7 Lakes of Ausangate




7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour from Cusco

The 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour is one of the most breathtaking natural experiences you can enjoy in Cusco.
This full-day excursion takes you to explore the majestic Ausangate snow-capped mountain, considered the most important sacred mountain in the Andean world, and discover seven vividly colored lagoons that look like they belong to another planet.

The adventure begins very early in Cusco, heading toward the community of Pacchanta, a peaceful village at the foot of Ausangate where you will enjoy a traditional breakfast before starting the hike.
During the route, you will visit lagoons such as Comercocha, Patacocha, Alqacocha, Otorongococha, Azulcocha, Pucacocha, and Q’omercocha, each with its own charm and unique shades.

At the end of the route, you can relax in the famous Pacchanta hot springs, a true reward after the hike,
and enjoy a comforting lunch with privileged views of the mountain range.
This excursion is perfect for those who want to connect with nature, hike among sacred mountains, and enjoy an authentically Andean experience.

tour-valle-sagrado-chinchero

Tour Schedule

🕓 Start: 4:00 a.m.
🕠 End: 5:30 p.m.
📍 Location: Pacchanta Community, Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain
Duration: Approx. 13 to 14 hours
🗣 Available languages: Spanish and English

Places you will visit on this tour

Pacchanta – Andean community where the hike begins and where breakfast and lunch are served.

Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain – Protective Apu and sacred mountain of the Andean world.

The 7 Ausangate Lagoons – Comercocha, Patacocha, Alqacocha,
Otorongococha, Azulcocha, Pucacocha, and Q’omercocha.

Pacchanta Hot Springs – An oasis of hot water, perfect for relaxing at the end of the route.

7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour Itinerary – Full Day

🕗 Schedule: 4:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
📍 Meeting Point: Pick-up from your hotel (Cusco historic center)
🕒 Duration: Full Day – Approx. 13 to 14 hours

Tour 7 Lagunas de Ausangate

Detailed itinerary 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour

1

4:00 a.m. – 4:30 a.m

Tour begins – Departure from Cusco

The 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour begins very early with pick-up from your accommodation.
From Cusco, we will head toward the community of Pacchanta, enjoying along the way Andean landscapes illuminated by the first rays of sunlight.

Recommendation: wear warm layered clothing and keep a water bottle handy.

2

Pacchanta

Arrival and traditional breakfast

After the journey, we will reach Pacchanta, a beautiful village located at the foot of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain.
Here, a typical Andean breakfast prepared with local products awaits you, perfect for starting the day with energy before the trek.

3

Trekking

Start of the hike toward the 7 lagoons

From Pacchanta, the hike begins toward the lagoon circuit.
The trail crosses mountains, ravines, and high-Andean plains where you can observe alpacas, llamas, birds, and privileged views of Ausangate,
one of the most important sacred Apus in Peru.

Tip: keep a steady pace and take short breaks; the altitude is noticeable.

4

Circuit

Tour of the 7 Ausangate lagoons

During this hike, we will visit the most representative lagoons in the area, each with unique characteristics.
This section is ideal for taking photographs, connecting with nature, and admiring the grandeur of the Vilcanota mountain range.

  • Comercocha: turquoise lagoon surrounded by mountains.
  • Patacocha: known for its natural surroundings and crystal-clear waters.
  • Alqacocha: perfectly reflects the sky and snow-capped peaks.
  • Otorongococha: stands out for its serenity and the wildlife around it.
  • Azulcocha: features an intense blue color that contrasts with the landscape.
  • Pucacocha: one of the largest, with deep turquoise waters.
  • Q’omercocha: emerald green in tone, considered the most striking of the circuit.
Recommendation: bring sunscreen and sunglasses; the sun at high altitude is usually strong even in cold weather.

5

Hot Springs

Return to Pacchanta and hot springs

After the tour, we will return to Pacchanta, where you will have time to relax in its natural hot springs,
known for their relaxing properties and spectacular view of Ausangate.

Tip: bring a small towel and a change of clothes if you plan to enter the hot springs.

6

Pacchanta

Traditional Andean lunch

After the thermal bath, we will enjoy a typical lunch prepared by local residents,
ideal for regaining energy after the hike.

7

5:30 p.m.

Return to Cusco – End of the tour

Finally, we will board the transportation back to Cusco.
Estimated arrival is around 5:30 p.m., concluding a day full of nature, culture, and unforgettable landscapes.

