The 7 Lakes Route (Ausangate): A Trekking Guide

The 7 Lakes Route (Ausangate)

The “7 Lakes” route in Cusco is a trekking experience that takes travelers through breathtaking landscapes featuring several lakes of astonishing colors, surrounded by snow-capped mountains and diverse flora. The route is located in the Ausangate region, near the glacier of the same name — one of Peru’s highest peaks and sacred to Andean peoples.

Basic Information

• Location: Ocongate district, Quispicanchi province, within Ausangate National Park, Cusco region
• Altitude: 4,200–4,800 m above sea level
• Duration: Full day, or 2 days with overnight camping for a more relaxed experience
• Difficulty: Moderate to difficult — good fitness required

How to Get to Pacchanta (Starting Point)

• Public transport: Bus from Cusco to Tinki (~4–5 hrs total), then local taxi to Pacchanta.
• Private transport: Hire a private car or taxi directly from Cusco to Pacchanta for more flexibility.
• Pacchanta is a small village at ~4,200 m, known for its natural thermal baths — ideal for recovery after the trek.

The 7 Lakes

The full route covers approximately 15–20 km from Pacchanta, passing 7 main lakes:

1. Laguna Azulcocha — Deep blue waters; one of the first lakes on the route.
2. Laguna Otorongo — Surrounded by rocky formations and high-altitude vegetation; two lakes (Otorongo Macho and Otorongo Hembra).
3. Laguna Pucacocha — “Red lake” in Quechua; waters reflect a reddish hue in certain light.
4. Laguna Alqacocha — Crystal-clear waters with perfect mountain reflections; ideal for a rest stop.
5. Laguna Q’omercocha — “Green lagoon”; emerald-colored waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
6. Laguna Yanacocha — “Black lagoon”; mountain shadows create a striking visual contrast.
7. Laguna Huchuy Pucacocha — Smaller but equally beautiful, surrounded by vegetation and grasslands.

Highlights Along the Route

• Spectacular views of the Ausangate glacier and surrounding peaks
• Alpaca and llama herds grazing along the trail
• Andean birds including the condor
• Pacchanta thermal baths for post-trek relaxation

Tips

• Acclimatize for at least 2–3 days in Cusco before the trek.
• Clothing: Layered clothing, waterproof jacket, gloves, and hat.
• Footwear: Trekking boots with ankle support — trails can be rocky and slippery.
• Backpack: Water, energy snacks, camera, rain poncho, and trekking poles.
• Local guide: Strongly recommended for navigation and local knowledge.
• Respect nature and culture: No littering; respect flora, fauna, and sacred Andean sites.

Best Time to Visit

• Dry season (May–September): Stable weather, clear skies, safer trails — ideal for trekking.
• Rainy season (November–March): Slippery trails and reduced visibility, but lush, green scenery.