Ausangate 7 Lakes 1 Day Tour
The Ausangate 7 Lakes hike is a full-day expedition into the heart of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, bringing you face-to-face with the sacred Apu Ausangate — the highest peak in the Cusco region. As your direct local operator, Ali Perú Treks guides you safely through seven turquoise and emerald glacial lagoons at altitudes above 4,600 m, with oxygen support and constant altitude monitoring for your safety.
Beyond the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek itself, the day includes a soak in Pacchanta’s medicinal hot springs, encounters with wild alpacas and vicuñas, and genuine connection with a traditional Quechua community. Less crowded than Rainbow Mountain and just as spectacular, this is Cusco’s most rewarding one-day hike for travelers seeking raw Andean wilderness.
Overview
Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike Overview
The Ausangate 7 Lakes hike is a full-day trek in the Cordillera Vilcanota, part of the Peruvian Andes southeast of Cusco. The route starts in the Quechua village of Pacchanta, at the base of Apu Ausangate (6,372 m / 20,905 ft), the highest and most sacred mountain in the Cusco region.
Over roughly 10 km (6.2 mi) and 5 hours of hiking, the trail passes seven glacial lagoons formed by meltwater from the Ausangate glacier system, each fed by a different moraine basin and showing a distinct color caused by mineral sediment and glacial flour suspended in the water.
Because the hike takes place above 4,300 m (14,100 ft) and reaches a maximum altitude of roughly 4,600–4,850 m (15,100–15,900 ft), it is classified as a high-altitude trek rather than a casual sightseeing tour. Acclimatization in Cusco (elevation 3,400 m) for at least 2 days before the hike is the standard recommendation among local operators.
Tour Highlights
- Apu Ausangate: direct views of the glacier and peak considered the most important Apu (sacred mountain spirit) in the Cusco region within Andean cosmology.
- The seven lagoons: a chain of glacial lakes, commonly listed as Otorongo Macho, Otorongo Hembra, Puca Cocha, Ccaomer Cocha, Alca Cocha, Catalina Cocha, and Patacocha, each with a different shade of turquoise, green, or blue depending on mineral content and depth.
- Pacchanta hot springs: natural thermal pools used by the local community, visited at the end of the hike.
- Wildlife viewing: vicuña, alpaca, llama, and the Andean caracara are commonly seen along the trail.
- Living Quechua culture: Pacchanta is an active pastoral community, not a tourist-built village, and alpaca/llama herding is still a primary livelihood.
Itinerary Summary
- 04:30–05:00: Hotel pickup in Cusco, private transport toward Ocongate and Tinki.
- Approx. 3 hours: Drive to Pacchanta (4,300 m), including a stop for breakfast.
- 5–6 hours: Hike through the lagoon chain to the highest viewpoint (4,600–4,850 m) and back to Pacchanta.
- After the hike: Lunch in Pacchanta, followed by time in the hot springs.
- Approx. 18:00–18:30: Return to Cusco.
Quick Facts
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Location | Pacchanta, Ocongate District, Quispicanchi Province, Cusco Region |
| Mountain range | Cordillera Vilcanota (Vilcanota Mountain Range) |
| Nearest town | Tinki (last town before Pacchanta) |
| Duration | 1 day (full day, approx. 14 hours door-to-door from Cusco) |
| Distance | 10 km / 6.2 mi round trip |
| Hiking time | 5–6 hours |
| Starting altitude | 4,300 m / 14,107 ft (Pacchanta) |
| Maximum altitude | 4,600–4,850 m / 15,092–15,912 ft |
| Group size | Small group or private, typically up to 12 |
| Season | Year-round; best May–September (dry season) |
| Entrance fee | Included in most tour packages |
| Permits | Community-managed entrance ticket (not an INC/Ministry of Culture archaeological permit) |
Altitude and Acclimatization
| Location | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Cusco (acclimatization base) | 3,400 m / 11,152 ft |
| Pacchanta (trailhead) | 4,300 m / 14,107 ft |
| Highest point on the hike | 4,600–4,850 m / 15,092–15,912 ft |
Altitude sickness (soroche) risk increases above 3,500 m, and symptoms such as headache, nausea, and shortness of breath are possible even in fit travelers.
