Complete Guide to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate
Tour overview, real difficulty, and what to bring for this high-altitude hike
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate tour is one of the most spectacular mountain excursions near Cusco. This one-day trek takes you through a series of vividly colored glacial lakes located at the base of the impressive Ausangate massif.
Ausangate is the highest mountain in the Cusco region and is considered a sacred Apu (mountain spirit) in Andean cosmology. Unlike more crowded destinations, this trek stands out for its remote scenery, close glacier views, and the chance to walk among alpacas, snow-covered peaks, and pristine alpine lagoons.
📍 Location of the 7 Lakes of Ausangate
The lakes are located in Quispicanchi Province, within the district of Ocongate, southeast of Cusco.
Key location facts:
- About 3–4 hours by road from Cusco
- Near the Andean community of Pacchanta
- Part of the wider Ausangate Trek circuit
Pacchanta serves as the starting point of the hike and is also famous for its natural hot springs.
🗺️ What Is the 7 Lakes Circuit?
The trek follows a circular route around part of the Ausangate massif, allowing hikers to visit seven glacial lakes fed by the melting ice of the mountain.
Each lake has:
- Distinct colors
- Unique rock formations
- Spectacular reflections of the glacier
The full circuit usually takes 4–6 hours of hiking, depending on the group’s pace.
🌈 The Seven Lakes of Ausangate
Names may vary slightly depending on the guide or local community, but the most recognized lakes include:
1️⃣ Azul Cocha
One of the first lakes on the route, known for its deep blue color reflecting the surrounding mountains.
2️⃣ Pucacocha
A lagoon with reddish or brownish tones caused by minerals in the soil.
3️⃣ Otorongo
Recognized for its elongated shape and intense colors.
4️⃣ Alqacocha
A smaller lagoon with very clear water and open alpine surroundings.
5️⃣ Qomercocha
An emerald-green lagoon surrounded by rocky slopes.
6️⃣ Orco Otorongo
One of the most photogenic lakes on the route.
7️⃣ China Otorongo
Located at a higher point of the circuit, offering wide views of the surrounding landscape.
The color of each lake can change depending on sunlight and weather conditions.
📏 Distance, Altitude, and Trek Details
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total distance | ~10–12 km |
| Hiking duration | 4–6 hours |
| Minimum altitude | ~4,200 m |
| Maximum altitude | ~4,600 m |
| Route type | Circular |
| Terrain | High-mountain trail |
Although there are no technical climbing sections, the high altitude makes the hike physically demanding.
⚠️ Real Difficulty Level
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate trek is considered moderate to challenging, mainly because of altitude.
Factors affecting difficulty include:
- Elevation above 4,000 meters
- Moderate elevation gain
- Cold temperatures and strong wind
- Reduced oxygen levels
Technical hiking skills are not required, but good physical condition helps a lot.
🫁 Altitude Sickness (Soroche)
Due to the elevation, some visitors may experience mild altitude symptoms such as:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
To reduce the risk:
- Spend at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco
- Drink plenty of water
- Walk at a slow pace
- Avoid alcohol the day before the hike
Proper acclimatization is the most important factor for enjoying this trek.
🎒 What to Bring
Weather around Ausangate can change quickly, so proper equipment is essential.
🧥 Recommended Clothing
- Waterproof or windproof jacket
- Fleece or thermal layer
- Trekking pants
- Gloves and warm hat
- Breathable base layer
Even during the dry season, mornings can be very cold.
🥾 Essential Gear
- Small backpack (20–30 L)
- Trekking poles
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Sunscreen
- Sunglasses
- Hat or cap
🍫 Other Useful Items
- Energy snacks
- Camera or phone with extra battery
- Cash for entrance fees
- Personal medication if necessary
🌦️ Best Time to Visit
☀️ Dry Season (April – October)
- Clear skies
- Best glacier views
- More stable trails
🌧️ Rainy Season (November – March)
- More clouds
- Possible rain
- Greener landscapes
- Most travelers prefer the dry season for better visibility.
♨️ Pacchanta Hot Springs
One of the highlights of the tour is relaxing after the hike.
The hot springs of Pacchanta offer:
- Natural thermal pools
- Direct views of the Ausangate glacier
- A perfect way to recover after the trek
Many tours include time here after completing the hike.
📸 Photography Highlights
The 7 Lakes of Ausangate are one of the best places for landscape photography in the Cusco region.
Highlights include:
- Glacier reflections in turquoise water
- Contrast between snow-covered peaks and colorful lagoons
- Alpacas and llamas grazing in high-Andean fields
- Wide panoramic mountain views
Best photo moments:
- Early morning
- Mid-morning before clouds build up
🌟 Is the Tour Worth It?
Yes — especially if you are looking for:
- Dramatic high-mountain landscapes
- A less crowded destination than other day trips
- Close views of the Ausangate glacier
- A challenging but achievable one-day trek
For many travelers, it becomes one of the most authentic outdoor experiences around Cusco.
🏁 Final Thoughts
The trek to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate combines glacial scenery, Andean culture, and raw wilderness in one extraordinary adventure.
Although the altitude makes it physically demanding, the reward — turquoise lagoons, snow-covered peaks, and vast Andean landscapes — makes this one of the most spectacular day hikes near Cusco.
With proper acclimatization, the right gear, and a steady pace, it becomes an unforgettable high-altitude experience 🏔️✨
