Your adventure begins with pick-up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. The exact pick-up time will depend on the location of your accommodation and will be confirmed after your reservation. Once the group is ready, we will begin the journey toward one of the most impressive high-altitude landscapes in the Cusco region.
The drive to Pacchanta takes approximately three hours. Along the way, you will pass through traditional Andean communities, open valleys, and beautiful mountain scenery, with views of snow-capped peaks and herds of alpacas and llamas grazing in the highlands.
Upon arrival in Pacchanta, located at approximately 4,600 meters above sea level, we will stop for a complete Andean breakfast. This warm and energizing meal will help you prepare for the hike and adapt to the high-altitude conditions.
After breakfast, your guide will provide important information about the route, weather conditions, altitude, and recommended walking pace. We will then begin the hike with a gradual uphill section lasting approximately one and a half hours. As you gain altitude, you will enjoy increasingly impressive views of the Ausangate mountain range, glaciers, and the surrounding Andean landscape.
Once we reach the first lake, the trail becomes mostly flatter and includes some gentle downhill sections. From this point, we will continue exploring the famous Seven Lakes of Ausangate, each with its own color, shape, and character. Their shades of turquoise, green, blue, and reddish tones are created by the minerals found in the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Throughout the circuit, you will have time to take photographs, admire the scenery, and learn about the geology, wildlife, local culture, and spiritual importance of Ausangate for the nearby Andean communities. On clear days, the views of the snow-covered Ausangate massif and its glaciers are especially impressive.
The complete hike takes approximately four to five hours, depending on the group’s pace, weather conditions, and time spent at each lake. After completing the circuit, we will return to Pacchanta for a well-deserved buffet lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients. The meal usually includes soups, traditional Peruvian dishes, salads, side dishes, and vegetarian options.
After lunch, you will have the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta. The warm, mineral-rich waters are ideal for resting your muscles after the hike, while enjoying beautiful views of Ausangate and the surrounding mountains.
Once the visit to the hot springs is finished, we will begin the return journey to Cusco. The drive takes approximately three hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. We expect to arrive in Cusco between 6:30 and 7:00 PM, with the final drop-off near Plaza Regocijo and Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
Trip Summary
- Starting point: Pacchanta, approximately 4,600 meters above sea level
- Maximum altitude: Ausangate Seven Lakes circuit, approximately 4,800 meters above sea level
- Total hiking distance: Approximately 8 km round trip
- Estimated hiking time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, mainly due to the altitude
- Weather: Cold and windy, especially near the lakes and glaciers
- Tour type: Guided full-day hiking tour
- Meals included: Breakfast and buffet lunch
- Transportation: Round-trip tourist transportation from Cusco
- Estimated return to Cusco: Between 6:30 and 7:00 PM
