7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Hike from Cusco
7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Hike from Cusco
Take on the challenge of hiking the seven awe-inspiring lakes of Ausangate in one day! Get all the information you need with KONDOR PATH TOURS for this incredible journey.
ENJOY the Stunning 7 Lagoons of Ausangate, PERU
7 Lakes of Ausangate Trek Peru: The tourist route in the Andes south of Cusco is truly beautiful. Spend a full day exploring the seven lakes on the slopes of the snowy Ausangate.
The headwaters of the Amazon River are born around the seven lagoons of Ausangate. The scenic landscapes between May and November are spectacular.
The 7 Lakes Ausangate Hike Full Day is a fantastic adventure. It takes you into the heart of the Peruvian Andes. You will have a rare chance to enjoy nature’s beauty. You can also connect with the ancient culture of the Quechua people.
Experience real wilderness on a one-day hike to the fantastic 7 lakes of Ausangate. See nature’s beauty like never before! Join us for this unique outdoor adventure today and discover new hidden gems!
7 Lakes of Ausangate Trek Full Day: Explore the seven incredible lakes of Ausangate in just one day! As you trek through towering peaks and ancient glaciers, you’ll witness some of Peru’s most incredible alpine scenery.
Overview
What to Expect on the Ausangate 7 Lakes Day Hike
The Seven Lakes of Ausangate Trek is a breathtaking adventure through the Andes Mountains of Peru. This 1-day trek takes you through remote villages, past glaciers, and over high mountain passes. You’ll encounter stunning turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and vibrant wildlife.
Highlights of the Ausangate 7 Lakes Experience
- Unplug and go on a new adventure. Explore this full-day mountain adventure in all its grandeur.
- Spend a day venturing into Ausangate’s rugged terrain and visiting each of its seven stunning lakes! Get ready for an adventure like no other.
Is This High-Altitude Trek Right for You?
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate hike is designed for travelers who enjoy active outdoor experiences and are comfortable spending several hours walking at high altitude. While this is a full-day trek and not a multi-day expedition, the elevation makes it more demanding than a typical sightseeing tour.
You will be hiking above 4,300 meters (14,100 ft), where the air is thinner and the terrain includes gradual ascents, uneven paths, and open mountain landscapes. A good level of physical fitness is recommended, along with prior acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for at least 1–2 days.
This trek is a great choice if you:
- Enjoy scenic mountain hikes with panoramic views
- Want to explore beyond the classic tourist routes
- Are seeking a one-day adventure from Cusco
- Feel comfortable walking 5 hours at a steady pace
It may not be ideal if you are sensitive to altitude, have knee issues, or prefer short and easy walks. However, the pace can be adapted to the group, and optional horse rental is available for certain sections if needed.
If you’re seeking dramatic landscapes, turquoise glacial lakes, and a genuine Andean experience without committing to a multi-day trek, this hike can be an unforgettable highlight of your time in Peru.
How the Experience Is Structured
Day 1: Cusco, Pacchanta, Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek, Cusco
- Departure from Cusco: At 05:00
- Travel time from Cusco to Pacchanta: 3.5 hours.
- The starting point of our 7 Lakes Ausangate Hike is Pacchanta at 4,300 meters (14,107 feet).
- Distance: 12–15 KM (7.5–9 MILES)
- Walking time: 5 hours (Depending on the skill level of the group)
- Hiking Elevation:
- Initial hiking altitude: 4300 meters (14,107 feet).
- Maximum height: 4630 meters (15,190 feet).
- Hike difficulty: Challenging uphill, Moderate downhill
- Temperature: cold, fluctuating throughout the day.
- Meals: Box lunch.
Takeaways: Savor a fantastic overview of the Ausangate trek in Peru’s Andes. - Return; Arrival time to Cusco: Approximately between 15:30 and 16:30
Itinerary
Full-Day Itinerary: Cusco – Pacchanta – 7 Lakes – Cusco
The snowy Ausangate offers incredible panoramic views across the Andes of Cusco. We found several lagoons of various colors, reflecting Mother Nature’s minerals.
DAY 1
Travel from Cusco to Pacchanta – Hiking 07 lakes – Cusco
Explore the Ausangate area on a full-day trek through the Andes. We start the land trip, leaving Cusco at 05:00 and heading toward Tinki and Pacchanta (4,200 meters or 13,779 feet). It is essential to mention that the tourist area is cold, so bring thermal clothing to enjoy the adventure through the Andes of Ausangate.
