Tour overview
The Ausangate 7 Lakes are one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the southern Andes. They sit at the foot of Ausangate, which at over 6,300 m (20,670 ft) is Cusco's highest mountain and a sacred apu, or mountain spirit, for local Quechua communities. The hike follows a loop among glaciers, high-altitude wetlands and brightly colored lakes, with herds of llamas and alpacas grazing all around. It's far less crowded than Rainbow Mountain and gives you a close look at the life of local herding communities. Magone Viajes takes care of your transport, guide, meals and entrance fees, so you can focus on enjoying the day.
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Best time to travel April to October (dry season, with clear skies)
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Maximum altitude About 4,600 to 4,700 m / 15,090 to 15,420 ft (the highest lake on the loop)
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Physical difficulty Moderate to challenging because of the altitude (about 8 to 10 km / 5 to 6 miles of hiking in 4 to 5 hours)
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Minimum number of passengers 1 adult
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Maximum number of passengers 15 adults in shared service
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Booking lead time 1 to 3 days in advance
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Permits Community entrance fee for the 7 Lakes and, if it applies, the Pacchanta hot springs
Highlights
- A loop hike to the 7 Lakes at the foot of Ausangate, in one day from Cusco.
- Route: Pacchanta, the lakes on the loop, back to Pacchanta and return to Cusco.
- Turquoise, green and reddish lakes such as Pucacocha, Azulcocha and Q'omercocha.
- Llamas, alpacas and Quechua herding communities.
- An optional soak in the Pacchanta hot springs after the hike.
- Price on request per person.
Itinerary
Pickup in Cusco
We pick you up from your hotel at around 4:00 to 4:30 a.m. and drive about 3.5 hours south of Cusco, through Urcos and Ocongate.
Breakfast on the way
We stop for breakfast in Tinki or Ocongate, depending on the program, before continuing to Pacchanta, at about 4,100 m (13,450 ft).
Start of the hike
From Pacchanta we set off with your Magone Viajes guide, climbing gradually with Ausangate right in front of us.
The 7 Lakes
We follow the loop and visit the lakes one by one, each with its own color from the minerals and the glacier's reflection. We stop for photos and rest along the way. Horses are available if anyone needs one.
Pacchanta hot springs
Back in Pacchanta, you have time for an optional soak in the hot springs and for lunch.
Return to Cusco
In the afternoon we drive back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Tips
- Acclimatize for at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco first, since you'll be hiking above 4,500 m (14,760 ft).
- Dress in warm layers and bring a hat, gloves and a waterproof jacket, because the weather changes quickly.
- Wear hiking boots with good grip.
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses and plenty of water.
- If you plan to use the hot springs, pack a swimsuit and towel.
- Carry cash in soles for the community fee, if not included in the program, a horse or handicrafts.
What's included
Included
- Pickup from your Cusco hotel and round-trip tourist transport.
- Professional Magone Viajes guide.
- Breakfast and lunch, buffet depending on the program.
- Community entrance fee for the 7 Lakes, if included in the program.
- First-aid kit and oxygen, if included in the program.
Not included
- Community entrance fee, if not included.
- Pacchanta hot springs entrance. Price on request.
- Horse for the hike. Price on request.
- Trekking poles.
- Tips.
- Travel insurance.
- Any services not listed in this program.
Frequently asked questions
How hard is the hike?
The distance isn't very long, about 8 to 10 km (5 to 6 miles), but the altitude makes it demanding. If you're well acclimatized and go at your own pace, it's doable with average fitness.
Is it harder than Rainbow Mountain?
It's longer, but the climbs are gentler. It's also much less crowded and offers more varied scenery.
Are horses available?
Yes. Local communities rent horses for part of the route. The horse price is on request.
Does it get very cold?
Yes, especially early in the day and when it's windy. Morning temperatures can drop below freezing (32 °F), so bring warm clothes.
When is the best time to go?
April to October, when skies are clear and the lakes show their brightest colors.
Can I go if I'm prone to altitude sickness?
Check with your doctor first. If you feel strong symptoms during the hike, tell your guide. If included in the program, the team carries oxygen.
