Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek leads through a spectacular collection of glacial lakes hidden within the Peruvian Andes. Surrounded by pristine mountain scenery, this unique route showcases some of the most colorful and untouched landscapes in the Cusco region.
During the journey, travelers visit a series of turquoise, emerald, and crystal-clear lakes formed by ancient glaciers. Each lake displays different colors and characteristics, creating an extraordinary natural setting that changes throughout the day with the light and weather conditions.
Beyond the lakes, the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek offers an authentic Andean experience through remote valleys, traditional communities, and relaxing natural hot springs. This unforgettable adventure reveals one of the most scenic and lesser-explored regions of southern Peru.
Overview
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek follows a scenic circuit through the Vilcanota Range, one of the most impressive mountain regions in Peru. Starting from the traditional community of Pacchanta, the route explores seven high-altitude lakes surrounded by rugged peaks, grazing alpacas, and breathtaking Andean landscapes.
Along the trail, visitors discover lakes with different colors and unique natural characteristics while experiencing the daily life of local communities that have inhabited these highlands for generations. The excursion concludes in Pacchanta, where travelers can relax in the region’s natural hot springs before returning to Cusco.
Highlights
✓ Explore seven stunning glacial lakes
✓ Admire turquoise, emerald, and crystal-clear waters
✓ Walk through remote Andean landscapes
✓ Observe alpacas and local wildlife
✓ Visit traditional highland communities
✓ Relax in natural hot springs
✓ Enjoy spectacular mountain scenery
✓ Breakfast and lunch included
Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek at a Glance
04:00 AM – Hotel pickup and departure from Cusco.
06:30 AM – Breakfast in Pacchanta village.
07:30 AM – Begin the hike through the Ausangate region.
09:00 AM – Explore the first glacial lakes and surrounding landscapes.
11:00 AM – Continue visiting the seven colorful lakes.
01:00 PM – Return to Pacchanta for lunch.
02:00 PM – Optional time at the natural hot springs.
03:00 PM – Return journey to Cusco.
06:00 PM – Arrival in Cusco and transfer to your hotel.
Why Visit Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek?
✓ Discover seven glacial lakes in a single day
✓ Experience one of the most scenic routes in the Andes
✓ Enjoy vibrant turquoise and emerald-colored waters
✓ Visit authentic Andean communities
✓ Relax in natural hot springs after the hike
✓ Observe alpacas and traditional pastoral life
✓ Explore remote landscapes away from the crowds
✓ Perfect for nature lovers and photographers
Included
- Pre-tour briefing before departure
- Hotel pickup from Cusco
- Professional English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fee to the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek
- Round-trip tourist transportation
- Breakfast and lunch
- Snacks and bottled water
- Trekking assistance throughout the hike
- First aid kit
- Emergency oxygen bottle
- 24/7 customer support
- All local taxes
Not Included
- Entrance to the Pacchanta Hot Springs (optional)
- Walking poles (available for rent)
- Personal hiking gear
- Travel insurance
- Horse rental during the hike (optional)
- Dinner
- Tips for guides and staff
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Pacchanta – Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek – Pacchanta – Cusco
Highlight of the Day: Explore seven spectacular glacial lakes, admire the pristine landscapes of the Vilcanota Range, and relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta.
Your adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel through the southern Andes, passing traditional villages, highland valleys, and breathtaking mountain scenery as we make our way to the remote community of Pacchanta, located at the foot of the Ausangate region.
Upon arrival, we enjoy a nutritious breakfast before beginning our hike through one of the most spectacular alpine environments in Peru. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and vast Andean landscapes, the trail gradually leads us into the heart of the Ausangate 7 Lakes circuit.
As we explore the route, we visit a series of stunning glacial lakes, each displaying different shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue. Among the most remarkable are Azulcocha, Otorongococha, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, and Q’omercocha, all framed by dramatic mountain scenery and ancient glaciers that feed their crystal-clear waters.
Throughout the trek, we enjoy panoramic views of the Vilcanota Range and several towering peaks that dominate the landscape. The combination of colorful lakes, remote valleys, grazing alpacas, and pristine mountain environments makes this one of the most rewarding day hikes near Cusco.
After completing the circuit, we return to Pacchanta for a well-deserved lunch. Travelers also have the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs, a perfect way to unwind while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.
In the afternoon, we begin our return journey through the Andes and arrive back in Cusco, where we transfer you to your hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Maximum Elevation: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
- Minimum Elevation: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
- Hiking Distance: Approximately 16 km / 9.9 miles
- Difficulty: Moderate
💰 Prices
We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek daily, subject to availability.
