The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate (Circuito de las 7 Lagunas)

The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate. Located at the foot of the imposing Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m), this area offers multi-day and shorter treks (such as the 5-day Ausangate Trek). From here, you can also access the famous Rainbow Mountain on a 3-day hike. These are some of the most spectacular places in the Cusco region. The lakes boast glacial lagoons in turquoise, emerald, and lead-colored hues, framed by reddish mountains and snow-capped peaks. Don’t miss this unique Andean experience; plan your vacation with us – we are local tour operators.

1. Fast Facts

Detail	Information
Location	Quispicanchi Province (approx. 3 hours from Cusco)
Base Town	Pacchanta (3,900m / 12,795ft)
Highest Point	4,650m (15,255ft)
Distance	10 km (6.2 miles) loop
Duration	4.5 – 6 hours of hiking
Difficulty	Moderate to Strenuous (due to extreme altitude)

2. The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate.

The lakes are fed by the glaciers of the Vilcanota mountain range. Each has a distinct hue based on its mineral content:

Pucacocha: “The Red Lake” – Deeply colored by iron minerals.
Patacocha: Known for its clear waters and proximity to the trail.
Alqacocha: Often reflects the massive glaciers above.
Qomercocha: “The Green Lake” – Famed for its bright turquoise-green color.
Orcocha: A smaller, serene glacial pond.
Sullascocha: Located near the base of the moraines.
Azulcocha: A deep, sapphire blue lake.

3. Getting There (Logistics)

Guided Tour (Most Common)

Pickup: Usually between 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM in Cusco.
Drive: 3 hours to the community of Pacchanta.
Cost: 150 Soles ($50 USD), including transport, breakfast, and lunch.

Going Solo.

Take a bus from Cusco (near the Hospital Regional) heading toward Ocongate.
From Ocongate, take a shared taxi or “colectivo” to the village of Pacchanta.
Pacchanta is the trailhead and home to the famous thermal baths.

4. The Pacchanta Hot Springs – 7 Lagoons of Ausangate.

A highlight of this trek is ending the hike at the Termales de Pacchanta. These are rustic, open-air medicinal hot springs with a direct view of the Ausangate glacier.

Entry Fee: 5 Soles.
Tip: Bring your own towel and swimwear. It is the perfect way to recover after a high-altitude hike.

5. 7 Lagoons of Ausangate – Essential Tips.

Altitude Warning

This trek starts at nearly 4,000 meters and goes higher. Do not do this on your first or second day in Cusco. You should be well-acclimatized (at least 3 days in the region) before attempting this.

Weather & Season

Dry Season (May–Sept): Best visibility, clear blue skies, but freezing cold mornings (often below 0°C/32°F).
Rainy Season (Nov–March): Clouds may obscure the peaks, and the trail can be muddy.

Optional Horse Rental

If the altitude is too much, the local community in Pacchanta offers horses for rent. You can ride between the lakes and walk only the flat sections. This costs approximately 40–60 Soles.

6. 7 Lagoons of Ausangate – Packing List.

Layers: Thermal base layer, fleece, and a down jacket/windbreaker.
Sun Protection: The sun at 4,600m is brutal. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and heavy-duty sunblock.
Footwear: Waterproof hiking boots are preferred as parts of the trail can be boggy.
Coca Leaves/Candy: Helps with the altitude and energy.
Small Change: For the entrance fee (usually 10 Soles) and the hot springs.