This hike reaches 4,800 meters. How do you protect me from severe altitude sickness?

You do not have to let high-altitude anxiety keep you from seeing these legendary colored lagoons at the foot of the sacred mountain. Because we hike between 4,300 and 4,800 meters (14,107 to 15,748 feet), we prepare our vehicles and staff to manage elevation issues instantly. Your guide walks at a slow, rhythm-based pace and checks in on your physical comfort continuously, giving your lungs plenty of space to adjust naturally. Onboard oxygen cylinders are kept inside our private transport for immediate, high-flow physical relief. Wilderness first-aid certified guides carry portable oxygen and altitude remedies directly on their backpacks. A slow, rhythmic mountain pace is maintained all day, ensuring you never overexert your cardiovascular system. Hydration salts and coca leaf remedies are provided to naturally balance your blood pressure during the gradual climb.

The tour is rated "hard." What if I cannot keep up with the group or get too tired?

You can trek with absolute confidence knowing that you will never be left behind or forced to push past your physical limits. If your energy drops or the high-altitude trails feel too steep, your guide will adjust the speed of the group to match your flow. Additionally, we coordinate directly with the local community at the trailhead, making it simple to hire an emergency horse to carry you safely. Emergency horse rentals are available at the Pacchanta trailhead to carry you uphill if you prefer to ride. A private, small-group structure of 1-12 people ensures the guide can dedicate personal attention to your needs. Sweeper guide support is coordinated for groups to make sure every traveler has an expert at their side. Alternative flat viewing points are positioned along the trail, letting you enjoy the scenery without climbing the highest ridges.

Why does the tour start at 4:30 a.m. and how long is the drive from Cusco?

You will start your adventure early to enjoy the mountain peaks before the afternoon clouds and cold winds roll in over the glaciers. The drive to the community of Pacchanta takes 3 hours each way over a scenic paved highway transitioning into a mountain road. Starting early ensures we are the very first group to arrive, giving you private access to the lakes and clean photos. A 4:30 a.m. hotel pickup places us ahead of the larger, slower public tour buses leaving Cusco. A scenic 3-hour private drive takes us through traditional farming towns and high Andean villages. Comfortable private seating with reclining chairs and clean heating allows you to sleep peacefully during the drive. An early return to Cusco around 18:30 ensures you have the evening free to enjoy a hot shower and dinner.

Are the thermal hot springs in Pacchanta clean, and how does the visit work?

You will soak your tired muscles in mineral-rich, volcanic waters heated naturally to temperatures between 38°C and 40°C (100°F - 104°F). These rustic thermal pools are managed directly by the indigenous Pacchanta community and are cleaned daily. They are located right at the base of the massive glacier, providing you with a spectacular open-air view while you relax. Naturally heated mineral waters soothe joint pain and relieve physical fatigue immediately after your hike. Rustic changing rooms and bathrooms are available on-site so you can change into your swimwear comfortably. A community-regulated cleaning schedule ensures the pools are drained and refreshed regularly with natural spring water. Spectacular glacier views frame the thermal baths, creating an unforgettable, relaxing alpine experience.

What is included in the custom box lunch and is it safe to eat?

You will enjoy a fresh, clean, and highly nutritious lunch box specifically designed to replenish your glycogen levels and keep your energy high. Our meals are prepared in a professional, modern kitchen under strict sanitary protocols, using purified water and local ingredients. We avoid heavy dairy or greasy foods, ensuring you eat light, safe meals that are easy to digest at high altitudes. High-protein and clean carbohydrate options include freshly prepared wraps, quinoa salads, and local energy bars. Custom menus for dietary needs are available for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and specific food allergies. Insulated, hygienic packaging keeps your food fresh and completely sealed against dust during the trek. Fresh mountain snacks (including dried fruits, local nuts, and hydrating drinks) are provided at the start of the hike.

Will we see real alpacas, llamas, and local community members?

