7 Lakes of Ausangate

The journey begins very early with hotel pick-up in Cusco.

We travel south through the Andean countryside, leaving the city behind as the landscape gradually becomes more remote.

Along the way, we pass traditional villages, agricultural fields and extensive highland plains. As we approach the Ausangate region, the mountains become larger and the surrounding landscape increasingly dramatic.

• Breakfast in the andes: We stop at a local restaurant for breakfast before continuing toward Pacchanta, a traditional Andean community located at the foot of the Ausangate massif.
• After breakfast, we prepare for the hike.
• The trail of the Seven Lakes: From Pacchanta, we begin the hike toward the seven lakes.
• The trail crosses high-altitude terrain surrounded by open valleys, rocky slopes and snow-covered peaks. Alpacas and llamas can often be seen grazing across the landscape, adding to the feeling of being far from the busy routes around Cusco.
• As we continue, the first lakes begin to appear.
• Seven Lakes – A landscape in constant change: The route connects a series of glacial lakes, each reflecting the surrounding mountains in different shades of blue, turquoise and green depending on the light, weather and mineral composition of the water.
• The journey allows us to stop at different viewpoints and appreciate the changing scenery.
• With Ausangate rising above the horizon, the contrast between the colorful waters, dark mountain slopes and snow-covered peaks creates one of the most impressive high-altitude landscapes in the region.
• Your guide will explain the geography of the area and the relationship between the glaciers, lakes and surrounding ecosystems.
• The pace will remain steady, allowing time to rest, take photographs and enjoy the scenery.
• The Ausangate landscape:  As we reach the highest viewpoints, the scale of the landscape becomes even more apparent.
• The Ausangate massif dominates the horizon, surrounded by peaks, valleys and glacial formations.
• This is also an opportunity to appreciate the importance of the mountains in Andean culture, where high peaks have traditionally been regarded as powerful and protective beings known as Apus.
• Descent to Pacchanta: After completing the circuit, we begin the descent toward Pacchanta.
• The return section gives us a different perspective of the same mountains and valleys before reaching the community.
• Lunch and Pacchanta hot springs: Back in Pacchanta, we enjoy lunch at a local restaurant.
• After lunch, we have the opportunity to relax in the community's natural hot springs, surrounded by mountain scenery.
• The warm waters provide a welcome contrast after the high-altitude hike and offer a quiet way to finish the day.
• Return to Cusco: After the visit to the hot springs, we begin the journey back to Cusco.
• We travel through the Andean countryside and arrive in the city during the evening, depending on road and weather conditions.