Operators typically carry supplemental oxygen and a first-aid kit and monitor hikers throughout the day. Drinking coca tea, staying hydrated, and avoiding alcohol the night before are common local recommendations for reducing symptoms.
Weather and Best Time to Hike
| Season | Months | Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Dry season | May – September | Sunny days, colder nights and mornings, minimal rainfall, best visibility of the lakes and glacier |
| Shoulder months | April, October | Transitional weather, generally stable |
| Wet season | November – March | Higher chance of rain or snow, trail can be muddier, mountain views less reliable |
Regardless of season, early morning temperatures at Pacchanta typically drop to around 0°C (32°F), while daytime temperatures with sun exposure can feel mild despite cold wind at altitude.
Layering (base layer, fleece, insulated jacket, waterproof shell) is the standard approach for managing this range.
7 lakes of Asusangate vs Humantay Lake
Both Humantay Lake and the 7 Lakes of Ausangate are stunning full-day alpine hikes from Cusco, Peru, but they head in opposite directions. Humantay offers a short, steep climb to a famous single turquoise glacial lagoon, while Ausangate features a longer, gradual trail past multiple vibrant lagoons and natural hot springs
| Feature | Humantay Lake | 7 Lakes of Ausangate |
|---|---|---|
| Location | Northwest of Cusco (Salkantay route) | Southeast of Cusco (Vilcanota range) |
| Altitude | 3,800 m to 4,200 m (12,465 to 13,779 ft) | 4,200 m to 4,600 m (13,779 to 15,091 ft) |
| Hike Style | Short (1.5–2 hours) and very steep | Longer (3–4 hours) but flatter and gradual |
| Main Sights | One intense turquoise lake under a glacier | Seven diverse colored lagoons + Pacchanta hot springs |
| Crowds | High traffic and very popular | Quiet, remote, and less crowded |
Itinerary
Ausangate 7 Lakes itinerary
We will pick you up from your hotel at 4:30 a.m. directly in Cusco in our private van to begin an extraordinary journey toward the heart of the Vilcanota mountain range. Our comfortable tourist transport ensures a smooth 3-hour trip to the traditional village of Pacchanta, located at 14,107 ft (4,300 m).
Upon arrival, we will enjoy a hearty, local breakfast, providing the essential nutrients for our high-altitude challenge. After fueling up, the real adventure begins.
This 5-hour round-trip hike takes us through a succession of seven stunning glacial lagoons. As we ascend to our maximum point of over 15,091 ft (4,600 m), you will witness the unique reflections of the majestic Apu Ausangate. Each lagoon features vibrant colors ranging from deep turquoise to emerald green. Our expert guides focus on a responsible, monitored pace, ensuring everyone manages the altitude effectively and safely.
After reaching the final lake and taking in the views, we descend back to Pacchanta (14,107 ft / 4,300 m) for a restorative local lunch. The ultimate reward follows: a soak in the medicinal hot springs of the village. There is no better way to end the day than relaxing in warm waters with an unparalleled view of the snow-capped peaks. We return to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 6:30 p.m.
- Pickup Location: Direct hotel pickup in Cusco (4:30 a.m. – 5:00 a.m.)
- Meals: Hearty local breakfast and restorative lunch included.
- Start & End Altitude: 14,107 ft (4,300 m) in Pacchanta village.
- Maximum Peak Altitude: Over 15,091 ft (4,600 m).
- Total Distance: 6.2 miles (10 km) Round Trip.
- Hiking Time: Approximately 5 hours of active trekking.
- Transport: Private, comfortable tourist van.
Includes
Included
- Transport: Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco and all transport during the tour.
- Expert Guide: Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) specialized in high-altitude trekking.
- Meals: Hot breakfast and a local lunch prepared with fresh regional ingredients.
- Entrance Fees: All tickets and permits for the Ausangate 7 Lagoons area.
- Trekking Poles: Professional walking sticks provided for your comfort and balance.
- Hot Springs: Entrance and time for relaxation in the medicinal pools of Pacchanta.
- Safety Equipment: First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank available at all times.
- Monitoring: Constant altitude sickness monitoring to ensure a safe experience.
Not Included
- Gratuities: Tips for the guide and driver.
- Personal Clothing: Warm layers, gloves, and rain jackets.
- Emergency Horse: Optional horseback riding service available for rent in the area.