You will walk through a traditional grazing territory where high-altitude alpaca farming has been the primary economy since before the Incas. The trails are surrounded by thousands of alpacas and llamas roaming freely against the backdrop of the glaciers. You will also meet local Quechua-speaking families dressed in their authentic, handwoven red and pink ponchos. Thousands of alpacas and llamas graze along the trail, giving you incredible opportunities for close-up photos. Authentic indigenous shepherd communities show you a traditional way of life untouched by commercial city trends. Genuine handwoven textiles made of premium baby alpaca wool can be purchased directly from the weavers in Pacchanta. An immersive, respectful cultural exchange is facilitated by your bilingual guide, who translates Quechua for you.

Why are the seven lakes different colors and will we see all of them?

You will explore a spectacular circuit of seven distinct alpine lagoons, including Azulcocha, Otorongo, and Comercocha. Each lake displays a unique shade ranging from deep turquoise and bright green to dark blue, caused by the varying mineral content washing down from the Ausangate glacier. Our route is designed to take you past all seven lakes, letting you witness this natural phenomenon up close. Varying mineral concentrations (such as sulfur, copper, and calcium) create different color shades in each lake. A complete loop trail is followed, ensuring you see and photograph all seven colored lagoons on a single hike. Imposing glacier backdrops reflect off the still waters of the lakes, offering clean, mirror-like photo angles. In-depth scientific explanations are shared by your guide, explaining how global climate changes affect these waters.

What gear do I absolutely need to bring to stay warm and safe?

You will feel incredibly comfortable on the trail by packing a small daypack with a few essential pieces of personal gear. Because high-altitude mountain temperatures can drop from warm sun to freezing winds in minutes, layering is your best defense. We recommend keeping your personal daypack under 5 kilograms so you can walk uphill easily. A windproof jacket and warm fleece layer are necessary to block the freezing glacier winds. A comfortable swimsuit and towel are required to access the natural thermal pools at the end of the day. Sturdy, broken-in hiking footwear is essential to keep your ankles stable on the uneven stone paths. Sun protection items (broad-spectrum sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a warm hat) defend you from high-altitude UV.

Who will be my guide and do they speak clear English?

You will hike in the company of a highly trained, university-educated local guide who holds an official tour guide registry license (DIRCETUR). Our guides are passionate mountaineers who have spent years navigating the Vilcanota Range and are fluent in English, Spanish, and native Quechua. They communicate with absolute clarity, sharing deep insights into local traditions and safety. Licensed professional mountain guides who graduate from official tourism universities in Cusco. Excellent English and Spanish fluency ensures clear communication, safety instructions, and easy conversations. Quechua-speaking guides can easily converse with the local shepherds, giving you exclusive access to their homes. Continuous safety evaluations are conducted, ensuring your guide is trained in emergency first aid and rescue.

What happens if the weather is extremely bad on the day of the trek?

You do not have to worry about dangerous weather, as we actively monitor real-time satellite forecasts for the Ausangate region 24/7. Your physical safety is our absolute limit; if a severe snowstorm or heavy rain makes the high mountain passes unsafe, we will notify you immediately. We will coordinate a flexible date change or offer a comfortable, low-altitude tour alternative. Real-time satellite weather tracking is maintained by our operations base to ensure we only depart under safe conditions. Flexible rebooking policies let you reschedule your trek with ease if heavy snow blocks the mountain roads. Safe bypass routes are utilized by our guides to avoid slippery slopes during light, unexpected mountain showers. Fully refundable options are guaranteed if bad weather forces us to cancel the tour for your physical protection.

7 lake hike Ausangate.

Full- Day Duration

1 - 12 Pax Group Size

4,200 to 4,600 Mts/13,780 to 15,750Ft Max. Altitude

Hard Difficulty

Overview

The 7 lakes Ausangate day hike surrounded by the magestic tall mountains of Ausangate most outstanding hike over the heart of the Andes, surrounded by snowcap mountains, one of the highest in the Andean cordilleras, explores beautiful landscapes, local communities, and traditional activities; their economy is based on alpaca farms and agricultural activities along the journey, you are going to see the seven lakes with a different color make by minerals according to the location.

