Exploring the Majestic Landscapes of Huascaran National Park

Reaching New Heights: Lake 69 and the Majesty of the Andes

Today was a day of pushing limits and soaking in unparalleled beauty. Huascaran National Park had a challenge waiting for us: the iconic Lake 69 hike. Nestled high in the Cordillera Blanca, this turquoise gem promised views that would etch themselves into our memories forever. The day started early, as most adventures do, with a hearty breakfast at Ala qué rico, fueling up for what we knew would be a demanding trek.


Explore Lake 69, a breathtaking alpine gem in the Peruvian Andes, known for its stunning turquoise waters and unforgettable hiking trails.

The morning air in Huaraz was crisp, a stark contrast to the warmth of our anticipation. After breakfast, Aaliyah and I set off towards the trailhead. The drive itself was a scenic prelude, winding through the Callejón de Huaylas. The valley unfolded before us, a tapestry of green fields, quaint villages, and the ever-present, snow-capped peaks of the Cordillera Blanca. It's easy to see why they call this area the Peruvian Switzerland. The views were already breathtaking, and we hadn't even started hiking yet! The Callejón de Huaylas is a treasure trove of attractions, from hot springs to adventure routes, and I already know that one visit will not be enough.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Callejon de Huaylas, a stunning ravine in the Peruvian Andes, rich in culture and adventure.

As we drove through the Callejón de Huaylas, I couldn't help but reflect on how different this landscape is from our orchard back in Kelowna. While I love the familiar beauty of the Okanagan Valley, there's something truly awe-inspiring about the sheer scale and ruggedness of the Andes. It's a reminder of the incredible diversity of our planet and the endless opportunities for exploration.

Finally, we arrived at the trailhead. The air was noticeably thinner here, a stark reminder of the altitude that would be our constant companion for the next several hours. We took a deep breath, adjusted our packs, and began our ascent. The initial stretch was relatively gentle, a winding path through a meadow dotted with wildflowers. The trail gradually steepened, switchbacks carving their way up the mountainside.

The hike to Laguna 69 is a moderate to difficult trek, with the altitude being the main challenge. The trail starts at 3,900 meters (12,800 feet) and climbs to 4,600 meters (15,100 feet). That's a significant elevation gain, and we definitely felt it in our lungs. We paced ourselves, taking frequent breaks to catch our breath and admire the ever-expanding views. I made sure that Aaliyah was drinking plenty of water, and I was grateful that we had taken a couple of days to acclimatize in Huaraz before attempting this hike.

The scenery was simply stunning. Towering snow-capped peaks surrounded us, their glaciers glistening in the sunlight. Waterfalls cascaded down rocky cliffs, feeding crystal-clear streams that crisscrossed the trail. We passed Laguna Chinancocha and Laguna Orconcocha, each a mirror reflecting the surrounding mountains. The higher we climbed, the more dramatic the landscape became. The air was thin and crisp, and the silence was broken only by the sound of our breathing and the occasional cry of a bird.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

There were moments when I questioned my sanity. My lungs burned, my legs ached, and my head throbbed with the familiar signs of altitude sickness. But then I would look around at the incredible scenery, and all the discomfort would fade away. The sheer beauty of the Andes was enough to keep me going. Aaliyah was a trooper, too, pushing through her own fatigue with a smile and words of encouragement. We are a great team, and I'm so lucky to have her by my side on these adventures.

As we neared the final ascent, the trail became steeper and rockier. The air was frigid, and I could feel the sun burning my face. We scrambled over boulders, our hands and feet searching for purchase. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity, we reached the top. And there it was: Lake 69 ! The sight that greeted us was simply breathtaking. The lake was a brilliant turquoise blue, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks. The water was so clear that I could see the bottom, even though it was several meters deep.

We stood there for a long time, simply taking it all in. The beauty of the place was overwhelming. It was a moment of pure, unadulterated joy. All the pain and exhaustion of the hike vanished, replaced by a sense of accomplishment and awe. We had made it! We had conquered Lake 69!

After soaking in the views and snapping countless photos, we reluctantly began our descent. The hike down was much easier on the lungs, but it was still tough on the knees. We took our time, enjoying the scenery from a different perspective. As we descended back into the Callejón de Huaylas, the sun began to set, casting a golden glow over the valley. The views were simply magical.

Back in Huaraz, exhausted but exhilarated, we celebrated our achievement with a well-deserved dinner at Trece Buhos. The food was delicious, and the atmosphere was warm and inviting. We reminisced about our adventure, reliving every moment of the hike. It was a day that we will never forget.


Experience authentic Peruvian flavors at Trece Buhos in Huaraz – where grilled delights meet a vibrant atmosphere.

Before calling it a night, we decided to check out C'Kretos Gastro Bar for a nightcap. The bar had mixed reviews, but we were in the mood for some music and relaxation. It turned out to be a great choice. The atmosphere was lively, the drinks were strong, and the music was infectious. We danced and laughed, celebrating our incredible day in the mountains. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience the vibrant flavors and ambiance of C'Kretos Gastro Bar in Huaraz, where culinary creativity meets local Peruvian culture.

Tomorrow, we are planning to explore Quebrada de Llanganuco and Mirador Tres Huancas. I'm looking forward to seeing more of the stunning landscapes of Huascaran National Park. I'm also planning to stop by Boutique miracle, to see if I can find a nice souvenir for my mom. She loves tulips, and I'm hoping to find something that reminds me of home.

Today was a reminder of why we love to travel. It's about pushing ourselves beyond our comfort zones, experiencing new cultures, and witnessing the incredible beauty of our planet. It's about creating memories that will last a lifetime. And it's about sharing those experiences with the people we love.

I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings.