Ausangate Circuit
Trek the sacred Ausangate Circuit, a challenging high-altitude journey through glaciers, turquoise lakes, and traditional Andean villages.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Dry season, clear skies
Ausangate Circuit
Best Time
Dry season, clear skies
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Trek the sacred Ausangate Circuit, a challenging high-altitude journey through glaciers, turquoise lakes, and traditional Andean villages.
"Insane landscapes all through out! Very remote but what a sacred experience, jaw dropping views of so many mountains!"
Go Counter-Clockwise
Trek counter-clockwise on the 7 Lakes circuit to potentially have the stunning views to yourself . :hiking_boot:
Pack for Cold Nights
Campsites get very cold at night. Bring warm sleeping gear and clothing. Sunscreen is also essential at high altitudes . :snowflake:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate
Ausangate Circuit
A stunning circuit of vibrant, glacial-fed lakes set against dramatic mountain backdrops. A must-see for any trekker.
Nevado Ausangate Summit Views
Ausangate Circuit
Witness the majestic 6,384-meter peak, a sacred mountain revered by Incans, offering awe-inspiring panoramic vistas.
Pacchanta Hot Springs
Near Ausangate Circuit
Relax and rejuvenate in natural hot springs after a challenging trek, surrounded by breathtaking Andean scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Altitude Acclimatization is Key
Best Time for Dry Trails
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Go Counter-Clockwise
Trek counter-clockwise on the 7 Lakes circuit to potentially have the stunning views to yourself.
Pack for Cold Nights
Campsites get very cold at night. Bring warm sleeping gear and clothing. Sunscreen is also essential at high altitudes. :snowflake:
Consider a Guide
Local guides can enhance your experience, offering insights into the culture and ensuring safety on the remote trails. :man_detective:
Acclimatize Properly
Don't rush! Spend several days in Cusco before the trek to avoid altitude sickness. Take it easy on your first day. :mountain_cableway:
Tips
from all over the internet
Go Counter-Clockwise
Trek counter-clockwise on the 7 Lakes circuit to potentially have the stunning views to yourself.
Pack for Cold Nights
Campsites get very cold at night. Bring warm sleeping gear and clothing. Sunscreen is also essential at high altitudes. :snowflake:
Consider a Guide
Local guides can enhance your experience, offering insights into the culture and ensuring safety on the remote trails. :man_detective:
Acclimatize Properly
Don't rush! Spend several days in Cusco before the trek to avoid altitude sickness. Take it easy on your first day. :mountain_cableway:
Embrace the Scenery
The landscapes are insane and sacred. Enjoy the jaw-dropping views of mountains, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Ausangate Circuit for its absolutely insane and jaw-dropping landscapes, calling it a sacred and magnificent experience. The majestic mountain views, turquoise lakes, and remote beauty are highlights. However, the extreme altitude is a significant challenge that requires careful acclimatization, and some find the cold nights intense.
"Nevado Ausangate is a majestic mountain located in the Peruvian Andes, standing at 6,384 meters above sea level. It is one of the highest peaks in the region and is revered by locals for its spiritual significance. The mountain attracts trekkers and mountaineers, offering stunning landscapes, including glaciers, turquoise lakes, and vast valleys. The Ausangate Trek, a popular route, takes adventurers through remote villages and high-altitude terrains, providing an unforgettable experience. Due to its challenging ascent and rugged terrain, it is recommended for experienced hikers. The best time to visit is during the dry season, from May to September."
Irfan P
"Our highlight of the trip. Being above 4,800 meters above sea level is not for everyone; however, our bodies adapted rather quickly. We had the luxury of being greeted by the locals, who showed us around the Ausangate and even made us a part of their alpaca herd. It is an amazing experience for everyone who wants to enjoy the beauty and magnificence of the Andes."
Javier Bejerano
"Insane landscapes all through out! Very remote but what a sacred experience, jaw dropping views of so many mountains! I went through AB Expeditions in Cusco as my guide, can’t recommend them enough!"
Eddy Espinal
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Most trekkers arrange transport from Cusco to the starting point of the circuit, often via a guided tour. This typically involves a private vehicle or shared van, taking several hours. Many tours include the full trek logistics.
While the full circuit is a multi-day trek, parts of it, like the 7 Lagoons, can be accessed as a long day trip from Cusco. However, this requires significant acclimatization and an early start.
The trailhead for the 7 Lagoons is usually accessed via a tour from Cusco. They will arrange transportation to the starting point, often near the Ausangate mountain range.
Public transport directly to the remote Ausangate Circuit trailheads is very limited. Most visitors opt for organized tours or private transport arranged through agencies in Cusco for convenience and safety.
The journey from Cusco to the starting points of the Ausangate Circuit can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours by road, depending on the specific trailhead and tour operator.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While there isn't a specific 'permit' in the traditional sense for the entire circuit, many areas are part of indigenous communities. It's highly recommended to go with a registered tour operator who handles necessary permissions and fees.
