Short Walks

Experience the Seven Lagoons of Ausangate – A Journey Through Andean Nature and Culture

Explore the stunning Seven Lagoons of Ausangate on a full-day tour from Cusco. Discover breathtaking views, Andean culture, and natural beauty.

From

US$ 40.00

per person

4.9 +120
Experience the Seven Lagoons of Ausangate – A Journey Through Andean Nature and Culture

Tour 7 Ausangate Lagoons

Tour 7 Ausangate Lagoons

  • Duration: Full day (10 to 12 hours approx.)
  • Start: Cusco
  • Maximum altitude: 4,500 m.a.s.l.
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Guide: Spanish / English / Portuguese

Description

This tour takes you to the heart of Ausangate, one of the most sacred mountains in the Andes and a powerful spiritual symbol for local communities. Throughout the day, you will enjoy high mountain landscapes, intensely colored lagoons and privileged views of the Vilcanota mountain range.

The adventure begins very early with the transfer from Cusco to the Pacchanta community, where you will enjoy a typical Andean breakfast that will prepare you for the hike. From there you will begin the route to the famous 7 lagoons, each with a unique character, reflecting shades that vary between turquoise, green, deep blue and brown, depending on the light and season.

During the tour you will walk through high Andean plains, observe alpacas and llamas grazing freely up close and, with a little luck, you will be able to spot vicuñas and condors flying over the valleys. The natural environment, dominated by glaciers, waterfalls and snow-capped peaks, creates a mystical atmosphere ideal for contemplation and photography.

At the end of the hike, you will return to Pacchanta, where you will have the option to relax in the hot springs in front of the imposing Ausangate snow-capped mountain. This moment of rest, accompanied by the silence of the mountain, perfectly closes a day full of effort, reward and connection with nature.

Tour Highlights

  • Pucacocha Lagoon: Known as the "chocolate lagoon" due to the particular tone of its waters, generated by mineral sediments; a surprising contrast with the white of the glaciers.
  • Patacocha Lagoon: Strategic point to appreciate one of the clearest and closest views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, ideal for taking panoramic photographs.
  • Alqacocha Lagoon: Surrounded by imposing peaks of the Vilcanota mountain range, it offers a dramatic landscape where rock, ice and crystalline water combine.
  • Qomercocha Lagoon: With intense turquoise waters, it is one of the most photogenic of the circuit and a perfect place to stop to rest and contemplate the environment.
  • Orco and China Otorongo Lagoons: Two lagoons close to each other, named in honor of the Andean felines. Their silent environment invites reflection and spiritual connection with the mountain.
  • Azul Cocha Lagoon: With a dark and deep tone, surrounded by a rugged landscape that highlights the strength and majesty of Ausangate.
  • Pacchanta hot springs: Natural pools ideal for relaxing the muscles after the hike, enjoying direct views of the snow-capped mountain and the tranquility of the community.

Why choose this experience?

  • You will visit a destination that is not overcrowded, where authenticity and natural energy can still be breathed, far from the busiest tourist routes.
  • You will be able to observe high Andean fauna up close, such as alpacas, llamas, vicuñas and even condors, in their natural habitat.
  • You will have genuine contact with local communities that keep their traditions, their language and their spiritual bond with the Ausangate mountain alive.
  • It combines dreamlike landscapes —colored lagoons, glaciers and snow-capped mountains— with relaxation in hot springs at the end of the day.
  • It is an ideal option for travelers looking for adventure, high-altitude hiking and connection with nature, without the crowds of other popular destinations.
  • You will have a specialized guide who will explain the cultural and spiritual importance of Ausangate, as well as the geography and biodiversity of the area.

Tour Description

AUSANGATE SEVEN LAKES TOUR – FULL DAY Discover the magic of the 7 Lakes of Ausangate, a spectacular journey through high-mountain landscapes surrounded by glaciers, imposing peaks, and crystal-clear waters. This tour offers a deep connection with nature as you traverse the majestic Ausangate mountain range and its vividly colored scenery. Perfect for trekking lovers seeking a unique challenge in the heart of the Andes.

