7 Lagoons Ausangate

Duration

Full day

Difficulty

Medium

Group

from 2 to 8 people

Recommended Age

All ages

In the shadow of the mighty Ausangate, the highest mountain in Cusco, lies a hidden paradise of shimmering lagoons, each with its own unique hue. From deep sapphire blues to emerald greens and crystal-clear waters, the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate are a living masterpiece painted by nature itself. With GREATOURS PERU, you will journey into this remote, magical landscape, where glaciers, wildlife, and highland traditions come together in an unforgettable adventure.

This full-day trek offers an extraordinary combination of natural beauty and Andean culture. Located in the Pacchanta community, at the foot of Ausangate Mountain, the 7 Lagoons are surrounded by majestic peaks, cascading streams, and grazing alpacas. Along the hike, you will visit each lagoon, enjoy panoramic views of snow-capped summits, and have the chance to relax in natural hot springs at the end of the journey.

Itinerary

What you will do and explore with us

Day 1

7 Lagoons Ausangate

04:30 hrs – Pick-up from your hotel
Your adventure begins before sunrise, as our guide meets you at your hotel for a journey deep into the southern Andes. The drive offers a gradual transition from the quiet streets of Cusco to the open, untamed beauty of high-altitude landscapes. Along the way, the silhouettes of mountains slowly emerge in the morning light, revealing valleys dotted with small stone houses, herds of alpacas, and snow-capped peaks in the distance.
07:00 hrs – Arrival in Pacchanta & Breakfast
We arrive in the small, welcoming village of Pacchanta, known for its proximity to the mighty Ausangate Mountain. Here, the local community greets us with a warm, nourishing Andean breakfast. Enjoy fresh bread, quinoa porridge, herbal teas, and other regional specialties prepared with local ingredients—perfect fuel for the trek ahead.
07:30 hrs – Start of the trek
The hike begins on a trail that winds gently upward through pristine high-altitude terrain. Every step offers magnificent views of the Ausangate massif, with its glacial peaks glistening in the morning sun. You’ll pass by marshes, mountain streams, and fields where llamas and alpacas graze freely. Your guide will share insights into the unique flora and fauna of the area, as well as the spiritual significance of Ausangate to the Andean people.
09:00 hrs – First lagoon
Our first stop is Azul Cocha, the “Blue Lagoon,” whose deep sapphire waters mirror the surrounding peaks. From here, the path continues through an otherworldly landscape, leading to a series of lagoons—each with its own distinct color, shaped by mineral deposits and the play of light. The trek becomes a journey of discovery as you encounter emerald, turquoise, and even reddish-hued waters, each more stunning than the last.
11:30 hrs – Last lagoon & viewpoints
We conclude the circuit at the final lagoon, where panoramic viewpoints offer sweeping vistas of the Ausangate mountain range. Here, you’ll have time to capture photographs, breathe in the pure mountain air, and enjoy a moment of stillness surrounded by nature’s grandeur.
12:00 hrs – Return trek to Pacchanta
We begin our descent back to Pacchanta, following the same scenic trail. The return offers fresh perspectives on the landscapes, with the midday light casting new colors on the valleys and peaks.
13:00 hrs – Hot springs in Pacchanta (optional)
Upon arrival, you have the option to soak in Pacchanta’s natural hot springs. These warm, mineral-rich waters are set against a stunning backdrop of snow-capped mountains—an ideal way to relax your muscles after the trek.
13:30 hrs – Lunch
Enjoy a hearty lunch prepared by the local community, featuring fresh vegetables, Andean tubers, and meats sourced from the surrounding area. This is an opportunity to savor authentic flavors while supporting the region’s sustainable tourism initiatives.
15:00 hrs – Departure to Cusco
With your senses refreshed and your spirit uplifted, we begin the return journey to Cusco, following the same scenic route through the Andes.
18:00 hrs – Arrival in Cusco
We arrive back in the city, where you will be dropped off at your hotel after a full day of high-altitude beauty, cultural connection, and exploration.

Includes

Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish).
Tourist transportation.
Hotel pick-up and drop-off (within Cusco city center).
Breakfast and lunch in Pacchanta.

Not Included

Entrance fee to the 7 Lagoons circuit.
Hot spring entrance fee (optional).
Horse rental (optional).
Personal expenses.
Tips.

Recommendations

Wear layered clothing suitable for cold mountain weather.
Bring gloves, a hat, and sunglasses.
Use sunscreen and lip balm.
Carry at least 1 liter of water.
Acclimatize in Cusco before the hike, as the altitude exceeds 4,500 meters.
Bring swimwear if you plan to enjoy the hot springs.

Why travel with GreaTours Perú?

Every day, our specialists create personalized experiences tailored to each traveler’s profile, desires, and budget. These passionate professionals create experiences that are delivered on-site through a local network of concierges and privileged contacts. These tailor-made trips are flexible and include a wide range of premium services (VIP lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel diary, app, mobile Wi-Fi, table reservations, etc.).

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