Itinerary
Discover what awaits you in the AUSANGATE 7 LAGOONS TOUR – 1 DAY
day 1
7 lagoons of Ausangate, Pacchanta Community
Seven lagoons at the foot of Ausangate.
We hike among turquoise lagoons fed by the meltwater of Cusco’s highest sacred mountain and end the day in the Pacchanta hot springs.
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Pick-up and drive to Pacchanta
By tourist transport, approx. 4 hours · Cusco → Pacchanta
We pick you up very early at your hotel in Cusco and drive through Andean landscapes to Pacchanta, a community at the foot of the snow-capped Ausangate. There we have a warm buffet breakfast before we start hiking.
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The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Highlight
On foot · Pacchanta → 7 Lagoons
We hike among snow-capped peaks and high Andean grasslands to the 7 lagoons: Otorongo Macho, Otorongo Hembra, Puca Cocha, Alqa Cocha, Ccomer Cocha, Azul Cocha and Pata Cocha. Their colors range from deep blue to emerald green and reflect the surrounding glacier. There is time for photos and to enjoy the scenery.
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Return to Pacchanta and lunch
On foot, approx. 2 hours · 7 Lagoons → Pacchanta
We walk back to Pacchanta, watching for the vicuñas and alpacas that graze on the puna. On arrival, an Andean buffet lunch awaits.
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Pacchanta hot springs and return to Cusco
By tourist transport, late afternoon · Pacchanta → Cusco
Before leaving you can relax in the Pacchanta hot springs, surrounded by snow-capped mountains, or stroll through the community to see its daily life. Then we drive back to Cusco, arriving at nightfall.
Day details
- Drive from Cusco: Approx. 4 hours to Pacchanta
- Altitude: 4,300 – 4,650 m (7 Lagoons route)
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Meals: Buffet breakfast and lunch
Seven colorful lagoons, the Ausangate glacier and hot springs in a single day. Love high-mountain lakes? Also discover Humantay Lake 1 Day.
What is this day like? check our photos
Includes
Guide and transport
- Pre-tour briefing.
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco.
- Tourist transport: Round trip.
- Professional bilingual guide: Spanish or English.
Meals
- Buffet breakfast in Pacchanta.
- Buffet lunch in Pacchanta.
Equipment and safety
- Eco-friendly trekking poles.
- First aid kit.
- Oxygen tank: In the vehicle and on the hike.
Not include
Entrance fees
- Entrance to the 7 Lagoons.
- Entrance to the Pacchanta hot springs.
Other
- Horse rental: Optional.
- Drinks and meals not mentioned.
- Travel insurance.
- Personal expenses.
Prices AUSANGATE 7 LAGOONS TOUR – 1 DAY
Rates per person
Traveling soon? We recommend booking early to secure your date, but we have daily departures and, depending on the date, you can also book just a few days ahead. Ask us about availability.
Need accommodation in Cusco?
Our team will help you find the best option for your stay.
Packaging list
- Warm clothing: Jacket, gloves and hat.
- Hiking shoes.
- Sunscreen.
- Swimsuit: For the Pacchanta hot springs.
- Water and energy snacks: Nuts or bars.
- Cash: For entrance fees and purchases in Pacchanta.
- Rain poncho: From November to March.
Recomendations
- Acclimatize first: Spend at least one day in Cusco before the tour so the change in altitude is less abrupt and to prevent altitude sickness. When you arrive at your hotel, rest a little before you start exploring the city. Some travelers take altitude sickness pills.
- High-mountain hike: The route runs between 4,300 and 4,650 m. It is ideal for travelers in good physical condition. Walk at your own pace and stay hydrated.
- Rest the night before: Pick-up is very early and you return to Cusco at nightfall.
- Dress warmly: The lagoons are surrounded by snow-capped mountains. Bring a jacket, gloves and hat.
- Bring cash: The entrance to the 7 Lagoons and to the hot springs are not included. You can also buy things in Pacchanta.
- Hot springs: Don’t forget your swimsuit if you want to relax in Pacchanta at the end of the day.
- Optional horse: If you prefer not to walk the whole way, you can rent a horse (not included). Ask us when you book.
- Rainy season: From November to March, bring a rain poncho.
F.A.Qs
What are the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate?
They are lagoons of different colors formed by the meltwater of the Ausangate glacier (6,384 m), the highest sacred mountain in the Cusco region. They are south of Cusco, near the community of Pacchanta.
Which lagoons do we visit?
Otorongo Macho, Otorongo Hembra, Puca Cocha, Alqa Cocha, Ccomer Cocha, Azul Cocha and Pata Cocha. Their colors range from deep blue to emerald green.
What is the altitude of the hike?
Between 4,300 and 4,650 m. That is why it is important to acclimatize in Cusco first.
How difficult is the tour?
Moderate. It is a high-mountain hike, ideal for travelers in good physical condition.
How many days should I acclimatize?
At least one day in Cusco. When you arrive at your hotel, rest before you start exploring the city.
How long is the drive from Cusco?
About 4 hours to Pacchanta. We leave very early and return to Cusco at nightfall.
What if I feel unwell because of the altitude?
We carry an oxygen tank in the vehicle and on the hike, plus a first aid kit. Your guide is with you throughout the tour.
Are entrance fees included?
No. The entrance to the 7 Lagoons and to the Pacchanta hot springs are paid separately, so we recommend bringing cash.
Can I bathe in the hot springs?
Yes. At the end of the day you can relax in the Pacchanta hot springs, known for their medicinal properties. Bring a swimsuit. The entrance is not included.
Can I rent a horse?
Yes, it is optional and not included in the price. Ask us when you book.
Which meals are included?
A buffet breakfast and a buffet lunch in Pacchanta.
Will I see animals along the way?
It is common to see vicuñas and alpacas on the puna, especially on the way back to Pacchanta.
Does the tour run all year?
Yes. November to March is the rainy season, so bring a rain poncho.
How many people are in a group?
It is a shared service for 2 to 16 people.
What should I bring?
Warm clothing, hiking shoes, sunscreen, a swimsuit, water, snacks and cash. You will find the full list in the What to bring tab.
Do you have more questions?
Message us on WhatsApp at +51 941 411 418 or email info@sakuraexpedition.com.
