Rainbow Mountain & Ausangate 7 Lagoons with Lodge Stay

Your adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 a.m., followed by a private transfer along the scenic Cusco–Puno highway through the highlands of southern Peru. After about 2 hours of driving, we arrive in Cusipata, where you’ll enjoy a nutritious buffet breakfast made with fresh Andean ingredients.
From Cusipata, we continue by vehicle to the community of Chillihuani, the starting point of the trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). The ascent takes approximately 1 to 2 hours, reaching a maximum altitude of 5,034 meters. From the summit, you’ll witness the striking colors of the mountain, created by natural mineral layers, and breathtaking views of the snow-capped Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in Cusco.
After enjoying the scenery and taking photos, we descend for about 1.5 hours back to Chillihuani. Then, our vehicle takes us back to Cusipata, where a traditional Andean buffet lunch awaits—perfect to recover your energy after the hike.
In the afternoon, we continue by private vehicle to the community of Pacchanta, located at 4,334 meters at the foot of Ausangate. This village is known for its traditional lifestyle, natural hot springs (optional, entrance not included), and its deep connection with Quechua culture. Upon arrival, you’ll settle into a comfortable high-altitude lodge, where a homemade Andean dinner and a warm fireplace await to end your day on a relaxing note.

Day 1 Overview:

• Starting altitude: 3,400 m (Cusco)
• Highest point: 5,034 m (Rainbow Mountain viewpoint)
• Ending altitude: 4,334 m (Pacchanta)
• Hiking distance: 6.8 km round trip
• Trekking time: 2 hours ascent + 1.5 hours descent
• Transport time: ≈4 hours total (Cusco → Vinicunca → Cusipata → Pacchanta)
• Accommodation: Rural lodge in Pacchanta
• Meals included: Buffet breakfast, buffet lunch, homemade dinner
• Weather: Cold and windy at Rainbow Mountain; dry and chilly in Pacchanta afternoon

After a hearty breakfast at the lodge, we begin our second day of adventure with a high-altitude trek to the Ausangate 7 Lagoons, one of the most impressive hidden gems in Cusco. This trail is perfect for hikers seeking spectacular natural scenery, as it passes through turquoise and emerald lagoons, snow-capped peaks, and traditional Andean landscapes.
The circular route takes us past seven distinct glacial lagoons, each formed by the meltwaters of Ausangate Glacier. These include Patacocha, Azulcocha, Otorongo, Orco Otorongo, Pucacocha, Oqecocha, and China Otorongo. The changing colors of the water — from deep blue to shimmering green — reflect both the mineral content and the surrounding snowy summits, creating an otherworldly visual experience.
Throughout the trek, you’ll encounter herds of alpacas and llamas, and with a bit of luck, you may spot wild vicuñas or even Andean condors gliding above. Your certified local mountain guide will share fascinating stories about the spiritual significance of Ausangate and the role of these lagoons in Andean traditions and rituals.
After about 5 to 6 hours of hiking, we return to Pacchanta to enjoy a traditional Andean lunch prepared with local ingredients. For those seeking extra relaxation, there’s the option to soak once again in the natural Pacchanta hot springs (entrance not included), offering warm mineral-rich water and panoramic mountain views.
We then begin our private journey back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 6:00 p.m., concluding this unforgettable two-day expedition through one of Peru’s most scenic highland regions.

Day 2 Overview:

• Starting altitude: 4,334 m (Pacchanta Lodge)
• Highest point: 4,647 m (Oqecocha Lagoon)
• Ending altitude: 3,400 m (Cusco)
• Distance: ~12 km round-trip hike + 3.5-hour drive
• Trekking time: 5 to 6 hours
• Accommodation: Not included (return to hotel in Cusco)
• Meals included: Breakfast, traditional lunch
• Weather: Cold in the early morning, sunny and dry by midday, with occasional mountain winds