The 7 Lagoons Ausangate constitute one of the most important natural landscapes in the Cusco region. This group of glacial lakes is located on the slopes of Mount Ausangate, one of the highest and most sacred mountains in the Peruvian Andes. The Seven Lakes of Ausangate are located in the district of Ocongate, province of Quispicanchis, in the Cusco region, at an approximate altitude of between 4,200 and 4,800 meters above sea level.
The main access is from the city of Cusco to the community of Pacchanta, the starting point of the route. The circuit consists of seven lakes fed by the meltwater of Mount Ausangate. Each one has particular colors and characteristics due to the presence of minerals and sunlight. For the Quechua communities, Mount Ausangate is considered an Apu (sacred mountain).
The lagoons are an integral part of the Andean worldview and are linked to ancestral rituals of gratitude to Pachamama (Mother Earth), strengthening the cultural identity of the local population. Tourism in the Seven Lagoons of Ausangate has generated benefits for nearby communities. It provides income through local guides, transportation, and community services. It also encourages the conservation of the natural environment and sustainable development.
Overview
The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate trek is a visually stunning, high-altitude alternative to the crowded Rainbow Mountain. It takes you through the “royal” Vilcanota mountain range, passing seven distinct glacial lakes with colors ranging from turquoise to deep green, all under the shadow of the massive Apu Ausangate (6,384m).
Trek Details
- Distance: ~10–12 km (6–7.5 miles) round trip.
- Duration: 5–6 hours of walking.
- Difficulty: Challenging. While the trail isn’t technically difficult (it’s mostly rolling hills), the altitude is the real opponent.
- Best Time: April to October (Dry Season). The lakes look their most vibrant under direct sunlight.
The 7 Lagoons vs. Rainbow Mountain
If you’re deciding between the two, here’s the breakdown:
| Feature | 7 Lagoons (Ausangate) | Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) |
| Crowds | Very low; peaceful and quiet. | High; can feel like a “conga line.” |
| Scenery | Glaciers, turquoise lakes, alpacas. | Striped colorful mountains, red valley. |
| Max Altitude | 4,800 meters | 5,036 meters |
| Relaxation | Includes hot springs at the end. | No hot springs. |
Essential Preparation
- Acclimatize: Do not do this trek on your first day in Cusco. You should have at least 2 days at altitude before attempting this.
- Rent a Horse: If you find the breathing difficult, you can rent a horse in Pacchanta (approx. S/ 80 or $22 USD) to take you through the circuit.
- The “Soak” Kit: Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel for the Pacchanta hot springs! It only costs about S/ 5 to enter.
- Sun Protection: The sun at 4,800m is brutal. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and high-SPF sunscreen even if it feels cold.
Would you like me to recommend a few local agencies that specialize in small-group treks to Ausangate?
Itinerary
TREKKING 07 LAGOONS AUSANGATE.
Our pickups begin at 4:30 am from your hotels, and we’ll head to our destination: the community of Pacchanta. Located on the slopes of the Ausangate mountain at 4,200 meters above sea level, its inhabitants, who raise alpacas and cultivate native tubers, are all expert weavers. They use alpaca fiber to make their clothing and use alpaca meat as a source of protein. Native potatoes, eaten fresh or traditionally processed into chuño and moraya, provide the carbohydrates they need to combat the cold and the physical exertion.
In this community, we’ll have a nutritious breakfast (7:30 am). Afterward, we’ll venture into the heart of the Andes Mountains to visit the seven beautiful lakes of Ausangate. The initial hike will be about 5 to 6 kilometers. To visit the first lagoon (approx. 1:30 hrs), then we will continue this fascinating adventure visiting other lagoons, in the middle of the Andes mountain range, surrounded by wonderful fauna and vegetation, it will be a journey of approximately 10 km (5 hrs). We will return to the community of “PACCHANTA” to enjoy the hot springs and then our lunch, to return to Cusco, after this wonderful experience.
- 1.- Pucacocha
- 2.- Patacocha
- 3.- Alqacocha
- 4.- Qomercocha
- 5.- Orco Otorongo
- 6.- China Otorongo
- 7.- Azulcocha
These lakes are notable for their hues, which range from intense blue and turquoise to reddish tones.
Recommendation:
- Acclimate in Cusco (3,400 m / 11,200 ft): Spend at least 2 days before the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
- Prep Gear: Warm layers, waterproof jacket, hiking boots, gloves, sunglasses, snacks, coca leaves/candy, water, and sunscreen.
- Book Tour: Choose a reputable tour operator (private or group). Confirm early pickup, breakfast/lunch included, oxygen availability.
- Weather varies: Snow, rain, or fog can obscure the mountain—check forecasts but know it’s unpredictable.
Inclusions
SERVICES INCLUDED:
- Pre-trip information the day before
- Pick-up from your hotel
- Round-trip transportation. Cusco – Pacchanta – Cusco
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Professional bilingual guide
- Entrance fee to the protected area
- Thermal blankets
- Trekking poles
- First-aid kit
- Oxygen tank
NO INCLUDED.
- Tips
- Extra expenses
- Horse rental
- Other expenses not mentioned
Should Bring
WE RECOMMEND YOU BRING:
- A small backpack
- Thermal clothing
- Hiking shoes
- Sun hat
- Warm jacket
- Gloves, hat, and scarf
- Sunscreen
- Camera
- Rain jacket/poncho (for safety)
- Snacks for the trail (bottle of water, energy bars, chocolates, candies)
Acomodation
Our Best Transportation
We are a legal and certified company. We have the best and most modern tourist transport units to carry out our different tourist circuits and to satisfy our clients with the necessary comfort.
Price
Price: Season 2026
Shared Service:
- Price per person U$. 50.00
- The approximate group is 15 people
Private & Personalized Service:
- Price per person U$ .150.00
- Minimum people 02 pax
Payment method
