The Beautiful Lagoon of Yanacocha, Black Water lagoon

Walking not only strengthens bones, reduces the risk of strokes, and helps fight stress and depression, but it also gives you the opportunity to discover new natural scenery. An extraordinary example is the Yanacocha Lagoon, located in the mountains of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, in Cusco. This hidden corner, with deep and dark waters, captivates visitors with its tranquility and beauty.

The hike to the Laguna de Yanacocha offers a relaxing journey through Andean landscapes, allowing you to enjoy the nature of the place. Along the trail, you will cross forests of centenary chachacomos and queuñas that, due to their size and longevity, are silent witnesses to the passage of time. This trekking, still not very traveled by tourists, allows you to get to know the flora and fauna of the Cusco region up close, and breathe the pure air of the Andes.

In the final stretch, you will see the Yanacocha Lake, whose name comes from the Quechua Yana (black) and Cocha (lagoon), which reveals itself as a dark mirror surrounded by mountains belonging to the Vilcanota mountain range.

Note: The Laguna de Yanacocha is located at more than 4,000 meters above sea level, so it is recommended to acclimatize in Cusco before starting the trekking to avoid altitude sickness.

Where is Yanacocha Lagoon located?

The Yanacocha Lagoon is located in the town of Huayoccari, within the district of Huayllabamba, in the province of Urubamba, just 67 kilometers from the city of Cusco. This natural treasure, with dark and calm waters, has an approximate depth of 14 meters and extends for 240 meters, surrounded by an impressive Andean environment.

Details about Yanacocha Lagoon

Altitude: Yanacocha Lagoon is located at 3,951 meters above sea level, which gives it privileged views and a pure air typical of the Andean altitude.
Difficulty level: The walk to reach the lagoon is considered a level III, ideal for people with prior trekking experience or good physical condition.
Travel time: The journey demands approximately 5 hours of walking, during which you cross natural trails, wooded areas, and viewpoints that allow you to appreciate the majesty of the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

Generalities of the Yanacocha lagoon

of Huayoccari, is one of the hidden treasures of the Sacred Valley. To get to this natural paradise, a hike of approximately five hours is required, during which the traveler passes through landscapes of great beauty, full of typical flora and fauna of the region. The route allows you to get to know nature up close, among forests of queuñas, chachacomos and natural viewpoints that reveal impressive views of the valley.

One of the most unique charms of this lake is its dark waters, which owe their peculiar tone to a bottom called "Ticna Negra", which creates a mirror effect that reflects the sky and the surrounding landscape. The route is rated with a difficulty level III, so it is recommended to have good physical condition to fully enjoy it. Also, before starting the ascent, it is advisable to spend two to 3 days in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude and avoid altitude sickness; in case of showing symptoms, the traditional coca tea or chewing its leaves can be of great help.

Important Fact: The Laguna de Yanacocha is located at 3,951 meters above sea level, in the heart of the Vilcanota mountain range, and thanks to its low flow of visitors, it still preserves an atmosphere of peace and silence that is difficult to find in other tourist destinations in the region.

What we will observe on the route?

Being in the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, the hike to the Yanacocha Lagoon offers a unique natural spectacle. Along the way, you pass through forests of queuñas and other native species, as well as Andean meadows where wild flora and fauna are shown in their full splendor. The trail, accessible only on foot, guarantees an authentic and peaceful experience, away from the hustle and bustle of the more crowded routes.

Curiosities of the Yanacocha Lagoon

The name Yanacocha comes from the Quechua Yana (black) and Cocha (lagoon), in reference to the intense dark color of its waters. This deep tone creates such a perfect mirror effect that it allows the sky and the surrounding landscape to be reflected with great clarity. Also, its privileged location makes it a recommended stop among the nature activities that can be enjoyed in the Ollantaytambo area.

Schedules and costs:

Access: Free
Fee: Free
Hours: No restrictions

Recommendations

Bring warm clothes (hat, scarf, and gloves), as the nights are cold.
Waterproof jacket or poncho to protect from rain.
Trekking pole for more comfort on the ascent and descent.
Hat and sunscreen to prevent damage from UV radiation.
Camera or camcorder to capture the landscape.
Personal documents always at hand.
Water to stay hydrated.
Nuts or other energy snacks.

Best Trekking and Tours in Peru

Many are the routes that take you to Machu Picchu, but none is like the Inca Trail tours, the most famous pedestrian path in the Americas. After flying from the capital of Peru, Lima, you will arrive in Cusco to walk for four days along a path through forests and dense fog, millenary stone steps and discovering the ruins of ancient fortifications and Inca cities, and all the time enjoying majestic views.

Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and more

If you want to visit Machu Picchu, we recommend you to book your Machu Picchu ticket in advance, so you will enjoy your vacation in Machu Picchu without any problem.