Ausangate Seven Lakes: a one-day hike from Cusco

Ausangate, over 6,300 m, is the highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the most revered apus in the Andes. Circling it on the multi-day trek is a tough adventure, but there's a way to get close to its glaciers in a single day: the Seven Lakes hike. It's a loop past turquoise, green and deep-blue lakes at the foot of the peak, with grazing llamas and alpacas and, at the end, a soak in hot springs.

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The route

The usual hike starts from the community of Pacchanta, near the town of Tinqui:

1. From Pacchanta, at about 4,300 m, you climb gradually up a grassy valley towards the glacier.
2. The trail links the lakes, including Pucacocha, Patacocha, Q'omercocha and Azulcocha, each a different colour thanks to minerals and light.
3. The highest point is around 4,600–4,700 m, with close views of Ausangate's glacier tongues.
4. You return by another path to Pacchanta, closing the loop.

In total it's about 8–10 km and 3–4 hours of walking, depending on pace and stops.

• Ausangate trek: the great circuit of the sacred peak (route, altitude and preparation)

Difficulty and altitude

• Moderate: slopes aren't very steep, but you're always above 4,300 m.
• Longer than the Humantay Lake hike, though with gentler climbs.
• You must be well acclimatised: at least two or three days in Cusco beforehand and, ideally, a previous high-altitude walk.

• Altitude sickness in Cusco: how to prevent it and what to do

Pacchanta hot springs

After the hike, Pacchanta has community-run hot spring pools with views of the peak. A hot soak after the cold puna is one of the best parts of the day. Bring a swimsuit, towel and flip-flops, plus cash for the entrance.

• Hot springs near Cusco: Cocalmayo, Lares, Aguas Calientes and Pacchanta

Getting there from Cusco

• On a day tour: the most practical option. Departures around 4:00 am, returning in the evening. Transport, guide and usually breakfast and lunch included.
• Over two days: some travellers sleep in Tinqui or Pacchanta to hike more calmly and enjoy sunrise.
• Independently: buses run from Cusco to Tinqui, then local transport or a walk to Pacchanta, but there isn't time in one day; you'll need to stay overnight.

The drive takes roughly 3–4 hours each way along the Interoceanic Highway.

Seven Lakes vs Humantay and Palccoyo

• Humantay Lake: a single turquoise lake below Humantay peak, with a short but steep climb; busier and closer to Cusco.
• Seven Lakes: several lakes, more scenery and more peace, but more hours on the road and on foot.
• Palccoyo: a very gentle walk to see rainbow mountains, also in the Vilcanota area.

• Humantay Lake: how to get there, the hike and tips
• Rainbow Mountain or Humantay Lake? A comparison to choose your day trip
• Palccoyo: the alternative rainbow mountain, easier and quieter than Vinicunca

Best season

From roughly May to September, the dry season brings clear skies and bright lakes, but nights and early mornings are freezing, often below zero. In the rainy season the trail turns muddy, it may snow and clouds hide the peak.

• Best time to visit Cusco and what to pack
• Cusco weather by month: temperatures, rain and what to expect

Entrance and costs

The community charges a small access fee for the loop and another for the hot springs. Neither is part of the Tourist Ticket. On a tour, check what's included. Fees change; carry cash in soles.

• How to choose a tour agency in Cusco: a checklist to get it right

What to pack

• Down jacket, gloves, hat and thermal layers.
• Hiking boots and poles.
• High-SPF sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm with SPF.
• Swimsuit, towel and flip-flops for the hot springs.
• 2 litres of water and snacks.
• Cash for entrances and toilets.

Respect for the apu

For local communities, Ausangate is an apu, a protective being. Walk respectfully, leave no rubbish or stray stone piles and ask before photographing families and their animals. Nearby is the Qoyllur Rit'i pilgrimage, one of the most important religious festivals in the Andes.

• Qoyllur Rit'i: the Andean pilgrimage below Ausangate (dates and how to attend)
• Basic Quechua phrases for your trip to Cusco (with pronunciation)

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