7 Lakes Hike in Ausangate

We'll begin this high-altitude adventure with a 3:00 AM hotel pickup in Cusco, heading southeast by private transport for approximately 3.5 hours to the remote village of Pacchanta, located at 4,300 m / 14,108 ft. As we leave the city lights behind, you'll witness the Andean dawn painting the sky over the majestic Vilcanota mountain range.

Upon arrival in Pacchanta, a nourishing buffet breakfast awaits, giving you energy for the day ahead. After a short briefing from your expert local guide, we'll start our scenic circular trek through the heart of the Ausangate region - home to some of the most stunning glacial lakes in the Andes.

Our route spans around 15 km / 9.3 mi and takes approximately 5 hours to complete. We'll pass by breathtaking lakes such as Azulcocha, Otorongo, China Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Q'omercocha, and Orco Otorongo. Each lake dazzles with its own tone of turquoise, emerald, or deep sapphire.

Towering above us are the sacred snowcapped peaks of Ausangate, Mariposa, Jampa, and Pucapunta, forming an unforgettable mountain panorama. Along the trail, you'll encounter numerous alpacas and llamas grazing freely. With luck and quiet observation, you might even spot vicuñas or Andean condors.

After completing the circuit, we return to Pacchanta, where you'll be rewarded with a soothing soak in the natural hot springs. The warm mineral waters are the perfect way to relax after hiking at altitude, while enjoying views of Ausangate and the surrounding highland landscapes.

Finally, we'll enjoy a traditional Andean buffet lunch, freshly prepared with local ingredients. As the day winds down, we begin our drive back to Cusco, arriving by late afternoon or evening with unforgettable memories from this off-the-beaten-path mountain experience.

• Early morning scenic drive from Cusco to Pacchanta.
• Buffet breakfast before the hike.
• Guided circular hike through the Ausangate 7 Lakes route.
• Views of Azulcocha, Otorongo, China Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Q'omercocha, and Orco Otorongo.
• Panoramic views of Ausangate and surrounding snowcapped peaks.
• Possible sightings of alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, and Andean condors.
• Relaxing soak in Pacchanta's natural thermal baths.
• Buffet lunch before returning to Cusco.

The 7 Lakes Hike in Ausangate takes place at high elevations where altitude can affect travelers arriving from sea level or low-altitude regions. Proper preparation is essential to enjoy the route safely.

• Why acclimatization matters: Altitude sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or fitness level.
• Common symptoms: Headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, reduced appetite, or shortness of breath when walking uphill.
• Recommended arrival: Arrive at least two full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before this hike.
• Best acclimatization plan: Start with gentle cultural tours such as Cusco City Tour, Sacred Valley Tour, or Maras & Moray before attempting Ausangate 7 Lakes.
• Stay healthy: Drink water, avoid heavy meals before the hike, rest well, walk slowly, and avoid alcohol before the tour.

The 7 Lakes Hike in Ausangate is classified as moderate. The trail is not extremely long, but the high elevation, thinner air, cold weather, and uneven terrain make it feel more challenging than a low-altitude hike.

• Distance: Approx. 15 km / 9.3 mi.
• Hiking Time: Approx. 5 hours.
• Maximum Altitude: Approx. 4,800 m / 15,748 ft.
• Terrain: Rolling highland terrain, rocky sections, muddy areas in rainy season, and gradual ascents.
• Recommended Fitness: Good general fitness and previous walking or hiking experience are helpful.
• Trekking Poles: Highly recommended for balance, descents, and muddy or rocky sections.

Weather in Ausangate can change quickly. You may experience cold morning temperatures, strong sun at midday, wind, rain, hail, or even snow depending on the season.

• Dry Season, April to October: Clearer skies, better mountain views, and colder mornings. This is generally the best season.
• Rainy Season, December to February: More rain, mud, clouds, and possible low visibility. Trail conditions can be more challenging.
• Shoulder Months, March and November: Mixed weather with sunny periods and occasional rain. Pack for both dry and wet conditions.

At Inside Peru Adventures, your well-being comes first. The Ausangate region is remote and high in altitude, so safety, preparation, and responsible pacing are essential.

• Trained Guides: Our guides are trained in first aid, emergency response, and high-altitude safety.
• First-Aid Kit: We carry a first-aid kit for common travel issues such as scrapes, blisters, motion sickness, insect bites, cold exposure, or altitude symptoms.
• Altitude Support: Guides monitor the group's pace and symptoms throughout the hike.
• Emergency Access: The route is selected with beauty, cultural value, and evacuation access in mind.
• Traveler Responsibility: Inform your guide immediately if you feel headache, dizziness, nausea, unusual fatigue, chest discomfort, or shortness of breath that does not improve with rest.

Travel insurance is highly recommended for the 7 Lakes Hike in Ausangate. This is a high-altitude adventure where weather, road conditions, altitude, and personal health can affect the experience.

• Altitude sickness and medical emergencies.
• Trip cancellations or itinerary interruptions.
• Weather-related delays or disruptions.
• Emergency evacuation and repatriation.
• Lost or delayed luggage.
• Coverage for trekking or hiking above 4,000 m.a.s.l.

Pro Tip: Not all travel insurance policies automatically cover high-altitude activities. Before your trip, verify that your provider includes coverage for trekking above 4,000 m / 13,123 ft.

At Inside Peru Adventures, sustainability is part of how we design and operate every journey, especially in fragile high-Andean ecosystems such as Ausangate.

