5 Best Lakes in the Peru Sacred Valley

Here we leave you an exciting list for travelers who like to take walks and be in contact with nature.

You can visit the five most famous lakes in the Sacred Valley independently or with a travel agency. And best of all, they don’t need income.

Qoricocha Lake

Adventurous hikers looking for a 2-day trek from Cusco can camp next to the Qoricocha lagoon, which sits at an elevation of close to 13,200 feet. This intrepid trek begins near the archaeological site of Tamboymachay, stretches through the arid mountain landscapes of the Andes, and may include a night at Lake Qoricocha. From there, you will walk along mule tracks and see villages that lead to Huchuy Qosqo. The two-day Huchy Qosqo trek ends at Lamay in the Sacred Valley.

Apu Pitusiray

There is a lot of mysticism around the Apu Pitusiray (Andean God) in Calca. Seasoned hikers can spend the whole day climbing the mountain where the stunning Pitusiray alpine lake is located.

This one-day trek in the Sacred Valley is challenging, and it should be noted that many people often get lost while trekking this route. Hire a guide or hike with a friend—the best place to find a hiking partner.

Juchuycocha Lake

One of the highest altitude lakes in the Sacred Valley can be found behind the town of Urubamba; the incredible Laguna Juchuycocha offers stunning views of Mount Chicon and boasts the sparkling crystal clear waters of Lake Juchuycocha.

The lake sits on jagged mountain peaks at about 15,200 feet! Juchuycocha Lake is highly challenging but offers stunning views.

Lake with views of Pumahuanca

Between the towns of Urubamba and Pachar, find the small community of Yanahuara. It is possible to walk almost 10 km beyond the village along a path toward the impressive mountain, Apu Pumahuanca. Further along the trail is another lake and another. Well, you see the pattern…

This trail and lake are located in a small reserve called Mantanay and are part of the Vilcanota trek. The Vilcanota hike has a path that ends in the town of Lares and its hot springs. Multiple Lares Valley Walks and routes range from one day to six. The Vilcanota hike is beautiful and entirely off the beaten path. Make sure you have an offline map, and be prepared for the weather to change drastically.

Ancascocha Lake

One of the off-the-beaten-path hikes in the Sacred Valley is Laguna Ancascocha. This impressive multi-day trek starts from the town of Pachar, near the charming town of Ollantaytambo.

The Ancascocha trek includes sacred sites, such as Ñaupa Iglesia, a hillside tour of the Perolnioy Waterfall, and the Raqaypata ruins that sit on top of the falls.