Ausangate and the Seven Lakes: Trekking in Cusco's Sacred Mountains

At 6,384 m / 20,945 ft, Ausangate is the highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the most sacred apus (mountain spirits) of the Andes. The area around it is wild, remote and spectacular – perfect for trekkers looking for solitude.

The Seven Lakes of Ausangate

At the foot of the Ausangate glacier lie seven lagoons in shades of turquoise, green and deep blue. A day hike from the village of Pacchanta leads you past the lakes at around 4,750 m / 15,580 ft. Afterwards you can relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta. It is a long day from Cusco, but one of the most beautiful in the region.

Treks around Ausangate

• Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek (1 day): The lagoons and hot springs in one day.
• Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain (3 days): High passes at the foot of Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley.
• Ausangate 7 Lakes and Rainbow Mountain (4 days): Combines the lagoons with Rainbow Mountain.
• Ausangate Trek (5 days): Circle the mountain on one of the most impressive high-altitude treks in Peru, with passes up to 5,200 m / 17,060 ft.

What to expect

Herders' villages, alpacas and llamas, glaciers close enough to touch and nights under an incredible sky. The trails run almost entirely above 4,000 m / 13,100 ft, so good acclimatization is essential: plan at least three days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley beforehand. The best time is the dry season from April to November; nights are very cold, especially from June to August.

Explore all Ausangate treks and the Ausangate 7 Lakes day hike.