The 7 Lagoons Ausangate trek is one of the most breathtaking high-altitude adventures in Peru, offering travelers a rare opportunity to explore pristine glacial lakes set against the dramatic backdrop of the Ausangate mountain range. Located south of Cusco, this lesser-known destination remains largely untouched by mass tourism, making it ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and hikers seeking an authentic Andean experience. From turquoise waters and snow-capped peaks to remote Quechua communities, the journey to the 7 Lagoons Ausangate is both visually stunning and culturally enriching.
Introduction to the 7 Lagoons Ausangate
The 7 Lagoons Ausangate route is a full-day trek that circles part of Mount Ausangate, the fifth-highest mountain in Peru at over 6,300 meters above sea level. The trek takes visitors through a series of seven colorful lagoons, each formed by glacial meltwater and surrounded by rugged alpine terrain. Unlike popular destinations such as Rainbow Mountain, this route offers tranquility, wide-open landscapes, and a strong connection to nature.
The lagoons vary in color, ranging from deep emerald and sapphire blue to milky turquoise, depending on mineral content, light, and weather conditions. Together, they form one of the most visually impressive circuits in the Cusco region.
Where Is the 7 Lagoons Ausangate Located?
The 7 Lagoons Ausangate trek is located in the Canchis Province of the Cusco region, approximately 3 to 4 hours southeast of Cusco city. The trek begins near the small Andean community of Pacchanta, a traditional village inhabited mainly by Quechua-speaking herders who raise alpacas and llamas.
Pacchanta also serves as an important cultural stop, as it reflects a lifestyle that has remained unchanged for centuries, deeply connected to the mountains, or Apus, considered sacred in Andean cosmology.
The Seven Lagoons Explained
One of the highlights of the 7 Lagoons Ausangate trek is discovering each lagoon individually, as no two look alike. Although names may vary slightly by guide or local usage, the most commonly visited lagoons include:
- Laguna Azulcocha – Known for its intense blue color and peaceful surroundings.
- Laguna Otorongo – Darker in shade, often reflecting nearby glaciers.
- Laguna Pucacocha – A lagoon with reddish tones caused by mineral deposits.
- Laguna Alqacocha – Surrounded by rolling hills and grazing alpacas.
- Laguna Qomercocha – Vibrant green waters that change color throughout the day.
- Laguna Patacocha – Smaller but incredibly scenic, framed by snow peaks.
- Laguna Orco Otorongo – Often considered the most photogenic of the route.
Each lagoon offers a different perspective of the Ausangate massif, making the trek feel dynamic and constantly rewarding.
The Trekking Experience
The 7 Lagoons Ausangate hike is considered moderately challenging due to its altitude rather than technical difficulty. The trail is well-defined and does not require climbing skills, but hikers should be physically prepared for thin air and long distances.
- Distance: Approximately 10–12 kilometers
- Duration: 5 to 6 hours of hiking
- Maximum altitude: Around 4,800 meters (15,700 feet)
- Starting altitude: About 4,300 meters
The hike involves gentle ascents, open valleys, and panoramic viewpoints where the immense Ausangate glacier dominates the horizon.
Best Time to Visit the 7 Lagoons Ausangate
The best season to visit the 7 Lagoons Ausangate is during the dry months from May to September. During this period, days are mostly sunny, skies are clear, and the lagoons display their most vivid colors.
- Dry Season (May–September): Best visibility, colder mornings, ideal for photography
- Wet Season (November–March): Lush landscapes but higher chances of rain and cloudy skies
April and October are considered shoulder months, offering a balance between good weather and fewer visitors.
Cultural Significance of Ausangate
Mount Ausangate is one of the most sacred mountains in Andean culture. For local communities, it is an Apu, a living spirit believed to protect the land and people. The 7 Lagoons Ausangate trek passes through territories where ancient rituals, offerings to Pachamama (Mother Earth), and traditional festivals are still practiced.
Travelers often encounter local herders dressed in colorful traditional clothing, tending to alpacas and llamas. Respect for these communities and their customs is an important part of the experience.
Hot Springs in Pacchanta
One of the most rewarding aspects of completing the 7 Lagoons Ausangate trek is relaxing in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta. These thermal baths are fed by underground geothermal sources and offer stunning views of Ausangate’s snow-covered peaks.
After hours of hiking in cold mountain air, soaking in warm mineral water is the perfect way to recover and reflect on the journey. The hot springs also serve as a social hub where locals and travelers alike gather.
Wildlife and Nature
The 7 Lagoons Ausangate region is rich in Andean wildlife. During the trek, hikers may spot:
- Alpacas and llamas grazing freely
- Vicuñas in more remote areas
- Andean geese and ducks near the lagoons
- Birds of prey such as the Andean condor (occasionally)
The flora includes hardy high-altitude grasses, mosses, and wildflowers that bloom during the rainy season, adding color to the rugged terrain.
What to Pack for the 7 Lagoons Ausangate
Proper preparation is essential due to the high altitude and changing weather. Recommended items include:
- Warm layers and a windproof jacket
- Comfortable hiking boots
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen)
- Water and energy snacks
- Trekking poles (optional but helpful)
- Swimsuit and towel for the hot springs
Acclimatization in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for at least two days is strongly recommended before attempting the hike.
Why Choose the 7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek?
The 7 Lagoons Ausangate trek is ideal for travelers seeking an alternative to crowded attractions. It combines dramatic landscapes, cultural authenticity, and physical challenge in one unforgettable experience. Unlike shorter viewpoints, this trek immerses visitors in the raw beauty of the Andes, offering moments of solitude and deep connection with nature.
Whether you are a seasoned hiker or an adventurous traveler looking to explore beyond the usual routes, the 7 Lagoons Ausangate delivers an experience that is both humbling and inspiring.
Conclusion
The 7 Lagoons Ausangate trek stands as one of Peru’s most extraordinary natural experiences. With its vibrant glacial lakes, towering snow-capped mountains, and strong cultural roots, it represents the true essence of the Andes. Far from the crowds, this journey rewards those willing to venture higher and deeper into Peru’s sacred landscapes.
