Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike 1 Day (Pacchanta)

Full day

5 Stars

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Tour Overview

Experience an unforgettable journey through one of the most dramatic landscapes in the Peruvian Andes with the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour. This route takes you through a spectacular circuit of glacial lagoons, each boasting unique hues ranging from intense turquoise to deep blue and emerald green.

Located at the foot of the magnificent Ausangate Mountain (6,384m), the highest and most sacred peak in the Cusco region, this area is home to llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. The tour combines the challenge of high-altitude hiking with the relaxation of the Pacchanta Hot Springs at the end of the day. Ideal for travelers seeking raw nature, adventure, and a connection with Andean culture in a single day.

Meals Included: 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch.

Full day

PRICE FROM $98,00 per person

Places to visit: Cusco

Trip starts in: Hotel, AirBnB, or other agreed location.

Physical Level: Moderate

Travel Style: Hiking

Group Size: 5 to 12 People

Total Distance: 12 km

Meals Included: 1 Breakfast(s), 1 Lunch(es)

Departures: Daily Departures

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Pacchanta – 7 Lakes Circuit – Hot Springs – Cusco

7 Lagoons. in one of the highest mountains in Peru. Ausangate is a very good option for those who do not have much time, but want to have this incredible view of the Andes. wanting to know a little more about this area that has 7 lagoons of different colors and having an attraction of pure nature. only that it is at a fairly considerable height and at the same time you can live closer to the camelids of the Andes such as alpaca, llama and etc. And many birds. It is located in the Vilcanota mountain range. By visiting this area, you will also be supporting the high Andean communities where they will be the ones who will welcome us in their home. Breakfast will be prepared by them as well as lunch with the products they grow.

The tour starts from Cusco as all the tours in Cusco. With the pick-up from your hotel at 4.30 am with Guiding Cusco transportation we will transport you for 4 hours from Cusco to Pacchanta(4200/13780ft) where we will arrive to a local’s house and wait until breakfast is ready. After the energetic breakfast we will start walking uphill. The hike is gradual, but over (4200/13780ft). The altitude is considerable, but this does not prevent the view around on the way to the first lake you will find many ladies selling gifts made by them, which will be of alpaca wool and at the same time you will find many alpacas. The hike has a duration of 6 hours in these 6 hours you can see the 7 lakes of different colors (4600/15090ft) and once concluded back to the house where breakfast. if lunch is not yet ready you can enjoy the thermal medicinal waters of Pacchanta and then return to Cusco and arrive to the city at 6pm approximately to your hotel in Cusco.

Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.5 miles
Duration: 5-6 hours
Pacchanta altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft.
Maximum altitude: 4,600 m / 15,090 ft.
Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch.
Difficulty: moderate.

Inclusions & Exclusions

Included

Briefing: The night before the trip.
Transfers: Private transport Cusco – Pacchanta – Cusco.
Guide: Professional Bilingual Guide (High Mountain Specialist).
Tickets: Entrance fee to the Pacchanta Community / 7 Lakes area.
Meals: 01 Breakfast, 01 Lunch (Local cuisine).
Safety: First Aid Kit and Oxygen tank.
Service: Personalized small group attention.

Not Included

Dinner.
Hot Springs Fee: Usually paid directly in cash to the community (approx. 10-20 Soles). Note: Confirm if your $90 price covers this; if not, list as exclusion.
Travel Insurance.
Rentals: Trekking poles.
Tips: Optional.

Packing List

To make your trip as comfortable as possible, we recommend bringing the following items:

Essentials & Documents

Local money

Medical kit

Passport

Sunscreen

Water

Clothing & Footwear

Cap and hat

Tennis and boots

Waterproof

Waterproof jacket

Equipment & Gear

Camera and cell phone

Portable charger

Small backpack

Sunglasses

Recommended Extras

Gel alcohol

Lanches snacks

Lip balm

Travel Tips & Recommendations

Essential Travel Info

Please read these recommendations carefully to prepare for your trip.

Bring a swimsuit and towel for the hot springs. The weather is unpredictable (sun/snow/wind), so dress in layers.

Got Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the 7 Lakes of Ausangate?

It is a hiking circuit that visits seven distinct glacial lakes (Otorongo Macho, Otorongo Hembra, Puca Cocha, Azul Cocha, etc.) located at the base of the Ausangate Mountain.

Where is it located?

The hike starts and ends in the community of Pacchanta, in the Quispicanchi province, about 100km southeast of Cusco.

What is the altitude?

The hike starts at 4,200m and reaches a maximum altitude of approximately 4,700 meters (15,420 ft) at the highest pass between the lakes.

How difficult is the hike?

It is rated Moderate. The terrain is relatively flat compared to Rainbow Mountain, but the sustained time at high altitude makes it tiring. Good acclimatization is required.

How long is the hike?

The walking part takes approximately 4 to 5 hours depending on the group's pace and time spent taking photos.

Do I need to acclimatize?

Yes. We recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before attempting this tour due to the extreme altitude.

Best time to go?

The dry season (May to September) offers the best chance of clear blue skies and vibrant lake colors.

Testimonials

Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike 1 Day (Pacchanta)

Tour Overview

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Pacchanta – 7 Lakes Circuit – Hot Springs – Cusco