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The Ausangate has a history that spans thousands of years. In Andean religion, it holds the utmost importance as the principal Apu, or sacred mountain, of the Cusco region. Being a snow-capped peak, its melting waters feed the seven surrounding lagoons. Additionally, it symbolizes male energy and is believed to bestow fertility upon Mother Earth (Pachamama) through these waters. For centuries, Andean shamans have journeyed to Ausangate to seek its acceptance and energy for new initiates. Even today, it remains a profoundly mystical place for healers who adhere to Inca traditions.
Next, we will tell you everything you need to know about the Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek, a 1-day hike that visitors will never forget!
ITINERARY
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- Early in the morning, we board a bus headed to Pacchanta village, a picturesque destination southeast of Cusco City. The journey lasts approximately 6 hours, offering breathtaking views of the Andean natural landscapes as we ascend to higher altitudes, surrounded by massive mountains that are akin to the Ausangate.
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- Upon reaching Pacchanta, we will enjoy a hearty breakfast and a brief rest before embarking on the walking portion of the Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek. The hike to and from the Ausangate spot spans about 5 hours, covering nearly 8 km (5 miles) each way. The altitude gradually increases from around 4,200 meters above sea level to 4,750 meters (13,779 to 15,583 feet).
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- Along the trail to the sacred mountain, visitors will encounter the unique and typical Andean fauna thriving in their natural habitat amidst the towering heights of the range. Llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and even the majestic condor can be spotted along the way.
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- Surrounding the Ausangate spot are the seven stunning lagoons: Azulcocha (shining blue waters), Orco otorongo (referring to a male otorongo, a Peruvian jaguar, symbolizing strength in Andean religion), China otorongo (the female otorongo), Puqacocha (with brownish waters), Qomercocha (green shining waters), Alqacocha (blue waters), and Patacocha (blue waters).
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- The Ausangate mountain looms majestically, resembling a colossal stone animal drinking from the lagoons, with other prominent snow-capped peaks dotting the landscape. The beauty of the lagoons and the imposing presence of the mountains create an otherworldly atmosphere, reminiscent of a scene from a science fiction movie.
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- The Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek offers unparalleled opportunities for capturing spectacular photographs and videos. Additionally, the trek takes you to a place of strong natural energy flow, where you can connect with the energy of the mountains, the lagoons, and the valley, experiencing absolute tranquility and silence as if transported back millions of years in time.
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- And the adventure doesn’t end there! On the return journey from the lagoons, the warm and soothing thermal baths of Pacchanta await. Here, you can relax in the hot water, soothing your body and muscles, all while enjoying unforgettable views of the mountain range.
CLOTHING
The Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek takes place at altitudes higher than 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), where climate conditions are cold. We certainly recommend you bring warm garments, but also dress in layers because sometimes it may happen that the Sun is shining and weather is warmer. Here is what we recommend hikers to wear:
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- Sun hat, cap or woolen hood
- Sunglasses
- Sunblock
- Warm scarf
- Polyester t-shirt (for better absorption of sweat, does not stick to the body)
- Sweater
- Warm, windproof trekking jacket
- Gloves
- Nylon pant
- Sport socks
- Used hiking boots (to avoid blistering of the feet), waterproof
- A light backpack, only with essentials
USEFUL TIPS
Here we give varied information that can surely help for the Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek:
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- Arrive at Cusco City a few days before the tour, for acclimatization. At higher altitudes, air oxygen is scarce and the body has to adjust. Additionally, you could do the beautiful City Tour
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- Drink plenty of natural, no gas water
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- If you still feel altitude sickness, there are natural pills which can be bought at any drugstore
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- The day of the Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek, take with you a reusable bottle of hot coca leaves tea. This is an old Inca trick, for coca leaves improve resistance, give energy, greatly reduces hunger and pain, are good for digestion and fight altitude sickness
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- Just in case, bring some snacks like fruits or energy bars for the trek. You might get a little hungry while hiking across the lagoons and mountains. Also natural water in a refillable bottle
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- A hiking pole will really help with balance and traction. If you don’t have one for the trek, we have them for rent
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- If you want to enjoy the thermal baths in Pacchanta village, bring a bathing suit, towel and sandals
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- Always have your passport at hand and bring cash in Peruvian currency (soles) for expenses or purchases you may want to do on the trek (for example, the entrance ticket to the Pacchanta hot springs is not included)
Although new, this trek is becoming trendy, popular. Currently, it is categorized as an adventure-mystical hike, because the Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek combines going across very high Andean paths to arrive at a spot which even nowadays is sacred for local people.
So, this is everything you should know before doing the Seven Lagoons Ausangate Trek, a full-day unforgettable adventure! Talk to our travel specialists and book a really great vacation in the Andean range!
