Ausangate and the 7 Lakes

Ausangate and the 7 Lagoons: Sacred Nature and Adventure in the Peruvian Andes

Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the imposing Ausangate—over 6,300 meters above sea level—is a sacred mountain for Andean indigenous communities. More than just a natural attraction, this snow-capped mountain is part of a spiritual and cultural landscape deeply rooted in the region’s ancestral traditions.

At its foot lies the 7 Lagoons circuit, a collection of glacial bodies of water, each with unique hues ranging from emerald green to deep blue. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, these lagoons not only captivate with their beauty but also constitute ecosystems of high ecological value, home to endemic species of flora and fauna adapted to life at altitude.

A visit to Ausangate and its 7 lagoons offers much more than photogenic landscapes: it’s an immersive experience immersed in the biodiversity of the Andes and the living legacy of its indigenous peoples. Activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and interacting with local communities allow travelers to connect with both nature and the spirituality of the place. Thus, this destination is consolidated as a must-see gem of nature and cultural tourism in Peru.

Location of Ausangate and the 7 Lagoons

• Region: Cusco, Peru
• Province: Quispicanchi
• District: Ocongate
• Usual starting point: Pacchanta Community

Nevado Ausangate is part of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, southeast of Cusco. The 7 Lagunas are located in the lower reaches of Ausangate, near the town of Pacchanta, and are accessed via trekking routes or on horseback.

Access to Ausangate and the 7 Lagoons

1. From Cusco to Pacchanta (by road)

• Duration: 3.5 to 4 hours by vehicle
• Main route:
• Leave Cusco heading south (Interoceanic Highway)
• Pass through Urcos and Ocongate
• Continue to the town of Tinke
• From Tinke, take a dirt detour to Pacchanta (approx. 45 min)
• Pacchanta is the starting point for trekking or horseback riding to the lagoons.

2. From Pacchanta to the 7 Lagoons (on foot or horseback)

• Hiking time: 4 to 5 hours (round trip)
• Horseback riding time: 3 to 4 hours (round trip)
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, due to the altitude (4,200–4,600 m above sea level)
• The route is a circuit that allows you to visit 7 glacial lagoons: Pucacocha, Hatun Pucacocha, Qomercocha, Azulcocha, Otorongo, Alqacocha, and Orco Otorongo.

The 7 Ausangate Lagoons: Description and Differences

These lagoons are located between 4,200 and 4,600 meters above sea level, in the community of Pacchanta, on the route to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain. Each one has its own color, mineral composition, and symbolism within the Andean worldview.

1.🟢 Qomercocha (“Green Lagoon”)

• Predominant Color: Emerald Green
• Approx. Height: 4,500 m
• Origin: Glacier
• Characteristics: Noted for its intense color, a product of algae and minerals present at the bottom.
• Meaning: Symbolizes fertility and growth; it is one of the most venerated lagoons.

2. 🔴 Pucacocha (“Red Lagoon”)

• Predominant Color: Dark red/copper
• Approx. Height: 4,450 m
• Origin: Glacier with iron-rich sediments
• Characteristics: Its color intensifies depending on sunlight.
• Meaning: Associated with vital energy and the power of the earth.

3. 🔵 Azulcocha (“Blue Lagoon”)

• Predominant Color: Deep Blue
• Approx. Height: 4,480 m
• Origin: Glacier
• Characteristics: Surrounded by snow-capped mountains, with very cold waters and clear reflections.
• Meaning: Represents calm, balance, and spiritual connection.

4. ⚫ Otorongo Cocha (“Otorongo Lagoon”)

• Predominant Color: Dark green / almost black
• Approx. Height: 4,420 m
• Origin: Glacier
• Characteristics: Its name comes from the otorongo (jaguar), a symbol of power.
• Meaning: Considered mystical and protective; it is believed to have a guardian spirit.

5. ⚪ Orco Otorongo Cocha (“Male Otorongo Lagoon”)

• Predominant Color: Light green to turquoise
• Approx. Height: 4,400 m
• Origin: Glacier
• Characteristics: Similar to Otorongo Cocha, but brighter.
• Meaning: Said to represent the sacred gender duality in nature (male and female).

6. 🟣 Alqacocha (“White Lagoon” or “Fox Lagoon”)

• Predominant Color: Turquoise with light tones
• Approx. Height: 4,460 m
• Origin: Glacier
• Characteristics: Calm waters with a clear bottom.
• Meaning: Associated with the cunning of the fox in Andean myths; it also represents protection.

