The Full Day 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour will take us on an unforgettable journey through one of the most breathtaking landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.
Nestled at the foot of the imposing Ausangate Mountain, these seven pristine lakes shimmer in shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue. They reflect the untouched beauty of the high-altitude wilderness. This adventure will immerse us in a world of snow-capped peaks, rolling Andean meadows, and glacial waters that few travelers have the chance to witness.
Starting from Cusco City, we will ascend into the heart of the Cordillera Vilcanota. Here the raw beauty of the Ausangate 7 Lakes awaits. The high-altitude terrain, sitting at approximately 4,300 to 4,850 meters (14,107 to 15,912 feet) above sea level, will offer stunning panoramas at every turn.
Our journey will introduce us to the vibrant biodiversity of the region. Herds of llamas and alpacas roam freely, and the occasional Andean condor soars above the valleys. Each lake we encounter will tell a unique story. They are shaped by the surrounding glaciers and the rich cultural traditions of the local Quechua communities.
More than just a scenic trek, this day tour will connect deeply to the Andean way of life. Along the way, we will learn about the significance of Ausangate Mountain. It is revered as an Apu (sacred spirit) by the Andean people. Our tour guide, an expert in the region’s history and traditions, will share the myths and legends that have been passed down through generations.
We will also be able to interact with the local villagers who call this rugged landscape home, gaining insight into their customs and time-honored practices.
After a rewarding hike through this spectacular terrain, we will unwind in the Pacchanta hot springs. The natural thermal waters, heated by the geothermal activity beneath the Andes. It will soothe our muscles. The experience will be the perfect way to reflect on the day’s adventure while taking in the magnificent backdrop of the towering snow peaks.
With every step through this extraordinary landscape, we will experience the harmony between nature and culture that makes the 7 Lakes of Ausangate a must-visit destination. This will not just be a tour; it will be a journey through one of Peru’s last great wildernesses, filled with awe-inspiring moments and unforgettable memories. As we return to Cusco in the evening, arriving around 7:00 PM, we will carry with us the essence of the Andes—a place where nature, tradition, and adventure unite in perfect harmony.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
0430 – 0500 AM
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Tour promises a breathtaking adventure through one of the most pristine landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. Expect an early morning departure from Cusco City. This will be followed by a scenic drive to the remote Andean village of Pacchanta, where the trek begins. As we hike through the high-altitude terrain, we will witness dramatic landscapes dominated by Ausangate Mountain, towering glaciers, and rolling valleys dotted with herds of llamas and alpacas. The journey leads to seven stunning glacial lakes, each displaying unique shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue, shaped by the minerals from the surrounding peaks. Along the way, we will interact with local Quechua-speaking villagers, gaining insight into their traditional way of life.
Beyond the breathtaking scenery, this tour offers a deep connection to Andean culture and nature. Our expert tour guidewill share fascinating legends and ecological insights. They will be making the experience both educational and immersive. After a rewarding trek, we will relax in the Pacchanta hot springs. Here naturally heated thermal waters provide the perfect relief for tired muscles. As we enjoy a traditional Andean meal, we will reflect on the day’s journey before heading back to Cusco. Arriving around 7:00 PM, we will return with unforgettable memories of this untouched Andean paradise.
Our Full Day Tour to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate begins early in the morning with a hotel pickup in Cusco City at around 4:30 AM. Leaving behind the city lights, we set off on a scenic drive through the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes. The journey takes about three hours, passing through remote villages and rolling valleys where llamas and alpacas graze freely. As we ascend higher into the mountains, the first rays of sunlight illuminate the snow-capped peaks. It will be setting the perfect mood for the adventure ahead.
We will arrive in Pacchanta. It is a small Andean village nestled at 4,200 meters (13,779 feet) above sea level. Here, we enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast that fuels us for the day’s trek. Pacchanta serves as the starting point for our hike, offering the first glimpse of the mighty Ausangate Mountain, the tallest peak in southern Peru. Our tour guide, an expert in Andean landscapes and traditions, leads the way, sharing fascinating insights into the region’s history, culture, and natural wonders.
The trek takes us deep into the high-altitude wilderness, where the air is crisp and the scenery changes with every step. As we gain altitude, reaching nearly 4,850 meters (15,912 feet), we discover the first of the Ausangate 7 Lakes. Each lake has a unique color, reflecting the minerals from the surrounding glaciers.
The Otorongo Lakes, with their dark, mystical waters, are believed to hold spiritual significance. Pucacocha, named after its reddish hue, shimmers beneath the towering Andean peaks. Q’omercocha glows with emerald tones, while Alqacocha, Azulcocha, and Patacocha complete the stunning collection, each more mesmerizing than the last.
Throughout the hike, we will take moments to breathe in the fresh mountain air. We will capture incredible photographs, and appreciate the silence of this untouched paradise. The only sounds come from the wind brushing against the rugged terrain and the occasional call of an Andean condor soaring overhead. Along the way, we may encounter Quechua-speaking villagers, whose deep connection to this land has remained unchanged for centuries.
After completing the circuit, we return to Pacchanta. Here a well-deserved reward awaits. The Pacchanta hot springs offer the perfect chance to soak in naturally heated thermal waters while gazing up at the towering peaks of the Vilcanota Range. The warm mineral-rich pools provide relief for tired muscles, making the experience even more rewarding.
A delicious Andean lunch, prepared with fresh local ingredients, follows the relaxing dip in the hot springs. We savor traditional flavors while reflecting on the journey through one of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes.
By mid-afternoon, we begin our return journey to Cusco. The drive back offers one last chance to admire the Andean scenery as the sun begins to set over the mountains. We arrive in Cusco City at around 7:00 PM, bringing an end to an unforgettable adventure. The memories of the 7 Lakes of Ausangate, the stunning glacial landscapes, and the cultural encounters will stay with us long after the tour ends.
