DISCOVER THE MAGICAL 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE: TREK THROUGH THE ANDES

Deep into the Peruvian Andes, a paradise awaits you to be discovered. Cusco and its mountainous geography have spectacular natural sites that will surprise you with their unique beauty. Under the protection of the majestic snow-capped Ausangate, the magnificent 7 lakes of Ausangate await you! Imagine walking over 4200 m/13779 ft. At this altitude, there are many puna grassland areas, rocky terrain and less oxygen. Also, the first lakes with turquoise and crystalline waters reflect the grandeur of “Apu Ausangate” after walking for several hours. Alos, the 7 lakes of Ausangate is known as 7 Lagunas Ausangate in Spanish.

Majestic view of Azul Qocha Lake on the foothills of snow-capped Ausangate.

WHAT ARE THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE?

They are fascinating bodies of water with glacial origins. In other words, as the glaciers of the surrounding mountains and the imposing snow-capped Ausangate melt, the water released from them flows into the lakes, thus ensuring a balance in their water levels.

The distinctive feature of these lakes lies in the vibrant colours they display, and captivate all whom discover them. These amazing colours are the result of pulverised minerals and the type of soil in the area. These minerals stain the water with their pigmentation. These dazzling lagoons are natural treasures.

WHERE ARE THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE LOCATED?

The 7 lakes of Ausangate are located near the small village of Pacchanta in the district of Ocongate, and about 110 km southeast of Cusco. These lakes are nestled on the north slopes of the imposing snow-capped Ausangate, part of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. It is known for its impressive mountain scenery and Andean natural beauty. Furthermore, it is an ideal area for nature lovers and adventurers who wish to explore breathtaking mountain scenery and crystal-clear lakes.

WHAT IS THE ALTITUDE OF THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE?

These 7 lakes of Ausangate or 7 lagunas de Ausangate are located at an impressive average altitude of approximately 4,300 m.a.s.l/14107 ft. So, near the picturesque village of Pacchanta, the majestic 7 lakes of Ausangate provide a truly unique experience.

PACCHANTA’S CLIMATE

Pacchanta is a small picturesque village, and you will have an unforgettable experience amidst the splendour of the majestic Ausangate mountain. No matter what you do! This charming village will captivate you with its high mountain climate, landscapes and culture.

WHAT ARE THE AMBIENT TEMPERATURES IN THE SURROUNDINGS OF  PACCHANTA?

Pacchanta experiences cold temperatures throughout the year, ranging between 10°C – 15°C or 50°F – 59°F during the day, but can drop below 0°C/32°F at night, especially in the colder months (June and July).

However, these temperatures vary according to the seasons in the Cusco region.

DRY SEASON

This period of year starts in April and finishes in October. The climate is generally warm and dry during the day, with temperatures ranging from 18 °C (64.4 °F) to 24 °C (75.2 °F). Nights are often very cold with temperatures dropping as low as 3°C (37.4°F), especially at higher altitudes.

Rain is rare during this time of year with more sunny days. However, it should be noted that even during this season there may be some precipitation.

RAINY SEASON

The rainy season runs from November to March. The climate is cooler and more humid, with temperatures ranging from 13°C (55°F) to 20°C (68°F) during the day, while nighttime temperatures can fluctuate as low as 9°C (48°F).

Rainfall is more frequent and torrential during this time, which can affect the trek to the 7 Ausangate lakes and may not be fully enjoyed.

WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO DISCOVER THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE OR 7 LAGUNAS DE AUSANGATE?

Undoubtedly the best time to hike the 7 lakes of Ausangate is in the dry season due to the rare rainfall and you will explore this place better. However, you must consider that the nights are usually very cold with temperatures that can reach -5 °C (23 °F), which is why it is very important to pack warm clothes and an adequate sleeping bag if you are planning to camp.

