Seven Lakes Full Day Trek: Glacial Waters and Landscapes of Ausangate
Your Encounter with Sacred Water: Ausangate Seven Lakes Tour
If you’re looking for a journey that combines the tranquility of shimmering lakes with the grandeur of glaciers, this is your destination. The Ausangate Seven Lakes Tour invites you to explore the foothills of Cusco’s most sacred mountain. You’ll discover a circuit of lakes that range in color from turquoise to green to cobalt blue, all fed by the meltwater of the majestic Apu Ausangate. Every step offers a profound connection with pristine nature and the pastoral culture of the Andes. It’s the ultimate experience for those seeking picture-perfect landscapes and an unforgettable high-altitude adventure.Ausangate: Where Glaciers and Lakes Embrace
Walking through the community of Pacchanta on this tour is a transformative experience. It’s a physical and emotional transition from dawn in the valleys to the heart of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. Many call it “The Sacred Colors Tour” because of the incredible array of colors in its waters. This tour is designed to offer you comfort and energy, including the best of local cuisine to help you recover. Here, you’ll feel the true power of the Andes as you gaze at the snow-capped peaks reflected in crystal-clear lagoons.Why choose the Seven Lagoons Tour with Andina Travel?
Our route has been designed to offer you a safe and visually stunning expedition. The landscape invites you to discover lagoons with names steeped in history, such as Azulcocha and Otorongo. Enjoy a day of trekking that culminates, optionally, in the relaxing hot springs of Pacchanta. The reward is not only completing the circuit but also feeling the spirituality emanating from Apu Ausangate with every breath. Trust our logistics and let yourself be guided by the magic of the seven lagoons.Itinerary
- Hotel Pickup: We start the day very early, picking you up from your hotel at 4:30 a.m.
- Cusco – Pacchanta: A 3-hour drive to the community of Pacchanta, the gateway to Ausangate.
- Buffet Breakfast: Enjoy a full breakfast to fuel up before the ascent.
- Start of the Hike: Hike along the circuit of the seven lagoons: Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Q’omercocha, Orqo Otorongo, and China Otorongo.
- Glacial Landscapes: During the trek, we’ll have spectacular views of the Ausangate, Mariposa, and Jampa snow-capped peaks.
- Descent and Lunch: Return to Pacchanta for a well-deserved buffet lunch.
- End of the Tour: Return to Cusco, dropping you off at the Plaza de Armas (Plaza Regocijo) at approximately 7:30 p.m.
Include
- Transportation: Round-trip group transportation in modern vehicles.
- Meals: Buffet breakfast and buffet lunch included.
- Guiding: Service provided by a certified professional mountain guide.
- Entrance Fees: Entrance ticket to the community and the lagoon circuit.
Not Included
- Hot Springs: Entrance to the Pacchanta hot springs (optional, approx. S/ 10.00).
- Dinner: Not included at the end of the tour.
- Personal Expenses: Tips, extra snacks, or horse rental.
Recommendations
- Clothing: Layered clothing (thermal base layer, fleece, and waterproof/windproof jacket).
- Footwear: Sturdy hiking boots with good traction.
- Sunscreen: Sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a hat.
- Extras: Swimsuit and towel if you plan to use the hot springs at the end.
Frequently Asked Questions
The level is moderate to high. Most of the route is flat with some slopes, but the altitude (over 4,500 m) is the main factor to consider.
Yes, it’s essential. We recommend spending at least two days in Cusco before taking this tour, as you’ll reach considerable altitudes.
Yes, the residents of Pacchanta offer horse rentals for the tour. The approximate cost is between S/ 80.00 and S/ 100.00.
We’ll be back around 7:30 p.m., dropping you off at a central location near the Plaza de Armas.
The climate is cold and dry. In the morning it can be below zero and at midday the sun is strong, but the wind is always icy.
Of course! After the hike there is usually free time to enjoy the pools with a view of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain.
The dry season (May to October) is the best, with clear skies that highlight the turquoise color of the lagoons.
Only basic services exist in the community of Pacchanta. During the trek, you will be in full contact with nature.
It is recommended for children over 12 years old who are used to walking and altitude.
This is a circuit of several lakes, and the landscape is that of an open mountain range. Humantay is a single lake with a steeper slope but at a lower overall altitude.
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