Are you passionate about adventure and nature? Do you love breathtaking landscapes and memorable experiences? Then get ready to discover one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Cusco region: “The Seven Lakes of Ausangate.”
In this blog from Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, we will guide you through its secrets and provide all the tips you need for a perfect trip. We’ll tell you the best time to visit, what to pack in your backpack, and how to conquer this natural paradise without any setbacks.
Don’t think twice! Keep reading for incredibly useful information that will make your trip even better than you imagined.
General Information:
What are the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
The 7 lakes of Ausangate are bodies of water fed by the melting of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain. Currently, they have become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the Cusco region.
It’s important to know that these lakes are located very close to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, which is the second-highest peak in the Cusco region, with an incredible altitude of 6,385 meters (20,948 feet). Moreover, this mountain is still revered by local residents, who consider it an Apu, or protector of the Andean world.
The Seven Lakes of Ausangate are natural lagoons with stunning landscapes.
Why are they called the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
The name, which you may have heard as part of a tour offered by many travel agencies, comes from the number of lakes included in the tourist circuit. These lakes are located near the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, which feeds them with its waters.
What are the names of the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
Each lake has a specific name in the Quechua language, each offering a unique description of its aesthetic that sets it apart from the others. Below are the seven lakes that make up this destination, so take note:
- Laguna Pucacocha: Known as the “Red Lagoon” or “Chocolate Lagoon” due to its reddish hues, this lagoon greets you at the start of the trail.
- Laguna Patacocha: At a higher altitude, the “Pata Lagoon” offers more imposing views of Ausangate and tests your endurance.
This is one of the lakes distinguished by its brown color, which makes it unique.
- Laguna Alqacocha: The “Green Lagoon” captivates with its deep turquoise color, framed by high-altitude scenery that requires additional layers.
- Laguna Q’omercocha: Considered the most beautiful by many, the “Green Lagoon” offers panoramic views of Ausangate, perfect for photography.
- Laguna Orco Otorongo: Small and jaguar-shaped, this lagoon surprises with its feline-like hues.
- Laguna China Otorongo: The “Female Otorongo Lagoon” accompanies the previous one, creating a perfect scene for professional-level photos.
This is the highest lake in this tourist destination.
- Laguna Azulcocha: The final lake in the circuit, the “Blue Lagoon,” bids farewell with its intense blue color, contrasting with the Ausangate snow-capped mountain.
What is the altitude of the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
Take note of this: the 7 lakes of Ausangate are situated above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), a significantly high altitude for travelers coming from areas below 2,000 meters (6,561 feet). Therefore, it is crucial to acclimatize before visiting.
If you’re wondering which point is the highest in this tourist destination, that title goes to Laguna Patacocha, located at 4,860 meters (15,944 feet). This lake is typically the third stop during the Seven Lakes of Ausangate circuit.
Furthermore, note that the lakes are not at the same elevation. Each lake varies in altitude, with some being lower and others higher. Below are the altitudes of each lake you’ll encounter in this tourist destination:
- Laguna Pucacocha (4,500 meters / 14,763 feet)
- Laguna Patacocha (4,860 meters / 15,944 feet)
- Laguna Alqacocha (4,750 meters / 15,583 feet)
- Laguna Q’omercocha (4,666 meters / 15,308 feet)
- Laguna Orco Otorongo (4,620 meters / 15,157 feet)
- Laguna China Otorongo (4,620 meters / 15,157 feet)
- Laguna Azulcocha (4,610 meters / 15,124 feet)
Where are the 7 lakes of Ausangate located?
These lakes are located in the Cusco region, within the province of Quispicanchis, in the district of Ocongate.
Keep in mind! Most tourist destinations are not close to the city of Cusco, as is the case with the Seven Lakes of Ausangate. Therefore, if you plan to visit Cusco, it is recommended to dedicate at least one day to visit each different destination.
Key Distances and How to Reach the 7 Lakes of Ausangate
How long is the hike to the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
For a clearer idea, travel agencies typically offer full-day tours to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate, which include transportation from Cusco city to the destination. This means you’ll need to set aside an entire day to fully enjoy the experience without rushing.
