Cusco / Pacchanta / Seven Lakes Circuit / Upis / Arapa Pass / Lake Pucacocha / Anantapata / Warmisaya Pass / Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) / Red Valley / Cusipata / Cusco
A high-altitude trekking adventure that combines glacier-fed lakes, remote mountain landscapes, and access to Rainbow Mountain via a less-traveled route. Designed for travelers seeking to experience the grandeur of the Andes beyond the conventional paths.
Your expedition begins before sunrise with a private transfer from Cusco to the community of Pacchanta, nestled at the foot of the majestic Ausangate Mountain.
After a local breakfast, you will begin the trek along the renowned Seven Lakes Circuit, one of the most spectacular routes in the Andes. Along the way, you will encounter glacier-fed lakes such as Pucacocha, Patacocha, and the Otorongo Lakes, whose vibrant turquoise waters contrast beautifully with the snow-capped peaks of Ausangate.
Throughout the hike, you will enjoy sweeping mountain views, grazing alpaca herds, and the expansive high-altitude landscapes that define this remarkable region of Peru.
Lunch will be served along the trail, surrounded by some of the most impressive scenery in the area. The journey then continues toward the Upis Valley, where you will have the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs before enjoying dinner and your first night of camping beneath the Andean sky.
After breakfast, you will begin a new day of exploration through some of the most remote and spectacular landscapes in the Ausangate range.
The trail gradually ascends toward Arapa Pass, offering panoramic views of valleys, glaciers, and towering peaks stretching across the horizon. From there, you will descend to Lake Pucacocha, one of the most iconic lakes along the route.
Following lunch beside the lake, the trek continues toward Anantapata. As the landscape unfolds, colorful mountains, wide-open grasslands, and dramatic views of the surrounding peaks create a constantly changing mountain panorama.
The day concludes at Anantapata Camp, where you can relax and enjoy the tranquility that characterizes Peru’s great high-altitude trekking routes.
Before dawn, you will begin the ascent toward Warmisaya Pass. As the first light touches the mountains, you will be rewarded with some of the most breathtaking views of the entire expedition.
From here, the route continues to Vinicunca, internationally known as Rainbow Mountain. Thanks to the timing and route chosen for this expedition, you will arrive during the early morning hours, when visitor numbers are generally lower and conditions for appreciating the landscape are at their best.
After taking in the striking mineral formations responsible for the mountain’s vibrant colors, you will continue toward the viewpoints of Red Valley, one of the most dramatic and lesser-visited landscapes in the region.
The trek then descends toward Kayrawiri, where private transportation awaits for the journey to Cusipata. After lunch, you will continue back to Cusco, bringing your mountain adventure to a memorable close.
This expedition takes place at extreme elevations, beginning at approximately 4,300 meters (14,108 feet) above sea level in Pacchanta and reaching approximately 5,300 meters (17,388 feet) at Vinicunca.
Due to the demands of high-altitude trekking, participants should maintain proper hydration, walk at a steady pace, and wear appropriate layered clothing. Throughout the expedition, your guide will closely monitor the well-being of the group and adjust the pace according to individual conditions.
Recommended Season (May – October)
The dry season offers the best conditions for the expedition, with greater weather stability, exceptional visibility, and trails generally in optimal condition.
Not Recommended (January – March)
During these months, rain, snowfall, and hailstorms can significantly affect both safety and trail conditions. For this reason, the expedition is not recommended during the peak rainy season.
Advance Reservation
The coordination of campsites, support staff, meals, transportation, and mountain logistics requires reservations to be made 15 to 20 days in advance.
Mandatory Acclimatization
As the expedition takes place at extreme elevations and includes daily hikes ranging from 4 to 8 hours, it is essential to spend at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before beginning the trek.
While you can explore sample itineraries on our website for inspiration, we go beyond standard travel. We create exceptional private journeys across Peru, carefully tailored to your interests, pace, and aspirations.
