The 7 Lakes route unfolds at the foot of the imposing Ausangate glacier, one of the most majestic mountains in southern Peru and considered an Apu — a sacred mountain spirit or protective deity within the Andean worldview.

Ausangate is not merely a landscape; for local communities, it is a living spiritual being. Each year, at its foothills, the festival of Señor de Qoyllor Rit’i is celebrated — one of the most important Andean pilgrimages, where faith, tradition, and spirituality unite in an extraordinary natural setting.

During the hike, lagoons of intense turquoise, emerald green, and deep blue appear one after another, reflecting the sky and the eternal snow of the Apu. The air is pure, fresh, and revitalizing. The sense of vastness, silence, and natural energy is difficult to describe — it is a place that invites you to disconnect from daily noise and reconnect with what truly matters.

This experience can be done as a full-day excursion, ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in a powerful single-day adventure. It can also be extended to a 2-day journey, spending the night in welcoming rural accommodations prepared by local community families. These lodgings are simple yet warm, allowing for a deeper and more authentic connection with the environment.

For those who prefer additional support during the hike, it is possible to hire small horses to help carry part of the equipment or provide assistance along the route, making the experience more comfortable and accessible.

The powerful presence of Ausangate, its glaciers, and its vast high-Andean landscapes transform this route into a truly moving experience.Ideal for: travelers seeking pristine nature, high-altitude trekking, and an authentic spiritual connection with the energy of the Andes.