Ausangate & 7 Lakes (Full Day Tour)

Itinerary

Detailed Itinerary:

Cusco – Pacchanta – Lakes – Cusco

We start with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:00 am. From there, we travel for approximately three hours to the community of Pacchanta, which serves as the trailhead for the hike.

Pacchanta is located at around 4,300 m / 14,018 ft, where the air is colder and thinner than in Cusco. Upon arrival, we stop to enjoy a hearty breakfast before starting the trek.

Hike to the Seven Lakes

After breakfast, we begin our hike to the beautiful lakes of the Ausangate region. The route takes approximately five hours round trip, usually around three hours uphill and two hours downhill, depending on the pace of the group.

Along the trail, we visit several impressive high-altitude lakes, including Hatun Pukaqocha, Huchuy Pukaqocha, Oqeqocha, China Otorongo, Chuñuqocha, Orqo Otorongo, and Ancasqocha.

Views of Ausangate and Surrounding Peaks

Throughout the hike, you will enjoy extraordinary views of the snow-covered mountains that surround the region, including Ausangate, Mariposa or Butterfly Mountain, Jampa, Pucapunta, Caracol, and the wider Qayangate mountain range.

The scenery is one of the most spectacular in southern Peru and offers a strong sense of connection with the natural and sacred world of the Andes.

Wildlife and Local Culture

Along the route, you will have the opportunity to observe local flora and fauna, including llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. You may also see Quechua-speaking highlanders who continue to live and herd animals in these high mountain landscapes, preserving traditional ways of life.

Return to Pacchanta

The return hike to Pacchanta is easier and faster. Once back in the community, lunch will be ready to help you recover your energy after the trek.

Before lunch, you also have the option to relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta, which are perfect for soothing tired muscles and enjoying the mountain setting after the hike.

Return to Cusco

After lunch, we begin our return journey to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:00 pm.

Tour Package Details

Inclusions:

• Private transportation: Tourist-authorized vehicles equipped with all necessary safety features, including a first aid kit and oxygen tank.
• English-speaking tour guide: Experienced guides who provide cultural, historical, and practical information throughout the trek.
• First aid kit: Carried by the guide at all times for minor emergencies.
• Oxygen tank: Available if needed because of the high altitude of the route.
• Breakfast: Nutritious breakfast provided at the trailhead before the hike.
• Box lunch: Complimentary lunch prepared to help you recover your energy after the trek.
• Walking sticks: Included for additional support and stability on the trail.
• Hotel pickup and drop-off: Pickup from your hotel and return after the hike.
• Briefing: Information meeting one day before the trip.
• Blanket: Provided during the early morning drive for extra comfort.
• Customer service: Emergency phone support available 24 hours a day.

Exclusions:

• Personal snacks: We recommend bringing extra snacks such as energy bars.
• Pillow for the van ride
• Tips (optional)
• Entrance tickets: S/ 10 or US$ 3

What to bring:

• Hiking boots strongly recommended, as the trail can be dusty, grassy, and slippery in some sections
• Backpack for personal items, snacks, and water
• Waterproof pants (optional during the rainy season)
• Spare clothes (optional during the rainy season)
• Warm jacket
• Rain jacket and rain poncho
• Wool hat
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Extra cash for snacks, drinks, hot springs, and entrance fees
• Gloves for cold or windy conditions
• Basic medication prescribed by your doctor
• Portable charger

Important Information:

• During the rainy season, mountain weather can change quickly, so proper rain gear is essential.
• This trek is suitable for many travelers, but the altitude makes good acclimatization very important.
• It is best to spend 2 or 3 days in Cusco before this tour to adapt to the elevation.

Important tips for this Ausangate and 7 lakes hike:

• Difficulty level: Moderate. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended.
• Health note: Not recommended for travelers with serious heart problems.
• Minimum age: 10 years old
• Best time to go: April to October for clearer skies, although the trek operates year-round
• Maximum elevation: 4,646 m / 15,145 ft
• Total duration: 14 hours
• Departure: Monday to Sunday

Why choose this hike with Inka Expeditions?

With Inka Expeditions, your Ausangate 7 Lakes trek becomes an unforgettable experience led by an expert local guide who shares the Andean worldview surrounding the sacred Apu Ausangate, as well as the flora and fauna of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. Our groups are limited to a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a personalized and safe experience.

Prices

Private service:

This is a private tour organized exclusively for you and your family. It includes private transportation and a professional tour guide to provide the best experience with flexibility and a personal touch.

Price 2026:

Why choose a private tour?

• More flexible pace during the trek
• Personalized attention from your guide
• Ideal for couples, families, and small groups
• More comfort during transportation and logistics

Booking Information

Booking deposit required – Online payments

You must pay a booking deposit of US$ 50 + 6% per person through PayPal.

Final Payment: The remaining balance of the tour must be paid in cash upon arrival in Cusco.

Cancellation Penalties:

Cancellation of the tour after the booking deposit has been paid and the reservation has been confirmed results in the loss of the booking deposit. The US$ 50.00 deposit per person is non-refundable.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike

How do I prepare for altitude sickness on the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike?

The route reaches approximately 4,646 m / 15,145 ft, so it is recommended to acclimatize for 2 or 3 days in Cusco before this tour. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol before the trek.

How difficult is the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike?

This trek is considered moderate. It is suitable for beginners in good health, but proper hiking boots are strongly recommended.

Is it safe to travel to Ausangate 7 Lakes during the wet season?

Yes, the route is generally safe during the wet season, but from November to March the trail can be slippery. Waterproof hiking boots and a rain poncho are strongly recommended. The dry season, from April to October, usually offers clearer views of the mountains and lakes.