This amazing one-day adventure kicks off early as we depart from Cusco in private transportation, heading towards the charming highland community of Pacchanta, nestled at the foot of the mighty Ausangate Mountain. Upon arrival, we’ll be warmly welcomed by a local family who will treat us to a nourishing, traditional Andean breakfast—just what we need to fuel our journey through the Andes to the 7 Lakes.
Our trek begins with an uphill hike to the first lake in the circuit, Comercocha, whose name in Quechua means “green lake.” The trail winds through a landscape of rugged beauty, where the air is crisp and the scenery, dotted with alpacas and llamas, feels almost surreal. As we continue, we’ll pass by several other stunning lakes, including the tranquil Patacocha, the deep blue Azulcocha, and the mysterious China Otorongo, each offering its own unique beauty and reflection of the towering peaks surrounding them.
Throughout the 15 km hike, we’ll be surrounded by breathtaking views of towering glaciers, with the majestic Ausangate standing tall at 6,384 meters (20,945 feet) above sea level, a sacred mountain in Andean culture. Our knowledgeable guide will share insights about the significance of these lakes and the mountain in local traditions, as well as the diverse flora and fauna of the region.
After completing the circuit, we’ll return to Pacchanta for a well-deserved lunch featuring local ingredients and flavors. And if your body is craving some relaxation, a soak in the natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties, will be the perfect way to unwind and soothe your muscles before we head back to Cusco, wrapping up this unforgettable experience.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Experience the hidden wonders of the Andes firsthand.
- Discover one of the most stunning sections of the Ausangate glacier route in just one day.
- Immerse yourself in the rich traditions of the most authentic communities in the Andean highlands.
- Observe the diverse flora and fauna of the region, including alpacas and llamas grazing in their natural environment.
- Unwind with a soothing dip in the hot springs of Pacchanta, offering one of the most breathtaking views of the Ausangate glacier, the tallest and most sacred peak in the Cusco
- region.
- Explore the 7 emerald and turquoise lakes, making this hike a truly one-of-a-kind adventure.
| GROUP SERVICE | PRIVATE SERVICE | ||||
| 1 Person or more | 1 Person | 2 Person | 3 Person | 4 Person | 5 Person or more |
| 50 USD | 235 USD | 135 USD | 120 USD | 105 USD | 90 USD |
Location
Itinerary
Ausangate 7 lakes
We’ll start the day by picking you up from your hotel and heading south of Cusco. Along the way, we’ll pass through picturesque towns where the locals, dressed in colorful traditional outfits, keep their culture and traditions alive. We’ll make a brief stop in the town of Ccatcca to visit its charming plaza and some of the beautiful streets that give it its unique character.
We’ll then continue on the inter-oceanic highway that connects Peru with our neighboring country, Brazil, until we reach the community of Pacchanta, located at more than 4,100 meters (13,451 feet) above sea level. Here, a wonderful local family will welcome us into their home and offer a nutritious breakfast made from Andean ingredients. After recharging our energy, we’ll head toward the Vilcanota Mountain Range, where we can admire the majestic Ausangate glacier, one of the most spectacular in the region, whose melting waters feed the beautiful lakes we’ll visit during our hike.
Continuing our adventure, we’ll hike uphill for about three and a half hours to reach the Ninaparayoc viewpoint. Along the way, we’ll pass by Comercocha and Alqacocha, lakes with blue and turquoise waters located at the foot of the enigmatic Callangate glacier. Later, we’ll return to Pacchanta, visiting the lakes of Patacocha, Otorongocha, Azulcocha, and others along the trail.
Before taking a well-deserved dip in the relaxing hot springs of Pacchanta, we’ll return to our host family to enjoy a delicious lunch. Finally, satisfied with this beautiful experience, we’ll board our private transportation and head back to Cusco.
Included
- Permits & Entrance Tickets
- Entrance Ticket to the circuit “Ausangate 7 Lakes”
- High Quality Service & Safety
- Pre-departure Briefing
- Experienced Tour Guide
- Medical Kit or First AID Kit
- Extras Included in our Service
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Meals
- Breakfast & Lunch
- Snacks and water
- One cloth snack bag per person
- Hygiene Products
- Transportation
- Transport
Not Included
- Dinner
- Hiking Clothes
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for our staff
- Additional costs or delays beyond our control
Before you
- Warm Clothing:
Temperatures in the highlands can be very cold, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. Bring a waterproof and windproof jacket, thermal clothing, gloves, a wool hat, and a scarf to stay warm. - Hiking Boots:
A good pair of waterproof hiking boots is essential for walking comfortably on uneven and possibly muddy terrain. - Sun Protection:
Despite the cold, the sun at high altitudes is very strong. Bring a high SPF sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat. - Water and Snacks:
Staying hydrated is important during the hike. Bring at least 2 liters of water and some energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, dried fruits, or nuts. - Camera or Smartphone:
The views are spectacular, so don’t forget to bring a camera or your smartphone to capture the incredible landscapes. Make sure it’s fully charged, and consider bringing a portable battery. - Trekking Poles:
These are very useful for stability during the hike, especially on the uphill and downhill sections. - Swimwear and Towel:
If you plan to enjoy the hot springs in Pacchanta, don’t forget to bring swimwear and a towel. - Small Backpack:
A comfortable, medium-sized backpack is ideal for carrying your personal items throughout the day. - Cash:
Bring some cash in soles for any additional expenses, such as souvenirs or tips. - Personal Medications:
Don’t forget to bring any medication you may need, as well as a small first aid kit with basics like pain relievers, band-aids, and insect repellent.
Frequently Asked Questions
The best time to visit the 7 Lakes of Ausangate is during the dry season, from May to September, when the weather is more stable and the hiking trails are more accessible. During these months, you can enjoy clear skies and panoramic views of the lakes and mountains.
The hike to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate takes approximately 5 to 6 hours, depending on the group’s pace and the stops made for photos and rest. The total distance covered is around 16 km (9.94 miles).
The highest elevation during the 7 Lakes tour is 4,800 meters (15,548 feet) above sea level at the Ninaparayoc viewpoint. It’s important to be prepared for the altitude and take precautions to prevent altitude sickness.
The hike to the 7 Lakes is considered moderately difficult. It requires a good level of physical fitness due to the altitude and distance, but it is accessible for most hikers with mountain hiking experience.
The weather on the way to the 7 Lakes can vary significantly. During the day, temperatures can range from cool to cold, especially in the early morning and late afternoon. It’s common to experience intense sunlight and wind, so it’s important to be prepared for sudden weather changes.
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