Overview
EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS
- Complete the spectacular Ausangate 7 Lakes hiking circuit in the Peruvian Andes.
- Discover seven glacial lakes surrounded by dramatic high-altitude landscapes.
- Enjoy panoramic views of Ausangate Mountain, glaciers, and snow-capped Andean peaks.
- Walk through peaceful valleys, rocky landscapes, alpine meadows, and mountain streams.
- Experience the traditional highland environment surrounding Pacchanta.
- Observe llamas, alpacas, and other native Andean wildlife along the route.
- Reach elevations of up to approximately 4,800 m / 15,748 ft.
- Learn about the natural environment and local culture with a professional guide.
- Enjoy breakfast and lunch during the full-day excursion.
- Optionally relax in the Pacchanta Hot Springs after the hike when time and weather conditions permit; entrance is not included.
JOURNEY OVERVIEW
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Cusco – Pacchanta – Ausangate 7 Lakes – Pacchanta – CuscoDepart Cusco early in the morning and travel through the southern Andes toward Pacchanta. After breakfast, complete the Ausangate 7 Lakes hiking circuit surrounded by glacial lakes and mountain scenery. Return to Pacchanta for lunch, optionally visit the hot springs when conditions permit, and travel back to Cusco.
Itinerary
Cusco – Pacchanta – Ausangate 7 Lakes – Cusco
Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 4:00 a.m. Pick-up is available from hotels located in or near the Historic Center. From there, travel through the southern Andes toward the village of Pacchanta, passing traditional communities, highland plains, and impressive views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range.
Upon arrival in Pacchanta, stop at a local restaurant for breakfast before beginning the hike. Your guide will provide a brief orientation, explain the route, and share important safety information for the high-altitude experience.
The hike begins with a gradual ascent through peaceful valleys, clear mountain streams, and grazing areas where llamas and alpacas can often be observed. As you continue along the circuit, discover the Ausangate 7 Lakes, each displaying distinctive shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue.
Throughout the circuit, enjoy spectacular views of Ausangate Mountain and the surrounding high-Andean landscape. The route passes through glacial lake environments, rocky valleys, alpine meadows, and panoramic viewpoints surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
After completing the hiking circuit, return to Pacchanta and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
If time and weather conditions permit, you may also choose to relax in the natural Pacchanta Hot Springs after the hike. The entrance fee to the hot springs is not included in the tour.
Afterward, begin the scenic drive back to Cusco through the Andean countryside. Arrival at your hotel is expected between approximately 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., depending on traffic, weather, and road conditions.
Please note that this is a high-altitude hiking experience. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather, road conditions, trail conditions, or the group’s pace.
- Walking Distance16 km
- Walking Time5 to 6 hours
- Starting Elevation4,100 m / 13,451 ft
- Highest Elevation4,800 m / 15,748 ft
- MealsBreakfast and lunch
- DifficultyModerate
Inclusions
We carefully organize every aspect of your experience from transportation and professional local guides to the services and activities included in your itinerary allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your adventure.
Because every tour is unique, included services may vary depending on the itinerary you choose. We encourage you to review each program carefully before booking to ensure you have all the information you need and can prepare for an unforgettable experience in Cusco and Peru.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
- Entrance ticket to the Ausangate 7 Lakes circuit.
Quality Service & Safety
- Experienced Tour Guide: Our guides are selected for their professionalism, experience, responsibility, and commitment to providing a safe and comfortable experience.
- Trekking poles.
- Medical kit or first aid kit.
- 24/7 customer service.
Meals
- Breakfast.
- Lunch.
Transportation
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco.
- Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at the beginning of the tour.
- Return transportation to your hotel in Cusco after the tour.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
- Entrance fee to the Pacchanta Hot Springs.
- Dinner.
- Personal hiking gear.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips for our staff.
- Additional costs or delays beyond our control, including landslides, severe weather conditions, itinerary modifications required for safety reasons, illness, pandemics, changes in government regulations, political unrest, strikes, force majeure, or other unforeseen circumstances.
To ensure the smooth operation of your tour, we secure entrance tickets, transportation, staff, and other logistical services well in advance. As these services are prepaid and confirmed before departure, any additional expenses resulting from unforeseen events or changes beyond our control will be the responsibility of the traveler.
We appreciate your understanding and cooperation should any exceptional circumstances arise. Our team will make every reasonable effort to minimize disruptions and provide assistance throughout your journey.
Before you go
Please read the following details carefully, as they will help you have a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.
Hotel Pick-Up Information
Hotel pick-up is available within Cusco city. For better accessibility, we recommend staying in the historic center or areas with easy vehicle access.
Our team will confirm your exact pick-up time one day before your tour begins.
Due to traffic conditions and the location of your accommodation, pick-up times may vary slightly.
Cusco is a historic city with narrow streets, cobblestone roads, and some steep areas. Certain hotels or accommodations may not have direct vehicle access, which can make transportation with luggage more difficult. We recommend choosing accommodation with convenient access.
Group Tours
Our group tours bring together travelers from different countries, backgrounds, ages, and physical conditions. Each participant has their own hiking pace and level of experience.
During the tour, everyone is encouraged to enjoy the route at their own rhythm while following the recommendations of our guides.
Any changes to the planned itinerary must be evaluated by the guide, considering weather conditions, safety, and the agreement of the group members.
Strikes, Protests, and Unexpected Situations
In Peru, occasional strikes, demonstrations, or road closures may affect travel plans. These situations can sometimes impact transportation routes, access points, or scheduled activities.
Our operations team will always work to provide the best possible solution and maintain your itinerary whenever conditions allow. In some cases, schedules may need to be adjusted to guarantee your safety and the quality of your experience.
Your safety is our main priority, and all decisions will be made with your well-being in mind.
Lost or Forgotten Items
Please take care of your personal belongings throughout your trip. Before leaving transportation, campsites, restaurants, or any visited location, make sure you have collected all your items.
Experience Colibri Peru is not responsible for lost, forgotten, or damaged personal belongings during the tour.
Packing list
Essential
Valid Passport
Extra money (recommended soles)
Personal medication
Water bottle or CamelBak
Sunblock: factor 70 or more
Insect repellent
Clothing
Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
Trekking pants
Trekking socks
Pair of thermal pants
Long sleeve t-shirts
Warm jacket
Rain poncho
Sun hat
Gloves
Equipment
Trekking poles
Medium trekking backpack (15 – 25 liter)
Recommended
Camera and charger
Power bank
Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.
Pricing
Ausangate 7 Lakes One Day Trek
Request a personalized quote for your group.
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