Embark on one of Peru's most challenging and rewarding full-day adventures to the legendary 7 Glacial Lakes of Ausangate. This extreme high-altitude trek takes you to elevations reaching 4,850 meters, where a stunning chain of turquoise and emerald lakes including Comercocha, Alqacocha, and Otorongococha await beneath the towering presence of sacred Ausangate Mountain (6,384m), the fifth highest peak in Peru. The 8km circuit traverses pristine Andean wilderness where few tourists venture, revealing landscapes of breathtaking beauty: ancient glaciers, dramatic moraines, and crystalline waters reflecting the snow-capped peaks above. After conquering this epic trek, reward your muscles in the medicinal thermal baths of Pacchanta, a remote community that has maintained its traditional way of life for centuries. This is not just a hike it's a journey into the heart of the Andes, perfect for experienced hikers seeking an extraordinary off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Journey to the Sacred 7 Glacial Lakes of Ausangate
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike is one of Peru's most challenging and rewarding full-day adventures, taking you to an extraordinary chain of glacial lakes at extreme altitude. Departing before dawn from Cusco, you'll traverse the stunning Vilcanota Valley to reach Pacchanta, a remote Andean community at the foot of the sacred Ausangate Mountain (6,384m).
This demanding 8km trek reaches altitudes of 4,850 meters, revealing breathtaking turquoise and emerald lakes including Comercocha, Alqacocha, and Otorongococha. After the hike, reward your efforts with an optional soak in the medicinal thermal baths of Pacchanta the perfect ending to an epic high-altitude adventure.
Your adventure begins before dawn with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco (between 4:00-4:30 AM). Get comfortable in our private transport as we embark on the scenic 3-hour journey south through the magnificent Vilcanota Valley, passing traditional Andean villages along the way.
Arrive at the remote community of Pacchanta, nestled at the base of the imposing Ausangate Mountain. Here, with spectacular views of the snow-capped sacred peak as your backdrop, enjoy a nutritious traditional breakfast to fuel up for the challenging trek ahead.
The hike begins with a steady ascent towards the mountain range. Your bilingual guide will set a comfortable pace as you climb through stunning high-Andean terrain. The trail offers ever-changing views of glaciers, moraines, and the first glimpses of the turquoise lakes that await.
Reach the first of the spectacular glacial lakes Comercocha. The stunning turquoise waters, fed by ancient glaciers from Ausangate, create an otherworldly landscape. Take time to photograph this pristine alpine lake surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
Continue ascending to Alqacocha and reach the highest point of the trek at 4,850 meters one of the highest day hikes in Peru! The panoramic views from here are absolutely breathtaking, with multiple glacial lakes visible and the massive Ausangate glacier looming above.
Descend to explore more of the famous "7 Lakes" including Otorongococha (Lake of the Puma). Each lake has its own unique character from deep turquoise to emerald green reflecting the minerals of the glacial waters. The complete circuit covers approximately 8km (5 miles).
Complete the circuit and descend back to the village of Pacchanta. The return trek offers different perspectives of the stunning landscape and a chance to reflect on the incredible views you've witnessed throughout the day.
Enjoy a well-deserved, comforting traditional lunch in Pacchanta. Savor local Andean dishes while your muscles recover from the challenging trek. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
To reward your muscles after the high-altitude exertion, you have the optional opportunity to relax in the medicinal thermal baths of Pacchanta (~10 soles entry, not included). The naturally heated mineral waters are perfect for soothing tired legs. Bring your swimsuit!
Board our comfortable transport for the 3-hour return journey to Cusco. Relax and enjoy the scenic mountain views as you descend through the Vilcanota Valley. A perfect time to rest and process the epic adventure you've just completed.
Arrive back in Cusco in the evening, your spirit renewed and your heart filled with memories of this extraordinary high-altitude adventure. We'll drop you off at your hotel or the main plaza. Time to celebrate your achievement!
This is classified as a challenging/strenuous hike. The 8km circuit reaches 4,850m altitude one of the highest day hikes in Peru. You need good physical fitness, proper acclimatization (minimum 3 days in Cusco), and experience with high-altitude hiking. Not recommended for beginners or those with heart/respiratory conditions.
The complete tour takes approximately 14-15 hours. This includes the 3-hour drive to Pacchanta, 5+ hours of hiking, time for meals, the optional hot springs visit, and the 3-hour return drive. We pick you up around 4:00-4:30 AM and return to Cusco around 7:00 PM.
The early start is essential for this demanding hike. The 3-hour drive plus the long 8km trek means we need maximum daylight hours. Starting early also means better weather conditions (mornings are typically clearer at high altitude) and ensures we complete the circuit safely before afternoon weather changes.
No, the Pacchanta hot springs entry is not included in the tour price. The entrance fee is approximately 10 soles (~$3 USD) paid directly at the site. This is optional you can choose to relax in the thermal baths after your hike or simply rest before the return journey. Bring a swimsuit and small towel if you plan to bathe!
Yes! Horses are available for rent in Pacchanta for approximately $30-40 USD. They can help for portions of the trail if you're struggling with altitude or fitness. However, due to the terrain, some sections must still be done on foot. Horse rental is paid directly to local horsemen and is not included in the tour price.
We strongly recommend a minimum of 3 days acclimatization in Cusco before attempting this hike. The extreme altitude (4,850m) makes proper acclimatization critical. Consider doing easier hikes or tours first. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, try coca tea, and listen to your body. This hike is not suitable if you've just arrived from sea level.
The dry season (April-October) offers the best conditions with clearer skies, less chance of rain, and more stable weather. May through August is peak season with excellent visibility. The rainy season (November-March) can be beautiful but expect afternoon storms, muddy trails, and potentially dangerous conditions at high altitude.
Yes! The circuit passes by seven distinct glacial lakes, each with unique characteristics. The main lakes include Comercocha, Alqacocha, Otorongococha (Lake of the Puma), and several smaller lagoons. The number of lakes you see may vary depending on the route and weather conditions, but the area is famous for its chain of stunning turquoise and emerald lakes.
Yes! Both breakfast (at Pacchanta before the hike) and lunch (after returning from the hike) are included. Vegetarian options are available upon request please let us know when booking. We recommend bringing energy snacks, chocolate, and plenty of water for the trek itself.
Due to the challenging nature and extreme altitude, we recommend this hike for ages 12 and older with good physical fitness and proper acclimatization. Children must be experienced hikers and have already spent several days at altitude. This is one of the more demanding day hikes for families with younger children, we recommend the Humantay Lake or Rainbow Mountain hikes instead.
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