Price: USD $49 per person
✔ Small-group experience for greater comfort and personalized service
✔ Professional guides and full Tour logistics included
Private Service
A more personalized experience with flexible pacing and tailored logistics.
- 2 Persons: $169 per person
- 3 Persons: $139 per person
- 4 Persons: $119 per person
- 5 Persons: $89 per person
- 6 or more Persons: $79 per person
* All our tours are priced in US dollars.
Rentals:
- Hiking poles – US$10.00.
- A horse – US$45.00.
What You Need to Bring
- Original passport
- Small daypack
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots
- Warm layers for changing mountain temperatures
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
- Swimsuit and towel for the Pacchanta hot springs
- Reusable water bottle (at least 1 liter)
- Personal medications
- Camera or smartphone
- Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs, and tips
- Walking poles (optional)
- Snacks for the hike
- Toilet paper
Travel Information
We want your Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek to be as enjoyable and hassle-free as possible. The information below will help you prepare for your adventure and answer some of the most common questions travelers have before visiting one of Peru’s most spectacular natural attractions.
Acclimatization
Due to the high altitude of Ausanaget / Lakes, some travelers may experience mild symptoms of altitude sickness, including headaches, fatigue, or shortness of breath. We recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before the trek, staying hydrated, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption before the tour.
Luggage Storage
If you have luggage that you do not need during the tour, you can safely leave it at your hotel. Most hotels in Cusco provide complimentary luggage storage before and after your stay.
We recommend bringing only a small daypack with the essentials needed for the trek.
Hotel Pick-Up
Hotel pickup is included from most hotels located in Cusco.
Please note:
- Pickup times will be confirmed the day before the tour.
- Due to traffic conditions, pickup times may vary slightly.
- Some hotels located on narrow streets may require a short walk to the nearest pickup point.
Group Service
This is a shared tour with travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Participants are free to walk at their own pace and take breaks whenever necessary. Our guides will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience throughout the trek.
Weather Conditions
Weather in the Andes can change quickly. Mornings are usually cold, while daytime temperatures may become warmer under direct sunlight. We recommend dressing in layers and bringing rain protection, especially during the rainy season.
Horse Rental
Horses are available for rent through local residents near the trailhead. This optional service is ideal for travelers who would like additional assistance during the ascent. Horse rental fees are paid directly to the horse owners on the day of the trek.
Personal Belongings
Please keep track of your personal belongings throughout the tour. Before leaving the vehicle, restaurant, or any stop along the route, make sure you have collected all your items.
Frequently Asked Questions
The trek visits seven stunning glacial lakes located in the Vilcanota Range. Each lake has its own unique color, ranging from turquoise and emerald green to deep blue, creating one of the most spectacular natural landscapes in the Cusco region.
Yes. The lakes are formed and fed by the glaciers surrounding the Ausangate region. Their crystal-clear waters originate from snowmelt and glacial runoff, which is why they display such vibrant colors throughout the year.
No. Swimming in the lakes is not recommended due to the cold temperatures and the need to preserve these fragile natural environments. However, you can enjoy the natural hot springs in Pacchanta after the hike.
The Pacchanta Hot Springs are natural thermal pools located at the base of the Ausangate region. Many travelers choose to relax in these warm mineral-rich waters after completing the trek while enjoying views of the surrounding mountains.
Yes. The Ausangate region is home to large herds of alpacas and llamas. Throughout the trek, it is common to see local families herding their animals across the high-altitude grasslands.
This trek combines seven glacial lakes, traditional Andean communities, spectacular mountain scenery, and natural hot springs in a single day. It offers a unique alternative to the more crowded trekking routes near Cusco.
No. Compared to some of the region’s most famous attractions, the Ausangate area receives fewer visitors. This allows travelers to enjoy a more peaceful and authentic experience in the Andes.
Besides alpacas and llamas, visitors may spot Andean birds and other wildlife that inhabit the high-altitude ecosystems of the Vilcanota Range.
Yes, but participants should be comfortable walking at high altitude. The route is considered moderate and is suitable for travelers with a reasonable level of fitness and proper acclimatization.
Many travelers consider the combination of colorful glacial lakes, remote mountain landscapes, and the relaxing Pacchanta Hot Springs to be the highlight of the entire experience. These elements create one of the most rewarding day tours in the Peruvian Andes.
Starting From: USD 49 per person
Trip details:
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