The Ausangate 7 Lagoons Full Day Hike is one of the most rewarding off-the-beaten-path day treks in the Peruvian Andes. Circling the base of sacred Mount Ausangate, this 10-kilometer loop trail unveils seven pristine turquoise, emerald, and deep blue glacial lagoons. The hike culminates in the native Andean hamlet of Pacchanta, where soothing hot thermal springs await your arrival.
For a multi-day high-alpine crossing that combines these lakes with Rainbow Mountain, check our Ausangate & Vinicunca 4-Day Trek. For an easier day trek, explore the famous Humantay Lake Day Tour.
| FEATURE | AUSANGATE 7 LAGOONS (1D) | HUMANTAY LAKE (1D) |
|---|---|---|
| Lakes Visited | 7 colorful glacial lakes along a loop trail | 1 single turquoise lake destination |
| Thermal Springs | Included (Pacchanta mineral baths) | Not available on this route |
| Max Elevation | 4,600 m / 15,090 ft (Pacchanta loop) | 4,200 m / 13,780 ft (Soraypampa) |
| Trail Crowds | Low / Uncrowded pristine wilderness | High daily tourist volume |
🥾 Walking distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
⏱️ Estimated time: 3 to 4 hours
⛰️ Maximum altitude: 4,850 m (15,910 ft)
🍽️ Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
At 4:00 AM, we will pick you up from your accommodation and head towards Ausangate. Our first stop will be in Tinke for a short break, where you can buy snacks and use the restrooms. Then we will continue to the community of Pacchanta, where we will enjoy a hot local breakfast.
From Pacchanta, we will begin our guided hike to the Ausangate 7 lagoons circuit (Azulcocha, Otorongococha, Pucacocha, Comercocha, among others). The trail offers spectacular landscapes at the foot of Mount Ausangate and the Vilcanota mountain range. Upon returning to Pacchanta, we will have a traditional buffet lunch and you will have time to relax in the medicinal hot springs before heading back to Cusco, arriving around 6:30 PM.
Below are the details, characteristics, and recommendations of our Ausangate 7 Lagoons tour:
Cusco
04:00 AM
The total circuit covers 10 km (6.2 miles) with a moderate grade. The path has gentle ascents across alpine terrain, taking approximately 4 to 5 hours at a comfortable pace.
Yes, bringing a swimsuit and personal towel in your daypack is essential. The open-air Pacchanta thermal pools range from 35°C to 38°C (95°F – 100°F), perfect for post-trek relaxation.
The trail operates between 4,300m and 4,650m (14,100ft – 15,250ft). Having at least 2 full days of prior acclimatization in Cusco is strongly advised before undertaking this hike.
A hearty breakfast and a hot local buffet lunch are included in Pacchanta, prepared with fresh regional ingredients including vegetarian and vegan options upon request.
Yes, horses can be rented directly from Pacchanta community members at the trailhead (approximately 80 to 100 PEN) for emergency assistance or horseback riding along the route.
