The trek to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate is a two-day experience designed to connect deeply with the sacred landscapes of the Vilcanota mountain range. Mount Ausangate (Apu Ausangate), revered as one of the most vital and sacred peaks in the Cusco Andes, is viewed by Andean communities as a spiritual protector and a vital source of life, water, and energy for the southern region of Cusco.
The first day is dedicated to acclimatizing in the highland community of Pacchanta, where we can rest and relax in natural hot springs surrounded by snow-capped peaks. The following day, we will hike toward the glacial lagoons of Ausangate, traversing high-altitude trails with breathtaking vistas, roaming alpacas, and deep turquoise and azure lakes fed directly by the mountain’s melting glaciers.
- Difficulty level: High
- Altitude: 4,600 meters (15,091 feet)
- Hiking time: 4 hours
- Departure time (Day 1): 8:00 AM
- Return time (Day 2): 6:00 PM
Itinerary:
Day 1: Cusco – Pacchanta & Natural Hot Springs We will depart from Cusco at 8:00 AM toward Pacchanta, a traditional highland community located in the Ocongate district, Quispicanchi province. We will arrive at approximately 12:00 PM, settle into our local accommodation, and begin our altitude acclimatization.
After enjoying a local lunch, we will visit the medicinal hot springs of Pacchanta, which offer a magnificent, unobstructed view of the majestic Apu Ausangate. In the evening, we will share dinner together and turn in early to rest and prepare for the next day’s journey.
Day 2: Sacred Lakes Hike & Return to Cusco We will begin our hike at 6:00 AM, heading toward the beautiful Azulcocha lagoon. In this powerful setting, we will perform a traditional offering ceremony to express gratitude to the lagoon and Apu Ausangate, followed by a ritual flower bath to align ourselves with the pure energy of the mountain and water.
After exploring the glacial lake circuit, we will return to Pacchanta, where you will have time to enjoy the hot springs once more before sitting down for lunch. We will begin our drive back between 2:00 PM and 2:30 PM, arriving in Cusco around 6:00 PM.
Includes:
- Hotel pick-up and private transportation (Cusco–Pacchanta–Cusco)
- Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish) throughout the entire journey
- Full meals on-site: 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner
- 1 night of accommodation in the community of Pacchanta
- Ancestral offering ceremony and ritual flower baths at Azulcocha lagoon
- Entrance fee to the Pacchanta hot springs
Does not include:
- Tips
- Additional personal expenses not mentioned in the itinerary