What is included and not included in the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour

Included

  • Pick-up from your accommodation (historic center)
  • Round-trip tourist transportation to Pacchanta
  • Professional bilingual guide (Spanish – English)
  • Traditional Andean breakfast in the community of Pacchanta
  • Typical Andean lunch prepared by local residents
  • First aid kit
  • Oxygen tank for emergencies
  • Drop-off in Cusco historic center
Note: All entrance tickets can be purchased at the entry points of the places visited.

Not included

  • Entrance to the Pacchanta hot springs
  • Entrance to the 7 lagoons
  • Assistance horse
  • Trekking poles
  • Water or additional beverages
  • Personal expenses
  • Tips (optional, at your discretion)
  • Travel insurance (recommended to arrange before your trip)

Entrance fees:

  • 🎟️ 7 lagoons entrance : S/ 20 general admission
  • 🎟️ Pacchanta hot springs : S/ 5.00
  • Horse rental: (optional – S/ 80.00 approx., offered by local residents)

Additional Details

Recommendations for taking the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour

To fully enjoy this experience in the Andes and hike around majestic Ausangate, keep the following suggestions in mind:

  • Arrive in Cusco at least 48 hours in advance to properly acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Before taking the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour, we recommend light walks around the city or joining short tours such as:
    Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley, Maras – Moray – Chinchero, South Valley, or even Machu Picchu. This will help your body adapt better to 4,500 meters above sea level.
  • Take altitude sickness prevention pills before and during your stay in Cusco, according to medical advice. It is also helpful to drink coca tea or Andean herbal infusions.
  • Wear appropriate trekking clothing, such as hiking footwear, thermal clothing, a windbreaker jacket, gloves, and accessories to protect you from the changing weather.

What to bring to the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour

For a comfortable, safe, and trouble-free hike, make sure to bring:

  • Trekking poles (optional, but recommended).
  • Light backpack for your belongings.
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho, ideal in case the weather changes.
  • Hat or cap for the sun.
  • High-protection sunscreen.
  • Personal items and medications, including altitude sickness pills.
  • Toilet paper or wet wipes.
  • Light snacks or nibbles for the trail.
  • Energy bars to keep up your stamina.
  • Lip balm to prevent dryness.
  • Sunglasses with UV protection.
  • Camera or phone with a good battery for photos.
  • Enough bottled water for the entire route.
  • Extra money in soles for purchases, restrooms, hot springs, or local services such as horses.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 1-Day 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour in Cusco + Hot Springs

Where does the 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour start and end?

The 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour starts between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m. with pick-up from your hotel (urban area of Cusco) and ends at approximately 6:00 p.m. in Cusco’s historic center.

What is the maximum altitude reached on the 1-Day 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour?

The maximum altitude reached during the tour is 4,800 meters above sea level, especially at the viewpoints near the high-Andean lagoons.

How many kilometers are hiked on the 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour?

The full hike from Pacchanta and back is approximately 13 kilometers in total.

What is the weather like during the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour, and what temperatures should I expect?

The weather in the Ausangate area changes very quickly. There are two clearly marked seasons:

Dry season (April – October): Sunny days and cold nights. Temperatures range from 5°C to 12°C, with lower temperatures in the early morning.

Rainy season (November – March): Frequent rain, snow, and fog. Temperatures range from 0°C to 14°C

What is the best time of year to take the 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour?

The best season is the dry season (April – October), when the trails are more stable and the lagoons display their most vivid colors.

What is the difficulty level of the hike to the 7 Ausangate Lagoons?

The hike is of moderate difficulty, with around 6 hours of trekking at a relaxed pace.
Although the slope is not very steep, the high altitude makes it challenging. Good physical condition is recommended.

Can I rent a horse during the 1-Day 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour?

Yes, in Pacchanta the local residents offer horse rentals for certain sections. The average cost is 80 soles (may vary).

What does the 1-Day 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour include?

With our service, everything is arranged for you. It includes:

-Round-trip tourist transportation

-Hotel pick-up (central area)

-Professional bilingual guide

-Homemade breakfast and lunch in Pacchanta

-Entrance ticket

-First aid kit and oxygen

-Access to the Pacchanta hot springs

Is it possible to do the 7 Ausangate Lagoons tour with children?

Yes, but it is only recommended for children over 5 years old.
Due to the altitude and the weather, it is not advisable for younger children.

What is the price of the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour?

Available options:

Shared tour: groups of 10 to 15 people – from USD 45 per person.

Private tour: ideal for families or small groups. For couples, it is usually around USD 180 per person, decreasing as the group size increases.

How can I avoid altitude sickness during the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Tour?

To reduce the effects of soroche:

Arrive in Cusco 2 days in advance

Drink coca leaf or muña infusions

Stay constantly hydrated

Take light walks before the tour

>Consult your doctor about bringing altitude medication

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From: $35.00