Ausangate Trek: Everything You Need to Know
What attractions will we visit in these 4 days?
We will visit the 7 lakes of Ausangate, each one with its unique location, name, and is distinct in color and history:
Laguna Azulcocha
Location: 4,610 meters above sea level (15,128 feet).
The name of this lake, “Azulcocha,” derives from the combination of two words in Quechua, an indigenous language spoken by the local people. “Azul,” in reference to the characteristic color of its waters, and “Cocha,” which means “lagoon” in Spanish. This name reflects the ancestral connection of the lake with the Ausangate glacier, considered sacred by the local communities. Additionally, these lakes host a rich diversity of animal life in their waters, making them spaces of great ecological and cultural importance for the region.
Laguna Pata Cocha
Location: 4,867 meters above sea level (15,968 feet).
The crystal-clear waters of Laguna Pata Cocha, whose name in Quechua means “above,” are named so due to their altitude, as it is almost near the impressive Ausangate, offering exceptional clarity with a privileged view of the Ausangate glacier. This lake, located in the heights of the Andes, stands out for the transparency of its waters, allowing for a clearer, more detailed, and transparent view.
Laguna Pucacocha
Location: 4,491 meters above sea level (14,734 feet).
Laguna Pucacocha, whose name in Quechua means “red lagoon,” is named so due to the impressive reddish hue that its waters acquire at certain times of the year, a phenomenon caused by the presence of specific microorganisms and minerals. Besides its scenic value, Pucacocha holds deep cultural significance for local communities, who consider it a sacred site, a source of life and spirituality.
Laguna Alqacocha
Location: 4,752 meters above sea level (18,871 feet).
Laguna Alqacocha, translated from Quechua as “two-colored lagoon.” Its name reflects the remarkable chromatic duality that defines its waters, creating a landscape of unique beauty.
Laguna Q’omercocha
Location: 4,666 meters above sea level (15,312 feet).
Laguna Qomercocha, meaning “green lagoon,” stands out from the others due to its distinctive emerald color that characterizes its waters, the result of the presence of specific minerals and algae.
Laguna Orqo Otorongo
Location: 4,620 meters above sea level (15,157 feet).
This particular lagoon is named after a specific feline, the “Uturunku,” derived from the Quechua language. In Spanish, as its name suggests, it refers to the jaguar. Why this association? Because this beautiful lagoon presents spots along its extent, similar to the pattern of the jaguar.
Returning to the topic of Laguna Otorongo, its name derives from the Quechua term “Uturunku,” which refers to the jaguar due to the spots that characterize its waters, and in local culture, this term is linked to the male gender of these felines, as “orqo” in Spanish means male. It is believed that the waters of this lagoon, located around Ausangate, are calmer compared to the female lagoon, reflecting an analogy with behavior in wildlife.
Laguna China Otorongo
Location: 4,630 meters above sea level (15,190 feet).
On the other hand, we have this lagoon, Laguna China Otorongo, whose name in Quechua refers to the term “female.” This correlation between the two lagoons can be interpreted symbolically, as it is said that the waters of China Otorongo are more turbulent and less serene compared to their male counterpart (Orqo Otorongo), possibly reflecting more territorial behavior, similar to that of female jaguars in the wild.
Pacchanta Hot Springs
After concluding your experience exploring the Seven Lakes, you have the option to enjoy the Pacchanta Hot Springs. Did you know that these hot springs are located specifically in Ausangate, more precisely in Pacchanta, at an altitude of 4,200 meters above sea level, in the community of Ausangate, district of Ocongate? Here, you can enjoy a well-deserved bath in these hot springs, which come directly from the lakes, to relax your body and mind.
Can you swim in these lagoons?
Unfortunately, swimming in these lagoons is not a safe option, as it could pose a risk both to you and to the biodiversity that inhabits their waters.
Location of Ausangate
Ausangate is a mountain located in the southern Andes of Peru, in the Cusco region. It is approximately 100 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco and is considered one of the highest mountains in the region, with an altitude of approximately 6,384 meters above sea level (20,945 feet).
Height of Ausangate
The Ausangate glacier, or Ausangate peak, stands out for its extraordinary beauty and imposing height, reaching approximately 6,384 meters above sea level (20,945 feet).
Best time to visit this destination
Exploring the majestic Ausangate becomes even more rewarding during Cusco’s dry season, which runs from May to October. This period offers optimal conditions for a trouble-free adventure, as the chances of rain are minimal.
Hiking time to Ausangate & 7 Lagoons
Our adventure begins in the village of Tinqui, from where we will start our 4-day adventure.
How to get to Ausangate?
To reach the Ausangate glacier & the 7 lagoons, from Cusco, you can take land transportation, either by bus or private vehicle, to the village of Tinqui, located approximately 3 hours away. Once in Tinqui, the journey continues on foot, following a well-marked trail that leads through beautiful Andean landscapes until reaching the base camp in Upis.
What animals are in Ausangate?
During our hike to Ausangate, we will marvel at the diversity of animals that inhabit the region. We may see llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully, while huallatas will surprise us with their elegant flights. Additionally, we will have the chance to encounter the charming Andean rabbits and, if we are really lucky, we might have a close encounter with the elusive vicuña.
