Moderate to Difficult | Max 8 people | 2 Days | 1 Night Wild Camping
Ausangate Trek 2 days with Upis Lake and 7 Lakes Trek
Wild Ausangate Lakes & Hot Springs
The wild alternative to Rainbow Mountain, with 1 night camping at the foot of Ausangate, turquoise alpine lakes, and natural hot springs.
This 2-day trek takes you deep into the ᨒ Vilcanota Range, beneath Ausangate (6,384m), the highest and most sacred peak in Cusco. You’ll hike from the remote community of Upis to the mirror-like Upis Lake, camp with direct glacier views, then loop the famous 7 Lakes basin the next morning before soaking in the hot springs.
No crowds, no day-trippers, no buses. Just one hard high-altitude hike, a real mountain camp, and landscapes you won’t see on any Machu Picchu route. You carry only a day-pack, our horses carry everything else.
More authentic than Vinicunca, wilder than Humantay, and the best short trek in Peru for photographers and altitude lovers.
Highlights
- Upis and Ausangate Base Camp
Start in Tinki, drive to Upis (4,400m), then hike 11km to camp directly below Ausangate’s glaciated south face — the closest you can sleep to Cusco’s Apu. - Upis Lake at Sunset
Short evening walk to the turquoise lake reflecting Ausangate. Best light is 5–6pm, with alpacas grazing and almost no other trekkers. - The 7 Lakes Loop
Morning circuit to seven glacier-fed lakes, each a different color sitting between 4,500–4,650m with 360º views of snow peaks:- Otorongo Male & Female
- Azulcocha, Alcacocha
- Pucacocha
- Qomercocha
- Orco Otorongo
- High-Altitude Passes Without the Suffering
Cross gentle ridges around 4,650m, not a brutal 5,000m push. You get the big-mountain feel with a moderate grade and horses on standby. - Pacchanta Hot Springs
Finish Day 2 with a soak in natural thermal pools in the village of Pacchanta (4,200m). The contrast of ice-cold air and 38°C water is the perfect recovery. - Luxury Mountain Camping
Sleep in 4-season Eureka tents (2 people per 4-person tent) with foam mattress, pillow, hot water bottle, and thick blanket. Dining tent, chef-cooked meals, and toilet tent included. - Small Groups and Full Support
Maximum 8 travelers. Horses carry your 7kg duffel, plus an emergency horse if you tire. Guide carries oxygen and first aid, and also checks saturation twice daily. - All-Inclusive from Cusco
Private van both ways, all meals on trek, entrance fees, camping equipment, and boiled water. Just bring your boots and layers.
From
$297
/per person
Trip Details
2-Day Ausangate 7 Lakes Expedition
Ausangate (6,384m) is Cusco’s sacred Apu. This 2-day route cuts straight to its best side where you camp one night below the glacier at Upis, hike to Upis Lake at sunset, then loop the 7 mineral lakes at sunrise before soaking in Pacchanta hot springs.
Just 1 real high camp, turquoise lakes, and 360º views of the Vilcanota Range.
This is for travelers who’ve spent 2 nights in Cusco, want more than a bus tour, and are fit for 6–7 hours above 4,500m. Photographers chasing reflections. Hikers who value silence over lodges. People who’d rather camp under Ausangate than queue for a photo at Vinicunca.
If you want the complete wilderness but only have a weekend this is your trek!
Why Choose Orange Nation?
Orange Nation Peru is a Cusco-based, family-owned trekking company specializing in four high-altitude routes: Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, Salkantay, and Inca Trail. Our guides are licensed professionals from Cusco who lead Ausangate departures weekly throughout the season. This focused operation is why we maintain a 4.9-star average across 1,200+ verified TripAdvisor reviews, with travelers consistently highlighting organization, safety at altitude, and guide expertise.
What to expect from us, on your trek
- Groups limited to 8 travelers
Smaller groups allow for steady pacing above 4,500m, personal attention on the passes, and a quiet camp experience with no large tour groups. - Certified local guides with route specialization
All guides are licensed by the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism, certified in wilderness first aid and high-altitude response, and fluent in English. They are full-time staff from Cusco and the Ausangate region, paid in accordance with Peruvian regulations, and return season after season. - Itineraries designed for altitude
With only one night at 4,425m, the route prioritizes acclimatization. Day 1 is a moderate 4–5 hour hike to camp. Day 2 is the longer 6–7 hour lakes loop, then you descend to sleep in Cusco. No back-to-back high camps. - Fresh meals prepared on-site
All meals on the mountain are cooked fresh by our trek chef in a dedicated dining tent. Hot soups, Andean grains, trout, and local vegetables. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets accommodated with advance notice. Boiled water provided from lunch Day 1. - Comprehensive safety equipment
Every departure carries emergency oxygen, a complete first aid kit, and radio communication. An emergency horse travels with the group. We provide 4-season Eureka tents (2 people per 4-person tent), foam mattress, pillow, hot water bottle, and thick blanket for sub-zero nights. - Direct booking and full logistics management
You book directly with our Cusco office with no intermediaries. We provide private transport both ways, all entrance fees, camping permits, horses for your 7kg duffel, and a detailed pre-trek briefing at 6pm the night before. Complimentary airport pickup and luggage storage included.
