Local guide
Mancos & Yungay: what to see and do in the Callejón de Huaylas
The essentials for exploring Mancos, Yungay and the lakes of the Cordillera Blanca, from a family that lives at the foot of Huascarán.
The valley
Between two mountain ranges
The Callejón de Huaylas is the Santa River valley in Peru’s Áncash region, squeezed between the glaciated Cordillera Blanca and the Cordillera Negra. Along the highway you pass Huaraz, Carhuaz, Mancos, Yungay and Caraz.
Much of the Cordillera Blanca is protected by Huascarán National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mancos, in Yungay province, sits at the foot of its highest peak.
What to do
Places not to miss
Mancos main square and church
The heart of town life. At sunset, the church with Huascarán behind it is one of the best views in the valley.
Santa River
A walk through farm fields. Best in the morning, when the peaks look sharpest.
Llanganuco Lakes
Chinancocha and Orconcocha, two turquoise lakes between Huascarán and Huandoy, reachable by road from Yungay.
Laguna 69
The best-known hike in the Cordillera Blanca. Come acclimatized and start very early.
Campo Santo, Yungay
A memorial to the victims of the 1970 earthquake and avalanche. A place to visit respectfully.
Farm-fresh food
Native potatoes, corn, fava beans and produce from the fields. Ask about the dish of the day.
Before you go
When to come and how to prepare
The dry season, from May to September, brings clear skies and is the best time for hiking. From December to March it rains more often, but the valley is at its greenest.
- Mancos sits at around 2,500 m (8,200 ft): take your first day easy.
- Acclimatize for two or three days before hiking to Laguna 69.
- Pack layers, sunscreen and sunglasses.
- Carry cash in soles: small towns don’t always take cards.
Blog
In-depth guides
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Llanganuco Lakes and Laguna 69: How to Visit from Yungay and Mancos
How to get there, how long the Laguna 69 hike takes, when to go and what to pack. A practical guide from…
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Things to Do in Mancos, Peru: A First-Timer’s Guide to the Foot of Huascarán
Main square, the Santa River, farm-fresh food and the best nearby day trips. Everything you need for your first visit to Mancos,…
Your base in the valley
Stay in Mancos, at the foot of Huascarán
Alex’s House is a family-run country house for up to 10 guests.