The hike itself, at a leisurely pace, usually takes between 4 and 5 hours, allowing for stops at each lake to listen to the guide’s explanations and take photos. However, if you prefer to go independently rather than hire an agency, it is possible to complete the trail faster, depending on your personal pace. But keep in mind that these lakes are at a high altitude; overexertion could cause exhaustion and affect your enjoyment. Thus, it is advisable to take the necessary time to acclimatize and fully enjoy the scenery without rushing.
Take your time to explore this tourist destination. Note this important tip!
What is the distance from Cusco to the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
The distance between Cusco and this stunning destination is 84 km / 52 miles, allowing for relatively quick access via ground transportation. Unlike other routes that may require longer journeys, this route offers a more direct and convenient option for travelers looking to explore the natural beauty of the lakes in just one day.
Cusco is not only an ideal starting point but also offers the perfect opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude before embarking on the adventure. Given that the 7 Lakes of Ausangate are located at a high altitude, it’s recommended to spend at least one or two days in Cusco to allow your body to adjust to the conditions. During your stay in the city, you can enjoy its tourist and cultural attractions and prepare with the necessary supplies for your excursion.
Planning your trip with Cusco as your base not only helps reduce travel times but also optimizes your experience by allowing you to acclimatize and explore both the city and the natural surroundings of the lakes more comfortably and safely.
What is the distance between the 7 lakes of Ausangate and Lima?
If you’re starting in Lima, note that the distance is significant — 658 km / 408 miles. To cover this great distance, you’ll need to arrive in Cusco, where you’ll be much closer. Plan your trip accordingly!
The beautiful city of Lima also offers incredible places you’ll love.
What is the distance between the 7 lakes of Ausangate and Machu Picchu?
As mentioned in this blog, each tourist destination is some distance from another. In the case of Machu Picchu and the 7 lakes of Ausangate, the distance is 165 km / 102 miles.
It’s important to note that traveling directly from Machu Picchu to these lakes is not the most recommended option in terms of transportation, as it would take much longer to enjoy the destination properly.
How to Get to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate
The lakes of Ausangate are an impressive and increasingly popular destination for nature lovers and trekkers in Cusco. The most straightforward and convenient way to reach them is through a specialized travel agency. These agencies offer comprehensive packages that include transportation from Cusco to the starting point, experienced guides familiar with the route, meals during the trek, and additional services such as trekking equipment rentals and medical assistance in emergencies. Choosing an agency not only ensures convenience but also safety, especially on high-altitude trails.
However, for those who prefer an independent visit, this is also possible, although certain logistical aspects must be considered. There is no frequent public transportation directly to the Ausangate lakes, so planning the route carefully is necessary. The most viable option is to return to Cusco and hire a guide in advance since guides are usually unavailable on short notice in the Ausangate area. Additionally, it’s important to consider weather conditions and bring appropriate equipment, such as warm clothing, rain gear, and hiking boots, as the trail involves walking on challenging terrain at high altitudes.
One of the best ways to explore incredible places is with a tour guide.
So, the best option is to go with a travel agency. You can choose a group service or a private and exclusive one. This way, you won’t have to worry about anything and can simply enjoy this tourist destination hassle-free.
How to get to the 7 lakes of Ausangate from Cusco?
From Cusco, there are two ways to reach the Seven Lakes of Ausangate: on your own or through an agency. Both options follow the same basic route but differ in comfort and organization.
Option 1: On Your Own
- Departure from Cusco: The journey begins at Tomasa Tito Condemayta Avenue, at the Coliseo Cerrado Casa de la Juventud. This location is easy to find using Google Maps. From there, you can take shared vans (combis) heading to the town of Tinki, in the district of Ocongate. The trip takes about 3 hours.
- From Tinki to Pacchanta: Once in Tinki, you need to find transportation to the Pacchanta community, where the Seven Lakes of Ausangate are located. This additional journey takes about 30 minutes, and the price for transportation usually needs to be negotiated on-site. Another option is to walk to Pacchanta, but it will take more time and effort.
- Approximate Costs:
- Cusco to Tinki: 10 to 15 soles by shared van.
- Tinki to Pacchanta: The price varies and is negotiated directly.
Option 2: With a Travel Agency
If you prefer to avoid the hassle of organizing everything yourself, a travel agency is the best alternative. Agencies follow the same route that you would take independently but handle all the details to ensure a comfortable, hassle-free trip.
