Sacred Apus: Ausangate vs Qelqaya the sleeping giants of the Vilcanota
These destinations are truly incredible to visit and are located in the Imperial City of Cusco, specifically in the Vilcanota Mountain Range – Peru, more precisely in the districts of Ocongate (Awsanqati) and Pitumarca (Qelqaya). Both attractions dazzle with their unique landscapes surrounded by rich flora and fauna. Along every step of the adventure, you will feel a deep connection between body, soul, and nature, turning your visit into a transformative experience and a truly unforgettable memory.
Ausangate vs Qelqaya (two landscape attractions of Cusco-Peru)
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Awsanqati “Sacred Apu of the Andes”
The sacred Apu of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, considered the protective father of Sinaqqara and Qulqipunku, rises imposingly among the snow capped peaks that safeguard Andean life and tradition. At the foot of this majestic mountain lie the Seven Lagoons, a collection of natural mirrors known for their intense colors and profound serenity.
Each lagoon displays a particular hue ranging from bright turquoise to deep greens—that shifts with the daylight and seasons, offering landscapes that seem taken from another world.
Qelqaya “The Writer of the Andes”
Formerly known as the writer of the Andes, this territory witnessed major social and scientific transformations. The Agrarian Reform of 1969 reshaped the hacienda system and returned the lands to the Indigenous communities, many of which depended on Qelqaya’s meltwater. During this period, explorers, surveyors, and geologists approached the glacier to measure and map it, drawn by its potential natural resources.
The glaciologist Lonnie Thompson began his research here, which soon positioned Qelqaya as a global reference in paleoclimatology, helping scientists understand the past and anticipate future planetary changes.
Exploring these scenic attractions blends mysticism, nature, and living culture, where every viewpoint invites reflection and respect for the sacred lands of the Peruvian Andes.
Ausangate vs Qelqaya (Fully Enjoying the Beauty of Both Landscapes)
Apu Ausangate offers experiences for everyone: from single-day routes to multi-day treks, perfect for delighting in breathtaking landscapes. Its multicolored mountains, turquoise lagoons, and vast Andean valleys create scenes that feel otherworldly. You can also enjoy the adventure of camping at the foot of the Sacred Apu an unforgettable experience where silence, stars, and the energy of Ausangate fully surround you.
In the case of Qelqaya, the magic lies in its imposing glacier, a colossal mass of ice that can be admired from its base. The views are truly spectacular: crystalline walls, bluish tones, and landscapes that radiate peace and grandeur. This is an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility, photography, or pure contemplation.
Did You Know that Both Ausangate and Qelqaya Are Protected by the Same Organization?
The Ausangate Regional Conservation Area (ACR), protected by the Regional Government of Cusco, covers 125 54.60 ha and is located in the districts of Checacupe, Pitumarca, Marcapata, and Ocongate. Its creation aims to conserve water resources, biodiversity, flora, fauna, and the cultural environment of the region. Regional Conservation Areas (ACR) allow sustainable resource use while prioritizing local communities. The Regional Office of Natural Resources and Environmental Management is responsible for promoting and managing this process within the SINANPE framework, which administers 76 national administration areas complemented by regional and private conservation areas.
Visiting Both Places
To fully enjoy these impressive high-altitude attractions, it is essential to have proper acclimatization and good physical condition, which helps prevent altitude sickness and ensures a safe experience. It is also recommended to bring warm and thermal clothing, as well as light and comfortable garments for hiking, since weather conditions can change rapidly. A camera or photographic equipment is a must, as both destinations offer dreamlike landscapes that deserve to be captured and remembered forever.
Conclusion
Visiting Ausangate and Qelqaya means entering two sacred giants of the Andes that combine nature, living culture, and spirituality in an unforgettable experience. Ausangate dazzles with its multicolored lagoons and mythical trails, while Qelqaya captivates with its imposing glacier an invaluable climate archive and symbol of scientific history. Both, protected under the same conservation area, reflect the deep connection between Andean communities and their Apus, inviting travelers to experience a unique harmony between body, mind, and soul amid landscapes that inspire respect, contemplation, and a true communion with nature.
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