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

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 🏔️✨