Also, if you want to know much more about the Cusco region, I recommend you travel during the months of May, June and July. In those months, you will be able to enjoy festivities such as the Inti Raymi (Festival of the Sun), Corpus Christi and the Lord of Qoyllur Rit’i.

Sunny day and blue sky in the picturesque village of Pacchanta

HOW HARD IS TO TREK THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE?

The trek to the 7 lakes of Ausangate is tough to a challenging level. The trek to reach the first lake will demand slightly more physical effort than the others. It will take approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes to climb.

The altitude at which the lagoons are located will also be a challenging factor, since, if you are not well acclimatized to this type of geography, you may have certain complications when venturing on this route. Be sure to take the time to adjust to the elevation of this place.

WHY VISIT THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE WITH A TRAVEL AGENCY?

We recommend you visit the 7 lakes of Ausangate or 7 lagunas Ausangate with an authorized travel agency for your safety and comfort. Inkayni Peru Tours takes care of all the logistics of your trip, including the entrance ticket to Pacchanta Hot Springs, accommodation, transportation, and food. These factors allow you to fully enjoy your trip to the majestic 7 lakes of Ausangate.

CAN I TREK THE 07 LAKES OF AUSANGATE ON MY OWN?

Yes, you can explore the 7 lakes of Ausangate on your own! But for your peace of mind and safety it is not recommended. This is especially true if you do not know Pacchanta well, and transportation.

HOW TO GET TO THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE?

To get to the 7 lakes of Ausangate, you will have to trek for 5 hours.

• Hiking time: 5 – 5:30 hours. Round trip
• Highest altitude: 4,700 m.a.s.l. / 15520 ft.
• Starting altitude: 4,300 m.a.s.l. / 14107 ft
• Distance: 10 km / 6 mi
• Duration of the tour: 11 hours
• Trekking time: 5 – 5:30 hours. Round trip
• Difficulty level: Tough to challenging.
• Horse rental: S/. 60.00 to S/.80.00 or 15 – 18 USD round trip.
• Hot springs: S/. 5 or 2 USD

ITINERARY

EXCURSION TO THE FASCINATING 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE – PACCHANTA

This exciting day begins with the pick-up from your hotel in Cusco, scheduled between 4:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. After approximately three hours of driving, we will arrive at the picturesque village of Pacchanta, where we will enjoy a hearty breakfast before starting our trek to the 7 lakes of Ausangate. After breakfast, we will ascend gradually until we reach the first lake, second, …, until the last one!

The trek to the beautiful lakes takes five hours round trip. This will allow you to explore the amazing lakes of vibrant colours, with their deep blue, turquoise, green and reddish colours. Some of these lakes are large and look like natural mirrors. These 7 bodies of water are natural wonders, each with different names such as Hatun Puka Qocha, Oque Qocha, China Uturunku Qocha, Orqo Uturunku Qocha, Ch’uño Qocha, Azulcocha, Q’omercocha.

Note: Qocha is a Quechua word and means lake.

During the tour, we will also see some Andean birds such as Andean Goose, Miners, Andean Flickers, ground tyrants etc. Animals such as alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas enrich this experience even further. After this memorable adventure, you will return to Pacchanta to enjoy relaxing in medicinal hot springs and a delicious lunch made by a local chef and with Andean products.

Finally, around 4 p.m. you will return to Cusco City. But, don’t forget to say “Good bye” to the majestic Vilcanota Mountain Range! Our service ends once we arrive at your hotel, airport or downtown Cusco.

ENJOY THE MYSTERIOUS CRYSTALLINE AND TURQUOISE WATERS OF THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE

• Hatun Puka Qocha lake: 4,756 m.a.s.l./15607 ft.
• Oque Qocha lake: 4,620 m.a.s.l./15158 ft.
• China Uturunku Qocha lake: 4600 m.a.s.l./15092 ft.

Beautiful view of China Uturunku Lake and the snow-capped Ausangate in the background.

