PERU HOP EXCLUSIVE STOP

Lake Lagunillas

High in the Andes between Arequipa and Puno, Lake Lagunillas is a deep-blue lake surrounded by golden grassland, rolling mountains and huge open skies that is overlooked by public buses that just drive past it.

With Peru Hop, every pass departing from Lima includes a scenic stop at Lake Lagunillas, giving you the chance to discover this spectacular landscape at no extra cost. It’s a morning break to stretch your legs, grab a hot coffee and take in your first real view of the Altiplano.

Updated Date: October 13


Quick summary

What makes Lake Lagunillas special?

Imagine stepping off your bus into the heart of the Andes, surrounded by endless mountains, peaceful blue waters and some of the most breathtaking landscapes in Peru.

At over 4,400 meters above sea level, Lake Lagunillas offers a completely different side of Peru from the busy cities and popular tourist attractions. The views are spectacular, the air is crisp, and the surrounding landscape feels almost untouched.

A few things most travelers never know:

  • It’s part of the Titicaca story. Lagunillas sits right next to its twin, Lake Saracocha, and its water flows down the Coata River into Lake Titicaca. It’s your first taste of the Titicaca basin before you even reach Puno.
  • It’s a working lake. Trout are farmed here, and the lake is home to an unusually large form of the Titicaca water frog.
  • It’s great for birdwatching. Look out for Andean gulls, wild ducks and, on lucky days, flamingos in the distance.

With the clear highland light, it’s also one of the best photo stops of your whole trip.

How the stop works with Peru Hop

If you’re traveling from Arequipa to Puno with Peru Hop, the Lake Lagunillas stop is already included in your pass.

Instead of simply driving past the lake like regular public buses, Peru Hop stops at a scenic viewpoint so you can step outside, enjoy the incredible surroundings and capture some unforgettable photos.

Your onboard Peru Hop host will share local insights about the area, and once everyone has enjoyed the views, you’ll hop back on the bus and continue towards Puno and Lake Titicaca.

Why it's difficult to visit on your own

Lake Lagunillas is located high in the Andes, far from the main tourist cities and towns. Although the road between Arequipa and Puno passes through the area, actually stopping to enjoy the lake isn’t straightforward.

  • Public buses generally drive straight past, with no dedicated stop for passengers to explore the viewpoint.
  • Visiting independently usually requires private transport, which can be expensive for such a remote location.
  • There’s limited transport available in the surrounding area, making it difficult to arrange a convenient return journey if you’re dropped off.

With Peru Hop, you don’t have to worry about any of this. The bus takes you directly to the viewpoint, giving you the chance to discover one of Peru’s lesser-known natural wonders without the extra planning or expense.

Frequently asked questions

Yes! The scenic stop at Lake Lagunillas is included at no extra cost on Peru Hop passes traveling from Arequipa to Puno.

Lake Lagunillas sits at approximately 4,440 meters (14,570 feet) above sea level. It’s a high-altitude stop, so bring warm clothing and take things slowly if you’re still adjusting to the altitude.

Yes, but it’s more complicated. Public buses don’t normally stop at the viewpoint, so you’d generally need private transport or a tour that specifically includes the lake. Peru Hop makes it an easy, included stop on your journey from Arequipa to Puno.

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