Seven Lagoons of Ausangate – A sacred lagoon circuit at the foot of the Ausangate glacier
Duration: Full Day
Departure: 04:30 – 05:00 a.m.
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Experience type: Nature, trekking, and high-Andean landscapes
Technical Information
- Hiking level: Moderate to challenging
- Maximum altitude: between 4,300 m and 4,600 m.a.s.l.
- Total distance: 10 to 12 km (depending on pace and lagoons visited)
- Hiking time: between 4 to 5 hours (round trip)
- Starting point altitude (Pacchanta): 4,300 m.a.s.l.
- Route type: dirt trails, uneven terrain, and moderate ascents
Weather
- Morning: 0°C to 5°C
- Daytime: 8°C to 15°C
- Afternoon: drops again to 4°C – 8°C
- Rainy season: December to April (frequent rainfall)
Destination Experience
The Seven Lagoons of Ausangate route is one of the most complete experiences for travelers seeking pure nature, moderate adventure, and high-mountain landscapes. Located in the community of Pacchanta, at the foot of the impressive Ausangate glacier, this hike allows visitors to explore a circuit of lagoons with intense turquoise, green, and blue tones, formed by glacial meltwater.
The environment is entirely high-Andean, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, vast plains, and local wildlife such as alpacas and vizcachas. This experience is ideal for travelers who wish to hike above 4,000 m.a.s.l. and finish the route with the option to relax in natural hot springs, enjoying privileged views of Ausangate.
Depending on the season and weather conditions, the lagoons visited include: Otorongo Male, Otorongo Female, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Patacocha, Q’omercocha, and Azulcocha, each with unique characteristics and colors.
Availability
Daily departures
Transport
Hotel pickup
Guide
It is included in the service
Available languages
English and Spanish
Type of service
Group Service
Cancellation policy
Non-refundable
Maximum altitude
4.600 m.a.s.l
Difficulty
Moderate/Hard
Location
Cusco, Perú
Itinerary
Hotel Pick-up and Departure from Cusco: Very early in the morning, we pick up travelers from hotels located in Cusco’s historic center. We begin the journey to the community of Pacchanta, with an approximate travel time of 3 hours, passing through Andean landscapes and rural communities.
Arrival in Pacchanta and Breakfast: Upon arrival in the community, we enjoy a local breakfast, ideal for recharging energy before starting the hike.
Hike to the Seven Lagoons of Ausangate: We begin the hike along dirt trails and uneven terrain, with moderate ascents and constant views of the Ausangate glacier. During the route, we visit the different lagoons, making photo stops and rest breaks, while the guide explains the natural environment, the cultural importance of Ausangate, and the characteristics of each lagoon.
Free Time and Rest: At the most representative points of the circuit, we have free time to enjoy the landscape, rest, and take photographs, surrounded by a pristine natural environment.
(Optional) Pacchanta Hot Springs: At the end of the hike, there is the optional visit to the Pacchanta hot springs, ideal for relaxing muscles while enjoying privileged views of the glacier (entrance not included).
Lunch and Return to Cusco: After the hike, we enjoy lunch in the community of Pacchanta. We then begin the return journey to Cusco, arriving approximately between 5:30 and 6:00 p.m
Important note: Schedules are for reference only. Our operations team will contact you the day before the tour to reconfirm the schedule.
Includes
What's included
- Entrance fees to Pacchanta and/or local circuits
- Professional tour guide
- Tourist transportation (round trip)
- Local breakfast
- Lunch
- First aid kit
- Altitude assistance
What's not included
- Entrance to the hot springs (optional)
- Extra expenses
- Staff tips
Recommendations
What to Bring
- Small backpack
- Water (minimum 1 liter per person)
- Energy snacks (fruit, nuts, bars)
- Cash for hot springs or local purchases
- Camera or mobile phone with fully charged battery
Recommended Clothing
- Thermal or windproof jacket
- Quick-dry shirts
- Trekking pants
- Wool hat and gloves
- Sun hat or cap
- Waterproof jacket (especially from December to April)
- Trekking shoes or boots with good soles
Equipment and Accessories
- Sunscreen SPF 50+
- UV-protection sunglasses
- Trekking poles (highly recommended)
Altitude Recommendations
- Have 1 to 2 days of acclimatization in Cusco before the tour
- Ideal for travelers who have already done hikes such as Humantay or Rainbow Mountain
- Avoid sudden physical effort
- Stay constantly hydrated
- The guide carries oxygen, a first aid kit, and altitude assistance
Optional Recommendation – Hot Springs
If you wish to enter the hot springs:
- Bring sandals
- Towel
- Extra clothing
- Entrance fee is paid directly in the community
Environmental Care
- Do not leave trash
- Respect established trails
- Do not alter the lagoons or their natural environment
- Respect high-Andean flora and fauna
Trade Policies
Price
Seven Lagoons of Ausangate – A sacred lagoon circuit at the foot of the Ausangate glacier
Full Day
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