7 Lakes Trek in Ausangate

The Hike 7 Lakes trek in Ausangate, Cusco

The snow-capped mountain; Ausangate is the fifth-highest peak in Peru (6,384m/20,944ft), famous for the colorful lagoons of the snow-capped mountains.

We want to introduce you to this thoroughly recommended hike, The Seven Lagoons is an authentic hike in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, and, at the very end, enjoy the natural hot springs to relax your tired legs. Beautiful views await you.

What does the “7 Lagoons of Ausangate” tour consist of?

1.- Its a very scenic and cultural trekking route. You pass through the most isolated indigenous communities keeping the Inca culture alive, and get the privilege to interact with them.

2.- Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek is an expedition that takes us to explore the lagoons which are surrounded by the snow-capped mountain.

3.- The Ausangate snow-capped mountains allowed the creation of the seven lagoons and their different shades, thanks to the minerals surrounding it.

4.- Both the snow-capped peak and the lagoons have their names thanks to their colorful characteristics and their unique texture.

5.- The Ausangate 7 Lagoons Tour is a high-altitude excursion that can reach 4867m/15,967ft. It can be done in one day, but it is better to enjoy a slower pace and accomlish it in 2 days.

What can I expect on the 7 Lagoons Trek?

First, a spectacular natural display awaits you in the Peruvian highlands. The hiking trail is about 12 km long, where you will see different shades of water, from chocolate brown to bright turquoise or from bright green to deep blue, also this a cultural trek where you get the rare opportunity to interact with locals.

What are the 7 Ausangate Lagoons?

The 7 Lagoons have their name created by the historical settlers who considered the Ausangate as one of the “Apus” (deities).

Each of the lagoons has characteristics that make them unique. Its shades are also due to the powdered minerals that came down with the water from the snowy Ausangate.

Depending on the weather, the majestic snow-covered Ausangate, which rises high into the sky, may also be shrouded in mist. The 7 Lakes Trek remains one of the best routes for all nature lovers.

Best Time of the Year for the 7 Lakes trek in Ausangate?

There are two main seasons in the Andes Mountain:

• The dry season runs from late April through to early October.
• The wet season starts mid to late October and ends in April.

But, When is the best time of the year to go?

The trek can technically be completed all year round, the peak trekking season occurs during the dry season and is busiest between May and September.

Where are the 7 Ausangate Lagoons?

The Ausangate is a snow-capped peak in the Andes, part of the Vilcanota mountain range.

Located about 100 kilometers southeast of Cusco in the province of Quispicanchis, the snow-capped mountain is accessed through the town of Pacchanta.

From Pacchanta, the trekking begins to reach the circular route that will take us through the course of the seven lagoons of Ausangate.

7 Lakes Trek details:

• Walking time: 5 – 5:30 hours. A round-trip ticket
• Maximum altitude: 4,630 m.
• Initial path altitude: 4,300 m.
• Distance: 10 kilometers
• Difficulty: Challenging.
• Entrance tickest: S/. 10
• Horse rental: S/. 80 round trip.
• Hot springs: S/ 5
• Elevation gain during trek: 300 m.a.s.l.

What are the seven lagoons that we will know?

Although the names can be a bit confusing, you will find that each one has a character with a special meaning.

Pucacocha Lagoon – First Lake of the circuit, also known as Chocolate Lagoon. This is due to the color of its water, similar to chocolate. It is located about 4,500 meters above sea level.

Patacocha Lagoon – The closest lagoon is about 15,000 feet above sea level. Its water is more transparent. The snow-capped Ausangate is more evident than in the first lagoon.

Alqacocha Lagoon – This lagoon is approximately 4,750m/15,583ft above sea level. Because of the altitude, the cold begins to drop. Each lagoon offers spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and the Vilcanota mountain range.

Qomercocha Lagoon – The next lagoon on the circuit has a name that translates from Quechua into Spanish as “Laguna Verde.” It owes its name to the turquoise color of its waters. It is located at 4,666 meters above sea level. It has one of the best views of the place.

Orco Otorongo Lagoon – Due to its shape and the surrounding landscape, this small lagoon has the form and fur (spots) of an Otorongo, a feline that lives in the American jungle. The lagoon is located at 4,620 meters above sea level. Its name refers to the male Otorongo.

China Otorongo Lagoon – Near the previous lagoon is the “China Otorongo” lagoon, which refers to the female of this American cat. The panoramic view of both lagoons is impressive. They are ideal for photography.