7 Lakes of Ausangate
Duration
Full Day
Difficulty
Medium
Recom. Age
All ages
Recom. date
All year
Located in the heart of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, the 7 Lakes of Ausangate tour takes you into one of the most pristine and spiritually revered areas of the Peruvian Andes. This full-day trek features seven stunning high-altitude glacial lakes, each with its own color, charm, and connection to the nearby Ausangate Mountain — the highest peak in the Cusco region and an Apu, or sacred mountain, in Andean belief.
This is an ideal adventure for nature lovers and trekkers looking for off-the-beaten-path beauty, fewer tourists, and a deeper connection to Andean landscapes and traditions.
Highlights
- Visit seven distinct glacial lakes in vibrant shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue
- Hike through unspoiled high-Andean terrain with snowcapped peaks, rivers, and wildlife
- Views of Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m / 20,944 ft)
- Optional soak in natural thermal baths near the trailhead
- Interact with local alpaca-herding communities
Consult Now
7 Lakes of Ausangate
Full Day
- Itinerary
4:30 AM: Hotel Pickup in Cusco
Begin your adventure with early hotel pickup and head southeast through remote Andean villages toward the Pacchanta community, near the base of Ausangate.
7:30 AM: Arrival at Pacchanta & Breakfast
Enjoy a warm Andean breakfast in the local community of Pacchanta (approx. 4,200 m / 13,800 ft). Your guide will explain the hike ahead and safety tips for high-altitude trekking.
8:00 AM: Begin the Hike to the 7 Lakes
Start your moderate trek across valleys and glacial basins. The hike typically takes 4 to 5 hours round trip, depending on your pace. Along the way, you’ll visit seven spectacular lakes, including:
- Pucacocha
- Alqacocha
- Q'omercocha
- Orco Otorongo
- China Otorongo
- Azulcocha
- Patacocha
Your guide will explain the geological features, local myths, and cultural importance of each lake while you enjoy panoramic views of Ausangate and nearby peaks.
12:30 PM: Return to Pacchanta & Optional Hot Springs
After completing the circuit, return to Pacchanta where you’ll have the option to relax your muscles in local natural hot springs (entrance not included).
1:00 PM: Traditional Lunch
Enjoy a delicious lunch prepared by a local family, made with ingredients sourced from the highlands.
2:00 PM: Begin Drive Back to Cusco
Sit back and enjoy the ride through dramatic mountain scenery and rural life.
6:00 PM: Arrival in Cusco
Drop-off at your hotel. End of the tour.
- Includes
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco
- Private or shared tourist transport
- Breakfast and lunch in Pacchanta
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
- Entrance fees to the lakes and conservation area
- First aid kit and oxygen tank
- Walking stick (on request)
- Does Include
- Entrance to hot springs (approx. S/10)
- Snacks, bottled water, or extra drinks
- Tips for guide or local family
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses
- Recommendations
- Spend at least 2 full days in Cusco to acclimate before this high-altitude trek
- Dress in layers — the weather can shift quickly between sun, wind, and cold
- Bring gloves, a wool hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a rain jacket
- Carry extra cash in Peruvian soles for local purchases or tips
- Bring water and energy snacks — there are no stores on the trail
- This trek is moderately difficult due to altitude, not terrain — pace yourself
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