7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day

4:00–5:00 a.m. – Hotel Pickup in Cusco

Your 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour begins with early pickup from selected hotels and locations in Cusco between approximately 4:00 and 5:00 a.m..

Once the group is complete, travel southeast through the Andean countryside toward Ocongate, Tinki, and eventually the remote community of Pacchanta.

Journey to Pacchanta

The drive takes approximately three to three and a half hours depending on road, traffic, and weather conditions.

As the route climbs higher into the Andes, the landscape becomes increasingly dominated by open puna, agricultural communities, grazing alpacas and llamas, and views toward the Vilcanota mountain range.

Breakfast in Pacchanta

Upon arrival in Pacchanta, enjoy an included breakfast and take some time to prepare for the high-altitude hike.

Your professional guide will provide a briefing about the walking route, altitude, group pace, weather conditions, and safety recommendations.

Items that are not required during the hike may remain in the vehicle when appropriate.

Beginning the 7 Lakes Circuit

Start hiking from the Pacchanta area through broad high-Andean landscapes beneath the Ausangate massif.

The trail crosses gradual climbs, rocky terrain, wetlands, grazing areas, and open mountain valleys while connecting the different glacial lakes.

Glacial Lakes of Ausangate

During the circuit, the route normally includes lakes such as Azul Cocha, Otorongo Macho, Otorongo Hembra, Puca Cocha, Alqa Cocha, Qomer Cocha, and Pata Cocha, although local spelling and the exact sequence may vary according to the trail used.

Your guide will make regular stops for explanations, photography, hydration, and recovery while maintaining a steady pace appropriate for the altitude.

Highest Section of the Route

The circuit reaches approximately 4,800 meters (15,748 ft) at its highest section, depending on the exact trail and current conditions.

From the higher viewpoints, enjoy extensive views across glacial valleys and the snow-covered Ausangate massif.

Return to Pacchanta

After approximately 5 to 6 hours of hiking, complete the circuit and return to Pacchanta.

A freshly prepared lunch will be waiting after the trek.

Pacchanta Hot Springs

After lunch, enjoy approximately 45 minutes to one hour to rest or enter the natural thermal baths of Pacchanta.

The hot-springs entrance is not included and is currently paid locally at approximately S/5 per person.

Return to Cusco

In the afternoon, begin the journey back to Cusco.

Arrival is expected at approximately 6:30 p.m., although the exact time can vary according to traffic, weather, road conditions, and the group’s hiking pace.

Tour Information
Duration: Full Day
Hiking time: approximately 5–6 hours
Maximum altitude: approximately 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Start / End: Cusco
Difficulty: Challenging