Price: $40.00
Ausangate 7 Lakes Full Day Tour from Cusco – Best Day Hike in Peru
Code: A8LXWT
Description
Experience the Magic of the Andes! Embark on a breathtaking adventure through Peru’s most spectacular Seven Lakes, sacred Apu mountains, and natural hot springs. This full-day trek to the legendary 7 Lakes of Ausangate offers an unforgettable journey through pristine Andean landscapes where ancient Inca spirituality meets natural wonder.
Tour Overview
Departure & Return Location
Your hotel in Cusco city center
Your hotel in Cusco city center
Duration
Full Day (14 hours – 4:30 AM to 6:30 PM)
Full Day (14 hours – 4:30 AM to 6:30 PM)
Trekking Distance
13 km (8.1 miles) round trip
13 km (8.1 miles) round trip
Maximum Altitude
4,800 m / 15,742 feet
4,800 m / 15,742 feet
Difficulty Level
Moderate (Good fitness required)
Moderate (Good fitness required)
Group Size
Small groups (2-16 people)
Small groups (2-16 people)
Languages
English & Spanish guide
English & Spanish guide
Meals Included
Breakfast & Lunch (Vegetarian/Vegan available)
Breakfast & Lunch (Vegetarian/Vegan available)
Discover the mystical Seven Lakes of Ausangate, each displaying unique colors from turquoise and emerald green to deep blue and reddish hues. This sacred trek takes you through the heart of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, where towering peaks like Ausangate (6,384m) – Peru’s fifth highest mountain – dominate the skyline. Along the way, encounter native Andean wildlife including alpacas, vicuñas, vizcachas, and if you’re lucky, the majestic Andean condor soaring overhead.
Itinerary
Full Day Ausangate 7 Lakes Adventure
1
4:30 AM
Hotel Pickup & Departure to Pacchanta
Early morning pickup from your Cusco hotel followed by a scenic 3-hour drive through the Sacred Valley to Pacchanta community (4,320m/14,173ft). Experience breathtaking sunrise views over the Andes as we journey through traditional Quechua villages and high-altitude landscapes.
3 hours transport
2
8:00 AM
Traditional Breakfast in Pacchanta
Enjoy a hearty traditional breakfast in the charming community of Pacchanta, located at the foot of sacred Ausangate Mountain. Meet your local guide and receive a brief overview of the day’s adventure while acclimatizing to the altitude.
45 minutes
3
9:00 AM
Trek to the Seven Sacred Lakes
Begin your unforgettable trek through pristine Andean terrain to discover the legendary seven lakes: Otorongo Macho, Otorongo Hembra, Puca Cocha (Red Lake), Alqa Cocha (Multicolored Lake), Ccomer Cocha (Green Lake), Azul Cocha (Blue Lake), and Pata Cocha (High Lake). Marvel at the dramatic color variations caused by different mineral compositions while enjoying panoramic views of snow-capped peaks including Ausangate, Jampa, Pucapunta, Tinke, and the Qayangate Mountain Range.
5 hours trekking
4
2:00 PM
Lunch & Rest in Pacchanta
Return to Pacchanta for a well-deserved traditional lunch featuring local ingredients and flavors. Rest and share stories of your morning adventure while preparing for the afternoon’s relaxation activities.
1 hour
5
3:00 PM
Natural Hot Springs & Cultural Exploration
Unwind in the therapeutic natural hot springs with their renowned medicinal properties, perfect for soothing tired muscles after the trek. Alternatively, explore Pacchanta community to learn about traditional Quechua lifestyle, textile weaving, and local customs. Visit with friendly locals and their colorful alpacas.
40 minutes
6
4:00 PM
Return Journey to Cusco
Depart Pacchanta for the comfortable return journey to Cusco. Enjoy stunning afternoon light illuminating the Andean landscape and process the incredible memories of your Seven Lakes adventure.
2.5 hours transport
7
6:30 PM
Arrival in Cusco
Safe arrival at your hotel in Cusco, concluding an unforgettable day exploring one of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders.