Itinerary

Day 01

Full Day

We start our trip at 4:30 a.m., and our local expert tour guide will pick you up from your hotel. Then, we head southeast of the Cusco region, passing through Andean villages throughout the three-hour journey to our lodge in the community of Pacchanta 4300M. Upon arrival at the base of the Mountain Ausangate, we start the hike with a gradual ascent for about 3 hours to the viewpoint of the seven lagoons at 4800m. Here, you can appreciate all the lagoons with their different shades and sizes, and, of course, you can also understand the beauty of the snowy Ausangate. After enjoying such a wonderful gift of nature, we will descend through the valley of Qomercocha. Along the way, whenever you are hungry, we can find a spot to enjoy the box lunch, just as you can enjoy the thermal baths, and finally board our return transport, arriving at about 18:30 hours in the city of Cusco.

What's Included

Included

Private transportation
First aid kit
Oxygen balloon
Local expert tour guide
Box Lunch
Entrance fee to every side
24/7 assistance.

Not Included

Gratuities
Drinks
Hotel

Recommendations

You deserve to stand face-to-face with the towering, sacred peaks of the Peruvian Andes without feeling unprotected, frozen, or physically depleted. Preparing your body and gear correctly for this high-altitude alpine trek ensures you maintain your physical endurance, capture stunning photos of the turquoise waters, and soothe your muscles in natural hot springs in complete comfort.

Acclimatize in Cusco for a minimum of 48 to 72 hours before booking this trek to ensure your body adjusts safely to the maximum elevation of 4,800 meters (15,748 feet).
Wear broken-in, waterproof hiking boots with deep rubber treads to guarantee safe footing on wet rocks, muddy slopes, and rugged mountain trails.
Dress in professional layers (a moisture-wicking base layer, a thick insulating fleece, a down jacket, and a windproof outer shell) to defend yourself against the freezing alpine temperatures.
Pack a heavy-duty rain poncho at the very top of your daypack, as high-altitude glacier weather can trigger sudden rain or snow showers with no warning.
Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+) and wear high-quality polarized sunglasses to shield your skin and eyes from intense solar radiation reflected off the snowcap mountains.
Bring your swimwear and a small towel in a plastic bag so you can easily change and enjoy the relaxing thermal baths at the Pacchanta community.
Carry small cash denominations in Peruvian Soles (PEN) to pay for the hot springs entrance, buy local alpaca textiles, or hire an emergency horse if your legs feel tired.
Keep a fully charged portable power bank inside an insulated pocket, as freezing mountain air drains phone and camera batteries twice as fast as normal.
Begin drinking water heavily the day before your departure to flush your system, support muscle function, and naturally prevent altitude-related fatigue.
Use sturdy trekking poles with rubber tips to take the pressure off your knees during the long downhill descent through the Qomercocha valley.

Additional Information

Your physical safety, medical security, and smooth travel logistics are fully coordinated by our team from your early morning pick-up to your evening drop-off. Please review these operational protocols, rescue standards, and route guidelines designed to make your high-altitude alpine expedition completely worry-free.

