Discover the beauty of the central highlands with our Marcapomacocha Full Day Tour and La Viuda Mountain Range from Lima. This experience will take you along the Central Highway to the high-altitude landscapes of Junín, where you will find lagoons, mountains, wetlands, and wildlife.

What to See on the Marcapomacocha Tour

During the tour, you will visit Marcapomacocha Lagoon, Carispaccha Waterfall and the landscapes of the La Viuda Mountain Range. In addition, you will make panoramic stops to appreciate high-altitude lagoons, rock formations, and extensive views of the central Andes.

Likewise, during the route you may observe vicuñas, llamas, alpacas, vizcachas, and high-Andean birds. However, sightings depend on the natural conditions of the area.

This tour from Lima is ideal for those who enjoy nature, photography, and adventure routes. Nevertheless, the experience takes place in areas of great altitude. Therefore, it is recommended to be in good general health and follow the guide’s instructions.

  Itinerary

Departure from Lima

We will begin the adventure in the early morning, with pick-up from the meeting points previously established in Lima. Then, we will travel along the Central Highway toward the central highlands of Peru. During the journey, we will cross valleys, tunnels, and mountainous landscapes. In addition, the team will provide important instructions for making a responsible visit in high-altitude areas.

Breakfast stop along the route

We will make a stop in San Mateo, Chicla, or another operational point along the route. There, you will have time to have breakfast, buy water, or purchase snacks before continuing the journey. Breakfast is on your own and is not included in the tour price. It is recommended to eat light foods and stay hydrated.

Viewpoint of Mount Rajuntay and high-Andean landscapes

We will continue ascending toward the high-altitude landscapes of the central highlands. During the route, we will make a panoramic stop to appreciate Mount Rajuntay, the nearby mountains, and the puna ecosystem.

In addition, you will be able to observe flora and fauna typical of the Andes. Depending on the conditions of the route, it will be possible to spot llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, sheep, or vizcachas from safe locations.

Visit to Carispaccha Waterfall

Afterward, we will arrive at Carispaccha Waterfall, a natural attraction with several waterfalls surrounded by mountains and high-Andean landscapes.

You will have time to take photographs and enjoy the surroundings. Likewise, the walk or descent toward certain areas of the waterfall will be optional and will depend on the weather, trail conditions, and group conditions.

Marcapomacocha Lagoon

Next, we will visit Marcapomacocha Lagoon, one of the main natural landscapes along the route. Its waters are surrounded by mountains, wetlands, and extensive puna landscapes.

Here you can appreciate the scenery, take photographs, and enjoy the fresh Andean air. However, remember to respect the environment, do not leave waste, and keep a safe distance from wildlife.

La Viuda Mountain Range and high-altitude lagoons

Later, we will head toward the La Viuda Mountain Range. In this area, we will make panoramic stops to observe high-altitude lagoons, including the Seven Colors Lagoon and Chuchún Lagoon, depending on the conditions of the route.

The colors of the lagoons may vary according to the weather, daylight, and season. Therefore, each visit offers a different and special experience.

Free time for lunch

During the tour, we will have free time for lunch at a local restaurant, according to the day’s operational organization.

Lunch is not included. Therefore, each traveler can choose their food and beverages according to their preferences and budget.

Panoramic stops and photography time

Throughout the tour, we will make brief stops to rest, use restrooms when available, and take photographs of the high-altitude landscapes.

Likewise, the guide will coordinate the time for each visit to complete the scheduled itinerary in an organized and safe manner.

Return to Lima

In the afternoon, we will begin the return journey to Lima. During the return trip, we will make operational stops if necessary.

Arrival in Lima will be at night, approximately between 8:00 p.m. and 9:00 p.m. However, the schedule may vary due to traffic, weather, road conditions, and route conditions.

  Includes

 What does the Tour include?

To help you enjoy the route with greater peace of mind, the tour includes the following services:

Round-trip tourist transportation from Lima
Transportation in a tourist vehicle from the established meeting points to the scheduled attractions and return to Lima.