Ausangate Trek Comparison
Both routes include Upis and the 7 Lakes. Choose based on time and physical demand.
2-Day 7 Lakes Express
- Duration 2 days / 1 night.
- Hiking Day 1: 11 km, 4–5 hours to Upis Lake (4,547m). Day 2: 16 km, 6–7 hours 7 Lakes loop.
- Accommodation 1 night camping at Upis below Ausangate glacier.
- Sites Upis Lake, 7 mineral lakes, Pacchanta Hot Springs.
- Best for Fit travelers with 2+ nights acclimatization in Cusco who want maximum scenery in minimum time.
3-Day Ausangate Classic + Rainbow Mountain
- Duration 3 days / 2 nights.
- Hiking Adds a second high pass and Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) on Day 3.
- Accommodation 2 nights camping.
- Sites All 7 Lakes plus Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.
- Best for Photographers and trekkers wanting the full Ausangate circuit without crowds.
Who It’s Perfect For
- Altitude-Ready Adventurers
Comfortable hiking 6–7 hours above 4,500m after spending at least 2 nights in Cusco (3,400m) or Sacred Valley. - Photography Enthusiasts
Looking for turquoise lakes, glacier reflections, and sunrise light on Ausangate without the 200-person crowds of Vinicunca. - Wilderness Seekers
Wanting a real camping experience in the Vilcanota Range, no lodges, no roads, just Andean puna and star-filled skies. - Time-Limited Visitors
Wanting more than a Rainbow Mountain day-trip but unable to commit to a 4–5 day Ausangate trek.
Other Expeditions to Consider
- Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley 1-Day
A vehicle-accessible day trip to Vinicunca with an early start to avoid crowds. No camping required. - Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain & Lake Sibinacocha 6-Days
The complete loop around Ausangate with remote passes over 5,000m, hot springs, and traditional herding communities. - Salkantay Trek 4-Day to Machu Picchu with Sky Domes
High passes, cloud forest, and a train finish, for those wanting Machu Picchu instead of lakes.
Full Itinerary for Ausangate Trek 2 days
Included
- Private Transport
Hotel pick-up 4am, private van to Tinki, Upis and return Day-2. - Professional Guide
Licensed English-speaking Ausangate specialist with wilderness first aid. - Entrance Tickets
All park fees, Upis/Pacchanta community fees, and 7 Lakes access. - Accommodation
1 night at Upis (4,425m) in 4-season tent with mattress and hot bottle. - Meals
Day1: breakfast, lunch, dinner. Day2: breakfast, lunch. Veg options available. - Horses & Porters
Horses carry gear. 7kg personal duffel provided. Emergency horse included. - Camping Equipment
Dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent, tables, chairs, cooking gear. - Safety Equipment
Guide carries first aid kit and oxygen. Radio communication on route. - Water
Boiled water from lunch Day1. Bring 2L for morning start. - Briefing & Support
6pm briefing night before in Cusco. Free luggage storage included. - Taxes
All local taxes and community fees included in price.
Not Included
- Meals in Cusco
Dinner on Day 2 after the trek is not included. - Hotels Before/After Trek
Accommodation in Cusco before Day 1 and after Day 2 is not included. - Sleeping Bag
Warm bag rated to -15°C required. Rental available — $20 USD for the trek. - Air Mattress Upgrade
Therm-a-Rest inflatable mattress — $20 USD for the trek (foam mattress included free). - Walking Poles
Available to rent — $15 USD per pair for the trek. - Personal Tent
Solo travelers wanting a private tent — $30 USD. - Travel Insurance
Travel and medical insurance not included — strongly recommended for trekking above 4,500m. - Flights
Domestic or international flight tickets not included. - Tips
Gratuities for guide, cook, and horsemen not included (optional, customary). - Personal Gear
Hiking boots, clothing, backpack, and sleeping bag are the responsibility of the trekker.
Pricing
Small group departures require a minimum of 2 people.
2 to 8 people | $477 USD per person
This price combines a full-day Inca trail hike, authentic homestay, complete Sacred Valley circuit, and Machu Picchu Circuit 2 for less than the cost of booking these sites separately with private transport.
