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Adventure Details

Join us on an unforgettable Ausangate 7 Lakes Peru Day Tour. We will take you to explore the beautiful 7 Lakes of Ausangate, near Cusco in the Vilcanota Mountains. You will witness breathtaking landscapes, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant colors in the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

During this full-day tour, we will visit seven incredible lakes, each with a unique charm. Azulcocha, one of the largest and deepest lakes, has a bright blue color that contrasts with the white Ausangate peak.

We will continue to Alqacocha, a turquoise lake surrounded by snow-capped mountains, offering a serene and peaceful atmosphere. Q’omercocha, also known as the “moon lake,” will amaze you with its perfect circular shape. Orqo Otorongo, located at a higher altitude, features water in a unique grayish tone. Finally, we will visit China Otorongo, the smallest lake, where the water changes between green and blue.

During the journey, you will enjoy the beautiful landscapes, clear water, and natural surroundings. The colors of these lakes range from turquoise and emerald green to deep blues and grays, shaped by minerals, depth, and sunlight. This day tour offers an immersive experience into the natural wonders of the Andes.

To make the day even more special, we will offer a chance to relax in natural hot springs. These thermal baths, located in the heart of the mountains, provide the perfect end to a day full of adventure. Expect great service and a memorable experience that will help you connect deeply with Peru’s majestic mountains.

Place of departure

Cusco

Departure time

Around 5:00 AM

What's Included in Your Package

Transportation: Round-trip transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back.
Breakfast: A delicious, energizing breakfast to start the day.
Lunch: A satisfying, traditional lunch during the tour.
Professional Guide: An experienced, bilingual guide to ensure a safe and informative experience throughout the day.

What is not included

Personal expenses: Any additional purchases or personal items.
Tips: Gratuities for the guide and driver.
Travel insurance: Personal travel or health insurance.
Additional snacks or beverages: Items not included in breakfast or lunch.
Horseback riding: Available as an optional extra at additional cost.

Complementaries

Valid ID or Passport: For identification purposes.
Waterproof jacket: Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable, so stay prepared for rain.
Sunscreen: Protect your skin from the strong mountain sun.
Sunglasses: Shield your eyes from the sun’s glare.
Hat or cap: To protect your head from sun exposure.
Comfortable hiking shoes: Essential for the day's hike and various terrains.
Layered clothing: Temperatures can change rapidly, so pack layers for warmth and comfort.
Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Snacks: Energy bars or fruit for a quick energy boost.
Altitude sickness medication: Highly recommended if you're not accustomed to high altitudes.
Camera: To capture the stunning landscapes and lakes.
Backpack: To carry your essentials while hiking.
Cash: For any personal purchases or tips.
Personal medications: Any necessary prescriptions or emergency medications.

Your Adventure Plan

Day 1Full-Day Adventure in the Ausangate Region

We will meet early in Cusco city and begin our journey to the Ausangate area. The scenic drive will take about 3 hours, offering views of stunning valleys and highland villages. Along the way, we will cross the high Andean plains, where the beauty of the Vilcanota Mountain Range will surround us.

When we arrive at the trailhead, we will start our hike to Azulcocha, one of the biggest and deepest lakes in the area. The color of this lake is an intense blue, which contrasts beautifully with the snow-capped Ausangate peak. You will have the chance to take pictures and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Next, we will head towards Otorongo, an elongated lake with a vibrant emerald green color. The lake’s shape and color make it a highlight of the tour. As we continue, we will visit Pucacocha, or “Red Lake,” which changes its color throughout the year. The rich colors are due to its mineral content and the light reflecting on the water.

Afterward, we will arrive at Alqacocha, a turquoise lake surrounded by majestic snow-capped peaks. The views here are breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photos. We will take a break to rest and absorb the tranquility of the landscape.

Later, we will explore Q’omercocha, also known as the “Moon Lake” due to its perfectly circular shape. The lake’s unique form and color make it another favorite spot on the tour.

Finally, we will reach the higher-altitude Orqo Otorongo with its greyish waters and China Otorongo, the smallest lake. Its water color can shift from green to blue, depending on the light. Each lake has its own distinctive charm and color, creating a diverse and unforgettable experience.

At the end of the day, we will return to Cusco, where we will drop you off at your hotel.

Tour Statistics:

Total Distance: 18 km (11 miles)
Highest Altitude: 4,700 meters (15,420 feet)
Lowest Altitude: 4,200 meters (13,780 feet)
Route: Circular route around the 7 Lakes of Ausangate
Difficulty Level: Moderate, with some uphill sections and high-altitude trekking

This day will provide a perfect combination of natural beauty, adventure, and relaxation. We will walk at a comfortable pace, allowing for plenty of time to explore and enjoy the incredible views.

Need help? Here it is

1What is the duration of the 7 Lakes of Ausangate Day Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from early morning departure in Cusco until we return in the evening.

2What is the best time to do the 7 Lakes of Ausangate Day Tour?

The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September. However, the tour is available year-round.

3Is the tour suitable for beginners or those not used to hiking?

The tour is moderate in difficulty and recommends participants with basic fitness. Some uphill sections and high altitudes may be challenging, but we will take breaks to adjust.

4What should we bring for the day hike?

We recommend carrying water, sunscreen, a hat, comfortable hiking shoes, and layered clothing for warmth and protection. Don’t forget your camera to capture the beautiful views.

5Will there be a professional guide during the tour?

Yes, a bilingual, professional guide will be with you throughout the day to ensure a safe and informative experience.

6Is altitude sickness a concern during the tour?

Altitude sickness can be a risk at high altitudes. We recommend taking precautions such as staying hydrated and carrying altitude sickness medication if needed. The guide will provide helpful tips during the tour.

7What will we see during the tour?

You will visit the 7 beautiful lakes of Ausangate, each with different colors and surrounded by snow-capped mountains. The tour also includes picturesque views of valleys, wildlife, and natural hot springs.

8Is lunch included in the 7 Lakes of Ausangate Day Tour?

Yes, we will provide a traditional lunch during the tour at one of the scenic stops.

9Do I need to be in excellent physical condition for this tour?

While the hike isn’t extremely strenuous, we recommend that participants have a basic level of fitness. The high-altitude conditions might make some sections more challenging.

2 Reviews

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Amelia T.

Solo Traveller

I’ve been to many places, but the 7 Lakes of Ausangate day tour was one of the most amazing experiences I’ve had.

The lakes were stunning, and the colors were so vibrant. The tour was well-organized, and the guide provided a lot of useful information. I felt safe throughout the entire day. A must-do when in Peru!

September 15, 2024

Saul L.

Solo Traveller

I couldn’t believe how beautiful the lakes were, each one had a different color, from turquoise to deep green. The hike was challenging but manageable.

The professional guide kept the pace steady, and we had plenty of time to rest. The lunch was delicious, and the transportation was comfortable. Highly recommend this tour to nature lovers and adventurers!

December 16, 2023

7 Lakes of Ausangate – Ausangate 7 Lakes Day Tour

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