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Description
Discover one of Peru's most rewarding hiking experiences on the slopes of Ausangate, the third highest mountain in Peru (6,384 meters) and considered a very important divinity in Andean culture. This challenging 2-day trek takes you through pristine mountain landscapes to seven beautiful lagoons with varying colors and characteristics. Day 1 begins with an early 4:30 AM departure from your Cusco hotel and a 3-hour drive to Tinke and Pacchanta communities. After a pre-trek breakfast, embark on a 5-hour guided hike to explore the seven lagoons: Pucacocha (the chocolate lagoon at 4,500m), Patacocha (4,860m), Alqacocha, Qomercocha (turquoise waters), Otorongo (split into two sections), and the dark blue Azulqocha. Along the way, observe native Andean wildlife including alpacas, llamas, vizcachas, and mountain birds. Experience an Andean lunch and camp overnight at the mountain base. Day 2 includes a return trek, lunch at Pacchata, and a therapeutic visit to natural hot springs before returning to Cusco by mid-afternoon. This trek is designed for experienced hikers seeking authentic cultural immersion and spectacular high-altitude mountain scenery.
Detailed Itinerary
1
Cusco to Pacchanta - High Altitude Lagoons Trek
Early morning 4:30 AM departure from hotel. Transfer to Tinke and Pacchanta communities (136 km, approximately 3 hours by vehicle). Pre-trek breakfast upon arrival. Begin guided 5-hour hike to explore the seven lagoons of Ausangate: Pucacocha (chocolate-colored waters at 4,500m), Patacocha (4,860m), Alqacocha, Qomercocha (turquoise waters), Otorongo (two sections), and Azulqocha (dark blue waters). Observe native wildlife including alpacas, llamas, vizcachas, and mountain birds. Experience Andean lunch in the mountains. Return to campsite at approximately 1:30 PM. Participate in traditional Andean dinner preparation. Evening storytelling and cultural activities with local residents. Overnight camping at mountain base (approximately 4,500m elevation).
Comidas: All Meals
Alojamiento: Mountain campsite with tent and sleeping bag
Dificultad: challenging
Hotel Pickup in Cusco
04:30 AMTinke & Pacchanta Communities
07:30 AMGateway to Ausangate trek at 3,780m elevation
Pucacocha - Chocolate Lagoon (4,500m)
08:30 AMFirst of seven lagoons with brown-colored waters
Patacocha Lagoon (4,860m) - Highest Point
10:00 AMHighest lagoon with clear turquoise waters
Alqacocha & Qomercocha Lagoons
12:00 PMSpectacular views of Vilcanota range and turquoise waters
Otorongo & Azulqocha Lagoons
01:30 PMAndean lunch stop with views of glaciers and dark blue lagoon waters
Mountain Base Camp (4,500m)
02:00 PMDuración: Overnight camping
2
Pacchanta Descent and Thermal Springs Return to Cusco
Return trek from mountain camp following the same scenic route. Breakfast at mountain camp before descent. Lunch at Pacchata community. Soak in natural thermal hot springs (Pacchanta aguas termales) famous for therapeutic properties. Shower facilities and dry clothes available. Afternoon transfer back to Cusco hotel, arriving approximately 3:30 PM. Optional time for relaxation after the challenging trek.
Comidas: Breakfast and Lunch
Alojamiento: Return to Cusco hotel
Dificultad: challenging
Mountain Camp Breakfast & Descent
06:00 AMPacchata Community Lunch
11:30 AMPacchanta Thermal Hot Springs
01:00 PMNatural thermal springs with therapeutic properties. Perfect for relaxation after trekking.
Return to Cusco Hotel
03:30 PMTour Details
Includes
- Round-trip transportation from Cusco to Pacchanta
- Professional English-speaking mountain guide
- Two lunches (Day 1 and Day 2)
- One dinner at mountain camp
- Two breakfasts
- One night camping at mountain base with tent
- Sleeping bag provision
- Visit to natural hot springs (Pacchanta thermal waters)
- Cultural immersion with local Andean communities
- Wildlife observation (alpacas, llamas, vizcachas, mountain birds)
Not Included
- Mountain entrance fee (15 soles, paid locally)
- Sleeping bag rental (USD $9, if needed)
- Travel insurance
- Personal snacks and supplies
- Guide and staff tips
- Additional personal expenses