Our private vehicle picks you up directly from your Cusco hotel lobby at 4:30 a.m. to beat the heavy tourist traffic and secure the best morning views.
We travel in modern, private transportation equipped with a certified medical oxygen cylinder and a trauma-grade first aid kit at all times.
Your expert trekking guide is an officially licensed local professional with advanced training in high-altitude first aid and wilderness rescue protocols.
All regional community fees and circuit entrance tickets are pre-purchased and fully covered by your booking, letting you bypass public register queues.
Your high-energy gourmet box lunch is prepared in a certified clean kitchen and is packed with fresh, high-nutrition snacks to keep your stamina stable.
Specialized dietary requirements (including gluten-free, vegetarian, vegan, and specific food allergies) are accommodated with absolute care when you notify us at booking.
The physical difficulty is rated as hard, featuring a gradual climb over 3 hours to the scenic lagoons and a total hiking duration of 5 to 6 hours.
The rustic hot springs of Pacchanta are managed by local families; changing rooms are rustic, and the water is heated naturally by thermal volcanic activity.
We limit our group size strictly to a maximum of 12 travelers to allow our guide to monitor your physical comfort and safety closely on the trail.
You will arrive back at your Cusco hotel at approximately 18:30 (6:30 p.m.), giving you plenty of time to rest and enjoy a relaxed dinner in the city.

Frequently Asked Questions

You do not have to let high-altitude anxiety keep you from seeing these legendary colored lagoons at the foot of the sacred mountain. Because we hike between 4,300 and 4,800 meters (14,107 to 15,748 feet), we prepare our vehicles and staff to manage elevation issues instantly. Your guide walks at a slow, rhythm-based pace and checks in on your physical comfort continuously, giving your lungs plenty of space to adjust naturally.

Onboard oxygen cylinders are kept inside our private transport for immediate, high-flow physical relief.
Wilderness first-aid certified guides carry portable oxygen and altitude remedies directly on their backpacks.
A slow, rhythmic mountain pace is maintained all day, ensuring you never overexert your cardiovascular system.
Hydration salts and coca leaf remedies are provided to naturally balance your blood pressure during the gradual climb.

You can trek with absolute confidence knowing that you will never be left behind or forced to push past your physical limits. If your energy drops or the high-altitude trails feel too steep, your guide will adjust the speed of the group to match your flow. Additionally, we coordinate directly with the local community at the trailhead, making it simple to hire an emergency horse to carry you safely.

Emergency horse rentals are available at the Pacchanta trailhead to carry you uphill if you prefer to ride.
A private, small-group structure of 1-12 people ensures the guide can dedicate personal attention to your needs.
Sweeper guide support is coordinated for groups to make sure every traveler has an expert at their side.
Alternative flat viewing points are positioned along the trail, letting you enjoy the scenery without climbing the highest ridges.

You will start your adventure early to enjoy the mountain peaks before the afternoon clouds and cold winds roll in over the glaciers. The drive to the community of Pacchanta takes 3 hours each way over a scenic paved highway transitioning into a mountain road. Starting early ensures we are the very first group to arrive, giving you private access to the lakes and clean photos.

A 4:30 a.m. hotel pickup places us ahead of the larger, slower public tour buses leaving Cusco.
A scenic 3-hour private drive takes us through traditional farming towns and high Andean villages.
Comfortable private seating with reclining chairs and clean heating allows you to sleep peacefully during the drive.
An early return to Cusco around 18:30 ensures you have the evening free to enjoy a hot shower and dinner.

You will soak your tired muscles in mineral-rich, volcanic waters heated naturally to temperatures between 38°C and 40°C (100°F - 104°F). These rustic thermal pools are managed directly by the indigenous Pacchanta community and are cleaned daily. They are located right at the base of the massive glacier, providing you with a spectacular open-air view while you relax.

Naturally heated mineral waters soothe joint pain and relieve physical fatigue immediately after your hike.
Rustic changing rooms and bathrooms are available on-site so you can change into your swimwear comfortably.
A community-regulated cleaning schedule ensures the pools are drained and refreshed regularly with natural spring water.
Spectacular glacier views frame the thermal baths, creating an unforgettable, relaxing alpine experience.

You will enjoy a fresh, clean, and highly nutritious lunch box specifically designed to replenish your glycogen levels and keep your energy high. Our meals are prepared in a professional, modern kitchen under strict sanitary protocols, using purified water and local ingredients. We avoid heavy dairy or greasy foods, ensuring you eat light, safe meals that are easy to digest at high altitudes.