Assistance from a tour guide or travel coordinator
Guidance throughout the journey, coordination of schedules, and assistance during the scheduled visits.

Visit to the attractions indicated in the itinerary
Tour through the landscapes of Marcapomacocha, Carispaccha Waterfall, and La Viuda Mountain Range, according to the operational conditions of the day.

Panoramic stops for photographs
Time to appreciate the landscapes of the central highlands, high-altitude lagoons, mountains, and local wildlife.

 Basic first-aid kit
The group will have a basic first-aid kit for minor assistance during the journey.

 Assistance during the trip
The team will be available to provide guidance and coordinate the development of the tour.

 Not Included

 What does the Tour not include?

To help you better organize your budget, consider the following services that are not included:

Breakfast, lunch, and beverages
Meals and beverages are at each traveler’s own expense. During the route, there will be stops where you can purchase food.

 Entrance fees, tickets, or community contributions not specified
Any entrance fee, local contribution, or additional service that is not expressly indicated in the “Includes” section must be paid by the passenger.

Personal expenses
Purchases of snacks, water, souvenirs, handicrafts, photographs, keepsakes, or other personal expenses.

 Services not indicated in the itinerary
Additional activities, unscheduled visits, or transportation outside the established route are not part of the package.

Voluntary tips
Tips for the guide, driver, or local staff are not mandatory and are left to each traveler’s discretion.

  Recommendations

 Stay well hydrated before and during the trip

Altitude can cause dehydration. Bring your own bottle of water and drink regularly in small amounts.

 Dress in layers

The weather in Marcapomacocha can vary considerably. It can be very cold in the morning and at sunset, but the sun can be strong during the day. Bring a warm jacket, sweater, shirt, wool hat, and sunscreen.

Wear appropriate footwear

Some areas have uneven or wet terrain. Trekking shoes or comfortable shoes with good traction are recommended.

 Bring your camera or cell phone with a fully charged battery

This tour is a gem for photography lovers. You can also bring a power bank to ensure you have power throughout the day.

Bring snacks and coca candies

They help prevent altitude sickness and provide energy during walking. It is also recommended to bring coca tea or natural tablets.

Do not forget sunscreen and sunglasses

UV radiation above 4,000 meters can be intense, even on cloudy days.

Bring cash in Peruvian soles

Some stops may offer restrooms, snacks, or local products, and may not accept cards.

 Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the tour start?

The tour starts in Lima, with pick-up from agreed meeting points in districts such as Miraflores, San Isidro, or the Historic Center. The usual departure time is between 3:30 a.m. and 4:00 a.m.

How long does the tour last?

It is a full-day tour. The estimated duration is 16 to 17 hours, from departure until the return to Lima between 6:30 p.m. and 8:00 p.m., depending on weather and traffic.

Can I visit all the points if I suffer from altitude sickness?

The route reaches very high areas, up to 4,400 m above sea level. If you have never been at this altitude, we recommend consulting your doctor before the trip. Stops are made progressively to allow acclimatization, and the team is prepared to assist you if necessary.

Is breakfast and lunch included?

Lunch (box lunch or rural restaurant) is included in the tour. Breakfast is not included, but there is a stop along the route where you can have breakfast at a local restaurant at your own expense.

Is wildlife viewing safe?

Yes. Vicuñas, vizcachas, and birds are observed from the vehicle or during walks, without interfering with their natural environment.

Does the tour require physical effort?

The level of difficulty is low to moderate. Some walks are optional and short. If you are accustomed to walking and have no health problems, you should have no difficulty.

Can I bring a drone?

You can bring one, but we recommend checking beforehand to confirm whether weather or wind conditions allow it and whether there are any local restrictions in natural areas.

Is the tour canceled in case of bad weather?

In case of heavy rain or extreme conditions, the operator may reschedule the tour for safety reasons. During the dry season (April to November), the weather is favorable for most departures.