7. 🟠 Hatun Pucacocha (“Great Red Lagoon”)

• Predominant Color: Deep red/orange
• Approx. Height: 4,500 m
• Origin: Glacial melting
• Characteristics: This is the largest lagoon in the circuit; highly mineralized.
• Meaning: Represents Mother Earth in her most fertile and powerful form.

🧭 Key differences

Lagoon	Color	Main meaning	Unique feature
Qomercocha	Green	Fertility	Intense color due to algae
Pucacocha	Red	Life force	High concentration of iron
Azulcocha	Deep blue	Spiritual balance	Almost perfect reflection of the sky
Otorongo Cocha	Dark green	Power and mysticism	Relationship with the Andean jaguar
Orco Otorongo	Turquoise	Duality and protection	Spiritual couple of Otorongo Cocha
Alqacocha	Light turquoise	Cunning / Guardianship	Name linked to the Andean fox
Hatun Pucacocha	Deep red	Abundance and fertility	La laguna más grande del circuito

Seasonal Climate in Ausangate and the 7 Lagoons

The climate in Ausangate and the 7 Lagunas is determined by its location in the southern Peruvian Andes and its high altitude (between 4,200 and over 6,000 meters above sea level). This creates extreme weather conditions, with year-round cold temperatures, sudden changes in climate, and distinct dry and rainy seasons.

☀️ Dry season (April to October) – Best time to visit

• Climate: Cold and dry
• Average temperatures:

Day: 5°C to 15°C
Night/Early Morning: -5°C to -10°C

• Skies: Clear or partly cloudy
• Trail conditions: Dry, ideal for trekking and horseback riding

• Recommendation: This is the perfect season for this route, with greater visibility of the mountains and vibrant colors in the lagoons.

🌧️ Rainy season (November to March)

• Climate: Cold and humid
• Average temperatures:

Day: 5°C to 12°C
Night: 0°C to -3°C

• Rainfall: Frequent in the afternoons, with the possibility of hail and thunderstorms
• Road conditions: Slippery and muddy

• Risks: Increased difficulty for hiking or horseback riding; reduced visibility

🧭 General conditions throughout the year

Factor: Details
Altitude: 4,200–4,600 m (lakes) / >6,300 m (summit)
Solar radiation: Very high: sunscreen essential
Wind: Common, especially in open areas
Snow: Possible at any time, more common during rainy season
Relative humidity: Medium to high (60–80% in the wet season)

Biodiversity on the Route to the Seven Lagoons of Ausangate:

The route to the Seven Lakes of Ausangate, located in the Vilcanota Mountains (Cusco, Peru), not only offers spectacular landscapes but also a rich Andean biodiversity, influenced by the altitude, glaciers, high Andean lakes, and grasslands. Below is a detailed summary of the biodiversity you can expect:

Flora on the Route to the 7 Lagoons

1. Humid and Dry High Andean Puna

These zones are located between 4,000 and 4,800 meters above sea level.

• Ichu (Stipa ichu): The predominant grass in high-altitude grasslands, a food source for camelids.
• Yareta (Azorella compacta): A cushion-shaped plant that grows in very cold and rocky areas.
• Queñua (Polylepis spp.): Cold-resistant trees that grow in protected areas at lower altitudes.
• Chachacomo, ch’iri ch’iri, puyas, and other medicinal or ritual plants.

Fauna on the Route

Andean Camelids

• Alpacas and llamas: domesticated, common in the fields around Pacchanta.
• Vicuñas: wild and protected; sometimes seen in more remote areas.

High Andean Birds

• Andean Condor (Vultur gryphus): difficult to see, but possible on clear days.
• Torrent Duck (Merganetta armata): in meltwater streams.
• Andean Ibis, Harriers, Caracaras, Puna Ibis, and migratory birds during the rainy season.
• Giant Hummingbird (Patagona gigas): in transition zones toward high Andean forests.

Wild Mammals

• Andean Fox (Lycalopex culpaeus): occasional, especially in the early morning or at dusk.
• Vizcacha: a type of rodent similar to a chinchilla, visible among sun-drenched rocks.

Options for exploring the Ausangate trail

Discover the most breathtaking treks in the Peruvian Andes, where the majestic Ausangate (6,372 meters) and the iconic Rainbow Mountain await, offering surreal landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and ancient cultures. From short 1-day adventures to epic 7-day expeditions, our routes provide unique experiences for all travelers, whether conquering sacred peaks, exploring multicolored valleys, or connecting with Quechua communities. Perfect for nature lovers, photographers, and adventurers, these hikes blend challenge, scenic beauty, and authenticity, far from mass tourism crowds.

