Ausangate 7 Lagoons Full Day Hike from Cusco

About the Tour

Explore turquoise lagoons and the majesty of Ausangate on an unforgettable hike.

Cusco, Tinke, Pacchanta, Ausangate Mountain, 7 Lagoons (Azulqocha, Otorongo, Alqacocha, Q'omercocha, Patacocha), Hot Springs

The Ausangate 7 Lagoons tour is one of the most stunning treks you can do in the Andes of Cusco, ideal for nature lovers and high-mountain hiking enthusiasts. During this experience, you will hike a circuit of beautiful turquoise and deep-blue lagoons located at the foot of the majestic Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain, the highest and most sacred peak in the region.

The adventure begins in the community of Pacchanta, the starting point to explore spectacular lagoons such as Azulqocha, Otorongo, and Q’omercocha. Along the way, you will spot alpacas, llamas, and native birds in their natural habitat. The tour concludes with a delicious Andean lunch and the perfect opportunity to soothe your muscles in the Pacchanta hot springs, all while taking in the breathtaking views of the snow-capped mountains.

Cusco

The imperial city of Cusco is located in southeastern Peru, in the Andes Mountains. It sits at over 3,300 meters (10,800 feet) above sea level and was the former capital of the Inca Empire. Today, it is one of the most important tourist destinations in South America.

Tour Images

Step by step

Itinerary – Ausangate 7 Lagoons Full Day

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04:30 a.m.

Cusco Pick-up and Drive to Tinke

We start very early with a hotel pick-up. We embark on a scenic 3-hour drive south, passing through small Andean villages until we reach Tinke.

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08:10 a.m.

Arrival in Pacchanta & Breakfast

We continue for another 40 minutes to the community of Pacchanta, located at 4,310 m (14,140 ft). Here we will enjoy an Andean breakfast with stunning views of the Ausangate peak.

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08:40 a.m.

Hike the 7 Lagoons

We begin a 6.5 km circuit exploring the Azulqocha, Otorongo, Alqacocha, Q’omercocha, and Patacocha lagoons. Along the way, we’ll observe local wildlife and the majesty of the mountain range.

⏱ Hike duration: approx. 5 hours.

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01:30 p.m.

Return to Pacchanta & Lunch

At the end of the circuit, we return to the community of Pacchanta to enjoy a hearty traditional lunch prepared with local ingredients.

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02:30 p.m.

Hot Springs (Optional)

You will have free time to soak in the relaxing and medicinal hot springs of Pacchanta, boasting an unparalleled view of the snow-capped mountains.

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06:00 p.m.

Arrival in Cusco

We begin our return journey. Approximate arrival in Cusco near the Plaza de Armas, concluding the Andean adventure.

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Included

Round-trip tourist transportation from Cusco.
Bilingual professional guide.
Andean breakfast and local lunch.
Lagoons circuit entrance ticket (S/ 10.00).
Trekking poles.
Hot drinks (coca tea).
First aid kit and oxygen tank.

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Not Included

Pacchanta community entrance fee (approx. S/ 20.00 – S/ 30.00).
Pacchanta hot springs entrance fee.
Emergency or support horse rental.
Extra snacks and mineral water.
Tips (optional).

Tour duration

Full Day.

Schedule

Start: 04:30 a.m. – End: 06:00 p.m. approx.

Max altitude

15,551 ft / 4,740 m (Patacocha Lagoon).

Difficulty

Difficult. A 6.5 km hike at high altitude; requires good physical condition and acclimatization.

Tour type

Trekking Tours

Weather

Cold mountain climate (41°F to 64°F / 5°C to 18°C during the day).

Frequently Asked Questions

Any questions?

It is considered moderate to demanding due to the altitude (over 4,700 m). The hike lasts about 5 hours at a relaxed pace with rest stops.

Yes, it is essential. It is strongly recommended to spend at least 2 full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before taking this hike to prevent altitude sickness.

Yes, in the community of Pacchanta (at the start of the trail), local residents rent out horses to assist with parts of the circuit.

Along the route, it is very common to spot herds of alpacas, llamas, vizcachas, various Andean birds, and, if you are lucky, the soaring Andean condor.

The dry season, from April to October, is ideal because the weather is much more stable and the snow-capped landscapes are usually clear.

Recommendations

Get ready for the high mountains

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Mountain Clothing

Bring a thermal or windproof jacket, layered warm clothing, a beanie, and gloves, as the cold mountain weather can feel intense.

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Personal Gear

Wear good-grip trekking shoes. Bring a small backpack with sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, and energy snacks.

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For the Hot Springs

Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, sandals, and a towel if you wish to soak in the relaxing hot springs of Pacchanta.

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Bring Cash

Carry cash (Peruvian soles) to pay for community entrance fees, the hot springs, or if you decide to rent an emergency horse.

Ausangate 7
Lagoons