- Full Service: The agency provides direct transportation from Cusco to Pacchanta, avoiding the need to negotiate prices or seek additional transport. Additionally, they include meals, expert guides, and all necessary equipment, providing security and avoiding logistical headaches.
- Benefits: This option is ideal for those seeking a hassle-free experience, with direct support at every stage of the journey without worrying about minor details.
Both options allow you to enjoy the stunning beauty of the Seven Lakes of Ausangate, but the choice will depend on your preferences and desired level of comfort.
How to get to the 7 lakes of Ausangate from Lima?
In the distance section of our blog, you could see that Lima is far from this tourist destination. What does this mean? Your mission will be to reach the city of Cusco first.
There are two ways to get to Cusco:
- By land: This may be one of the most economical options, but it’s also one of the most uncomfortable due to the travel time, ranging from 17 to 22 hours—a very long journey.
- By air: This is one of the most preferred options for many travelers. It’s relatively more expensive than the land route, but comfort is the highlight here, along with a significantly reduced travel time of about one and a half hours—a long journey, but much shorter in terms of time.
Don’t worry! You’ll find plenty of transportation options to visit the rest of Peru.
How to get to the 7 lakes of Ausangate from Machu Picchu?
If you plan to visit both the Seven Lakes of Ausangate and Machu Picchu, the best option is to integrate them into a well-planned itinerary that includes both destinations rather than trying to go directly from Machu Picchu. This is because the return train from Machu Picchu only reaches the Ollantaytambo station, and from there, there is no direct transportation to the communities of Tinki or Pacchanta, which are the access points for the lakes.
The best option is to return to Cusco first and from there take a shared van (combi) that will take you to Tinki in approximately 3 hours. Once in Tinki, you can hire additional transport or walk to Pacchanta, where the lake circuit begins. By planning your itinerary this way, you ensure you maximize your time and have the opportunity to fully enjoy both Machu Picchu and the Seven Lakes of Ausangate without the complications and long hours of travel that would come with attempting both destinations in one day, which is essentially impossible.
Machu Picchu is one of the world’s wonders, and every traveler’s dream is to feel the unparalleled energy that emanates from this place.
As I mentioned in other sections of the blog, I suggest dedicating a full day to visiting the lakes. Don’t try to combine this trip with other visits, as each destination is quite far from another, and time will be crucial for your journey to go as planned and for you to enjoy it to the fullest.
Climate and Best Season to Visit the 7 Lakes of Ausangate:
What is the weather like at the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
The weather at the Seven Lakes of Ausangate and in the Pacchanta community is cold and mountainous year-round due to the high altitude of the region. During the day, temperatures typically range between 5 °C and 15 °C (41 °F and 59 °F), offering some warmth compared to the chilly nights when temperatures can drop below 0 °C (32 °F). It’s essential to be prepared for these temperature fluctuations by wearing layered clothing, which allows adaptation to the extreme cold at night and the milder daytime weather.
The dry season offers more stable and sunny weather, while during the rainy season (from October to April), temperatures tend to be colder, with frequent rainfall making the terrain slippery and access more challenging overall.
When is the best season to visit the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
The best season to visit the Seven Lakes of Ausangate is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, rainfall is scarce, and daytime temperatures are more pleasant, allowing for a trekking experience with clear skies and more accessible paths. However, since the lakes and hot springs are at significant altitudes, cold temperatures are still constant, even in the dry season. Therefore, it is crucial to bring warm clothing for protection, especially during the mornings and evenings when temperatures can drop significantly.
Remember! The cold is inevitable, don’t forget to bring warm clothing.
Is it possible to see the 7 lakes of Ausangate without hiking?
One important detail to keep in mind is that, to reach most tourist destinations in Cusco, short hikes are often required. An example of this is the Seven Lakes of Ausangate. The transportation leaves you near the circuit, as there are no roads within the area to protect the lakes, flora, and fauna, which are some of the main attractions of this tourist destination.
How difficult is the hike to the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
For those who are concerned about this aspect and want to assess their abilities, this destination presents a moderate challenge due to its high altitude.
Remember! Acclimatization is crucial, as the air is thinner at such heights. Spending a few days in Cusco beforehand will help your body adapt and prepare you for exploring many other incredible destinations that this region offers.
