Ausangate 7 Lakes

What is Included in the Ausangate full day tour 7 lakes

The Seven lakes of Ausangate tour includes:

• Pickup from your accommodation in Cusco city center.
• Transportation.
• Return to the Historic Center of Cusco.
• Professional guide in English and Spanish.
• Breakfast and lunch.
• Entrance ticket to the Seven Lagoons of Ausangate.
• First aid kit and oxygen supply.
• Trekking poles.

The Seven lakes of Ausangate tour does not include:

• Transfers not mentioned in the itinerary.
• Travel insurance.
• Riding horse (optional).
• Drinks.

Packing List: Ausangate 7 Lakes trek

Planning your adventure to the Ausangate 7 lakes? Success at high altitude starts with your backpack. The weather in the Cusco Andes is notoriously unpredictable, swinging from intense sunshine to freezing winds in minutes.

To ensure a safe and breathtaking experience at 15,900 feet (4,850m), our expert guides at Ausangate Adventure recommend the professional three-layer system.

The three-layer system: Mastering the Andean climate 

Don't just pack clothes; pack a climate-control system. This is the gold standard for high-altitude trekking in Peru:

• Base Layer (The Second Skin): Use a moisture-wicking thermal shirt. Merino wool is the top choice it stays warm even if damp and naturally resists odors. 
• Mid Layer (The Insulator): A premium fleece or a lightweight down jacket (puffer jacket). This layer traps heat to keep your core temperature stable during the hike to the seven lakes. 
• Outer Layer (The Shield): A high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar). It must breathe while protecting you from the fierce Andean rain and snow.

Specialized Trekking apparel 

• Hiking Pants: Technical, quick-dry trekking trousers are essential. Avoid jeans at all costs they absorb moisture, become heavy, and can lead to hypothermia in cold winds. 
• Footwear: You need sturdy, waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support. Pro Tip: Make sure they are "broken-in" before your trip to avoid blisters on the trail.

Essential accessories for high altitude 

The sun at 4,800+ meters is much stronger than at sea level. Protect yourself with: 

• Advanced Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, polarized sunglasses (to prevent snow blindness), and a wide-brimmed hat. 
• Head & Hands: A warm wool hat (beanie) and lightweight gloves. Even on sunny days, the wind at the Ausangate mountain passes is biting. 
• Sustainable Hydration: At least 2 Liters of water in a reusable bottle or Camelbak. As a plastic-free agency, we help you minimize your footprint in the mountains.

Gear for the full experience 

• Daypack: A 20-30L backpack with a rain cover to keep your electronics dry. 
• Recovery: Don't forget your swimwear and a towel. After the trek, soaking in the medicinal hot springs of Pacchanta is the ultimate reward. 
• Altitude Health: Consult your doctor about Diamox or altitude pills. On the trail, we provide traditional coca leaves and candy for a natural, local energy boost. 
• Local Currency: Bring small denominations of Peruvian Soles (PEN) for tips to our local muleteers or to buy unique handmade souvenirs in the communities.

Ausangate full day tour 7 lakes travel information

How many days do i need to acclimate before the trek?

It is very important to be well-acclimated to the altitude before undertaking a strenuous trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before starting the trek to help you acclimate and avoid potential altitude sickness issues during the hike. If you have already been at a high altitude in another area of Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights.

Pickup Information

Ausangate Adventure can pick you up at your hotel, provided it is located in Cusco’s Historic Center. Pickup times are between 4:00 am and 5:00 am, but please note that the exact time may vary. Cusco has narrow, cobbled streets which can make access to some hotels difficult; in such cases, the guide will indicate a meeting point.

Considerations

What does it mean that the tour is shared?

A shared tour means you will experience the adventure with other travelers of different ages and nationalities, including those from Ausangate Adventure and other operators, with a group of up to 16 people. It is a great opportunity to connect with people from around the world while enjoying the adventure. This type of tour may be organized by Ausangate Adventure or by partner collaborators who meet our high quality standards. If you prefer a more personalized and exclusive experience, you can opt for a private tour.

For shared tours, you will be given the pickup and return times the day before the tour. It is essential to be punctual to avoid delays affecting the rest of the group. Times may vary depending on the pace of participants or local traffic, so we provide an approximate schedule. We appreciate your understanding regarding these factors that are beyond our control.