Included in the Price
- All Entrance Tickets
Machu Picchu Circuit 2, Huchuy Qosqo, Moray, Maras Salt Mines, and Ollantaytambo, all included. - Homestay & Hotel
1 night private-room homestay with Quechua family in Pucamarca. 1 night 3-star Hotel Ferre Machu Picchu in Aguas Calientes with breakfast. - Train & Bus Tickets
Round-trip Expedition train Ollantaytambo–Aguas Calientes, and round-trip bus Aguas Calientes–Machu Picchu. - Private Transport
All transfers by private van: Cusco to Patabamba, Sacred Valley circuit, and Ollantaytambo to Cusco return. - Professional Guide
English-speaking, licensed guide for all 3 days, from trailhead to Machu Picchu. - Meals as per Itinerary
Day 1 lunch, tea, dinner; Day 2 breakfast, lunch, dinner; Day 3 breakfast. Fresh, local ingredients. - Safety & Support
First aid kit, emergency oxygen, pre-trek briefing, and 24/7 Cusco office support.
Extras (Optional)
- Vistadome Train Upgrade
Panoramic windows and glass ceiling for the return journey to Ollantaytambo $57 USD per person. - Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain
Add the iconic summit hike inside Machu Picchu $75 USD per person, must be booked in advance. - Walking Poles
Adjustable trekking poles for the downhill sections $15 USD per trek. - Hotel Single Supplement
Private room in Aguas Calientes 3-star hotel $35 USD (homestay remains in family home). - Hotel Upgrade in Aguas Calientes
Upgrade to 4-star or 5-star options in town price on request.
Discounts
- Under 18 Years
$30 USD off per person passport copy required at booking. - Under 11 Years
$40 USD off per person passport copy required at booking. - Groups of 5+
$30 USD off per person when booking together at the same time.
Added Value Experience
- One-Day Hike Advantage
Only 5–6 hours of trekking over a 4,200m pass no multi-day camping, no heavy pack, ideal for acclimatized beginners. - Authentic Homestay
Sleep in a real Andean community, not a tourist lodge, with home-cooked dinner and dark-sky stargazing. - Complete Sacred Valley
Visit three major sites Moray, Maras, and Ollantaytamboin one afternoon with private transport, not rushed group buses. - Small Group Guarantee
Maximum 8 travelers, average group size 2–6, for personal guide time and flexible pacing.
Packing List for 2-Day Ausangate 7 Lakes Express
Ausangate is fully exposed above 4,400m with no lodges. You carry a 30–40L daypack on the trail. Horses carry the rest in the duffel we provide.
Essentials (Carry in Your Daypack)
These must be with you at all times.
Documents
- Original passport (must match booking name)
- Valid student ID (if booked as student)
- Travel insurance card (recommended)
Lighting
- Headlamp with spare batteries, essential for camp as no electricity at Upis
What to Put in Your 30–40L Daypack
Water & Hydration
- Water bottles or hydration bladder (2–3L total). Bring water for the first morning to Tinki. We provide boiled water from lunch Day 1 onward. No single-use plastic.
Rain Protection
- Waterproof jacket with hood (Gore-Tex or similar).
- Rain poncho (covers you and pack, Nov–Mar essential).
Sun & Cold Protection
- Sun hat or cap.
- Wool hat or beanie for camp.
- High SPF sunscreen and lip balm with SPF.
- Sunglasses with UV protection.
- Lightweight gloves + waterproof gloves or ski gloves.
Layers for Hiking
- 1 fleece or light insulated jacket.
- 1 down jacket (camp drops to -5°C).
- 1–2 t-shirts for hiking.
- 1 thermal top and bottom for sleeping.
- 1 pair hiking pants (zip-offs ideal).
Footwear
- Sturdy, broken-in hiking boots with ankle support.
- Camp shoes or sandals for evenings.
Snacks & Extras
- Energy bars, chocolate, dried fruit for the lakes loop.
- Camera or phone.
- Power bank as no charging at camp.
- Small cash (soles) for drinks, tips.
- Hand sanitizer, wet wipes.
- Toilet paper + small zip bag for waste.
- Personal medications and blister kit (moleskin).
What to Pack in Your Duffel (7kg max, we provide bag)
By Peruvian law, horses carry max 7kg per person. We weigh bags at briefing. Allow ∼2.5kg for sleeping bag and ∼1kg for air mattress, leaving ∼3.52kg for clothes.
- 2 t-shirts.
- 1–2 hiking pants.
- 3–4 sets underwear.
- 3 pairs hiking socks (wool or synthetic).
- Fleece or thermal layer.
- Down jacket.