Trek Type	Duration	Description
Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek 3 Days	3 days / 2 nights	Embark on an unforgettable 3-day trek to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain, one of the most spectacular hiking routes in the world. Explore breathtaking Andean landscapes, from turquoise lagoons to the famous Vinicunca, while traversing trails surrounded by pristine nature and traditional culture. Perfect for adventurous travelers whether solo, with a partner, or in a group, this trek blends challenge, scenic beauty, and unique moments under the Andean sky.
The Classic Ausangate Trek	5 days / 4 nights	For trekking and nature enthusiasts, the hike to Ausangate offers the ultimate experience in Cusco. It guides you through surreal landscapes toward the most significant glacier in southern Peru: the majestic Ausangate (6,372 meters / 20,905 feet). This epic route combines adventure, Andean culture, and panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lagoons, and unique wildlife, making it one of the best hikes in the world.
Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 Days	4 days / 3 nights	Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain: Epic Trek in the Peruvian AndesEscape the crowds, conquer surreal landscapes (5,000+ meters above sea level), and connect with Quechua cultures. Best explored during the dry season (April to November).
Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, & Red Valley	2 days / 1 night	If you’re looking for short, adventure-filled getaways from Cusco, our 2-day tour to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the Red Valley will take you to surreal landscapes that seem straight out of a dream. With an expert guide, you’ll explore the stunning geological formation of Rainbow Mountain, where vibrant colors will leave you breathless, and the enigmatic Red Valley, a Martian-like landscape in the heart of the Andes. Perfect for travelers seeking unique and off-the-beaten-path experiences, this tour combines pristine nature, spectacular photography opportunities, and Andean culture.
The Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike	1 day	Experience the magic of the Andes with this trek to the 7 Vilcanota Lagoons, where the majestic Ausangate (6,384 meters) guards turquoise and emerald lagoons in a dreamlike landscape. Perfect for nature lovers and photographers, this journey showcases the best of the Vilcanota Mountain Range in a day full of adventure and a deep connection with Pachamama.
Machu Picchu, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain.	7 days / 6 nights	Discover the highlights of Cusco in one unforgettable journey: Machu Picchu, the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Ausangate, and a City Tour. Our all-inclusive 7-day package offers a perfectly planned experience with expert guides, transportation, and accommodation.
Ausangate & Sibinacocha Lagoon	7 days / 6 nights	Discover a unique version of the Ausangate trek (6,372 meters) along less-traveled trails. You’ll engage with Andean communities, enjoy hot springs, and admire crystal-clear lagoons with views of the sacred glacier. The highlight: the magical Sibinacocha Lagoon, a tranquil haven perfect for connecting with nature. This trek is ideal for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from mass tourism.

The distance of the tour may vary depending on the itinerary and the agency selected.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

The journey to Ausangate and the 7 Lakes through horseback riding is not merely an adventure; it is an experience that can profoundly alter one’s perspective on nature and life itself. As riders traverse the lush valleys and lofty peaks of the Andes, they bear witness to breathtaking landscapes, vibrant ecosystems, and the soothing sounds of nature. This expedition encourages individuals to step outside their comfort zones, embracing the challenges and triumphs that come with horseback riding in such a stunning environment.

Experiencing the pristine beauty of Ausangate and its surrounding lakes serves as a reminder of the transformative power of nature. In our fast-paced, modern world, it’s easy to become disconnected from the natural environment. Horseback riding brings people closer to the earth, fostering a sense of harmony and grounding. The gentle rhythm of the horse and the fresh mountain air invigorate the spirit, prompting introspection and clarity.

Adventure travel, such as a horseback riding trip to Ausangate, offers a unique opportunity to embrace new experiences, broaden horizons, and meet like-minded individuals. Each ride nurtures not only physical strength but also mental resilience, as riders learn through overcoming the difficulties of navigation and elevation in breathtaking settings. Such journeys inspire lasting memories that elevate one’s understanding of the world and their place within it.

To anyone contemplating this remarkable horseback riding experience, consider it an invitation to step into a world of wonder. The trip to Ausangate and the 7 Lakes promises not only scenic beauty but also personal growth and a renewed appreciation for the outdoors. It is a chance to create unforgettable moments and stories to share, making it an adventure worth embracing.