Lake Shallap
- Physical DifficultyThis 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.
- Technical DifficultyThis 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.
Catch glimpses of locals relishing in their everyday life as you meander under towering mountain ranges and through groves of trees until you reach the vibrant green Lake (Laguna) Shallap. The magical green hues cloaking this lake differ from the other bodies of water tucked into the Cordillera Blanca. The not-so-steep path, paired with the 18.0 km, makes this hike an ideal option for those seeking a slight challenge accompanied by a myriad of jaw-dropping views.
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Route Description for Lake Shallap
The Lake Shallop hike unveils locals performing daily activities while also leading hikers to and through a panoply of extraordinary Peruvian views.
And while this hike may be over 16.0 km, it’s not too hard to navigate. This well-marked trail paired with limited steepness makes this trail a fantastic choice for anyone seeking an adventure that doesn’t require much thought but encompasses unspoiled views of both Peru’s culture and the scenery coating its backyard.
From Janku, you’ll start the walk between the houses and farms of the locals. After walking for about 45 minutes, you’ll enter the Shallap valley, where the path runs along the river, crossing from section to section via small bridges.
You’ll also meander through trees and rocks until you reach an area emulating unforested grassland. This semi-flat section of the trail goes until you get to a grove of lupines, where the lake—sitting at 4,250 m—comes into view.
Laguna Shallap is formed from the snow thawing from San Juan’s and Tumarinraju’s peaks.
Return along the same path to the town of Janku.
Find even more great hikes in Huaraz:
Insider Hints for Lake Shallap
- Bring your own food and water from Huaraz. You will not find any spots to stop en route.
- You may come across dogs at the beginning of the journey, so you may want to carry a stick or take hiking poles along for protection.
Getting to the Lake Shallap Trailhead
Travel by car from Huaraz to Janku, which sits at 3,900 m. Pass by the towns of Ichoca, Coyllur, and Paquishka en route.
Route Information
Lake Shallap Elevation Graph
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