Yanacocha Lake Trek Full Day

Yanacocha Lake Information

A new and good option for hiking in the sacred valley of the Incas is the Yanacocha Lake Trek, for Machu picchu Cusco Tours is a beautiful natural attractions, stunning natural viewpoints and a beautiful lagoon on the slopes of the Andes mountain range.

Yanacocha Lake is located in Huayoccari town, district of Huayllabamba, Province of Urubamba, Department of Cusco. To get a better idea of location, Huacyoccari Town altitude is 2,900 meters / 9,514 feet and Yanacocha Lake altitude is 3,940 meters / 12,926 feet between the mountains of Peruvian Andes.

In Yanacocha Lake Trek you will find typical forests of the Andes like the forests of Queuña and Chachacomo, the importance of these Andean forests are regulates the climate, prevents soil erosion and stores large amounts of water, for this reason in Yanacocha Lake a unique and special micro climate.

To get to Yanacocha Lake, you have to ascend for road that is affirmed for approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes on average, on the route we will find a giant rock from where we will have a beautiful view of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

The origin of Yanacocha lake is tectonic and glacial because it is a geological hole where snow water is stored, Yanacocha is a Quechua word whose meaning is black Lake (yana = black / cocha = lake), the color of the lagoon is dark green due to the accumulation of algae, it is also surrounded by queuñas forest that give it a unique beauty.

Yanacocha Lake Overview

Tour Start: We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 7:00 AM.
Duration of Yanacocha Trek: Full Day Hike.
Hiking distance from Huaran To Yanacocha Lake: Approximately 5 kilometers.
Maximum Height (Lake Yanacocha): 3 940 m.s.n.m. / 12 959 feet
Minimum Height (Pichingoto): 2 900 m.s.n.m. / 9 514 feet
Location: Northwest of the city of Cusco.
Distance from Cusco to Huaran: The distance is approximately 45 kilometers.
Visiting Season: All year, preferably from March to November.
Tour Difficulty Level: Easy.
End of Tour: We will return to Cusco between 4:00 PM and 4:30 PM.

Yanacocha Lake Trek Itinerary

The pick-up is from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, we will board our tourist transport that it will take us to beginning of our walk in Huayoccari town. In the first section we will cross a eucalyptus forest, then we will continue through a Chachacomos forest and on our right hand side will be the river descends from the Yanacocha Lake.

On the way we will find typical houses of the Andes that are sporadically inhabited, after 40 minutes we will arrive at a deviation that it will take us to Yanacocha, in this part of the road we will be able to observe fauna like birds and flora like Chachacomo forest.

After 1 hour and 30 minutes we will reach a large rock, it is a beautiful view of the sacred valley, this is a natural viewpoint, here we will rest and have a brief explanation of the place.

We will continue our walk and we will reach a beautiful forest of Queuñas (Polilepis forest), this means that we are near the Yanacocha Lake, we will advance through beautiful Andean landscapes until we reach to Yanacocha Lake.

It is surrounded by a forest of Queuñas and it is located between large mountains, here we will have an explanation of the place and also our box lunch, we can visit Yanacocha Lake on our own.

After enjoying this beautiful lake, we will start the return, our transport will be waiting for us, and we will go to the city of Cusco.

Includes:

Pick up from your hotel.
Professional guide.
Tourist transport.
Box lunch.
First aid kit.

Not included:

Tips.
Extras not mentioned.

We recommend bringing:

View Map

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Yanacocha Lagoon located, and how do I get there from Cusco?

Yanacocha Lagoon is located in the town of Huayoccari, district of Huayllabamba, in the Sacred Valley of the Incas—about a 1 hour and 45-minute drive from Cusco. The hike starts from Huayoccari, following a scenic trail that takes approximately 2.5 hours uphill through Andean forests with stunning views of the valley. The tour includes round-trip transportation from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, making it an easy and organized full-day adventure.

What is the best time of year to hike to Yanacocha Lagoon?

The best time to hike to Yanacocha Lagoon is from March to November, during the dry season in the Andes. During these months, you’ll enjoy clear skies, pleasant temperatures, and well-maintained trails. Although it’s possible to visit year-round, the rainy season (December to February) can make the paths muddy and slippery. However, it also brings lush green landscapes and a more vibrant natural setting, ideal for travelers who enjoy adventure and photography.

What is the difficulty level of the hike to Yanacocha Lagoon?

The hike to Yanacocha Lagoon is considered easy to moderate. It does not require prior trekking experience, but you should be in basic physical condition to walk around 5 hours round-trip. The ascent is gradual, and there are resting points along the way. It’s suitable for travelers who enjoy nature and mountain views without the intensity of multi-day treks. Your guide will set a comfortable pace so everyone can enjoy the experience safely.

What kind of clothing and gear should I bring?

It’s recommended to wear comfortable hiking clothes, trekking shoes or sneakers with good grip, and a lightweight jacket or windbreaker. Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, a poncho or rain jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A warm layer is useful for early mornings and evenings, especially between May and August when temperatures can drop. Don’t forget a small first-aid kit and some local currency in case you wish to purchase snacks or crafts along the way.

What can I see during the hike to Yanacocha Lagoon?

Along the route, you’ll pass through eucalyptus and native Andean forests of chachacomo and queuña trees. There are natural viewpoints offering stunning panoramic views of the Sacred Valley. You might spot Andean birds, small rural houses, clear streams, and native flora. The lagoon itself is surrounded by queuña forests and mountain peaks, reflecting a deep green color due to the algae and minerals in the water. It’s a peaceful, picturesque location ideal for photography and relaxation.

What is the maximum altitude reached during the hike?

The maximum altitude on the Yanacocha Lagoon hike is approximately 3,940 meters (12,926 feet) above sea level. Some travelers may feel mild altitude sickness, known as “soroche.” To minimize symptoms, it’s best to acclimatize in Cusco for at least one or two days before the tour, stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and drink coca tea or muña tea, both natural Andean remedies that help with altitude adjustment.

Does the tour include meals and a professional guide?

Yes, the tour includes a box lunch that you’ll enjoy near the lagoon with a scenic mountain backdrop. A professional guide will accompany the group throughout the entire hike, providing information about the region’s flora, fauna, and cultural significance. The guide also ensures safety, sets an appropriate walking pace, and encourages environmental respect, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

Is there an entrance fee to visit Yanacocha Lagoon?

Currently, there is no official entrance fee to access Yanacocha Lagoon since it’s located in a natural, open area. However, small voluntary contributions to the local community that maintains the trail are appreciated. Bringing a bit of cash in Peruvian soles is recommended in case you’d like to support local residents or buy local products along the way.

What happens if the weather changes during the hike?

Weather in the Andes can change quickly, even within a few hours. Mornings are usually sunny, but light rain or fog can appear in the afternoon. If the weather changes, your guide will adjust the pace or find natural shelters if needed. Always bring a rain poncho or waterproof jacket to stay dry. Tours typically proceed unless conditions are unsafe, and sudden weather changes often make for a more authentic Andean experience.

Why is the Yanacocha Lagoon hike worth doing?

The Yanacocha Lagoon hike is perfect for travelers seeking a genuine nature experience without crowds. It combines adventure, breathtaking landscapes, and peaceful Andean scenery. Unlike more famous routes, Yanacocha remains quiet and pristine, ideal for photography, birdwatching, and relaxation. It’s also a one-day trip that’s easily accessible from Cusco, making it an excellent complement to other tours in the Sacred Valley.