Travel Guide

Circuit of the 7 lagoons

• Pucacocha Lagoon – The first lagoon of the circuit, also known as Chocolate Lagoon. This is due to the color of the water, similar to chocolate. It is located approximately 4,500 meters above sea level.
• Patacocha Lagoon – The closest lagoon is about 4,860 meters (15,000 feet) above sea level, the water is clearer. The snowy Ausangate is more visible than in the first lagoon.
• Alqacocha Lagoon – This lagoon is located at approximately 4,750 meters above sea level. Due to the altitude, the cold begins to subside. Each lagoon offers spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks and the Vilcanota mountains.
• Laguna Qomercocha – The next lagoon on the trail has a name that translates from Quechua to Spanish as “Laguna Verde”. It takes its name from the turquoise color of the water. It is located at 4,666 meters above sea level. It has one of the best views.
• Otorongo Lagoon – Due to its shape and the surrounding landscape, this small lagoon has the shape and fur (spots) of an otorongo, a feline that lives in the American jungle. The lagoon is located at 4,620 meters above sea level. The name refers to the male Otorongo.
• China Otorongo Lagoon – Near the old lagoon is the “China Otorongo” lagoon, which refers to the female of this American cat. The panoramic view of the two lagoons is impressive. They are ideal for taking pictures.
• Laguna Azul Cocha – The last of the 7 lagoons has a dark blue tint to the water. The beauty of this lagoon, as well as the mountainous landscape that surrounds it, is highly appreciated by tourists, who often photograph it.

fauna of the lagoon

The circuit of the 7 lagoons and the Sierra de Vilcanota are home to different species of wild and domestic animals. First of all, we mention the presence of camelids such as llamas and alpacas (both domestic animals) and the vicuña, a wild species with very fine hair. These are used to graze on the giant icchu, or wild straw, of the Andes. It is worth mentioning the existence of other species such as the vizcacha (a rabbit-like rodent) and even the Andean condor.

Visit of the 7 lagoons

The Circuit of the 7 Lagoons includes a day to travel this magnificent route along the slopes of the Ausangate. The service includes: transportation, breakfast, lunch, guide and access to the circuit. The tour can be booked at any tourist office in Cusco, online or in person. The cost ranges from $30 to $60 per person. Despite the beauty of the place, few visitors dare to take this tour.