Due to environmental, climatic, or other unforeseen factors beyond our control, the travel itinerary may be modified. In such cases, you will be duly informed.

Location

The Seven Lagoons of Ausangate trek is located in the Cusco Region, in the Province of Quispicanchi, District of Ocongate, within the Ausangate Community, Pacchanta Annex, Peru. This trek takes place near Ausangate Mountain, one of the highest peaks in the country.

Altitude

The Seven Lagoons of Ausangate are situated at an average altitude of 4,500 meters above sea level in the Peruvian Andes. This impressive group of lagoons, each with unique shades ranging from turquoise to emerald green, is surrounded by the majestic Ausangate snow-capped peak.

Difficulty

The Seven Lagoons of Ausangate trek has a moderate to high difficulty level, mainly due to the altitude, which exceeds 4,000 meters above sea level. The trek can be challenging for those not accustomed to hiking at high altitudes, as the lack of oxygen can cause fatigue.

Climate

The climate in the Ausangate region is extremely variable. It can start favorable but change rapidly. Nights are typically cold, with average temperatures of -10°C, while daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C. Cold winds are constant, and rain or snow can occur at any time. Despite these unpredictable conditions, it is essential to be prepared with suitable clothing and gear for various weather conditions and to maintain a positive and adaptable attitude. The beauty of the landscape and the sense of achievement at the end of the trek will make every challenge worthwhile.

First Aid

Each guide from Ausangate Adventure is trained in first aid, and we also carry oxygen for the trek. If you need oxygen, you can request it directly from the guide.

Lost Items

Please take special care of your belongings and make sure to collect everything as you leave our vehicles and restaurants. You are solely responsible for your personal items during the trek.

Prices Ausangate full Day Tour 7 Lakes

Shared Service Tour.

Price: $46 USD per person.

This shared or group service means that you will be taking the tour with other people. This standard service is conducted with a group of 10 to 16 people. We have confirmed departures for every day, so if you are just one or two people, don't worry, you can join one of our groups.

Private Service Tour.

This private and exclusive service is a way to take this trip where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary according to the number of travelers: one, two, three, four, or more travelers. Please, if you want private service, request information at info@ausangateadventure.com or through our WhatsApp at +51 914201334.

Ausangate 7 lakes - FAQs

How difficult is the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike? 

The hike is considered moderate to challenging. While the terrain is mostly steady, the high altitude (reaching 15,900 ft) makes physical exertion feel much more intense. We recommend being in good physical condition and having at least 2 days of prior acclimatization in Cusco.

Is this tour safer than the Rainbow Mountain hike? 

Actually, yes. While the altitude is similar, the 7 Lagoons trail is significantly less crowded, meaning our guides can provide more personalized attention. We carry professional oxygen tanks and medical kits at all times to ensure your safety throughout the journey.

What happens if I get altitude sickness? 

Our guides are Wilderness First Responder (WFR) certified. At the first sign of Soroche (altitude sickness), we provide supplemental oxygen and, if necessary, assist you in descending to a lower altitude immediately. Your health is our absolute priority.

Are horses available to rent on the trail? 

Yes. For those who want to enjoy the scenery without the physical strain of the ascent, horses can be rented from the local community at the start of the trailhead in Pacchanta. Our guides will help you arrange this on-site.

What is the best time of year to visit the 7 Lakes? 

The best time is during the dry season (May to October), when you’ll have clear blue skies and the best views of the glaciers. However, the "shoulder season" (April and November) also offers beautiful, moody landscapes with fewer travelers.

Where are the seven lakes of Ausangate located? 

The trek is located approximately 3 hours southeast of Cusco in the Ocongate District. The trailhead starts at the Pacchanta Annex, a traditional high-Andean community famous for its medicinal hot springs. The lakes sit at the base of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, offering a front-row seat to the massive glaciers of Mount Ausangate.

How many days do I need to acclimate before the hike? 

For a safe and enjoyable experience, we strictly recommend a minimum of 2 full days in Cusco (11,152 ft) before starting your Ausangate trek. Arriving from sea level directly to the high Andes puts significant stress on your body. Spending 48 to 72 hours acclimating allows your red blood cell count to increase, significantly reducing the risk of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS). Even if you have visited other high-altitude regions in Peru, one day of rest in Cusco is essential to recover from travel fatigue.