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Turquoise Humantay Lake beneath the snow-capped peak
Day trips

Kinsa Cocha lakes: a high-altitude hike above Pisac

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Above Pisac, in the heights separating the Sacred Valley from the puna, lie the Kinsa Cocha lakes, whose Quechua name means "three lakes". It's a little-known outing, ideal for open Andean scenery, silence and contact with farming communities, without the crowds of Humantay or Rainbow Mountain. It can be a short taxi trip or a more demanding hike.

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What are the Kinsa Cocha lakes?

Three high-altitude lakes surrounded by grassland, hills and herds of llamas, alpacas and sheep, at roughly 4,000 m. The scenery changes with light and season: blue water and clear skies in the dry season, green meadows and shifting clouds in the rainy season. Quechua communities nearby keep up traditional herding and weaving.

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Getting there

  • By taxi from Pisac: the simplest option. A taxi or mototaxi climbs a dirt road to near the lakes in about an hour; agree the return price and waiting time beforehand.
  • On foot from Pisac: a long, steep hike with big elevation gain. Only for well-acclimatised, fit walkers, ideally with a local guide.
  • On a tour: some Sacred Valley agencies include Kinsa Cocha in hiking or community-tourism routes.

Frequent colectivos run from Cusco to Pisac in about an hour.

Difficulty and altitude

By taxi, the walk between lakes is short and easy, though you'll feel the altitude with every step. The full hike from Pisac is demanding due to elevation gain and height. Either way, go after several days acclimatising in Cusco or the Sacred Valley.

Altitude

At about 4,000 m the air is much thinner than in Cusco. Walk slowly, drink water and descend if you feel a strong headache or dizziness.

Communities and respect

The lakes are on communal land. A small access fee may be charged for the community; paying it supports local families. Ask before photographing people and their animals, keep out of corrals and fields and leave no rubbish. If someone sells weavings or drinks, buying something is a kind gesture.

Best season

The dry season, roughly May to September, has the clearest skies, though mornings are very cold. In the rainy season, November to March, the dirt road can be poor and afternoons bring storms; set off early and check with taxi drivers first.

What to bring

  • Warm clothes, hat and gloves: the high-altitude wind is cold.
  • A waterproof jacket.
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
  • Water and food: there are no services at the lakes.
  • Cash for the taxi and community fee.
  • Hiking boots if you're walking.

How to combine it

A full-day plan: early start to Pisac, morning trip up to Kinsa Cocha, back to town for lunch and the market and, with energy left, the Pisac archaeological site in the afternoon. It also fits a multi-day stay in the Sacred Valley.

Other lakes near Cusco

  • Humantay Lake: more spectacular and glacial, but much busier.
  • Huaypo and Piuray lakes: on the Chinchero plateau, more accessible.
  • Ausangate's seven lakes: for high-mountain seekers.

Safety and navigation

The lakes are remote, with little phone signal and no services, so take precautions:

  • Tell your lodging your plan and expected return time.
  • If walking, download an offline map first and don't start late: the sun sets early and temperatures drop fast.
  • Avoid going alone without mountain experience; a local guide adds safety and local knowledge.
  • In fog or lightning, leave high exposed ground and head back.
  • Save your taxi driver's number and confirm the pick-up time.

Photography

The best photos usually come in the morning, before the wind ripples the water and while hill reflections are sharp. Herds grazing by the shore add life to the image, but approach calmly and ask the herders' permission.

Frequently asked questions

Where are the Kinsa Cocha lakes?
In the heights above Pisac in the Sacred Valley, at about 4,000 m.
How do I get to Kinsa Cocha?
By taxi from Pisac on a dirt road, or on foot, which is much harder.
Is it difficult?
The walk between lakes is easy, but the altitude requires acclimatisation.
Is there an entry fee?
A small community fee may be charged.

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Notice: This guide shares advice and recommendations based on research and local experience. Prices, opening hours and rules may change: always check with official sources and operators. Cusco Tips is not responsible for third-party services, bookings or decisions made using these guides; some links are affiliate links (see our affiliate policy).

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