tour highlights
7 Ausangate Lakes
Ausangate Mountain
Pacchanta Village
Natural Hot Springs
Breakfast & Lunch
Hotel Pick-up
7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Tour – Overview
Experience one of the most breathtaking hiking adventures in the Peruvian Andes on the 7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Tour. This unforgettable excursion takes you to a series of stunning glacial lakes nestled at the foot of the majestic Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region and one of the most sacred mountains in Inca culture.
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour from Cusco is perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventure seekers looking to explore spectacular high-altitude landscapes far from the crowds. Along the hike, you’ll visit seven crystal-clear lakes, each displaying unique shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue, while enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and vast Andean valleys.
Throughout the journey, you’ll also encounter native wildlife such as alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and Andean birds. After the hike, relax in the natural Pacchanta Hot Springs, where you can soak in mineral-rich thermal waters while admiring the magnificent Ausangate Glacier. Accompanied by a professional local guide, this tour offers the perfect combination of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and authentic Andean culture.
Duration
Full Day (Approximately 12–13 Hours)Difficulty
Moderate to ChallengingStarting Point
Cusco HotelAltitude
4,600 m / 15,092 ft (7 Lakes of Ausangate)Group Size
Small GroupsLanguage
English & SpanishTransportation
Private Tourist Transportation IncludedGuide
Professional Local Guide7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Tour Itinerary
Day 1: 7 Lakes of Ausangate Full-Day Tour from Cusco
Discover the spectacular Seven Lakes of Ausangate on a full-day adventure from Cusco. Travel through the highlands to Pacchanta, hike through the breathtaking Ausangate Mountain Range, admire seven colorful glacial lakes, and relax in the natural hot springs before returning to Cusco.
1. Hotel Pickup – Cusco
Your adventure begins early in the morning with hotel pickup at approximately 5:00 AM. Travel by private tourist transportation through the scenic Andean countryside toward the traditional village of Pacchanta, a journey of approximately three hours.
2. Breakfast in Pacchanta
Upon arrival in Pacchanta at approximately 4,200 m / 13,780 ft, enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared with fresh local ingredients while surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
3. Hike to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate
After breakfast, begin an unforgettable hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the Ausangate Mountain Range. During the trek, visit the famous Seven Lakes of Ausangate: Pucacocha, Patacocha, Alqacocha, Qomercocha, Otorongo Cocha, China Otorongo, and Azul Cocha.
Each lake displays its own shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue, creating spectacular views against the backdrop of the snow-capped Ausangate Glacier. Along the trail, encounter native wildlife such as alpacas, llamas, and Andean birds while enjoying some of the most impressive landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.
4. Pacchanta Hot Springs
After completing the hike, return to Pacchanta and enjoy free time to relax in the natural hot springs (optional). The warm mineral waters are a perfect way to soothe your muscles after the trek while enjoying panoramic views of the Ausangate Mountain.
5. Traditional Lunch
Following your relaxing time at the hot springs, enjoy a delicious traditional lunch prepared with fresh regional ingredients before beginning the return journey to Cusco.
6. Return to Cusco
After lunch, enjoy a short opportunity to explore the charming village of Pacchanta before boarding private transportation for the return journey to Cusco. Arrive at your hotel in the early evening, concluding an unforgettable day in one of Peru's most spectacular natural destinations.
Inclusions
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco.
- Private round-trip tourist transportation.
- Professional English & Spanish-speaking guide.
- Buffet breakfast.
- Buffet lunch.
- First-aid kit and oxygen available throughout the tour.
- Assistance before and during the tour.
Not Included
- Entrance fee to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate (if applicable).
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
- Tips for the guide and driver (optional).
- Services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Frequently Asked Questions
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude, which ranges between 4,200 m and 4,600 m (13,780–15,090 ft). Although no technical climbing is required, the hike involves several hours of walking on mountain trails. A moderate level of fitness and proper acclimatization are highly recommended.
Yes. We strongly recommend spending at least 1 to 2 days in Cusco before taking the 7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Tour. Acclimatizing to the altitude will help reduce the risk of altitude sickness and make your hiking experience much more enjoyable.
The lakes are relatively close to one another, but hiking times between them vary depending on the terrain and altitude. On average, each section takes between 20 and 40 minutes, allowing you to enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, alpine landscapes, and the majestic Ausangate Mountain.
Your safety is our priority. Our professional guides are trained to assist travelers who experience fatigue or altitude-related discomfort. In some cases, horses may be available through local communities for an additional fee, subject to availability.
The best time to visit is during the dry season (May to September), when you'll enjoy clear skies, stable weather, and excellent hiking conditions. The rainy season (November to March) offers greener landscapes, although trails may become muddy and more challenging.
Yes. Travelers with a moderate level of fitness can complete the hike successfully. Although previous trekking experience is helpful, it is not required. Walking at a steady pace and being properly acclimatized are the keys to enjoying this unforgettable adventure.
Most itineraries include free time to visit the famous Pacchanta Hot Springs after the hike. Entrance fees may vary and are generally paid directly at the site if they are not included in your tour package.
We recommend bringing hiking boots, warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, insect repellent, a reusable water bottle, snacks, your original passport or valid ID, and cash for entrance fees, hot springs, or personal expenses.
Recommendations
To make the most of your 7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Tour, we recommend bringing:
- A small backpack for your personal belongings.
- Warm layered clothing or a fleece jacket.
- A lightweight waterproof jacket or rain poncho.
- Comfortable hiking boots or trekking shoes with good grip.
- A hat or cap, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
- Insect repellent.
- A reusable water bottle and light snacks.
- Your original passport or a valid ID.
- A camera or smartphone with extra battery or power bank.
- Cash for entrance fees, hot springs, souvenirs, or personal expenses.
$50 USD
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