Ausangate 7 Lagoons – Full Day

Hiker viewing the 7 lakes of Ausangate | Salkantay Lake

The Ausangate 7 Lagoons Full Day Tour is one of the most spectacular high-altitude adventures from Cusco, offering an unforgettable journey through pristine Andean landscapes, colorful mountain lakes, and snow-capped peaks. This full-day trek takes you deep into the Ausangate mountain range, home to some of the most breathtaking scenery in southern Peru.

During the hike, you will explore seven stunning turquoise and emerald lagoons, enjoy panoramic views of towering glaciers, observe native wildlife, and relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta, making this tour the perfect blend of adventure, nature, and relaxation.

Highlights

  • Visit the famous 7 Lagoons of Ausangate.
  • Enjoy spectacular views of the Ausangate Glacier (6,834 m / 22,421 ft).
  • Spot native wildlife such as alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas.
  • Relax in the Pacchanta hot springs.
  • One of the best full-day hikes from Cusco.

Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Tinke – Pacchanta – Ausangate Lagoons – Pacchanta – Cusco

We begin early with hotel pick-up at 4:00 am, traveling by private transport toward the Ausangate region. After a short stop in Tinke to use the restrooms and purchase any last-minute supplies, we continue for approximately 45 minutes to Pacchanta, where we enjoy a traditional breakfast with stunning mountain views.

From Pacchanta, we start our trek (or optional horseback ride) toward the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate. The scenic hike lasts about 5 hours, passing through high-Andean landscapes, glacial valleys, and remote mountain terrain. Along the route, we visit the beautiful lakes of Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Q’omercocha, Murococha, and O’Quecocha, each offering unique colors and breathtaking reflections.

Throughout the hike, we enjoy incredible views of the surrounding peaks, including Ausangate (6,834 m / 22,421 ft), Mariposa, Jampa, Pucapunta, Caracol, Tinke, and the impressive Qayangate mountain range. The area is also home to abundant wildlife such as alpacas, llamas, Andean birds, vizcachas, and occasionally the majestic Andean condor.

After completing the circuit, we return to Pacchanta, where you can relax in the natural hot springs, perfect for soothing tired muscles after a rewarding hike. We then enjoy a buffet lunch before beginning our journey back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 pm.

Inclusions

Included
  • Pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco
  • Professional bilingual tour guide (English / Spanish)
  • Round-trip tourist transportation
  • Oxygen supply
  • First aid kit
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
Not included
  • Entrance to the hot springs (5 Peruvian soles)
  • Horse rental (optional – approx. 100 soles)
  • Extras (water, snacks, personal expenses)
  • Dinner

Important information

Physical level

Moderate to challenging (long-distance hiking at high altitude)

Maximum altitude

4,850 m / 15,912 ft

Minimum altitude

4,300 m / 14,107 ft

Approximate walking distance

15 km / 9.3 miles

What to bring

  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Warm clothing (layers recommended)
  • Rain jacket
  • Sunscreen
  • Sunglasses
  • Hat or cap
  • Water
  • Snacks
  • Cash
  • Swimsuit and towel (for the hot springs)

Weather

Weather conditions can change quickly due to the high altitude. Mornings are usually cold, with daytime temperatures ranging from mild to cool. Rain is possible, especially between November and March, so waterproof clothing is recommended.

Acclimatization

Recommended to spend at least one day in Cusco before the tour.