Create an account

Start your adventure today.

    0

    Already a member? Login

    Lake Awak

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Hard
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    5.5-7.5h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    12.0 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    1,150 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
    Overall Rating
    This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
    10.0
    Physical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Advanced (Diamond)
    Suitable for advanced experience level looking for a solid adventure.
    Technical Difficulty
    This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
    Intermediate (Square)
    Suitable for intermediates who are ready for a little bit more adventure.
    Read Reviews
    Directions to Trailhead
    Lake Awak

    The Lake Awak hike twists to the top of Huaraz—the path follows a steep path layered with traditional remnants—before taking you to the lake blanketed in a blue complexion and cradled by Andean grass, otherwise known as ichus. Lake Awak sits below the Vallunaraju mountain, a snow-capped peak belonging in the Cordillera Blanca. This out-and-back hike may be ranked as tricky, but it’s embroidered with unforgettable views that make the treacherous journey worth it!

    Download the 10Adventures App

    View Lake Awak on Map

    View Map

    Join our newsletter

    Get a weekly dose of discounts and inspiration for adventure lovers

    Route Description for Lake Awak

    The Lake Awak hike (or Laguna Aguak) beautifully stitches culture, tradition, and out-of-this-world scenery, creating one masterpiece of a journey. Before you go, it’s essential to make sure you come prepared for the high altitude along this challenging hike, it’s a big day out at high elevation! However, with the high altitude aside, this path is easy to follow, making it an excellent hiking option for acclimatized visitors who want to travel without a guide.

    This well-marked route zigzags through a collection of different scenery, from plants and flowers to views of Huaraz to peaks laden with snow to the enchanting blue tone covering Lake Awak. To top it off, the path explodes with cultural tales, too. Inhabitants use this trail from this part of the mountain range to carry the crosses that act as protectors at carnival parties.

    From the start of the path, it takes around 30 minutes to reach one of the first crosses, adorned in flowers, at the top of the hill.

    Continue as the path ascends, meandering along the path with many zigzags. Notice Callejón de Huaylas valley, the city of Huaraz, and the Cordillera Negra peaks painting the view behind you.

    When you get closer to Laguna Aguak, the landscape will dissolve in ichus, and eventually, the path will wind between rocks, signaling that you’re close to the lake.

    Finally, a hut will come into view, and shortly after, you’ll see the lake. Marvel at the immense valley formed by the White and Black mountain ranges and the peaks lining the south side.

    Return along the same path you came.

    Find even more great hikes in Huaraz:

    Insider Hints for Lake Awak

    • Bring your own food and water from Huaraz. You can also buy necessities at the start of Wilkawain.
    • You may encounter dogs at the beginning of the trail, so consider taking sticks or hiking poles for protection. Even better, hire a local guide who can deal with the dogs for you!

    Getting to the Lake Awak Trailhead

    Follow a dirt road to Wilkawain, which sits at 3400 m, and start your journey here.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      April - October

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Family friendly

      No

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Low

    • Route Type

      Out and back

    Lake Awak Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

    Check Area Weather

    Lake Awak Reviews

    Add a comment

    You must be logged in to post a comment.

    Nearby Trails

    Nearby Regions

    Get travel inspiration and discounts

    Join our weekly travel newsletter