Join Palcoyo Tours on the thrilling 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour, a full-day mountain adventure through high-Andean landscapes. We will begin our Cusco 7 Lakes Day Trip at 4:30 a.m. with a hotel pickup and journey to the remote village of Pacchanta. Located at the base of Ausangate, this peaceful Andean town offers the perfect gateway to the 7 lakes hike Cusco. We will enjoy a hearty breakfast before starting our high-altitude journey.
Our trek will take us through stunning alpine scenery, reaching a maximum altitude of 4,700 meters above sea level. The hike is moderately challenging but offers immense natural rewards. We will visit seven dazzling lagoons, each reflecting different shades of blue and green.
Snow-capped peaks, rocky trails, and herds of alpacas will surround us throughout the hike.
We will explore Patacocha, Alqacocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Azulcocha, Orco Otorongo, and Q’omercocha. These lakes shine like jewels across the Ausangate range. We may spot Andean wildlife like vizcachas and mountain birds. At each lake, we will pause to breathe, take photos, and soak in the unforgettable views.
Back in Pacchanta, we will savor a traditional Andean lunch. You may relax in the natural hot springs before returning. By 6:30 p.m., we will arrive back in Cusco, ending a powerful day in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
4:30 AM
We will begin the 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour early in the morning at 4:30 a.m. Our tour guide will pick us up from our hotel in Cusco. We will travel in a comfortable shared tourist transport through the South Valley. The scenic drive takes around 3.5 hours, passing rural villages and remote Andean landscapes.
Upon arrival at Pacchanta, located at 4,300 meters above sea level, we will enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast. Pacchanta is a quiet community at the foot of Ausangate Mountain. The fresh morning air and snowy peaks will energize us. We will prepare to begin one of the most beautiful high-altitude hikes in Peru.
The 7 lakes hike Cusco is part of the Ausangate circuit, located southeast of Machu Picchu. The area remains unspoiled, with incredible views of glaciers, wide valleys, and remote wilderness. Our guide will explain the route, safety tips, and how to prevent altitude sickness. We will start walking with the first sunlight illuminating the white peaks.
We will hike through mountain trails surrounded by snow-capped peaks and colorful rock formations. The air feels crisp, and the silence is only broken by the sound of water or birds. Our first stop is Patacocha, a clear lagoon reflecting the massive peaks behind it. It feels serene and untouched.
Next, we will reach Alqacocha, which shines with light green tones under the sky. We might spot wild ducks swimming quietly near the shores. The path continues through rocky terrain and offers panoramic views of the entire Ausangate range. At every turn, the Andean landscape surprises us with its dramatic beauty.
We will then visit Otorongo and Orco Otorongo, two deep and dark blue lakes. Their names come from local legends about Andean pumas. The mirrored water offers perfect photo moments. Many travelers say this hike is “worth every step.” We will take our time, breathe slowly, and stay hydrated to adjust to the altitude.
We will continue to Pucacocha, a reddish lagoon fed by glacial melt. Its waters look like fire under the sun, contrasting with the icy surroundings. It’s a spot to rest briefly and stretch our legs while enjoying the sounds of nature. The air smells clean and earthy.
Shortly after, we will reach Azulcocha, known for its stunning turquoise color. Here, the reflection of Ausangate peak creates a postcard perfect scene. Our guide will explain how the minerals give the water its vibrant tone. Nearby, wildflowers bloom between the rocks, adding color to the high altitude trail.
Our final stop is Q’omercocha, or “green lake” in Quechua. This lagoon is sacred to local communities and surrounded by ceremonial stones. We will take a moment to rest, take photos, and appreciate the silence of the Andes. Many say this part of the Ausangate 7 lakes full day tour is the most spiritual.
We will return to Pacchanta along the same path, enjoying the landscape from a new angle. Upon arrival, a delicious Andean lunch will be waiting. We will eat dishes like quinoa soup, potatoes, and highland vegetables. After hiking all day, the warm meal will feel rewarding and satisfying.
After lunch, we will have the option to relax in the Pacchanta hot springs (entry not included). These natural pools sit in front of the glacier, offering the perfect way to soothe sore muscles. The thermal waters reach 38°C and contain healing minerals. Many travelers say it’s a “great experience” and highly recommend this tour.
By 3:30 p.m., we will begin our journey back to Cusco. The late afternoon light paints the mountains in golden hues. Around 6:30 p.m., we will arrive at our hotel in Cusco, feeling grateful and amazed. This Cusco 7 Lakes Day Trip will stay with us forever.
This was the highlight of our time in Cusco!
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour was absolutely stunning. Every lagoon was unique and the views were surreal. Our guide was professional and made us feel safe the entire time. Highly recommend this tour to anyone who loves nature and mountain scenery!
The Cusco 7 Lakes Day Trip was worth every step!
It was challenging but the reward was unmatched. We saw snow capped peaks, colorful lagoons, and even wild alpacas. The lunch in Pacchanta was delicious and soaking in the hot springs afterward was the perfect ending.”
