Kinsa Cocha (Pisac)
Escape the bustle of Cusco with the tour to Kinsa Cocha (“Three Lagoons”), a trekking circuit that transports you to a dreamlike landscape in the high Andes, just above the Sacred Valley. Kinsa Cocha is the main lagoon of a group of three glacial water mirrors (Kinsa Cocha, Azul Cocha, and Puma Cocha) that extend across a pristine environment, home to alpacas, llamas, and Quechua weaving communities. This hike offers light to moderate difficulty, making it perfect for active and rewarding acclimatization. In addition to the natural beauty, you will have the opportunity to connect with the local community of Paru Paru, known for its preservation of textile traditions, adding a deep cultural and experiential touch to your Andean adventure.
Cusco, Calca Province (Near Pisac), Paru Paru Community
Trekking, High-Altitude Nature, Living Culture
Spanish and English
Small, Maximum 12 people
Full Day
The expedition day starts early (approximately 7:00 a.m.) with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We begin a drive of about one and a half hours toward the picturesque town of Pisac.In Pisac, we make a brief stop for breakfast (or breakfast is taken en route, depending on the agency) before continuing the ascent along a dirt road that winds its way up to the highlands. The vehicle journey takes us directly to the high-Andean community of Paru Paru and the vicinity of Kinsa Cocha, the starting point of the hike.Once at the starting point (around $4,000$ m / $13,123$ ft a.s.l.), we begin a gentle 2 to 3-hour trek to explore the three main lagoons. The circuit is predominantly flat with slight undulations; the main challenge is the altitude.We enjoy views of the crystalline waters, the presence of grazing Andean camelids, and the imposing Urubamba Mountain Range. The area is an excellent example of Rural Community Tourism, and we will have the opportunity to observe and support the sale of local handicrafts and handmade textiles by the women of the community.After completing the circuit and enjoying a box lunch or hot meal within the community, we begin the return journey to Cusco, arriving back in the city in the mid-afternoon.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and group tourist transportation (round trip).
- Professional bilingual guide (Spanish/English) specializing in hiking.
- Lunch (Box Lunch or Hot Lunch in the Community, depending on the service).
- Communal Entrance to the Kinsa Cocha and Paru Paru area.
- Assistance with a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
- Breakfast (if the itinerary does not specify it, a stop is made where it can be purchased).
- Gratuities for the guide and driver.
- Entrance ticket to the Pisac Archaeological Park (if added as a visit).
- Extra bottled beverages, snacks not included, or handicraft purchases.
- Travel insurance.
- Acclimatization: It is essential to have spent at least 1 day in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before this tour, as the maximum altitude exceeds $4,000$ m / $13,123$ ft a.s.l.
- Clothing: Wear warm layered clothing (layering), including gloves, a hat, and a windbreaker jacket, as the high-altitude zone is cold.
- Footwear: Use trekking shoes or comfortable boots with good grip.
- Hydration and Energy: Carry at least 1.5 liters of water and snacks (nuts/dried fruits) for the hike.
- Sun Protection: UV radiation at this altitude is very high. Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Cash: Bring Peruvian Soles in small bills for the communal entrance fee ($3$ to $10$ soles, if applicable) and handicraft purchases.