Things you should know about this tour

Siete Lagunas: El Mejor Trekking en Ausangate

Vive un full day mágico explorando las Siete Lagunas del Ausangate

  • TOUR RECOMMENDATIONS
  • Layered Clothing: Thermal clothing, fleece and windbreaker/waterproof. Temperatures are cold throughout the day, especially in the morning.
  • Footwear: Waterproof trekking boots or sports shoes with good grip and support. The terrain can be wet and rocky.
  • Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses with UV protection, cap or hat with visor. Solar radiation is intense at altitude.
  • Cash: Bring soles for entrance to hot springs (approx. S/10), voluntary tips and personal purchases.
  • Hydration: 2-liter water bottle. Staying hydrated is crucial during the high-altitude hike.
  • Backpack: 20-30 liter backpack to carry water, snacks, camera, extra clothing and personal items for the full day.
  • Camera or Cell Phone: Essential to capture the 7 colored lagoons, Ausangate snow-capped mountain, Andean fauna and high mountain landscapes. Bring extra battery.
  • Medications: Altitude sickness pills (Sorojchi pills) are highly recommended. Also bring personal medications.
  • Weather: Cold temperatures (0-10°C) during the morning and tour. It can be sunny at noon. Bring warm jacket and windbreaker.
  • Documents: Original ID or Passport (mandatory) and cash in soles.
  • Acclimatization: Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the tour. Drink coca tea and avoid excessive efforts the previous days.
  • Physical Condition: Acceptable physical condition required. The hike is moderate but prolonged at altitude. Prior preparation recommended.
  • Rainy Season: If traveling between November and March, bring a poncho or waterproof jacket. Trails may be muddy.
  • Snacks: Bring energy snacks (chocolates, dried fruits, cereal bars) to complement the box lunch during the hike.
  • Swimsuit: If you plan to enter the Pacchanta hot springs at the end, bring swimsuit and towel.
  • Trekking Poles: Optional but recommended for greater stability on uneven terrain and descents.
  • FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
  • Is previous high-altitude hiking experience necessary? It is not mandatory, but this tour has a moderate difficulty level due to the altitude (up to 4,500 m.a.s.l.) and the duration of the hike. It is recommended to have an acceptable physical condition and be well acclimatized to the altitude to fully enjoy the experience.
  • What does this tour include? It includes tourist transport to/from your hotel in Cusco, certified multilingual professional guide (Spanish, English, Portuguese), typical Andean breakfast in the Pacchanta community, box lunch during the hike, first aid kit, and oxygen cylinder.
  • What services are NOT included? Entrance to the Pacchanta hot springs (approximately S/10), voluntary tips for guide and driver, extra drinks (soft drinks, alcoholic beverages), dinner, and additional personal expenses are not included.
  • How long does the tour last and what is the maximum altitude? The tour lasts a full day, approximately 10 to 12 hours. The maximum altitude is 4,500 m.a.s.l. during the tour of the lagoons. Pick-up is between 04:00 and 04:30 a.m. and return to Cusco is around 06:00 p.m.
  • How many days do I need to be in Cusco before the tour? It is recommended to be in Cusco at least 2 days before the tour to properly acclimatize to the altitude. The maximum altitude of the tour is 4,500 m.a.s.l., so good acclimatization is essential to avoid altitude sickness.
  • What places will we visit during the tour? You will visit the 7 lagoons of Ausangate: Pucacocha (chocolate lagoon), Patacocha (snow-capped mountain views), Alqacocha (mountain range peaks), Qomercocha (turquoise waters), Orco and China Otorongo (twin lagoons), and Azul Cocha (deep tones). At the end, you can relax in the hot springs of Pacchanta with views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain. During the hike you will observe alpacas, llamas, vicuñas and possibly condors.
  • IMPORTANT CONSIDERATIONS BEFORE BOOKING
  • Total duration: Full day (approximately 10 to 12 hours).
  • Departure: Between 04:00 a.m. and 04:30 a.m. with hotel pick-up in Cusco.
  • Maximum altitude: 4,500 m.a.s.l. (tour of the 7 lagoons of Ausangate).
  • Difficulty level: Moderate (several hours of hiking at altitude).
  • Documentation: It is mandatory to carry original ID or Passport.
  • Acclimatization: Recommended to stay at least 2 days in Cusco to adapt to the altitude.
  • Guide language: Multilingual (Spanish, English and Portuguese subject to availability).
  • Type of service: Group or private with comfortable tourist transport.
  • Meals: Typical Andean breakfast in Pacchanta and lunch (box lunch) included.
  • Entrance fees: Entrance to Pacchanta hot springs (approx. S/10) NOT included; paid on site.
  • Restrictions: Acceptable physical condition required. Not recommended for people with severe cardiac or respiratory problems.
  • Weather: Cold temperatures in the morning and during the tour; bring warm and waterproof clothing.
  • Clothing: Comfortable clothing in layers; trekking boots or sports shoes with good grip recommended.
  • End: Return to Cusco approximately at 06:00 p.m.

Vive un full day mágico explorando las Siete Lagunas del Ausangate

iete Lagunas Ausangate y descubre las rutas, accesos y puntos de interés para planificar tu trekking de un día completo por este espectacular destino andino

Siete Lagunas Ausangate: Mapa y puntos clave del recorrido

Tour rates and options

extreme adventure

This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.

"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".

Shared Service
Price Book
Shared Service Price per traveler
$40.00 USD
Private service
Price Book
Group of 2 - 3 people Price per traveler
$100.00 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people Price per traveler
$85.00 USD
Group of 8+ people Price per traveler
$75.00 USD

Schedule office appointment

Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco

1 WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE?

  • Breathtaking panoramic view of the Sacred Valley
  • No prior experience required
  • Safe activity: favorable topography and certified equipment
  • An exciting and different experience
  • Perfect for adventure, nature and unforgettable memories in Cusco
  • Horseback or trekking options
  • Daily departures all year round
  • Oxygen support and first-aid kit

2 WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

  • We are tour operators in Cusco
  • Professional and responsible work
  • 100% tourist vehicles
  • Safety for our visitors
  • Your trip will be the best experience
  • 100% responsible
  • Care for the environment
  • Commitment to service quality