Laguna Urus Hike: The Secret Turquoise Lake of Ishinc

Time:

5 to 6 hours hiking

Grade:

Moderate to Hard

Maximum altitude:

4400m

Hiking distance approx:

4.5kms

While thousands of hikers head to Laguna 69 every day, a pristine turquoise treasure remains virtually untouched in the famous Ishinca Valley: Laguna Urus.

This “hidden lake” sits quietly at the base of Nevado Urus and Tocllaraju. It offers all the beauty of the classic Cordillera Blanca lakes—glacial waters, native forests, and snowy peaks—but without the crowds. It is the perfect day hike for explorers who want silence, solitude, and one of the most impressive mountain backdrops in the Andes.

Hike into a hidden mountain lake unknown except by a few local villagers. Start with a short drive to Pashpa at the entrance to Ishinca valley. It is a lovely hike, starting ascending initially gradually through open farmland with a great view across to the huge mountains of Huascaran, Copa and Vallunaraju. We then enter an ancient quenual forest and the trail steepens for the last hour until we come to the beautiful almost hidden lake at the base of Urus Mountain, surrounded by high vertical rock. After a relaxing lunch descend back the same way & return to Huaraz.

Under the Shadow of Giants: Tocllaraju & Urus

The Ishinca Valley is legendary among mountaineers, and this hike takes you right into the heart of it. As you ascend the trail, the massive pyramid of Nevado Tocllaraju (6032m) dominates the skyline, looking closer and larger than you can imagine.

You will also be standing directly beneath Nevado Urus (5495m). The contrast between the emerald green waters of the lake, the reddish rocks of the moraine, and the blinding white glaciers above creates a color palette that is a photographer’s dream.

A Sanctuary of Peace and Polylepis

The trail to Laguna Urus is as magical as the destination. We hike through dense groves of Quenual (Polylepis) trees, with their paper-like bark and twisted branches. These ancient forests are home to diverse birdlife and provide cool shade during the hike.

Unlike the busy trails of Churup or 69, here you can often hear nothing but the wind and the distant sound of waterfalls. It is a true sanctuary for those seeking a connection with nature away from the tour groups.

Itinerary

Your Guided Tour Itinerary

This is a full-day adventure.

The Drive: We depart Huaraz for the village of Pashpa and the entrance to the Ishinca Valley (approx. 1.5 hours).
The Hike: We begin walking through the beautiful, flat valley floor before taking the steeper switchbacks up the side of the valley wall.
The Lake: Upon reaching Laguna Urus (approx. 4,400m), we take a long break to eat lunch, explore the shoreline, and soak in the views of the glaciers.
Return: We descend back to the valley floor and meet our transport, returning to Huaraz in the late afternoon.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the hike to Laguna Urus difficult?

It is considered a moderate to challenging hike. The final section involves a steep ascent up the valley wall to reach the lake. Good fitness and some prior acclimatization are recommended.

Can I swim in the lake?

The water is glacial meltwater and is freezing cold! While it’s not forbidden, it is generally too cold for swimming. It’s better suited for photography and relaxing by the shore.

Why is it called "Hidden Urus"?

It is not visible from the main valley floor where most trekkers walk to reach the base camp. You have to hike up a side trail to “discover” it, keeping it secluded from the main traffic.