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A full‑day, high‑altitude hike from Cusco to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate that combines stark Andean scenery, local culture, and an optional soak in natural hot springs. Plan for long travel time, thin air, and vivid turquoise lagoons.
A full‑day, high‑altitude hike from Cusco to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate that combines stark Andean scenery, local culture, and an optional soak in natural hot springs. Plan for long travel time, thin air, and vivid turquoise lagoons.
You leave Cusco before dawn, the van cutting through a skeletal landscape of eroded hills and distant snowy peaks. By the time sunlight widens across the puna, the jagged bulk of Ausangate fills the rearview mirror and the air tastes thin and cold. The trail begins near Pacchanta and climbs through tussock grass, granite outcrops, and braided streams toward a string of seven high‑altitude lagoons that shift from turquoise to deep cobalt as clouds pass overhead.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Nixon Expeditions · Cusco, Cusco Region
You leave Cusco before dawn, the van cutting through a skeletal landscape of eroded hills and distant snowy peaks. By the time sunlight widens across the puna, the jagged bulk of Ausangate fills the rearview mirror and the air tastes thin and cold. The trail begins near Pacchanta and climbs through tussock grass, granite outcrops, and braided streams toward a string of seven high‑altitude lagoons that shift from turquoise to deep cobalt as clouds pass overhead.
Geology here is blunt and honest: glacial scouring and mineral runoff have carved cirques and stained the lakes in vivid colors. Culturally, Ausangate is an Apu—an honored mountain in Andean cosmology—and shepherding has shaped the slopes for centuries. You’ll share the route with alpacas and llamas, and local Quechua communities still make seasonal journeys across the puna.
Practically, expect a 12 km roundtrip hike of moderate difficulty driven by altitude (around 4,300–4,500 m). Guides set a steady pace with photo stops and a chance to rest at Pacchanta for breakfast and lunch. Bring layers, sun protection, water, and gaiters; the sun is strong and weather shifts fast. If the group agrees, the day ends with an optional soak in Pacchanta’s hot springs—simple pools warmed by geothermal seepage.
Timing is everything: early pickup from Cusco (typically 4:00–4:30 a.m.), a long day on gravel roads and high‑altitude trails, and return to the city by evening. The reward is elemental Andean scenery—lakes that almost dare you to put down your camera and simply look.
The trail is moderate in technical terms but challenging because it sits above 4,300 m; pace yourself, hydrate, and listen to your guide if you feel symptoms of altitude sickness.
The itinerary lists an optional visit to Pacchanta hot springs—confirm with your operator; there may be a small entrance fee and it requires group agreement.
The tour typically includes a light breakfast and buffet lunch with vegetarian options; bring extra snacks for the trail if you prefer.
Carry layers (base, insulating midlayer, wind/rain shell), gloves, a warm hat, and waterproof protection for your pack—storms can arrive quickly at high elevations.
Nixon Expeditions operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You leave Cusco before dawn, the van cutting through a skeletal landscape of eroded hills and distant snowy peaks. By the time sunlight widens across the puna, the jagged bulk of Ausangate fills the rearview mirror and the air tastes thin and cold. The trail begins near Pacchanta and climbs through tussock grass, granite outcrops, and braided streams toward a string of seven high‑altitude lagoons that shift from turquoise to deep cobalt as clouds pass overhead.
You leave Cusco before dawn, the van cutting through a skeletal landscape of eroded hills and distant snowy peaks. By the time sunlight widens across the puna, the jagged bulk of Ausangate fills the rearview mirror and the air tastes thin and cold. The trail begins near Pacchanta and climbs through tussock grass, granite outcrops, and braided streams toward a string of seven high‑altitude lagoons that shift from turquoise to deep cobalt as clouds pass overhead.
Geology here is blunt and honest: glacial scouring and mineral runoff have carved cirques and stained the lakes in vivid colors. Culturally, Ausangate is an Apu—an honored mountain in Andean cosmology—and shepherding has shaped the slopes for centuries. You’ll share the route with alpacas and llamas, and local Quechua communities still make seasonal journeys across the puna.
Practically, expect a 12 km roundtrip hike of moderate difficulty driven by altitude (around 4,300–4,500 m). Guides set a steady pace with photo stops and a chance to rest at Pacchanta for breakfast and lunch. Bring layers, sun protection, water, and gaiters; the sun is strong and weather shifts fast. If the group agrees, the day ends with an optional soak in Pacchanta’s hot springs—simple pools warmed by geothermal seepage.
Timing is everything: early pickup from Cusco (typically 4:00–4:30 a.m.), a long day on gravel roads and high‑altitude trails, and return to the city by evening. The reward is elemental Andean scenery—lakes that almost dare you to put down your camera and simply look.