Peru
Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek
Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek
Duration
Day tour
Start/End
Cusco
Tour type
Private · Group
Level
Demanding
Overview
Ausangate, at 6,384 m the highest mountain in the Cusco region, is surrounded by a world of glaciers and colorful lakes. On this day trek, you hike from the village of Pacchanta to the Seven Lakes – turquoise, emerald and deep blue waters at the foot of the mountain. Along the way, you pass herds of llamas and alpacas grazing in the high valley. Back in Pacchanta, you can enjoy a local meal and relax in the hot springs before the drive back to Cusco. Remote, quiet and spectacular – ideal for well-acclimatized hikers looking for an alternative to the busier day hikes.
Tour Code
Tour Language
English, SpanishMaximum altitude
Itinerary
Itinerary
Cusco – Pacchanta – Seven Lakes – Pacchanta – Cusco
10 km / 6.2 mi · 4–5 h · max. 4,750 m / 15,584 ft
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at about 4:00 am. A drive of around four hours leads through the southeast of the Cusco region and the town of Tinki to the village of Pacchanta (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), the starting point of the hike at the foot of Ausangate. The trail climbs gradually through a beautiful high valley, and after about two hours you reach the first of the seven lakes. Over the next two hours, you discover the other lakes, each with its own color, surrounded by glaciers and grazing llamas and alpacas. Back in Pacchanta, you can enjoy a meal in a local restaurant and relax in the hot springs before the drive back to Cusco, where you arrive around 7:00 pm.
Cusco – Pacchanta – Seven Lakes – Pacchanta – Cusco
Itinerary
10 km / 6.2 mi · 4–5 h · max. 4,750 m / 15,584 ft
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at about 4:00 am. A drive of around four hours leads through the southeast of the Cusco region and the town of Tinki to the village of Pacchanta (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), the starting point of the hike at the foot of Ausangate. The trail climbs gradually through a beautiful high valley, and after about two hours you reach the first of the seven lakes. Over the next two hours, you discover the other lakes, each with its own color, surrounded by glaciers and grazing llamas and alpacas. Back in Pacchanta, you can enjoy a meal in a local restaurant and relax in the hot springs before the drive back to Cusco, where you arrive around 7:00 pm.
Price from
US$120.00
Services
What's included
Pre-Trip Briefing: Briefing at your hotel the evening before the tour.
Private Transportation: Pick-up from and return to your hotel in Cusco.
Professional Guide: Experienced local guide (English and Spanish).
Entrance Fees: Local communities along the route.
First Aid Kit: Including emergency oxygen.
What's not included
Meals: Meals are not included; you can eat at local restaurants in Pacchanta.
Tips & Personal Expenses: Tips for the guide and driver are optional and appreciated; personal expenses are not included.
Travel Insurance: Highly recommended.
Character of the trip
Condition
Demanding
Altitude
Very high (up to 4,750 m)
Culture / nature
Balanced
Fitness – challenging: About 10 km (6.2 mi) round trip in 4–5 hours of hiking at high altitude. Good fitness is required.
Altitude – very high: The hike starts in Pacchanta at 4,200 m (13,780 ft) and reaches 4,750 m (15,584 ft).
Culture & nature – nature-focused: Seven glacial lakes, the Ausangate massif, llama and alpaca herds and the hot springs of Pacchanta.
Long day: Pick-up at 4:00 am and return to Cusco around 7:00 pm, with about 8 hours of driving in total.
Dates and Prices
Individual Dates
Groups of 5 or more: contact us for special rates and tailor-made options.
Travel Information
Good to know
Acclimatization: This tour reaches very high altitude. Please spend at least two to three days in Cusco beforehand so your body can adjust.
What to bring
Daypack: A small, comfortable backpack for the day.
Original Passport: Required at entrance checks; bring your ISIC card if you claim a student discount.
Footwear: Sturdy shoes or hiking boots with ankle support.
Clothing: Rain jacket or poncho and warm layers (fleece, beanie, gloves) – mornings and evenings in the Andes are cold.
Protection: Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat and insect repellent.
Extras: Water bottle (metal or Nalgene), snacks, camera with spare batteries, personal medication and some Peruvian soles for drinks and emergencies.
Hot Springs: Swimsuit and small towel.
Walking Poles: Optional, but helpful on the descent.