Now that you know its difficulty level, prepare and pack accordingly!
What should you bring to the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
Bear in mind that each destination has unique characteristics, both in its geography and climate. Therefore, the clothes you usually wear may not be suitable for your trip.
For the Seven Lakes of Ausangate, the weather is unpredictable, with extreme temperatures, from intense cold in the morning to heat during the day. To enjoy your adventure without issues, we recommend bringing the following:
- Waterproof clothing
- Warm clothing
- Hiking boots or shoes
- Small backpack
- Snacks and water
- Sunscreen
- Cash
- Documents and/or passport
- Camera
Remember! Avoid wearing formal or urban clothing as this is a trip involving physical movement and uneven terrain, which may cause discomfort or damage your shoes and clothing.
Additional Details:
Hot Springs in Pacchanta
Your trip won’t be complete without visiting the Pacchanta hot springs, located just steps from the start of the hike to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate. This place is known for its medicinal properties and is one of the best rewards for relaxing after trekking the Ausangate Trek route.
One impressive detail for many travelers is that these waters come from springs connected to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain. These waters reach a maximum temperature of 40 °C / 104 °F and offer a stunning view of the Ausangate mountain.
Wondering about the cost? You can enjoy this place for a modest price of 10 soles. If you book a travel agency for the Seven Lakes of Ausangate, they often offer this service, which you should coordinate in advance.
Don’t miss the chance to experience and enjoy these hot springs in this tourist destination.
What is the trail to the 7 lakes of Ausangate like?
The trail to the 7 lakes of Ausangate is uneven and unpaved, typical of high-mountain routes in the Cusco region. Hiking boots or specialized footwear are essential for navigating the terrain with comfort and safety, helping to avoid injuries or unforeseen incidents. Despite the trail’s nature, the path has adequate signage to help travelers navigate and avoid getting lost during the hike.
Before starting the hike, you’ll find several local stalls where you can purchase snacks and warm clothing such as scarves, sweaters, or shawls, useful for protecting yourself from the cold. You can also buy handicrafts as souvenirs, enriching the experience of exploring this natural destination.
What is the weather like at the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
Pacchanta is characterized by a cold and mountainous climate, with low temperatures year-round. During the day, temperatures range from 5 °C to 15 °C, while at night, they can drop below 0 °C.
Climate varies at each tourist destination, so it’s important to pack the essentials.
The dry season, which runs from May to September, offers more stable weather with minimal precipitation. This period is considered the best time to visit Pacchanta, as days are sunny and clear—perfect for enjoying the views. However, nights remain cold, so bringing warm clothing is advisable.
During the rainy season, from October to April, Pacchanta experiences heavy rainfall, especially in the afternoons. Mornings are usually clearer, but clouds build up throughout the day. Rain can make the trails slippery, so it’s essential to bring waterproof clothing and gear.
Remember! The best time to visit this tourist destination is during the dry season.
If your trip to the 7 lakes of Ausangate coincides with the rainy season (from October to April), don’t be discouraged. With the right equipment, such as waterproof clothing, sturdy shoes, and sun protection, you can still enjoy the experience without major issues.
Is it worth visiting the 7 lakes of Ausangate?
One of the things we all long for as travelers is to find unique, unforgettable destinations—those you can’t find anywhere else. This is where the 7 lakes of Ausangate come into play, captivating visitors with their waters, sourced from the majestic Ausangate snow-capped mountain.
Now, if you’re still wondering whether it’s worth visiting this place, the answer is a resounding yes! Its imposing landscapes, tranquil atmosphere, and opportunity to connect with nature make it the perfect refuge to escape routine. Don’t miss the chance to have an unforgettable experience at the Seven Lakes of Ausangate.
There are many reasons why this destination is incredible. Now it’s your turn to discover them.
We hope this guide has been helpful. We are sure it will assist you in planning your trip to the 7 lakes of Ausangate. Remember that the most important thing is to be physically prepared, wear suitable clothing, and acclimate to the altitude.
Don’t forget to enjoy the scenery! The Seven Lakes of Ausangate is a unique place in the world that will leave you breathless. Take your time to admire the views, take pictures, and live an unforgettable experience.
Safe travels!
Written by: AdminGustavo
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