Costs vary widely depending on the tour operator, duration (typically 4-7 days), and inclusions. Expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $1000+ USD per person for a guided trek.
Yes, there are usually local community fees or entrance fees for accessing the 7 Lagoons area. These are typically included in guided tour packages.
Yes, many agencies in Cusco offer last-minute bookings for the Ausangate Circuit. However, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred dates and operators.
Booking through reputable tour operators in Cusco is the most common and recommended method. They handle logistics, guides, permits, and accommodation.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The full Ausangate Circuit typically takes 4 to 7 days to complete, covering around 70 km (43 miles) of challenging terrain.
The circuit reaches very high altitudes, with passes often exceeding 5,000 meters (over 16,400 feet). The base camp and campsites are also at high elevations.
Due to the high altitude and challenging terrain, the Ausangate Circuit is generally recommended for experienced hikers. Proper acclimatization is crucial, and even then, it can be demanding.
Expect breathtaking landscapes including glaciers, turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, vast valleys, and opportunities to see alpacas and llamas.
Essential items include warm layers, waterproof gear, sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a headlamp, and a good quality sleeping bag. Trekking poles are also highly recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The 7 Lagoons, the majestic Nevado Ausangate peak, colorful Andean landscapes, local herders with their alpacas, and the Red Valley offer incredible photographic moments.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while late afternoons provide golden hour hues. Midday sun can be harsh at high altitudes.
A good quality camera or smartphone with decent low-light capabilities is recommended. Consider a wide-angle lens for landscapes and a telephoto for wildlife like alpacas.
Polarizing filters can help enhance the blues of the lakes and reduce glare. Shooting on a sunny day will bring out the most vivid colors.
Generally, photography is allowed, but always be respectful of local communities and ask permission before photographing people directly.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For a more family-friendly introduction to the Andes near Ausangate, consider staying in the town of Pacchanta. Here, families can enjoy the therapeutic hot springs and take shorter, lower-altitude walks with stunning views of the Ausangate massif, without the extreme altitude challenges of the main circuit.
🎒 Budget Travelers
For a more budget-friendly experience that still offers incredible views of Ausangate, consider focusing on day trips to areas like the 7 Lagoons or visiting Pacchanta for its hot springs. These can often be arranged with shared transport or smaller local agencies, reducing costs compared to full multi-day guided expeditions.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't miss opportunities to capture the imposing Nevado Ausangate itself, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset.Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive vistas and consider a telephoto lens for wildlife like alpacas and llamas. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, which can add to the dramatic mood of your shots. Remember to protect your gear from dust and moisture, and ensure your batteries are fully charged, as recharging opportunities are scarce on the trail.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Altitude
During the trek, take your time, especially on ascents. Your guide will likely set a slow, steady pace. While some trekkers adapt quickly, others may struggle. If you experience severe symptoms, it's crucial to descend. The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate circuit, while shorter, also reaches high altitudes, so acclimatization is still vital even for this day trip option.
Remember that even at campsites, you'll be at high elevations, and nights can be extremely cold. Proper gear, including a warm sleeping bag and layers of clothing, is non-negotiable. The thin air and intense sun at these altitudes mean that even on cloudy days, sunscreen is a must to prevent severe sunburn.
The Sacred Mountain and Its Mythology
The mountain's spiritual significance is reflected in the vibrant colors of the surrounding landscape, particularly the 7 Lagoons. These glacial lakes are believed to be the tears of the Apus, imbued with mystical properties. Local communities continue to maintain a close relationship with the mountain, often herding alpacas and llamas in its shadow and performing ceremonies that have been passed down through generations.
For trekkers, understanding this cultural context adds another layer of appreciation to the journey. It's a chance to connect with a landscape that is not only visually stunning but also rich in history and spiritual meaning. Respecting the local culture and the sacredness of the mountains is an integral part of the Ausangate experience.
Trekking the Ausangate Circuit: What to Expect
The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate is a popular shorter option, often done as a long day trip or a 2-day excursion, showcasing some of the circuit's most iconic scenery.Daily treks can involve significant elevation gain and loss, with distances ranging from 10-20 km per day. The weather is unpredictable; expect sunshine, rain, and even snow, often within the same day. Nights are consistently cold, dropping well below freezing, so a warm sleeping bag and insulated clothing are essential. Many trekkers opt for guided tours, which provide logistical support, experienced guides, cooks, and porters, making the journey more accessible and safer.
Beyond the physical challenge, the Ausangate Circuit offers unparalleled natural beauty. You'll witness vast glaciers, vibrant turquoise lakes, dramatic mountain peaks, and expansive valleys. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including alpacas, llamas, and various bird species. The remoteness of the trek means fewer crowds compared to other popular Peruvian hikes, offering a more intimate connection with nature.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit