In short
- Ausangate is a 4 to 6-hour hike spanning 10 to 16 km.
- The 7 Lakes circuit features fewer crowds and hot springs.
- Both high-altitude treks require acclimatization in Cusco first.
In this article
If you have limited time in Cusco, you might need to choose one high-altitude day trip. Use this comparison to see which trek matches your schedule and fitness level.
How do crowd levels compare?
Ausangate 7 Lakes offers a quieter experience with fewer hikers on the trail.
The Ausangate circuit spreads visitors out over a 10 to 16 km route. You will mostly share the trail with local alpacas and small trekking groups.
Which hike is more difficult?
Ausangate requires more endurance due to its longer walking distance.
The 7 Lakes circuit takes 4 to 6 hours to complete. The highest elevation point reaches approximately 4,800 meters (15,748 ft). You must acclimatize in Cusco for at least a day or two before attempting this trek.
What scenery will I see on the Ausangate trek?
The Ausangate trail features seven distinct colored glacial lakes.
You will walk past bright turquoise, emerald green, and deep blue lakes. These waters are fed by the Ausangate glacier. The route also offers close views of snow-capped peaks in the Vilcanota Range.
What makes the Ausangate 7 Lakes experience unique?
The hike ends in the traditional Andean community of Pacchanta, home to natural thermal baths.
After hiking for several hours, you can soak in the Pacchanta hot springs. The entry fee is 5 to 10 extra soles. You can also view alpaca and llama pastures around the village.
Is it possible to do Ausangate 7 lakes and Rainbow Mountain in one day?
No, combining both treks into a single day trip from Cusco is not feasible.
The drive to Pacchanta alone takes 3 hours each way. Completing the 10 to 16 km hike requires another 4 to 6 hours. Both destinations require early morning starts and full-day commitments.
Questions travellers ask
Do you need a guide for the Ausangate 7 lakes?
Guided tours provide round-trip transport from Cusco and meals. You can hike independently by taking a minibus to Tinki, but a tour simplifies the 3-hour drive.
Can you rent a horse for the Ausangate 7 lakes?
Yes, horse rentals are available from the local community in Pacchanta for around 80 soles round trip.
Are the Pacchanta hot springs worth it?
Yes, the thermal baths offer a relaxing soak with views of the Ausangate snow-capped peak. Entry costs an additional 5 to 10 soles.
