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A full-day, high-altitude hike to seven vivid turquoise lakes in the shadow of Ausangate. Expect long mileage, thin air, rocky terrain and a rewarding soak in natural hot springs.
A full-day, high-altitude hike to seven vivid turquoise lakes in the shadow of Ausangate. Expect long mileage, thin air, rocky terrain and a rewarding soak in natural hot springs.
You step off the van into thin, glassy air and the Andes answers with a sharp, dry wind that seems to push you toward the ridge. The seven turquoise pools of Ausangate lie like a chain of small mirrors on a high plateau, ringed by scree slopes and snow-flecked peaks that watch every step. For a day you trade city noise for the hush of altitude: water gurgles, condors wheel, and the trail threads between tussock grasses and dark volcanic rock.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Aita Peru Adventures · Cusco, Cusco Region
You step off the van into thin, glassy air and the Andes answers with a sharp, dry wind that seems to push you toward the ridge. The seven turquoise pools of Ausangate lie like a chain of small mirrors on a high plateau, ringed by scree slopes and snow-flecked peaks that watch every step. For a day you trade city noise for the hush of altitude: water gurgles, condors wheel, and the trail threads between tussock grasses and dark volcanic rock.
This landscape formed where glacial ice carved basins into volcanic bedrock; the lakes sit above 4,500 meters where seasonal melt and mineral-rich runoff give them vivid blues. The region has been part of Andean pastoral life for centuries — Aymara and Quechua communities herd llamas and maintain shrine cairns (apachetas) that mark respect for the mountain spirit, Apu Ausangate.
Expect a mix of singletrack, rocky steps and short scree fields with intermittent boardwalks near wetlands. The day's itinerary commonly includes several hours at the main lagoon group and a restorative stop at nearby hot springs fed by geothermal vents.
Practical guidance: start early to avoid afternoon weather shifts, carry layered insulation for wind and sun, and sip water steadily to manage altitude. Good hiking boots and trekking poles make steep descents kinder on knees. The trip is long — prepare for a 10–14 hour outing with steady but non-technical hiking. Respect local shepherding areas, pack out waste, and leave extra time for photos; the light changes fast at this altitude.
The lakes sit around 4,500 m; many visitors feel shortness of breath or mild symptoms—acclimatize in Cusco and ascend slowly, and consult a doctor about medication if prone to altitude sickness.
No technical climbing is required, but the route is long with steep sections and loose rock—good boots and stability are essential.
Most organized day tours include breakfast, lunch and park entry; confirm with your operator that hot springs access is included.
Yes—many itineraries include a stop at nearby hot springs; bring a swimsuit and towel and check local rules for changing facilities.
Aita Peru Adventures operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step off the van into thin, glassy air and the Andes answers with a sharp, dry wind that seems to push you toward the ridge. The seven turquoise pools of Ausangate lie like a chain of small mirrors on a high plateau, ringed by scree slopes and snow-flecked peaks that watch every step. For a day you trade city noise for the hush of altitude: water gurgles, condors wheel, and the trail threads between tussock grasses and dark volcanic rock.
You step off the van into thin, glassy air and the Andes answers with a sharp, dry wind that seems to push you toward the ridge. The seven turquoise pools of Ausangate lie like a chain of small mirrors on a high plateau, ringed by scree slopes and snow-flecked peaks that watch every step. For a day you trade city noise for the hush of altitude: water gurgles, condors wheel, and the trail threads between tussock grasses and dark volcanic rock.
This landscape formed where glacial ice carved basins into volcanic bedrock; the lakes sit above 4,500 meters where seasonal melt and mineral-rich runoff give them vivid blues. The region has been part of Andean pastoral life for centuries — Aymara and Quechua communities herd llamas and maintain shrine cairns (apachetas) that mark respect for the mountain spirit, Apu Ausangate.
Expect a mix of singletrack, rocky steps and short scree fields with intermittent boardwalks near wetlands. The day's itinerary commonly includes several hours at the main lagoon group and a restorative stop at nearby hot springs fed by geothermal vents.
Practical guidance: start early to avoid afternoon weather shifts, carry layered insulation for wind and sun, and sip water steadily to manage altitude. Good hiking boots and trekking poles make steep descents kinder on knees. The trip is long — prepare for a 10–14 hour outing with steady but non-technical hiking. Respect local shepherding areas, pack out waste, and leave extra time for photos; the light changes fast at this altitude.