- Warm hat and waterproof gloves.
- Comfortable camp shoes.
- Bathing suit for Pacchanta hot springs.
- Quick-dry towel (we provide small one).
- Small bottle of biodegradable soap.
- Sleeping bag rated to -15°C (rental $20).
- Therm-a-Rest upgrade optional ($20).
We provide large plastic liner bags at briefing.
What NOT to Bring
- Large suitcases or wheeled bags (store free at our Cusco office).
- Cotton jeans or cotton t-shirts (stay wet and cold).
- Drones (prohibited in Ausangate Regional Conservation Area).
- Disposable plastic water bottles.
- Heavy books or extra gear, you won’t use them at 4,500m.
Orange Nation Provides
- Pre-trek briefing and free luggage storage in Cusco.
- Duffel bag and liner for horse carry.
- 4-season tent, foam mattress, pillow, hot water bottle, thick blanket.
- Dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent..
- All meals as per itinerary.
- Boiled water from lunch Day 1.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen.
- Emergency horse on trail.
Circuits & Safety
The 2-Day Ausangate 7 Lakes Express is a point-to-point high-altitude route, not a day-trip out-and-back. We designed it around one night of real wilderness camping, then a full lakes loop the next morning.
By hiking to Upis on Day 1, sleeping once at 4,425m directly below the glacier, then descending to Pacchanta and driving back to Cusco on Day 2, you get the classic Ausangate experience without the strain of a 4 or 5-day circuit. That single high camp is why this trek works for fit travelers with only a weekend, you see all seven lakes, but you sleep in Cusco the second night.
Route Structure
- Day 1 Ascent and Basecamp
We start at 4am from Cusco and drive 3 hours to Upis trailhead (4,400m) via Tinki for breakfast. The 4-hour hike to Upis Lake (4,547m)is steady on puna grassland, with views of Ausangate the entire way. After lunch back at camp, you have the afternoon to rest and optional soak in the local hot springs 10 minutes away. You carry only a daypack, horses carry your 7kg duffel, tent, and all camp gear. Dinner is chef-cooked in the dining tent, you sleep in a 4-season tent with mattress, pillow, hot water bottle, and thick blanket. - Day 2 Seven Lakes Loop and Descent
Wake-up tea at 6:30am, then breakfast. We leave camp at 8am and traverse the high ridges into the 7 Lakes basin. Around 10:30am we enter the valley and loop counter-clockwise through Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Ccomercocha, Azulqocha, Otorongo Male & Female, and Orqococha, each a different mineral color. Lunch is served at Azulqocha. After the loop we descend 2 hours to Pacchanta (4,200m) for a 45-minute soak in the natural hot springs. Private van returns 3 hours to Cusco, arriving ∼ No second night at altitude.
Safety Management
- Altitude First
Maximum sleeping altitude is 4,425m for one night only. Day 1 is 11km with 150m gain, Day 2 reaches 4,622m on the lakes ridge but you descend to 3,400m to sleep. We set a slow pace, build in long lunch breaks, and provide coca tea and boiled water from lunch Day 1. - Emergency Support
Every guide carries emergency oxygen and a full first aid kit. An emergency horse travels with the group to ride if needed. Our private van stays on call in Pacchanta for quick evacuation. Radios work on the high puna where there is no cell signal. - Real Guides
Certified English-speaking guides from Cusco who specialize in Ausangate. Maximum 8 travelers per guide so you’re monitored on the 4,600m sections and have time for questions about the Apus. - Weather and Terrain
The trail is fully exposed above 4,400m with no shelter. We check conditions at the 6pm briefing and adjust start times if needed. The advantage of our heavy Eureka tents and dining tent is flexibility so you’re not locked into a lightweight backpacking setup if weather shifts.
What We Provide for Safety
- 4-season camping at Upis (not a rushed day hike to 5,000m and back)
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen bottle on both days
- Emergency horse on the trail
- Private transport for immediate descent from Pacchanta
- Pre-trek briefing at our office the night before
- Boiled water provided from lunch Day 1
- Hot water bottles and thick blankets for sub-zero nights
How to Arrive Ready
You don’t need to be an athlete, but Ausangate rewards preparation.
- Spend at least 2 nights in Cusco before Day 1, your body needs it for 4,500m
- Bring layers, sun hat, gloves, and broken-in boots as the puna is rocky and windy
- Pack a headlamp for camp (no electricity at Upis)
- Tell your guide how you feel on the climb. Headache or nausea, we slow the pace, it’s only 4 hours to camp
This is why we run Ausangate as a 2-day with one high camp, you get the glacier, the seven lakes, and the hot springs, then you return to Cusco to recover, not exhausted from multiple freezing nights.