- Extra Expenses: Snacks, energy drinks, and bottled water.
- Travel Insurance: Personal insurance is recommended for high-altitude activities.
- Unspecified Services: Any service not explicitly mentioned in the inclusions.
Packing List
Ausangate 7 Lakes packing list
To ensure a comfortable and safe journey through the high-altitude terrain of the Andes, we recommend preparing the following items. Since we reach altitudes over 15,000 ft, being prepared for rapid weather changes is essential.
1. The Essentials (In your Daypack)
- Original Passport: You must carry your physical document with you.
- Small Daypack: A 20L to 25L backpack is ideal for your personal belongings.
- Water Storage: At least 2 liters. Reusable bottles or Camelbaks are required (we are a Zero Plastic agency).
- Hiking Boots: Waterproof boots with good ankle support are highly recommended for the rocky and uneven trails.
- Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, lip balm, a sun hat, and polarized sunglasses (the sun’s UV rays are much stronger at high altitudes).
- Personal Cash: Small denominations in Soles for tips, snacks, or the hot springs.
2. Clothing for High Altitudes
- Layering System: Wear moisture-wicking base layers, a thick fleece, and a warm down jacket.
- Rain Gear: A high-quality rain poncho or waterproof jacket (weather in the Andes is unpredictable year-round).
- Head & Handwear: A wool hat (chullo) and warm gloves are mandatory for the freezing morning and the windy passes.
- Swimwear & Towel: Don’t forget these for the medicinal hot springs in Pacchanta!
3. Health & Personal Care
- Hygiene Kit: Hand sanitizer, wet wipes, and tissues.
- Medication: Personal prescriptions and altitude sickness pills (such as Acetazolamide), if recommended by your doctor.
- Toilet Paper: Keep a small roll and a plastic bag for waste (we strictly follow Leave No Trace principles).
4. Quick Access Items
- Energy Snacks: We include breakfast and lunch, but carrying chocolate, nuts, or energy bars is vital for the ascent.
- Morning Water: Please bring your own water for the first part of the hike.
- Power Bank: Essential for charging your phone or camera to capture the lagoons.
Travel Info
Ausangate 7 Lakes travel information
Ausangate 7 Lakes Altitude and Fitness Level Required
This is a high-intensity one-day hike. We will be trekking at altitudes between 14,100 ft (4,300 m) and over 15,000 ft (4,600 m).
- Acclimatization: We strongly recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before taking this tour.
- Physical Condition: You should be in good health and comfortable hiking on uneven, rocky terrain for about 5 hours.
- Hydration: Drink plenty of water and coca tea the day before your trek to help your body adjust to the thin air.
Weather at the Ausangate 7 Lakes by Season
The weather at the foot of Mount Ausangate is highly unpredictable.
- Early Morning: Expect freezing temperatures (32°F / 0°C) when we pick you up and arrive at Pacchanta.
- During the Hike: If the sun is out, it can feel warm, but the wind remains cold. If it clouds over or rains, the temperature drops instantly.
- Dry vs. Rainy Season: From May to October, it is sunny but colder. From November to April, rain and snow are possible.
Pacchanta Village and Andean Culture
- Local Culture: You will be visiting a traditional Quechua-speaking community. Please be respectful when taking photos of locals or their llamas/alpacas; it is polite to ask for permission first.
- Hot Springs: The medicinal pools are rustic and outdoors. They are the perfect way to recover your muscles after the hike while enjoying a direct view of the glaciers.
Altitude Sickness Safety and Oxygen Support
Your safety is our absolute priority. Ali Perú Treks provides:
- Professional Guidance: Our guides are trained in wilderness first aid and high-altitude safety.
- Oxygen & First Aid: We carry emergency oxygen tanks and a full medical kit on every departure.
- Health Checks: Your guide will monitor your breathing and energy levels throughout the day. If you feel dizzy or nauseous, please inform your guide immediately.
Cash, Tips, and Emergency Horse Rental Cost
- Small Cash: There are no ATMs in Pacchanta. Carry small bills (Soles) for snacks, extra drinks, or for renting an Emergency Horse (approx. S/ 80 – 100) if you feel you cannot complete the hike on foot.
- Pickup: Being ready at 4:30 a.m. is crucial to avoid crowds and enjoy the lagoons with the best morning light.
