There are some destinations in the Peruvian Andes that feel almost unreal, and Ausangate 7 Lakes is one of them. This full-day trek combines the majesty of snow-capped mountains with the surreal beauty of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue lagoons scattered at the foot of the sacred Ausangate glacier.
Located about three hours from Cusco, this circuit has become a must for adventurous travelers seeking landscapes that go beyond the ordinary. At an altitude of more than 4,200 meters above sea level, the hike challenges your body while rewarding you with breathtaking views that remain etched in memory long after the journey ends.
What makes this experience truly unique is not only the scenery but also the cultural and spiritual value of the region. For the Andean communities, Ausangate is considered a protective deity, a sacred mountain known as an Apu. Walking through its valleys and along its lakes is more than a trek—it is an encounter with local tradition, Andean spirituality, and untouched natural beauty.
From the crisp mountain air to the mirror-like waters reflecting the snowy peaks, every step of this trek connects you with nature in its purest form. Whether you are fascinated by photography, culture, or physical challenges at high altitude, the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek is a journey that delivers on every level.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes circuit is a full day adventure that takes you deep into the Andean highlands, just a few hours from Cusco. This trek is perfect for experienced travelers who want to explore hidden gems far from the crowds while enjoying one of the most beautiful landscapes in Peru.
The route begins in the small community of Pacchanta, located at more than 4,000 meters above sea level. From here, you will hike through valleys and pastures where alpacas and llamas roam freely, guided by the impressive presence of Ausangate, the fifth highest mountain in Peru. Along the way you will visit seven glacial lakes, each with its own unique color ranging from bright turquoise to deep emerald.
Unlike other popular hikes in Cusco, this circuit is less crowded, which makes the experience more authentic and peaceful. It is not only a physical challenge but also a cultural immersion, since local communities maintain ancestral traditions and see Ausangate as a sacred protector. Travelers often describe the place as magical because of the combination of striking landscapes, fresh mountain air, and the silence of nature broken only by the sound of the wind.
This tour is designed as a full day experience that includes transport, meals, and professional guides, making it an ideal choice for those who want to explore the region comfortably yet still embrace the adventure of high altitude trekking.
✨ Seven stunning glacial lakes with unique colors that range from turquoise to emerald green
🏔️ Close up views of Ausangate mountain considered one of the most sacred Apus of the Andes
🦙 Local wildlife encounters with alpacas, llamas, and sometimes wild vicuñas along the trails
🛶 Scenic landscapes perfect for photography including glaciers, valleys, and mirror like lagoons
♨️ Relaxing hot springs in Pacchanta to recover after the trek while enjoying panoramic views
🌄 Immersive cultural experience in an Andean community that maintains ancestral traditions
📍 Destination: Ausangate 7 Lakes, Cusco – Peru
⏳ Duration: Full day, from 5:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
🚶 Hiking time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours (round trip)
📏 Distance: Around 13 kilometers of trekking
⬆️ Altitude: Maximum 4,700 meters above sea level
💪 Difficulty level: Moderate, recommended for experienced hikers accustomed to altitude
👥 Group size: Small groups from 10 to 15 participants, maximum 16 for personalized service
🗣️ Guides: Professional bilingual guides with extensive knowledge of the region
🥘 Meals included: Breakfast and buffet lunch with vegetarian options
🚐 Transport: Comfortable round trip from Cusco to Pacchanta, the starting point of the hike
The Ausangate 7 Lakes trek is a one day experience that begins early in Cusco. After a three hour drive through the highlands, you will reach Pacchanta, a community at the foot of Ausangate where breakfast is served before starting the hike.
The route includes a steady ascent of about ninety minutes until you reach the first lagoon, a turquoise jewel surrounded by glaciers. From this point the rest of the lakes are reached along easier trails, mostly flat or downhill, allowing you to enjoy the scenery without pressure.
The hike ends back in Pacchanta where a hearty buffet lunch awaits. To complete the adventure you can relax in the local hot springs while gazing at Ausangate’s snowy peak. Finally, the return to Cusco takes about three hours, with arrival scheduled around 7:00 p.m.
04:30 – 05:00 a.m. 🚐 Hotel Pick up in Cusco
Our day begins very early with pick up from your hotel in Cusco. You will travel in a comfortable vehicle that takes you through traditional Andean towns and breathtaking landscapes.
08:00 a.m. 🍽️ Arrival in Pacchanta and breakfast
After about three hours of driving we arrive in the community of Pacchanta, the starting point of the trek. Here you will enjoy a nutritious breakfast prepared with local ingredients, perfect to fuel up for the adventure.
09:00 a.m. 🥾 Start of the trek
The hike begins with a gentle but constant ascent of approximately one and a half hours until reaching the first lagoon. The turquoise waters surrounded by glaciers are an unforgettable introduction to the route.
10:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. 🏞️ Exploration of the 7 Lakes
From the first lagoon onward, the route becomes easier with mostly flat or downhill paths. You will visit all seven lakes, each with its own distinctive color. Along the way your guide will share information about the glaciers, Andean legends, and the cultural significance of Ausangate as a sacred mountain.
