The day begins early, under a blanket of stars, as we pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 4:30 AM. The city is still asleep, but the promise of adventure in the Andes is already calling. We set off on a scenic 3-hour drive through the rugged landscapes of the Cusco region, heading toward the small village of Tinke, nestled at 3,780 meters (12,401 feet) above sea level. From there, the journey continues for another 40 minutes, climbing higher into the mountains until we reach the quaint village of Pacchanta, perched at 4,310 meters (14,140 feet).
By 8:30 AM, the crisp mountain air is filled with the aroma of a hearty breakfast waiting for you in Pacchanta. This is your chance to fuel up for the day ahead, surrounded by the quiet charm of the Andes and the towering presence of the Ausangate and Ayangate mountains in the distance.
At 9:00 AM, the real adventure begins. Lace up your hiking boots and set off on a 6.5-kilometer (4-mile) trail that will take you deep into the heart of the Vilcanota mountain range. The first part of the hike is relatively gentle, allowing you to warm up and soak in the breathtaking views of the valleys below. But as you ascend, the trail becomes steeper, challenging your stamina and resolve.
The reward? A series of seven surreal, multi-colored lakes that seem almost otherworldly. Each lake has its own unique hue—turquoise, blue, green, and even red—and its own story. You’ll pass by Pukacocha (4,670 meters), Azulcocha (4,620 meters), and finally reach the highest point of the hike: Patacocha Lagoon, sitting at an impressive 4,800 meters (15,748 feet) above sea level. From here, the views are nothing short of spectacular. The Ausangate peak, standing tall at 6,380 meters (20,931 feet), dominates the horizon, while the valleys and surrounding mountains stretch out endlessly.
As you make your way back down, the trail takes you past more of the enchanting lakes: Otorongo Macho (4,670 meters), Otorongo Hembra (4,620 meters), Alqacocha (4,700 meters), and Q’omercocha (4,650 meters). Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife—alpacas grazing peacefully, vizcachas (adorable rabbit-like creatures) darting among the rocks, and if you’re lucky, the majestic condor soaring overhead.
By 2:00 PM, you’ll return to Pacchanta, where a well-deserved lunch awaits. After refueling, you have the option to relax in the village’s natural hot springs. For a small fee of 10 soles, you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters, letting the heat soothe your muscles and the mountain views calm your soul.
At 3:00 PM, we begin the journey back to Cusco. As the sun sets over the Andes, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on the day’s adventures. By 7:00 PM, we’ll drop you off at your hotel, where you can rest and dream of the unforgettable landscapes, vibrant lakes, and the raw beauty of the Ausangate region.
This tour is not just a hike—it’s a full-day immersion into the wild, untamed beauty of the Peruvian Andes. It’s challenging, yes, but every step is worth it for the memories you’ll carry with you long after the journey ends.