High-protein and clean carbohydrate options include freshly prepared wraps, quinoa salads, and local energy bars.
Custom menus for dietary needs are available for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and specific food allergies.
Insulated, hygienic packaging keeps your food fresh and completely sealed against dust during the trek.
Fresh mountain snacks (including dried fruits, local nuts, and hydrating drinks) are provided at the start of the hike.

You will walk through a traditional grazing territory where high-altitude alpaca farming has been the primary economy since before the Incas. The trails are surrounded by thousands of alpacas and llamas roaming freely against the backdrop of the glaciers. You will also meet local Quechua-speaking families dressed in their authentic, handwoven red and pink ponchos.

Thousands of alpacas and llamas graze along the trail, giving you incredible opportunities for close-up photos.
Authentic indigenous shepherd communities show you a traditional way of life untouched by commercial city trends.
Genuine handwoven textiles made of premium baby alpaca wool can be purchased directly from the weavers in Pacchanta.
An immersive, respectful cultural exchange is facilitated by your bilingual guide, who translates Quechua for you.

You will explore a spectacular circuit of seven distinct alpine lagoons, including Azulcocha, Otorongo, and Comercocha. Each lake displays a unique shade ranging from deep turquoise and bright green to dark blue, caused by the varying mineral content washing down from the Ausangate glacier. Our route is designed to take you past all seven lakes, letting you witness this natural phenomenon up close.

Varying mineral concentrations (such as sulfur, copper, and calcium) create different color shades in each lake.
A complete loop trail is followed, ensuring you see and photograph all seven colored lagoons on a single hike.
Imposing glacier backdrops reflect off the still waters of the lakes, offering clean, mirror-like photo angles.

In-depth scientific explanations are shared by your guide, explaining how global climate changes affect these waters.

You will feel incredibly comfortable on the trail by packing a small daypack with a few essential pieces of personal gear. Because high-altitude mountain temperatures can drop from warm sun to freezing winds in minutes, layering is your best defense. We recommend keeping your personal daypack under 5 kilograms so you can walk uphill easily.

A windproof jacket and warm fleece layer are necessary to block the freezing glacier winds.
A comfortable swimsuit and towel are required to access the natural thermal pools at the end of the day.
Sturdy, broken-in hiking footwear is essential to keep your ankles stable on the uneven stone paths.

Sun protection items (broad-spectrum sunscreen, polarized sunglasses, and a warm hat) defend you from high-altitude UV.

You will hike in the company of a highly trained, university-educated local guide who holds an official tour guide registry license (DIRCETUR). Our guides are passionate mountaineers who have spent years navigating the Vilcanota Range and are fluent in English, Spanish, and native Quechua. They communicate with absolute clarity, sharing deep insights into local traditions and safety.

Licensed professional mountain guides who graduate from official tourism universities in Cusco.
Excellent English and Spanish fluency ensures clear communication, safety instructions, and easy conversations.
Quechua-speaking guides can easily converse with the local shepherds, giving you exclusive access to their homes.
Continuous safety evaluations are conducted, ensuring your guide is trained in emergency first aid and rescue.

You do not have to worry about dangerous weather, as we actively monitor real-time satellite forecasts for the Ausangate region 24/7. Your physical safety is our absolute limit; if a severe snowstorm or heavy rain makes the high mountain passes unsafe, we will notify you immediately. We will coordinate a flexible date change or offer a comfortable, low-altitude tour alternative.

Real-time satellite weather tracking is maintained by our operations base to ensure we only depart under safe conditions.
Flexible rebooking policies let you reschedule your trek with ease if heavy snow blocks the mountain roads.
Safe bypass routes are utilized by our guides to avoid slippery slopes during light, unexpected mountain showers.
Fully refundable options are guaranteed if bad weather forces us to cancel the tour for your physical protection.