1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m. 🍲 Return to Pacchanta and buffet lunch
After completing the circuit, you will return to Pacchanta where a delicious buffet lunch with options for different diets will be served.
2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. ♨️ Relax in the hot springs
Before heading back to Cusco, you will have the chance to rest your muscles in natural hot springs while enjoying views of Ausangate’s snowy peak.
3:30 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. 🚌 Return to Cusco
The group begins the return journey, arriving in Cusco around 7:00 p.m. This marks the end of a full day of adventure and connection with the Andes.
✅ Hotel pick up in Cusco
✅ Round trip transportation in modern and comfortable vehicles
✅ Nutritious breakfast in Pacchanta
✅ Buffet lunch with vegetarian options
✅ Professional bilingual guide with knowledge of culture, history, and nature
✅ Small groups of maximum sixteen travelers for a personalized experience
✅ First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle
❌ Entrance fee to Ausangate 7 Lakes: 20 soles, payable in cash to the local community
❌ Entrance fee to Pacchanta hot springs: 5 soles, payable in cash
❌ Personal trekking gear such as clothes, walking shoes, or poles
❌ Drinks and snacks not mentioned in the program
❌ Tips for guides and drivers, voluntary but appreciated
To fully enjoy the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek, it is essential to come prepared for the high altitude conditions and changing weather of the Andes. We recommend packing the following:
🎒 Daypack with rain cover
🥾 Comfortable hiking shoes with good grip
🧥 Warm layers including a jacket, hat, and gloves for cold mornings
☀️ Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen
💧 Refillable water bottle or hydration system
📸 Camera or smartphone to capture the landscapes
👙 Swimsuit and towel if you plan to enjoy the hot springs
🍫 Snacks such as energy bars, chocolate, or dried fruit for extra energy
💵 Cash in soles for entrance fees and personal expenses
🧴 Personal hygiene items and hand sanitizer
Being properly equipped will make your trek more comfortable and safe, allowing you to focus on the beauty of the lakes and the majesty of Ausangate.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes trek is more than a hike; it is an immersion into the heart of the Andes. Here are some travel tips and recommendations to help you plan your visit:
🌤️ Weather: Days are usually sunny but mornings and evenings are very cold. Temperatures can drop below zero at night even in the dry season. Dressing in layers is essential.
🚌 How to get there: The tour includes transportation from Cusco to Pacchanta, the trailhead. Independent travelers can reach Pacchanta by bus or private car, but joining an organized tour is more convenient.
🍴 Food: Most tours include breakfast and lunch. If you travel on your own, small local restaurants in Pacchanta offer traditional Andean meals.
🛏️ Accommodation: For those who want to extend their stay, Pacchanta has basic lodges and family homestays. Spending a night here offers a closer look at local life and an early start for other treks around Ausangate.
📸 Photography: The lakes are known for their vibrant colors, which look especially stunning in the morning light. Bringing extra batteries or a power bank is recommended since there is limited electricity in the area.
🙏 Respect for local culture: Ausangate is considered a sacred Apu by the Andean people. Treat the environment with care, avoid littering, and respect community rules.
The trek is not just about seeing lakes but about connecting with Andean landscapes and traditions that remain alive today. For experienced travelers, this journey delivers both physical challenge and cultural reward.
Is the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek difficult?
The trek is considered moderate to challenging because of the altitude. The first part involves a steady uphill climb, but the rest of the route is mostly flat or downhill. It is recommended for travelers with trekking experience and good acclimatization.
What altitude will I reach during the trek?
The maximum altitude is around 4,700 meters above sea level. Proper acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley is strongly advised before joining this tour.
When is the best time to do the Ausangate 7 Lakes tour?
The dry season from April to October offers the best conditions, with clear skies and better visibility. During the rainy season, from November to March, trails can be muddy, but the landscapes are greener and the lakes more vibrant.
Are the hot springs included in the price?
Access to the hot springs in Pacchanta requires a small fee of 5 soles, payable directly to the community. This is not included in the tour price.
Do I need to bring my own trekking gear?
Yes, personal gear such as hiking shoes, jackets, hats, and walking poles must be brought by each traveler. Walking poles can also be rented in Cusco if needed.
What if I suffer from altitude sickness?
Guides carry first aid kits and oxygen bottles. However, it is best to spend at least two days in Cusco to acclimate before attempting this trek. Drinking coca tea and staying hydrated also helps reduce symptoms.
Get Ready to Explore? With your booking confirmed, all that's left to do is pack your bags and get ready to explore. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, we'll be with you every step of the way. At Machu Picchu Elevation, we believe that every journey begins with a single step. So why wait? Start your adventure today and let the world be your guide.
Map of : Ausangate 7 Lakes – full day tour
Book fast and easy on our website and keep track of your reservation with our most advanced booking system, be updated on our discounts every week.
Cusco, the ancient capital of the Inca Empire, is one of the most popular destinations for adventure treks in South Amer
Read moreThe Inca Trail is a world-renowned hiking trail that leads to the iconic Machu Picchu in Peru. The trail is a combinatio
Read moreMachu Picchu is a stunning 15th-century Inca ruin located high in the Andes Mountains of Peru. It is considered one of t
Read more