End of tour
Inclusions
Inclusions
What’s Included
✅ Hotel Transfers: Pickup and drop-off from your Cusco city center hotel
✅ Professional Guide: Certified bilingual tour guide (English/Spanish) with extensive local knowledge
✅ Transportation: Comfortable tourist transport to/from Pacchanta community
✅ Meals: Traditional breakfast and lunch (Vegetarian/vegan options available at no extra cost)
✅ Entrance Fees: All tourist attraction entrance tickets included
✅ Safety Equipment: First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle
✅ 24/7 Support: Round-the-clock customer service and emergency assistance
✅ Cultural Experience: Interaction with local Pacchanta community
What’s Not Included
❌ Weather Gear: Rain poncho and walking poles (available for rent)
❌ Horse Rental: Optional horses for those who prefer not to hike
❌ Hot Springs Fee: 10 Soles (~$3 USD) entrance fee (optional)
❌ Personal Items: Towels for hot springs, personal snacks, souvenirs
❌ Dinner: Evening meal in Cusco
❌ Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel and health insurance
❌ Tips: Gratuities for guides and drivers
❌ Force Majeure: Costs due to weather, strikes, or circumstances beyond our control
Packing List
Packing List
📄 Documents: Original passport or ID card
🎒 Day Pack: 20-30L capacity for water, snacks, and personal items
🧤 Gloves: Lightweight hiking gloves + warm insulated gloves
👖 Trekking Pants: Quick-dry, flexible hiking pants
👕 Layered Clothing: Moisture-wicking t-shirt and thermal layers
🕶️ Sun Protection: UV-protection sunglasses and high SPF sunscreen
🧦 Hiking Socks: Wool or synthetic blend, moisture-wicking
🧥 Weather Jacket: Waterproof and windproof outer layer
👟 Trekking Boots: Broken-in, ankle-supporting hiking boots
👒 Head Protection: Sun hat, warm beanie, and bandana
📷 Electronics: Camera, extra batteries, and portable charger
🔭 Binoculars: For wildlife and mountain viewing (optional)
💧 Water Bottle: Reusable insulated bottle (2-3 liters recommended)
🏊♀️ Hot Springs: Quick-dry towel and swimwear (optional)
Additional Information
Additional Information
Location & Access
The Seven Lakes of Ausangate are nestled in the spectacular Vilcanota Mountain Range, accessed via the traditional Quechua community of Pacchanta. Located 3.5 hours southeast of Cusco at 4,320 meters (14,173 feet), this picturesque village serves as your gateway to one of Peru’s most sacred mountain regions. Ausangate Mountain, standing majestically at 6,384 meters, is revered as an “Apu” (mountain spirit) by local communities and holds deep spiritual significance in Andean culture.
Best Time to Visit
Optimal Season: April through November offers the best weather conditions with clear skies and minimal rainfall. The dry season provides excellent visibility for photography and comfortable hiking conditions. December through March is the rainy season, which can make trails muddy and challenging, though the landscape becomes dramatically green.
Physical Requirements & Safety
This moderate-level trek requires good physical fitness and previous high-altitude experience is beneficial. The trail includes both steep ascents and flat sections across varied terrain. Proper trekking boots are essential as paths can be slippery, especially during or after rain. The 5-hour round-trip hike at high altitude demands steady pacing with regular rest breaks.
Altitude Considerations: We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days before your tour to properly acclimatize. Consider taking altitude sickness medication if you’re sensitive to high elevations. Stay hydrated and inform your guide immediately if you experience any discomfort.
Cultural & Environmental Respect
As you explore this sacred landscape, please respect local customs and environmental preservation efforts. The lakes are considered holy by Quechua communities, so maintain appropriate behavior and follow Leave No Trace principles. Photography of local people should only be done with permission, and purchasing handicrafts directly supports community economies.
Weather Preparedness
Andean mountain weather can change rapidly throughout the day. Morning temperatures can drop below freezing, while afternoon sun can be intense due to altitude and thin atmosphere. Layer clothing for easy adjustment and always carry rain protection regardless of season. UV exposure is significantly higher at altitude, making sun protection absolutely essential.
Ready for Your Ausangate 7 Lakes Adventure? Book now to secure your spot on this extraordinary journey through Peru’s rainbow lakes and sacred mountains. Experience the magic of the Andes with our expert local guides who bring the landscape’s rich cultural and natural history to life!
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