic views of the Cordillera Blanca along the way, as well as the chance to see high-Andean plants, mountain birds, and small waterfalls.
The climate in Ancash is varied, while that of the city of Huaraz is dry and temperate, with sunny days and cold nights, in open and high-altitude places –such as the route to Churup–. Throughout the year temperatures can drop to zero degrees. However, to better appreciate the landscapes and have more feasible walks, it is better to avoid the rainy season between the months of November and April. This rainy season features an average weather of 11 degrees.
If you leave the city of Huaraz, there you will find many tourist attractions to enjoy. You can go to the Archaeological Museum of Ancash, with samples of the Chavín, Wari, and Chimú cultures, among others. Also, visit the Sanctuary of the Lord of Solitude, the archaeological remains of Willcahuain or the Thermal Baths of Monterrey. If you want to enjoy the gastronomy of the region, walk along José Olaya street every Sunday, as gastronomic fairs are held.
Laguna Churup is located within this protected area. The Huascarán National Park is considered a Natural World Heritage Site by UNESCO. It covers part of the Cordillera Blanca and the Callejón de Huaylas, with snow-capped peaks that exceed 6,000 meters in height. There it is possible to observe more than 10 species of mammals and 120 of birds. Among them, the torrent duck, the slang duck, the Andean gull, the Andean condor, the puna partridge, the vicuña, the spectacled bear, the gray deer and the puma stand out.
There are several rock formations along the way, all of which can be climbed if you so choose. For this you need experience in this activity and follow all the instructions of your guide. This way you can reach the beautiful waterfalls that will add to your adventure.
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