Camps and Souvenirs
We understand that this will be an adventure that will take several days, as we will be exploring the Ausangate route for 4 days. But don’t worry, we have planned every detail and are fully prepared for you to enjoy this experience to the fullest. We have a complete team that includes expert cooks and porters from the local communities, who will support us by carrying our belongings and equipment, as well as preparing delicious meals during our journey. Your only concern will be to enjoy the scenery and the adventure that awaits us.
The Best Time to Leave Cusco and Why?
We personally recommend starting the tour at 4 or 5 in the morning to make the most of the day and begin our adventure as early as possible. However, don’t worry; if you opt for a private service, you can choose the start time according to your preferences and needs.
Is Private or Group Availability Offered?
For this particular 4-day tour, we are currently only offering private tours. However, if you are traveling in a large group of more than three people, whether with family or friends, we will be happy to organize the tour for you.
History of Ausangate
The Ausangate Mountain, revered as the sacred Apu that gives life to our land, is honored by our community as “The Creator of Waters.” Its majestic glacier feeds the natural formations that bring life to our region, including the emblematic Sivinacocha Lagoon. According to Andean mythology, this lagoon represents the masculine energy that fertilizes Mother Earth, Pachamama, nourishing us with its abundance and vitality.
Our ancestors have taught us that Ausangate is the guardian of numerous sacred lagoons that adorn our mountains. These turquoise and multicolored waters, a reflection of the purity and serenity of the mountain’s spirit, are venerated as sources of life and spiritual energy. In addition to Sivinacocha, other lagoons, such as the 7 Lagoons, are guarded by the Apus of Ausangate, each with its own history and significance in the culture of our community.
Through generations, these waters have been a source of blessings and prosperity for its people. Beyond their spiritual value, the lagoons of Ausangate are also vital resources for their livelihood, providing water for irrigating crops, as well as hydroelectric energy for their region. And among the mountains, we have the hot springs, which emerge from deep within the earth, offering healing and renewal to those seeking their curative power.
In Ausangate, the waters are the very essence of our existence, a tangible expression of the sacred bond between the land and its children. Each lagoon, each stream, is a living story that connects us with our ancestors, with nature, and with the divine spirit that resides in everything around us.
Itinerary to Ausangate
Day 1: Cusco & Tinki & Pumaccocha
At 0400 AM, we will be picking you up from your hotel in Cusco and embark on a three hours drive to Tinqui. Here we will be stopping for breakfast. Our guide will be introducing you to our porters and chef before we begin our four hours of hike to Upis.
The trek offers an introduction to the local traditions and customs. You will get an insight into their way of life, traditions, and culture.
Upis is home to the hot springs. Here you can take a rejuvenating dip to relax your muscles and enjoy the place before lunch with a beautiful panoramic view of the mountain Ausangate 6.372m.
After lunch, we will continue hiking between valleys, mountains, and lagoons. On this section of the trek, you will be rewarded with sights of stunning Andean landscapes. Our campsite for the night will be in Pumacocha (3950m).
Our Andean chef will be serving a traditional meal.
Day 2: Pumaccocha & Huchuy Phinaya
At 0600 AM, after relishing a typical Andean breakfast, we will begin with a four-hour hike up the hill to Ausangate Lagoon.
The hike offers stunning and panoramic views of the Andean lagoon alpacas and llamas.
Also, the second day is somewhat challenging as we will be crossing two high passes. The first is Ausangate Mountain Pass or Arapa Pass at 4,780m and the second one is Palomani Pass at 5,121 meters above sea level.
We will be stopping for lunch at Palomani Pass, the highest point of the Ausangate Trail.
Our mountaineering expert will be sharing some interesting facts about the pass and its prominence in Andean mythology.
Once you have had your fill of this, we will be descending to the small town of Huchuy Phinaya. This will be our campsite for the night.
Day 3: Huchuy Phinaya & Azul Cocha Lake
After relishing an Andean breakfast, at 0600 AM, we will start with a six hours hike to Laguna de Tika Cocha. This is another site on the trek that offers stunning views of high-altitude peaks and colorful lagoons. You will also get to see Vicuñas and Andean Birds here.
We will also be hiking through the picturesque high elevation lake, Laguna Jampaccasa which nestles at 5,084 meters above sea level right in the middle of beautiful and mysterious mountains. This will be the last pass of our trip.
From here, we will begin our descent to Laguna Tikacocha where we will be stopping for lunch. After lunch, we will hike to Laguna Azul Cocha where we will be camping for the night.
Day 4: Azul Cocha Lake & Tinki & Cusco
We will be serving breakfast at 0630 AM. Then we will start with an easy hike for four hours to the village of Tinqui. The last day of the Ausangate Trek Peru is easy, beautiful, and interesting. You will see many natives dressed in their traditional attires and doing their daily chores.
Our local expert will be introducing you to their traditions and cultures. We will be stopping here for lunch.
After lunch, we will be driving back to Cusco city. We will be reaching by 0500 PM.
Include:
- Pick up from your hotel.
- Private bus (around trip).
- Professional Tour Guide(English and Spanish speaking).
- 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch(buffet).
- First-aid kit.
- Oxygen tank.
Not Include:
- Alcoholic drinks and others not mentioned on the list.
- Dinner.
- Rain poncho (can be bought anywhere in the city or along the trail).
- Entrance fee.
Packing List
- Daypack, warm clothes (scarf, sweaters, rainjacket, gloves)
- Walking boots.
- Walking sticks
- Rain poncho
- Sun hat + sunglasses.
- Toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
- Sun cream
- Camera & Extra Film & Batteries
- Personal medical kit