Leave No Trace and Sustainable Trekking
We are committed to preserving the Andes.
- Zero Plastic: Please do not bring single-use plastic bottles. Use a reusable canteen.
- Waste: All trash must be carried back to Cusco. Do not leave anything on the trails.
Expert Tip for your Trip
The “secret” to enjoying Ausangate is the layering system. Don’t wear one thick jacket; instead, wear a t-shirt, a fleece, and then a down jacket. This allows you to adjust your temperature easily as you move and as the sun changes.
Names of the Seven Lakes of Ausangate
Each of the seven lagoons has its own name and character, and travelers frequently search for this list before booking — it’s one of the most specific, high-intent queries around this hike, and most competitor pages either skip it or bury it in a single sentence.
The seven lakes, in the order most groups typically reach them, are:
| Lake Name | Meaning / Color | Approx. Altitude |
|---|---|---|
| Otorongo Macho | “Male Jaguar” — deep blue | 4,550 m / 14,930 ft |
| Otorongo Hembra | “Female Jaguar” — turquoise | 4,570 m / 14,993 ft |
| Puca Cocha | “Red Lake” — reddish-brown shoreline | 4,580 m / 15,026 ft |
| Ccaomer Cocha | Green-tinted glacial melt | 4,600 m / 15,092 ft |
| Alca Cocha | Pale turquoise | 4,610 m / 15,125 ft |
| Catalina Cocha | Deep emerald green | 4,620 m / 15,157 ft |
| Patacocha | “Upper Lake” — the highest and final lagoon | 4,850 m / 15,912 ft |
How to Get to Ausangate 7 Lakes from Cusco
This is one of the top pre-booking questions: how far is it, how long does it take, and can it be done independently.
- Distance from Cusco: approximately 100 km / 62 mi to Pacchanta.
- Driving time: 3 to 3.5 hours by private van, mostly paved road until the final stretch.
- Route: Cusco → Urcos → Ocongate → Tinqui → Pacchanta.
- Self-drive / public transport: possible in theory via combis to Ocongate/Tinqui, but there is no direct public transport to Pacchanta itself, and the final approach requires local knowledge of the trailhead — most independent travelers end up needing a taxi or arranged transport for the last leg.
- Why a guided tour matters here: the road conditions and altitude gain happen fast, and organizing a same-day return without a private vehicle is logistically difficult.
| Segment | Distance | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Cusco to Ocongate | 110 km / 68 mi | 2 hrs |
| Ocongate to Tinqui | 15 km / 9 mi | 20 min |
| Tinqui to Pacchanta | 11 km / 7 mi | 30–40 min (unpaved) |
Ausangate 7 Lakes vs. Rainbow Mountain
This comparison already lives in your FAQ, but it’s a high-intent, decision-stage query on its own — travelers comparing the two often decide which one to book based on this exact search. Giving it a dedicated heading with a scannable table increases the odds of matching that query directly (and is a strong AI Overview candidate).
| Ausangate 7 Lakes | Rainbow Mountain | |
|---|---|---|
| Max altitude | 4,850 m / 15,912 ft | 5,036 m / 16,522 ft |
| Crowds | Low — rarely more than a few small groups | Very high — one of the most visited sites in Cusco |
| Landscape | 7 glacial lagoons, alpine tundra, Apu Ausangate views | Mineral-striped mountain, single viewpoint |
| Hiking distance | 10 km / 6.2 mi round trip | 8 km / 5 mi round trip |
| Hot springs included | Yes, in Pacchanta | No |
| Best for | Travelers who want solitude and a full-day immersive trek | Travelers with limited time who want the iconic photo |
Both can be done as a single-day trip from Cusco, and both require prior acclimatization — but where Rainbow Mountain is a single dramatic viewpoint shared with large tour groups, the 7 Lakes route is a longer, quieter hike through a chain of glacial lagoons with far fewer people on the trail.
How Much Does the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour Cost
Cost comparison is a major decision-point query, and right now the only price on the page is the headline “$120/person,” with no breakdown of what drives the final cost up or down.
- Base tour price: $120 per person (group departure), covering transport, guide, meals, entrance fees, trekking poles, and oxygen/first-aid support.
