The Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek with Hot Springs – 2 Days is a short yet unforgettable adventure that combines relaxation, culture, and breathtaking Andean landscapes. Starting from Cusco at 8:00 a.m., this experience takes you on a scenic drive through the highlands to the traditional community of Pacchanta, located at the foot of the majestic Ausangate Mountain.

On the first day, you’ll enjoy a peaceful journey and a delicious local lunch before soaking in the Pacchanta hot springs, surrounded by snow-capped peaks and herds of alpacas. In the evening, you’ll share stories around a campfire and rest comfortably in a cozy mountain lodge with a jacuzzi, the perfect prelude to the adventure ahead.

The second day is dedicated to exploring the famous Seven Lakes of Ausangate, each with its own unique color—turquoise, green, blue, and even red—created by natural minerals. This hike offers spectacular views of glaciers, Andean wildlife, and the sacred mountain itself, making it one of the most scenic treks near Cusco.

This two-day experience is ideal for travelers seeking a balance of adventure and relaxation, away from crowds, and immersed in authentic Andean nature and culture.

Trip Highlights

Scenic drive from Cusco to Pacchanta with panoramic Andean views
Relaxing afternoon in the Pacchanta hot springs surrounded by snow peaks
Night bonfire and stay at a comfortable mountain lodge with jacuzzi
Full-day hike to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate, each with different colors
Encounter alpacas, llamas, and the impressive Ausangate Glacier
Perfect photo opportunities in one of Peru’s most beautiful mountain regions
Delicious local meals prepared by our mountain chef
Ideal for travelers looking for a short, easy, and authentic high-altitude experience

Day 01 :

Cusco – Pacchanta Village – Hot Springs – Lodge Stay

Your adventure begins with an 8:00 a.m. pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. After loading the equipment, we’ll drive through the picturesque valleys of Tinki and the Vilcanota mountain range, passing by Andean communities and herds of alpacas grazing freely. Along the way, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Ausangate (6,384 m / 20,945 ft) — the highest peak in southern Peru.

Upon arrival at Pacchanta village (4,200 m) around 11:00 a.m., you’ll be welcomed with a warm herbal tea and enjoy a freshly prepared Andean lunch featuring local ingredients. After some rest, we’ll visit the natural hot springs of Pacchanta, famous for their therapeutic properties and spectacular views of the Ausangate glacier. The mineral-rich waters are the perfect way to relax and adapt to the altitude.

In the evening, you’ll gather around a bonfire under a star-filled sky and enjoy a traditional mountain dinner prepared by our cook. Later, rest comfortably in your private lodge with a jacuzzi, where the silence of the Andes creates a truly peaceful night.

ltitude: Cusco (3,400 m / 11,155 ft) → Pacchanta (4,200 m / 13,780 ft)
Driving Time: 3 hours approx.
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Mountain Lodge with Jacuzzi
Difficulty: Easy

Dinner, Lunch

Home Stay

Day 02 :

Hike to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate – Return to Cusco

After an early breakfast with hot coffee and pancakes, we’ll start our hike to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate around 7:30 a.m. The trail gradually ascends through Andean pastures where alpacas and llamas roam freely. Along the route, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks of Ausangate, Mariposa, and Jampa.

Each of the seven lakes has its own unique beauty and color:

Puca-cocha (Red Lake)
Alqa-cocha (Blue Lake)
Qomer-cocha (Green Lake)
Otorongo-cocha (Twin Lakes)
Patacocha, Turqcocha, and Blue-cocha

These colors come from natural minerals and glacier sediments, creating a surreal Andean landscape perfect for photography.

At the highest point (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), you’ll have an incredible 360-degree view of the Ausangate massif, one of the most sacred mountains in the Andes. After enjoying the scenery and some snacks, we’ll begin our gentle descent back to Pacchanta.

A well-deserved lunch will be waiting for you before we depart by private transport back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 p.m.

Altitude: Pacchanta (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) → Highest point (4,700 m / 15,420 ft)
Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 mi round trip
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours approx.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Difficulty: Moderate