• Eco-Friendly Travel: We promote low-impact experiences that help preserve lakes, trails, wetlands, and mountain landscapes.
• Plastic-Free Philosophy: Bring a reusable water bottle and help reduce single-use plastic during the hike.
• Respect for Local Culture: Sacred mountains, communities, and ancestral customs are treated with care and cultural sensitivity.
• Community Empowerment: Your tour supports local guides, drivers, community fees, local families, and high-Andean providers.
• Fair Tourism: We prioritize local hiring, responsible sourcing, and meaningful cultural exchange that uplifts Peru's living heritage.

• Valid Passport or ID: Always carry official identification for hotel pickup records, emergency support, or checkpoints if needed.
• Immigration Card: If applicable, keep it safe, as some accommodations may request it.
• Small Daypack: Carry your personal items, water, snacks, layers, camera, and rain gear.
• Cash in Soles: Useful for optional horse rental, snacks, souvenirs, tips, or local purchases.
• Travel Insurance Details: Recommended for high-altitude activities.

• Hiking Boots: Waterproof boots with good grip and ankle support are strongly recommended.
• Layered Trekking Clothing: Use a moisture-wicking base layer, insulating mid-layer, and waterproof outer shell.
• Warm Jacket: Temperatures can be very cold in the early morning and near the lakes.
• Sun Hat & Wool Beanie: Protect yourself from both intense sun and cold wind.
• Thermal Gloves: Important for cold mornings, wind, and high-altitude conditions.
• Rain Poncho or Waterproof Jacket: Sudden showers, hail, or snow are possible even outside the rainy season.
• Comfortable Socks: Use wool or synthetic hiking socks; bring an extra pair if possible.

• Sunscreen SPF 50+: UV radiation is strong at high altitude, even on cloudy days.
• UV Sunglasses: Protect your eyes from sun glare and bright mountain light.
• Lip Balm with SPF: Cold air, wind, and high-altitude sun can dry lips quickly.
• Hydrating Face Cream: Useful for dry and windy conditions.
• Hand Sanitizer: Practical during the hike and before meals.
• Biodegradable Wet Wipes: Useful when running water is limited.
• Personal Medication: Bring prescriptions, altitude medication if prescribed, pain relievers, and anything you normally use.

• Swimsuit: Needed if you want to enter the Pacchanta hot springs.
• Towel: Bring a lightweight quick-dry towel.
• Sandals: Useful for walking around the thermal bath area.
• Small Plastic or Dry Bag: Helpful for carrying wet clothes after the bath.

• High-Energy Snacks: Granola bars, trail mix, nuts, chocolate, or dried fruit help maintain energy during the hike.
• Camera or Smartphone: The lakes, glaciers, alpacas, and mountain views are highly photogenic.
• Power Bank: Recommended because cold weather can drain batteries faster.
• Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration Pack: Carry at least 2 liters of water for the day.
• Trekking Poles: Optional but recommended for rocky, muddy, or uneven terrain.
• Plastic Reduction: Help reduce single-use plastic by bringing refillable and eco-friendly items.

Inside Peru Adventures operates this experience as a small-group, high-altitude hiking tour focused on safety, cultural connection, and responsible travel. Our bilingual guides are trained in first aid and altitude awareness, and they help you understand the landscapes, communities, and sacred meaning of Ausangate.

We support local communities, promote eco-friendly tourism, and keep group sizes manageable so the experience feels personal, organized, and respectful.

The hike is considered moderate. The distance is approximately 15 km / 9.3 mi, and the trail reaches around 4,800 m / 15,748 ft. The main challenge is the altitude, not technical climbing.

Good acclimatization, warm clothing, hydration, and a slow steady pace are essential. We recommend spending at least two full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before the hike.

Yes. Horse rentals are usually available at the trailhead in Pacchanta and are managed directly by local community members.

• Horses can help carry you up to the main viewpoint near the highest lake.
• The final short section may still require walking.
• Horse rental prices vary and must be paid in cash on-site.
• Horse rental is not included in the tour package.

Altitude sickness is a real concern at these elevations. To reduce risk, we recommend drinking plenty of water, eating light meals, avoiding alcohol, walking slowly, and sleeping well before the tour.

• Day 1: Rest in Cusco or enjoy a gentle Cusco City or Walking Tour.
• Day 2: Take a Sacred Valley Tour or Maras & Moray Tour to acclimatize gradually.
• Day 3: Do the 7 Lakes Hike in Ausangate.

Tell your guide immediately if you feel strong headache, dizziness, nausea, chest discomfort, or unusual fatigue.

Temperatures vary by season and time of day. Early mornings can be very cold, especially during the dry season, while midday temperatures may feel warmer under the sun.

• Early morning: It can feel close to freezing, especially with wind.
• Midday: Sun can be strong, but wind chill may still reduce comfort.
• Weather changes: Sudden rain, hail, wind, or even snow can occur.
• Recommendation: Always pack warm layers and waterproof protection.

Due to the altitude and physical effort, this hike is best for active children aged 10+ with hiking experience and proper acclimatization. It is not recommended for infants, toddlers, or children who are not used to long walks.

Parents should assess their child's stamina, comfort with cold weather, and ability to walk at high elevation before booking.

Even in the dry season, mountain weather can change quickly, so waterproof layers are always recommended.

The day begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 3:00 AM. We drive around 3.5 hours to the village of Pacchanta, where you'll enjoy breakfast and start the hike.

For private tours, pickup from the Sacred Valley may be available upon request and may involve an additional cost depending on location.

• Small groups with a maximum of 16 hikers.
• Expert local guides trained in altitude management and first aid.
• Careful pacing and safety-focused support at high altitude.
• Direct connection with local communities and community-managed spaces.
• Breakfast, lunch, and hot springs entry included.
• Sustainable operations through the IPA Sustainable Fund.

The tour includes a nourishing buffet breakfast before the hike and a buffet lunch after the hike. Dinner is not included, allowing you to enjoy Cusco's restaurants after returning in the evening.