Just 45 minutes away from the lodge, you’ll find the main attractions of the Huascarán National Park—the brilliant blue lagoons known as Llanganuco Lakes. Located in between towering cliff faces, this hike through the Huascaran Peaks provides spectacular views of the Cordillera Negra. Depending on how far you want to walk, you can choose your preferred drop off point and then make your way down the valley to descend through the cloud forest on a pre-Columbian trail before making your way back to the lodge.

Transport: 45-minute taxi Duration: 4-6 hrs

Ascent: 400 m. Level: Easy-Moderate

Leaving directly from the lodge, you’ll head down to Lake Keushu and follow the narrow trail that runs alongside a mountain stream. Enjoy the increasingly impressive views as you gain height before entering the narrow, vertiginous gorge of Rajururi – meaning “Ice Behind” in Quechua. Follow the trail uphill towards the 700m towering cliff to see its plummeting waterfall and the lowest ice in the Cordillera Blanca. The Incas have harvested ice here for generations that they use to make cold flavored drinks. Expect not to see another soul during your entire day's trek.

Transport: None Duration: 5 hrs

Ascent: 400 m. Level: Moderate

Renowned as one of the most beautiful day treks in the world, Lake 69 is a must-do while visiting the Cordillera Blanca. To maximize your enjoyment and chances of reaching the lake, it’s best to save this hike until you have acclimatized. A short 45-minute taxi ride will take you to the trailhead, where you’ll then follow the meandering river to the back of the Demanda valley, passing two waterfalls with stunning views back down the valley to Huascaran. After the first ascent, you will arrive at Lake 68 before crossing a flat pampa and tackling the last steep section of the trek and arriving at the impressively aquamarine-colored Lake 69. After descending, the taxi will take you back to the lodge.

Transport: 45-minute taxi Duration: 6 hrs

Ascent: 1,150 m. Level: Moderate-Hard

Located right in our backyard, the Lake & Ruins of Keushu hike is the perfect option for those who have just arrived. Depending on how far you want to walk, either head to the lakes edge (45 mins) or hike up and round the lake on the single-track trail (2 hrs) to enjoy the great views of the nearby peaks. Whatever option you choose, this trek makes for a great introduction to the surrounding area and a perfect way to gradually acclimatize. Keep your eyes peeled for Patagonia Gigas, the largest hummingbird on the planet.