In Pacchanta, we start the walk of 7 lagoons in Ausangate to cover 05 hours of walking, passing, and seeing the beautiful lagoons of Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, and Q’omercocha, all different sizes and scenic beauties.
During the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek, we will also observe the snow-capped peaks of the tourist area, such as Ausangate (6,834 m/22,421 feet), Mariposa (5,842 m/19,166 feet), Jampa (5,500 m/18,044), Pucapunta (5,740 m/18,832 feet), Montaña Caracol (5,625 meters above sea level/18,454 feet), Tinki (5,300 meters/17,388 feet), and the entire Andean Mountain chain in the southwest of CUSCO.
The weather changes all the time! And it can snow, hail, rain, be full of clouds, or be a sunny day with a blue sky, etc.; It is essential to know that the temperature is freezing, so we recommend thermal clothing. “Better get ready to enjoy the adventure.”
The flora is typical of remote areas with little fauna, but we will find llamas and alpacas in quantity since they are ideal for all South Andean camelids. The views are incredible, with spectacular views of the different lakes as we return along the same hiking trails. Returning to the car park is easier and faster than returning to Pacchanta.
Around Pacchanta, we find several thermal baths to splash around, relaxing after an exhausting but beautiful walk through Ausangate to the end of the circuit of seven lakes in Ausangate, Cusco. In the afternoon, we return to Cusco on a 3-hour vehicle trip; we leave the hikers in their respective hotels.
Starting Point: Cusco, The Gateway to Adventure
Your journey begins in the historic city of Cusco, Peru’s ancient capital and the gateway to the 7 Lakes Ausangate Hike Day adventures. As the sun rises, the Ausangate Mountain comes to life, setting the tone for an extraordinary day.
The Ausangate Mountain: Majestic Guardian of the Andes
As you set foot on the trail, the awe-inspiring Ausangate Mountain, standing tall as the guardian of the Andes, will grace your journey. With an elevation of 6,384 meters, it is the highest peak in the region and holds significant spiritual value for the locals.
Encountering the Seven Lakes
As the journey unfolds, you’ll encounter the crown jewels of this hike—the Seven Lakes. Each lake boasts its unique charm and color, reflecting the surrounding peaks. Witness the breathtaking turquoise, emerald, and sapphire hues contrasting with the rugged terrain.
Description of elevations of the seven lagoons by the Ausangate circuit
- Azulcocha Lagoon, 4618 meters
- Otorongo Lagoon, 4,620 meters
- Oqecocha Lagoon, 4631 meters
- Pucacocha Lagoon: 4670 meters
- Pachaspata Lagoon, 4867 meters
- Alqacocha Lagoon, 4,752 meters
- Qomercocha Lagoon, 4666 meters
The Turquoise Gem: Q’Omercocha Lake
Q’omercocha, the first lake on the tour, will leave you spellbound with its turquoise waters. Take a moment to absorb the serenity of the surroundings and appreciate the wonders of Mother Nature.
The Rainbow Lake: Ausangatecocha
As you continue your hike, the vibrant colors of Ausangatecocha, also known as Rainbow Lake, will mesmerize you. This visual spectacle is a perfect spot for photographs and reflection.
Jatuncocha: Where Earth Meets Sky
Jatuncocha, the third lake, offers a surreal experience as the waters merge with the sky on the horizon. This mesmerizing sight is a photographer’s paradise.
Pukaccocha: Reflecting the Peaks
Pukaccocha, the fourth lake, boasts crystal-clear waters that mirror the surrounding peaks. Capture the breathtaking reflections and immerse yourself in the tranquility of this serene spot.
Alqaqucha: Witness the Andean Flamingos
Alqaqucha, the fifth lake, is renowned for being the habitat of Andean flamingos—marvel at these elegant birds against the backdrop of the Andean landscape.
The Mystic Lake: Hatun Pukacocha
Hatun Pukacocha, the sixth lake, holds deep spiritual significance for the locals. The tranquil atmosphere here will allow you to connect profoundly with nature.
The Final Gem: Q’omerqocha Lake
Q’omerqocha, the seventh and final lake on the tour, is a stunning masterpiece of nature. Take your time to immerse yourself in the beauty of this magical place.
Box Lunch
Challenging
12 or 15km (7.5 or 9 miles)
5 o 6 Hrs.