- Optional extras travelers commonly budget for:
| Extra | Approx. Cost |
|---|---|
| Emergency horse rental | S/ 80–100 ($21–27 USD) |
| Guide/driver tip | $10–20 per person (customary, not required) |
| Snacks and bottled drinks | $5–10 |
| Travel insurance | Varies by provider |
- Private tour option: a private departure (your own guide and vehicle instead of a shared group) typically costs more per person but allows a custom start time and pace — worth adding as a bookable variant if you offer it, since “private” is a common qualifier in this search category.
Map
Ausangate 7 Lakes map & Altitude Profile
Below, we’ll present two maps containing key information about our day hike to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate. On the right is a general map showing the route from Cusco, providing an overview of the journey. On the left is an elevation profile map that details exactly what the hike entails: the distance in kilometers, the total ascent and descent, and the general slope of the terrain.
Both maps provide precise elevation readings for each of the key points along the trail, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the route.
Price
Ausangate 7 Lakes price
The Ausangate 7 Lakes tour costs $120 per person, including hotel pickup and drop-off in Cusco, a professional bilingual guide, breakfast and lunch, entrance fees, trekking poles, hot springs access, and full safety equipment with emergency oxygen.
This all-inclusive Ausangate 7 Lakes tour price reflects the small-group, high-safety standard of a private local operator — with no hidden costs beyond gratuities and personal expenses.
Faqs
Ausangate 7 Lakes FAQ
How difficult is the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike for beginners?
The hike is considered moderate to challenging. While the terrain is a gradual ascent, the extreme altitude (above 15,000 ft) makes any physical effort feel twice as hard. We recommend this trek for travelers with a baseline level of fitness and, most importantly, proper acclimatization.
How many days should I acclimatize in Cusco before the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike?
Yes, absolutely. This is one of the highest one-day tours in the Cusco region. We strictly recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco (or at a similar altitude) before attempting this trek. We do not recommend booking this for your first day in Peru, as the risk of altitude sickness is significantly higher.
What happens if I get altitude sickness at 15,000 feet on the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike?
Safety is our top priority. Our guides are experts in high-altitude safety and carry emergency oxygen tanks and a complete first-aid kit at all times. We monitor your pace and oxygen levels constantly. If you feel you cannot continue, our team will assist you in returning safely or arranging an emergency horse.
Can I rent a horse on the Ausangate 7 Lakes trail if I get tired?
Yes. Local community members offer emergency horses for rent at the trailhead or during the first part of the trek. The cost is approximately 80 to 100 Soles (cash only). This is an excellent option if you want to enjoy the scenery without the physical strain of the high-altitude climb.
Can you swim in the Ausangate 7 Lakes glacial lagoons?
The lagoons are glacial, meaning the water is near freezing. Swimming is not permitted as it can cause immediate hypothermia. However, the medicinal hot springs in Pacchanta at the end of the tour are specifically for swimming and are the perfect way to relax your muscles.
What is the weather like at Ausangate 7 Lakes in the early morning?
The weather is cold and highly unpredictable. In the early morning, temperatures can drop to 30°F (-1°C). During the day, the sun is very intense, but the mountain wind remains freezing. You should be prepared for sun, wind, and potential rain or snow, even during the dry season.
Are there bathrooms or toilets on the Ausangate 7 Lakes trail?
There are basic, rustic toilets at the starting point in Pacchanta. Once we begin the trek, there are no formal facilities. We follow Leave No Trace principles; your guide will provide instructions on how to handle waste responsibly if necessary.
Is the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike better than Rainbow Mountain?
Both are high-altitude treks, but the 7 Lagoons tour is much less crowded and offers a more “alpine” landscape featuring massive glaciers and crystal-clear lakes. It is ideal for travelers seeking a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience away from the massive crowds of Rainbow Mountain.
Why book the Ausangate 7 Lakes tour with Ali Perú Treks instead of a bigger agency?
By using a private van, we avoid the “bus-stop” delays of large groups and reach the lagoons earlier to enjoy the best morning light. Our focus is on safety, small group sizes, and providing high-quality gear—like trekking poles—to ensure your experience is comfortable from start to finish.
Related Tours
Ausangate 7 Lakes hike Review
Read what travelers say about their experience on the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike with Ali Perú Treks — from the turquoise lagoons to the Pacchanta hot springs and the safety of our expert guides.