Refugio Perú Pisco
A high-altitude mountain refuge in Peru's Cordillera Blanca, serving as a base for Nevado Pisco climbs and Laguna 69 treks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clear skies, best for trekking
Refugio Perú Pisco
Best Time
Clear skies, best for trekking
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A high-altitude mountain refuge in Peru's Cordillera Blanca, serving as a base for Nevado Pisco climbs and Laguna 69 treks.
"Great base for Mt Pisco, or just our trek to Laguna 69. Stunning views from refugio or moraine behind it. "
Pack Warm Layers
Evenings and early mornings are cold. Bring insulated clothing, a hat, and gloves. ☁️
Bring Your Own Toiletries
Some guests reported a lack of toilet paper and soap. Best to bring your own. :atom:
Quick Facts
Rating
4.7 · 50 reviews
Type
Hostel
Address
Website
refugiosandinos.comHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Nevado Pisco Summit
Nevado Pisco
Conquer Peru's iconic Nevado Pisco for breathtaking panoramic views. A challenging but rewarding climb.
Laguna 69 Trek
Laguna 69
Hike to the stunning turquoise waters of Laguna 69, a vibrant glacial lake nestled in the Andes.
Refugio Perú Pisco Views
Refugio Perú Pisco
Enjoy unparalleled mountain vistas directly from the refugio. Perfect for acclimatization and soaking in the scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Acclimatization is Key
Book Ahead & Manage Expectations
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Pack Warm Layers
Evenings and early mornings are cold. Bring insulated clothing, a hat, and gloves. ☁️
Bring Your Own Toiletries
Some guests reported a lack of toilet paper and soap. Best to bring your own. :atom:
Hydration is Crucial
Drink plenty of water to combat altitude sickness. The refugio offers drinks. :droplet:
Acclimatize in Huaraz First
Spend 1-2 days in Huaraz before heading to the refugio to adjust to the altitude. :mountain_snow:
Tips
from all over the internet
Pack Warm Layers
Evenings and early mornings are cold. Bring insulated clothing, a hat, and gloves. ☁️
Bring Your Own Toiletries
Some guests reported a lack of toilet paper and soap. Best to bring your own. :atom:
Hydration is Crucial
Drink plenty of water to combat altitude sickness. The refugio offers drinks. :droplet:
Acclimatize in Huaraz First
Spend 1-2 days in Huaraz before heading to the refugio to adjust to the altitude. :mountain_snow:
Check Hygiene Practices
Some reviews noted concerns about food preparation hygiene. :face_vomiting:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Refugio Perú Pisco offers a prime location for trekkers and climbers, with stunning mountain views and a unique volunteer-driven atmosphere. While many praise the friendly staff, plentiful food, and heated rooms, some recent reviews point to a decline in food quality and hygiene standards, along with occasional issues with staff attentiveness.
"We stayed 2 nights here and had an amazing experience. We have stayed in refuges in Austria, France, Switzerland & Morocco and this was up there with the best of them. Staff were friendly, food was plentiful and delicious. Rooms were heated and clean. Bathrooms clean, hot showers available. Also we loved the ethos of the place. It’s Italian owned and set up to support the poor in Peru. Staffed mainly by volunteers. What a brilliant idea, made me want to be 20 again and go and stay and work there for a while!"
Sharon Robinson
"The refugio experience was much better in previous years and the quality has gone down quite a bit.
The place is beautiful but this year, the food wasn’t great. We were served Tripe stew and a clementine for dinner and it left a lot to be desired. Also when we first arrived, there was no toilet paper or soap in the bathrooms. I had to ask several times to have basic hygiene products available in the bathrooms. The volunteers seemed upset or annoyed when we asked for basic things.
I think the people who prepare the food need to wash their hands more thoroughly. It’s really unsettling to see someone with black grit under their finger nails handle and serve food. I feel sick after eating there unfortunately."
Sandra Covone
"Great place to stay if you want to climb Pisco, or when visiting Laguna 69. The whole building is heated by hydroelectric energy, bathrooms are clean and food/drinks available anytime you want it. The beds are not super comfortabel but after climbing Pisco you will sleep well anyway."
Sophie den Ouden
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
From Huaraz, you'll typically take a taxi or colectivo to Cebollapampa. From Cebollapampa, it's a 4-hour hike uphill to Refugio Perú Pisco. Some trekkers start their journey from the Llanganuco lagoons area.
The hike from Cebollapampa to the refugio is approximately 4 hours and is uphill. It's a good test of your acclimatization.
No, the refugio is only accessible by foot from Cebollapampa. The road ends at Cebollapampa.
You can arrange for a taxi to pick you up from Cebollapampa, or you might find shared taxis (colectivos) heading back to Huaraz. It's advisable to pre-arrange your return transport.
The trek typically starts from Cebollapampa, which is accessible by road from Huaraz.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your stay in advance, especially during the trekking season, to secure a spot.
The refugio is generally open year-round for trekkers and climbers. It serves as a base camp, so it's accessible whenever people are undertaking the associated treks.
While the refugio itself requires booking, the surrounding Cordillera Blanca National Park may have entrance fees. It's best to check current park regulations.
While some flexibility might exist, booking in advance is strongly advised to avoid disappointment. Payment methods upon arrival can vary.
Typically, a stay includes a bed in a dormitory-style room. Meals and drinks are usually available for purchase separately.
🎫 ⛰️ Onsite Experience
Accommodation is usually in dormitory-style rooms with bunk beds. The beds are basic but functional after a long day of trekking.
Yes, hot showers are generally available, which is a welcome amenity after a strenuous hike.
Food quality has received mixed reviews. Some guests found it plentiful and delicious, while others reported it wasn't great, with specific instances of unappetizing meals.
Yes, the building is heated, often by hydroelectric energy, providing warmth in the cold mountain environment.
The views are spectacular, offering stunning panoramas of the surrounding Andean peaks, including Nevado Pisco.
📸 📸 Photography
The surrounding mountains, including Nevado Pisco and Huandoy, offer incredible photographic subjects. The trek to Laguna 69 also presents stunning landscapes. +1
Sunrise and sunset offer dramatic lighting for the mountain peaks. Midday can be harsh but still offers clear views of the dramatic scenery.
A wide-angle lens is great for landscapes, and a telephoto lens can capture details of the peaks. Ensure your camera is protected from the cold and potential moisture.
The moraine behind the refugio offers excellent elevated viewpoints. The trail to Laguna 69 itself is filled with photo opportunities.
Charging facilities might be available, but it's wise to bring extra batteries or a power bank, as electricity can be limited or prioritized for essential services.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit