Ausangate 7 Lagoons Tour: High Mountain Adventure in Cusco
Crystal Mirrors at the Foot of the Giant: Welcome to Ausangate
Are you looking for a pure and wild high-mountain experience? The Ausangate 7 Lagoons circuit is one of the most stunning landscapes in Cusco. This natural trail is located at the foot of the majestic Mount Ausangate, the highest and most sacred peak in the entire region. Here, the silence of the mountain range is interrupted only by the wind and the sound of water.
This tour is ideal for trekking, photography, and nature lovers. You will hike among lagoons of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue hues. Every step offers a privileged view of eternal glaciers. It is an adventure that combines a physical challenge with the spiritual reward of the Andes. Get ready to connect with the energy of the region’s most powerful Apu.
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Route to the Sacred Lagoons
The Journey to the Pacchanta Community
- 04:00 a.m. – 04:30 a.m. | Hotel pickup: We will pick you up at your hotel in Cusco's historic center. We will begin a 3-hour journey toward the Andean community of Pacchanta. You will enjoy beautiful high-Andean landscapes and traditional villages along the way.
- 07:30 a.m. | Breakfast in Pacchanta: Upon arriving at the community, we will enjoy a nutritious Andean breakfast. From your table, you will have a privileged view of the towering Mount Ausangate.
The Challenge: 7 Lagoons Circuit
- 08:30 a.m. | Start of the Trek (13,780 ft / 4,200 m): We will begin the hike along a natural trail. We will visit seven beautiful lagoons with different hues: turquoise, emerald green, and deep blue.
- Lagoons to visit:
- Azulcocha and Otorongo Lagoons.
- Pucacocha and Alqacocha Lagoons.
- Q’omercocha Lagoon.
- Orco Otorongo and China Otorongo Lagoons.
- On-trail experience: The hike takes between 5 to 6 hours to complete the circuit. You will see glaciers, towering mountains, and Andean wildlife such as alpacas and llamas up close. You will have free time to rest and take spectacular photographs.
Relaxation and Local Flavor
- Hot Springs (Optional): After finishing the trek, we will return to Pacchanta. You may optionally enjoy the relaxing natural hot springs. They are ideal for relieving muscle fatigue after the physical exertion.
- Lunch: We will enjoy a traditional lunch at a local community restaurant. Savor local products while you rest from the day's journey.
The Return to the Imperial City
- 03:30 p.m. | Return trip: We will begin the return trip toward the city of Cusco.
- 06:30 p.m. approx. | Arrival in Cusco: We will conclude our services by dropping you off near the downtown area.
- Comfortable and safe tourist transportation.
- Bilingual professional guide specializing in mountain trekking.
- Entrance fee to the lagoons circuit.
- Local breakfast and lunch included.
- Oxygen tank and first-aid kit.
- Trekking poles and rain ponchos.
- Personal expenses.
- Entrance fee to the hot springs (optional).
To ensure a safe and pleasant experience in Ausangate, we suggest bringing:
- Heavy winter clothing: Wear thermal layers, gloves, and beanies. The weather in Ausangate is very cold.
- Hiking boots: Essential for the 7.5-mile (12 km) trek over natural terrain.
- Sun protection: Radiation is extreme at 15,091 feet (4,600 m). Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Hydration: Bring at least 2 liters of bottled water for the entire circuit.
- Cash: Useful for paying for the hot springs or buying local crafts.
- Acclimatization: It is essential to be in Cusco at least 3 days before this tour. The altitude is demanding.
- Towel and swimwear: If you wish to enter the Pacchanta hot springs.
The difficulty is rated as Moderate - High. The distance is long (7.5 miles / 12 km) and the altitude reaches 15,091 ft (4,600 m) above sea level. We recommend being in good physical shape to enjoy the trail.
Yes, in Pacchanta, you can rent horses from the local villagers. This will help if you feel tired during the journey to the lagoons.
The weather is cold and dry. It is usually sunny in the morning, but the wind from the glaciers is freezing. You should always be prepared for sudden changes.
We will be back at approximately 06:30 p.m. This allows you to have dinner in the city and rest for your next adventure.
The colors vary depending on minerals and sunlight. You will see everything from bright emerald greens to deep blues and crystal-clear turquoises.
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