Pacchanta: 4,350m (14,271 ft)
Pacchanta: 4,350m (14,271 ft)
Alqa Cocha: 4,752m (15,590 ft)
Inclusions
What’s Included in Your Tour
- Enjoy the experience through the Andes, towards the seven lagoons and scenic natural landscapes.
- Private transportation with gasoline and a professional driver from Cusco to Pacchanta, Cusco
- Tour guide
- Food: box lunch “lunch.”
- Entrance tickets to the tourist circuit of the 7 lakes of Ausangate, plus the thermal baths of Pacchanta
- First aid kit plus an oxygen bottle
- All local taxes
What’s Not Included
- A horse with a saddle to access some sections of the tourist circuit, if we do not have much experience hiking at heights.
- Dinner
- Tips (driver, guide, etc.)
* Kondor Path Tours operates the 7 Lakes Ausangate Hike for one day
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions
Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about the 7 Lakes of Ausangate day hike, including difficulty, altitude, and what to expect on the trail.
We shorten the walking distance to enjoy beautiful landscapes in the Andes, observing impressive lakes born at the extreme heights of Peru. There are 5 hours of walking to cover the entire walking circuit. Welcome to Peru for your fascinating walk through the seven lakes around the snowy Ausangate.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour is a popular trekking route that takes you through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes Mountains in Peru. The trek includes visiting seven crystal-clear lakes around the Ausangate mountain.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour typically takes four to five days to complete.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour is a challenging trek, as it involves high-altitude hiking and requires good physical fitness. It is recommended for experienced trekkers.
The best time to do the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour is from May to September, the dry season in Peru.
You should pack warm and waterproof clothing, comfortable hiking shoes, a sleeping bag, a backpack, a water bottle, and snacks for the trek.
Hiring a guide for the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour is highly recommended, as the trek can be challenging, and the weather can be unpredictable.
The cost of the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour can vary depending on the tour company and the services included. Generally, it can cost between $140 and $300 per person.
It is possible to do the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour on your own, but it is not recommended due to the challenging terrain and the need for a guide.
Altitude sickness is a concern on the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour, as the trek involves hiking at high altitudes. It is essential to acclimate appropriately before starting the walk.
Accommodation on the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour typically involves camping in tents. Some tour companies may offer the option to stay in lodges or homestays.
The highest point on the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour is the Palomani Pass, which reaches an altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) above sea level.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour is generally considered safe if you prepare correctly, follow safety guidelines, and hire a reputable tour company.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour offers the chance to spot various Andean wildlife, including vicuñas, llamas, alpacas, Andean foxes, and condors.
Yes, many tour companies offer customizable Ausangate 7
Lakes Tour itineraries allow you to tailor the trek to your interests and fitness level.
Cancellation policies for the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour can vary depending on the tour company and the services included. It is essential to check the cancellation policy before booking.
What Is the 7 Lakes of Ausangate Hike Really Like?
- On this remarkable one-day trek, you’ll discover the folklore and culture near Ausangate Lake Seven. You’ll also see amazing Andean views, alpacas, and breathtaking landscapes!
- We are direct operators of our full-day 7 Lakes hike; you will always be hiking with the Kondor Path Tour.
- Take advantage of a one-day hike to Ausangate’s seven stunning lakes. Experience breathtaking views, challenging inclines, and a diverse range of wildlife!
7 Lakes of Ausangate Trek New Map
Rates & Options
Tour Price – 7 Lakes of Ausangate (2026 Season)
Discover all seven Ausangate lakes and their unique characteristics in just one day! Kondor Path Tour‘s direct tour operator provides easy-to-follow directions to maximize your experience.
BOOK NOW
| Persons | Price (p/p) | |
| 1 | $ 308.00 USD | |
| 2 | $ 195.00 USD | |
| 3 | $ 158.00 USD | |
| 4 | $ 134.00 USD | |
| 5 | $ 124.00 USD | |
| 6 | $ 113.00 USD | |
| 7 | $ 106.00 USD | |
| 8 | $ 99.00 USD | |
| 9 | $ 94.00 USD | |
| 10 | $ 89.00 USD |
Plan Your Trip
Book Your 7 Lakes of Ausangate Trek
- Take a fun one-day hike.
- See beautiful views of the seven lakes at Ausangate. Discover the incredible adventure that awaits you on this trip to Cusco!
Photo Gallery – 7 Lakes of Ausangate
Climb the highest peak in Cusco, host to one of Peru’s Wonders of Nature—visit seven Ausangate lakes in just one day!
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