• Orqo Uturunku Qocha Lake: 4570 m.a.s.l./ 14994 ft

Orqo Uturunku Qocha lake. It’s named for its shape and coat of an otorongo.

Qomercocha Lake: 4,666 m.a.s.l./15308 ft.

Ch’uño Qocha Lake: 4770 m.a.s.l./15650 ft.

Anqas Qocha Lake: 4550 m.a.s.l./14928 ft.

Beautiful view of Anqas or Azul Qocha lake.

DISCOVER THE EXUBERANT FLORA OF THE 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE

Grassland (stipa ichu): A perennial grass species found in the high Peruvian Andes. This herbaceous plant is a key component of rural grasslands, adapting to harsh climatic conditions and nutrient-poor soil. It adorns the splendorous landscapes of the Peruvian Andes with its stems and leaves and serves as food and habitat for wildlife and livestock.

High Andean landscape dominated by Ichu.

EXPLORE THE FAUNA OF THE 7 LAGOONS OF AUSANGATE

Andean Geese (Chloephaga Melanoptera): These birds inhabit lakes, characterised by their white colour, orange beak and legs. These birds are peculiar, as they choose a single pair for their whole life.

Andean Goose or Huallata are cute birds. They have only one pair in their life.

Llamas (lama glama): They are domestic animals native to the Andes. Their wool is dense, soft and fine. Their fur colour can be black, brown, grey or white. In Inca times it was considered a sacred animal.

Alpacas (vicugna pacos): Also native to the Andes, they are known for their abundant, soft and luxurious coats. Their high-quality fibre is appreciated worldwide for its softness and warmth. These calm, altitude-adapted animals teach us about resilience and beauty in the most challenging places.

Auquenids on the route to the 7 lakes of Ausangate.

Vizcachas (lagidium viscacia): These rodents are captivating with their unique appearance, thick fur, long ears and fluffy tails, also they are agile climbers and diggers. These herbivorous animals form colonies in the mountains, contributing to nature’s ecological balance.

Vizcacha is an animal similar to the hare.

HOT SPRINGS OF PACCHANTA

Pacchanta’s hot springs are another attraction in this area. This place awaits you after trekking to the 7 lakes of Ausangate. Also, its natural waters are known for their therapeutic and relaxing properties. The waters emerge from a natural spring in the high mountains of the Cordillera Vilcanota.

The water temperature ranges from 38 °C (100.4 °F) to 44 °C (111.2 °F). These thermo-medicinal waters have 4 pools of different sizes and temperatures, allowing visitors to enjoy a relaxing bath according to their desired temperature.

Pacchanta Hot Springs offers a unique experience for those looking to relax and enjoy nature with a breathtaking view of the snow-capped Ausangate and the natural landscape.

Hot springs pools overlook the imposing Nevado Ausangate

ENTRANCE FEE TO THE HOT SPRINGS

The entrance fee to Pacchanta Hot Springs is:

Note: Remember that the entrance fee is only paid in Peruvian soles.

PACKING LIST FOR YOUR EXCURSION TO THE AMAZING 7 LAKES OF AUSANGATE?

• Warm clothes and windbreaker jackets.
• Trekking boots because they are comfortable for long walks and have non-slip soles.
• Trekking poles (optional).
• Rain poncho.
• Towel.
• Sandals.
• Sun hat or cap.
• Sunglasses.
• Sunblock.
• Local currency (Peruvian soles).
• Snacks (dried fruit and nuts) and a bottle of water.

Trekking towards the 7 lakes of Ausangate

Discover a fascinating journey to the impressive 7 lakes of Ausangate nestled in the Vilcanota Mountain Range! Be captivated by the grandeur of the imposing snow-capped Ausangate, its high Andean habitats, and lakes of turquoise and crystalline waters. Do you want to live this experience to the max?

Choose Inkayni Peru Tours and be ready to enjoy this trek and many more trips discovering more of the wonders of Cusco. Do not wait longer, dare to know Peru and its natural treasures, let us be your companion in this magical adventure.