The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate
Dare to experience the immensity of the Andes with The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate tour, a full-day expedition that brings you close to the imposing Apu Ausangate ($6,384$ m / $20,945$ ft a.s.l.), Cusco’s most sacred mountain. This trekking circuit takes you across a chain of seven glacial lagoons with vibrant colors—from turquoise to emerald—that reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks. It is an adventure that combines the demands of the high mountains with an unmatched visual reward, perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Furthermore, you will have the opportunity to relax in the Pacchanta hot springs after the hike. Connect with the ancestral energy of this Apu, the guardian of life in the Andes, on an unforgettable day of natural purity.
Vilcanota Mountain Range (Cusco, Pitumarca, Pacchanta), Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain
Trekking, High-Altitude Nature, Scenic
Spanish and English
Small, Maximum 12 people
Itinerary
The day begins extremely early (approximately 4:00 a.m.) with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We start a long journey in private transportation south, through the picturesque South Valley, until we reach the town of Pitumarca or an intermediate point, where we make a crucial stop to enjoy a hot and nutritious breakfast.Next, we continue the journey to the small, high-Andean village of Pacchanta ($4,300$ m / $14,108$ ft a.s.l.), which serves as the start and end point of our circuit.From Pacchanta, we begin the trek of approximately 4 to 5 hours (round trip) to complete the 7 lagoons circuit. The hike is of moderate difficulty, but the main challenge is the altitude, close to $5,000$ meters.We will explore each lagoon, whose names (such as Pucacocha, Comercocha, Azulcocha, etc.) are often linked to their colors or legends. We enjoy panoramic views of the Ausangate massif and, if lucky, we may spot local fauna like vizcachas and condors.Upon returning to Pacchanta, we will have a well-deserved hot lunch. The day culminates with the optional visit to the Pacchanta Hot Springs, ideal for relaxing muscles, before starting the return journey to Cusco, with arrival expected in the late afternoon/evening.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and group tourist transportation (round trip).
- Professional bilingual trekking guide (Spanish/English).
- Hot breakfast and hot lunch (nutritious local menu).
- Entrance ticket to the Pacchanta community and the lagoons circuit.
- Assistance with a first-aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
- Entrance to the Pacchanta Hot Springs (approximate payment of S/ 10.00 on site).
- Rental of horses or trekking poles (available in Pacchanta with cash payment).
- Gratuities for support staff.
- Extra beverages and snacks, in addition to the included meals.
- Personal travel insurance.
- Vital Acclimatization: It is absolutely essential to have spent a minimum of 3 full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before this tour due to the extreme altitude ($4,850$ m / $15,912$ ft a.s.l.).
- Clothing: Wear layered high-mountain clothing (thermal wear, fleece, waterproof/windbreaker jacket), hat, gloves, and a scarf.
- Footwear: Wear waterproof trekking boots with excellent support.
- Health: Bring altitude sickness pills and chew coca leaves. Walk at a very slow pace.
- Hydration: Carry at least 2 liters of water and energy snacks for the hike.
- Cash: Bring Peruvian Soles in small bills for horse rental (if required) and the entrance to the hot springs.