From Cusco: Ausangate 7 Lakes & Hot Springs - Full-Day Hike

Trek to the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate from Cusco. Enjoy breakfast and lunch, relax in hot springs, and visit local weavers.
Start your day with an early hotel pickup in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. During the 3-hour scenic drive to Pacchanta, pass through highland valleys and traditional Quechua communities while your local guide shares fascinating stories about Andean life and the mountain spirits, known as Apus. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious Andean breakfast prepared by a local family. Pacchanta is a peaceful village located at the base of the Ausangate Glacier, where time seems to move slowly and nature reigns supreme. Take a short time to acclimate, stretch, and meet your local llama herders before starting the trek.

Begin your hike through a serene Andean valley surrounded by snowy peaks. The air is fresh, the landscapes are vast, and every step brings a new view of the sacred Ausangate. Explore the seven iconic lagoons, each with its own color and charm:

Pucacocha – The reddish lagoon
Patacocha – Home to ducks and wild birds
Alqacocha – A deep sapphire blue
Qomercocha – The vibrant emerald lake
Orqococha, Ticllacocha, and Otorongo – The mystical “Jaguar Lakes” hidden high in the mountains

The trail offers incredible photographic opportunities at every turn, and your guide will share ancient stories about how these lakes are connected to the Apus and the natural balance of the Andes. Make a gentle climb to reach the Ninaparayoc Viewpoint, one of the most scenic and less-visited places in the region. From this hidden spot, enjoy a 360° panoramic view of all the lagoons shining below — surrounded by glaciers, colorful valleys, and the majestic Ausangate towering above. This is a perfect moment for rest, meditation, or simply taking in the silence and energy of the mountains.

After enjoying the viewpoint, begin your descent back to Pacchanta, where warm hospitality and relaxation await you. Upon returning, have the option to enjoy the natural thermal baths of Pacchanta, either before or after lunch, depending on weather conditions and group preference. These hot springs, surrounded by the Ausangate peaks, are rich in minerals known for their therapeutic properties — perfect for relaxing your muscles after the trek.

Enjoy a freshly prepared traditional Andean meal, made with organic ingredients from local farms. Taste regional dishes such as quinoa soup, grilled trout, and native potatoes — all cooked by Pacchanta families who preserve ancient culinary traditions. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

After lunch, take a moment to visit local weavers who create colorful alpaca textiles using ancestral techniques. This short cultural encounter helps support the community directly and gives you a glimpse into their daily lives. Finally, drive back through scenic valleys, making occasional stops for photos and short breaks. You’ll arrive back in Cusco at approximately 6:00 p.m., marking the end of a wonderful day surrounded by the magic of the Andes.

To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.

This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.