A very enriching experience, full of history and good coordination even with changing weather during the route.
See moreFull Day 7 Ausangate Lakes: Hiking and Unique Landscapes
Experience the hike to the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate in Peru, including the stunning Pariacaca, Otorongo, and Pucacocha lagoons, located in the Cordillera Negra. An ideal option if you’re traveling through Cusco and have limited time.
If you’re a hiking enthusiast and only have one day, this full-day experience is perfect for you. You’ll enjoy incredible landscapes, visit seven different lagoons, and have the privilege of admiring the snow-capped peaks that surround the area.
HIKE DETAILS
The hike takes approximately 5 hours to reach the trail where you’ll find lagoons such as Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, and Q’omercocha.
Along the way, you’ll be able to admire the snow-capped peaks surrounding the area, including: Ausangate, Mariposa, Jampa, Pucapunta, Caracol, Tinke, and the entire Qayangate mountain range.
Highlights
- Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain
- Pacchanta
- Pucacocha Lake
- Pata Cocha Lake
- Alqacocha Lake
- Qomercocha Lake
Itinerary
Day 01 Cusco – Pacchanta – Lagoons – Cusco
visit to 7 Ausangate lakes
1
This full-day hike begins at 4:00 a.m. with pickup from your hotel. We’ll take a 3-hour drive to Pacchanta (at 4,200 meters above sea level), passing through the town of Tinke. Due to the altitude, temperatures are lower than in Cusco.
Upon arrival in Pacchanta, our trekking chef will prepare a hot breakfast for you, following all safety protocols to ensure the group’s well-being.
After breakfast and a short break, we’ll start the hike to the lagoons of the Ausangate region. The hike lasts about 5 hours along the trail that borders the lagoons: Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, and Q’omercocha.
In addition to the lagoons, you’ll admire the snow-capped peaks of the area: Ausangate (6,834 m), Mariposa (5,842 m), Jampa (5,500 m), Pucapunta (5,740 m), Caracol (5,625 m), Tinke (5,300 m), and the Qayangate range.
Since we are in the Andean region, the weather is changeable: it can be cold or intensely sunny. Therefore, it is recommended to bring a hat or cap and sunscreen to avoid sunburn or headaches.
Along the way, you’ll be able to observe local flora and fauna, such as various birds, vicuñas, and llamas.
The views are spectacular. You’ll visit all the lagoons while returning along the same trail. The way back is easier and faster to Pacchanta. There, the chef will have a hot lunch ready to replenish your energy.
Pacchanta has natural hot springs where you can relax and soothe your muscles after the hike. You can enjoy them before lunch, then recover with a meal prepared especially for you.
After lunch, we’ll board the transportation back to Cusco and take you to your hotel to rest.
Day itinerary details
This tour takes place at high altitude, so proper acclimatization in Cusco is recommended. Weather conditions can change quickly, and a good level of physical fitness is required.
Recommendations
Before Booking
- Confirm that the tour includes transportation, meals, and a professional guide.
- Check the physical difficulty level of the hike.
- Verify the tour departure and return times.
- Inform the operator of any dietary restrictions or medical conditions.
- Make sure your travel insurance covers high-altitude activities.
Before Traveling
- Spend at least 1–2 days acclimatizing in Cusco before the tour.
- Drink plenty of water and avoid excessive alcohol consumption.
- Pack warm clothing, as temperatures can be very cold in the morning.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sun protection.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction.
- Carry cash for personal expenses and optional access to the hot springs.
Included services
What is included
- Private transportation
- Professional guide
- Trekking chef
- Breakfast and lunch prepared on site
- Trekking poles
- Rain poncho
- Pickup and drop-off at your hotel
What is not included
- Horse rental
- Dinner
Frequently Asked Questions
01 How difficult is the 7 Lakes of Ausangate tour?
The tour is considered moderately challenging due to the high altitude and the hiking distance. Although the trail is not technically difficult, participants will walk through mountainous terrain above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet). A reasonable level of physical fitness and proper acclimatization are recommended.
02 Do I need to acclimatize before taking the tour?
Yes. It is highly recommended to spend at least one or two days in Cusco before joining the tour. Acclimatization helps your body adjust to the altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness during the hike.
03 What should I bring for the tour?
You should bring comfortable hiking shoes, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, water, snacks, and cash for personal expenses. Weather conditions in the Andes can change quickly, so dressing in layers is recommended.
04 Can I swim in the hot springs of Pacchanta?
Yes. After completing the hike, visitors usually have time to relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta. Bringing a swimsuit and a small towel is recommended if you plan to enjoy this experience.
05 What are the highlights of the 7 Lakes of Ausangate tour?
The tour offers spectacular views of the Ausangate Mountain, visits to seven colorful glacial lakes, encounters with local Andean communities, and the opportunity to relax in the hot springs of Pacchanta. It is one of the most scenic day trips available from Cusco.
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