This circuit is located southeast of Cusco, approximately 100 km away, with a maximum altitude of 4,740 meters above sea level. The climate varies depending on the season: from April to September temperatures average 6°C with little rain, while from October to March there is more frequent rainfall, thunderstorms, and strong winds.
The natural wonder of the Seven Lakes lies at the foot of the sacred Ausangate glacier, a revered mountain of the Incas. Its shimmering, multicolored waters fed by glacial melt are a truly unique attraction for visitors.
Ausangate is considered one of the most scenic areas in the Peruvian Andes. This one-day tour offers breathtaking views of snowy peaks, stunning lagoons, and ends with a visit to the Pacchanta hot springs — the perfect place to unwind while gazing at the mighty Ausangate.
Along the way, you’ll encounter native Andean communities, colorful handwoven textiles, and the natural habitat of llamas and alpacas. According to legend, Ausangate is the brother of the Salkantay Mountain.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes tour reveals a rhythm of life different from the rest of Peru — ideal for travelers seeking to escape the usual tourist routes and immerse themselves in the authenticity of the Andes.
We end the day with a soak in the relaxing hot springs, surrounded by the towering glaciers — perfect for relieving muscle tension and stress.
Cusco Hotel
Moderate
Embark on a one-of-a-kind adventure at the foot of the majestic Ausangate glacier and be amazed by the breathtaking beauty of its seven alpine lakes. This tour is perfect for those seeking disconnection, fresh mountain air, and landscapes that seem out of this world.
Walk along scenic trails surrounded by snow-capped peaks, thermal springs, and Andean communities that proudly preserve their ancestral traditions. Each lagoon will astonish you with its vibrant colors, fed by sacred glaciers.
A magical route that blends nature, culture, and spirituality in the heart of Cusco.
We begin with early pickup from your hotel or hostel in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. and travel by tourist transport toward the town of Tinke (3,780 m.a.s.l.), a journey of approximately 3 hours. From there, we take a dirt road for another 40 minutes until we reach the community of Pacchanta (4,310 m.a.s.l.), where we will enjoy a delicious breakfast.
Our 5-hour hike begins from Pacchanta, ascending gradually along narrow trails. Along the way, we pass through an ancient spiritual site known as the Apacheta, where we pause to offer three coca leaves or a stone — a traditional Andean ritual to ask permission and protection from Apu Ausangate.
As we continue, we may spot highland plants like ichu grass, native birds such as the Andean goose (huallata), vizcachas (a rodent species), domesticated camelids like alpacas and llamas, and with luck, even the Andean condor. Upon reaching the foothills of Ausangate, we begin the highlight of our journey: the seven magical lagoons, each with its own tone of red, blue, turquoise, or green.
After the hike, we return to Pacchanta to enjoy the relaxing Ausangate hot springs — perfect for soothing your muscles. We then enjoy a traditional lunch before boarding our transport back to Cusco. Arrival time is approximately 7:00 p.m.
The Seven Lakes of Ausangate tour was absolutely stunning. The hike was challenging but every step was rewarded with amazing views of colorful lakes and towering mountains. The peacefulness of the area made the experience even more special. Our guide was friendly and shared interesting stories about local traditions. Ending the day with a soak in natural hot springs was the perfect way to relax. Highly recommended for anyone who loves nature and adventure!
