Sky Dome Camp at Pacchanta: Glamping Under the Stars at the Foot of Ausangate
One of the best things about visiting Cusco is the opportunity to hike through its mountains — remote, beautiful, and deeply connected to nature. While popular routes like the Salkantay Trail have long offered glamping-style camps, the trails around Ausangate are now catching up.
The Ausangate route stands apart. Unlike more crowded destinations, it remains largely untouched by mass tourism, offering a rare combination of raw Andean beauty and spiritual atmosphere. And now, you can experience it with a touch of comfort.
Welcome to our Sky Dome Camp in Pacchanta Community — Where nature, comfort, and responsible tourism come together in one unforgettable experience.
What Is Sky Dome or Glamping Camp?
Sky Dome Camp is a glamping experience located near the hot springs of Pacchanta, at the foot of the majestic Ausangate Mountain. The camp features panoramic Sky Domes — transparent domes designed to give you incredible views of the snow-capped peaks right from your bed. Think of it as a “thousand-star” hotel in the heart of the Andes.
This eco-friendly accommodation lets you connect deeply with nature without giving up the comforts that make a trip truly restful.
What’s Included at Sky Dome Camp
- Comfortable beds with warm blankets for cold Andean nights
- Delicious meals with panoramic views of Ausangate, prepared by experienced chefs
- Fast Wi-Fi via satellite internet, so you stay connected with the world
- Hot showers and private bathrooms — true luxury at high altitude
- Electricity to charge cameras, phones, and all your gear
Adventures from Skycamp
Skycamp is the perfect base for some of the most spectacular hikes in the region:
7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour — A 16-kilometer route through turquoise, green, and blue lakes including Comercocha, Alqacocha, Patacocha, China Otorongo, Orco Otorongo, and Azulcocha Lake. The highest point reaches 4,800 meters above sea level. Tours typically depart Cusco around 4:00 a.m., include breakfast in Pacchanta, and return after a memorable lunch with mountain views.
4-Day Ausangate Trek — A multi-day circuit around the sacred Apu Ausangate, taking you past glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and traditional Andean communities.
Rainbow Mountain Trek with Overnight Stay — Hike to Vinicunca and witness both the famous Rainbow Mountain and the majestic Ausangate Peak in a single journey, with the option to camp near the glacier.
6 Things to Expect on the Ausangate Route
- 1. Breathtaking landscapes — From cold highlands to incredible colorful mountains, this destination has something new around every corner.
- 2. Rainbow Mountain and Apu Ausangate — From the top of Vinicunca you can see the full splendor of Ausangate — the highest mountain in Cusco and the fifth highest in Peru — rising above a sea of colored peaks.
- 3. Local people and culture — Along the trail, you’ll encounter communities wearing traditional clothing, offering chicharrón de alpaca, and sharing the best of Andean life.
- 4. Wildlife — Alpacas, llamas, horses, and native birds roam freely. You’ll have plenty of chances for close encounters — and great selfies.
- 5. An extreme yet accessible adventure — The hike is demanding enough to test your limits but rewarding enough to leave you wanting more.
- 6. Memories you’ll carry forever — Few experiences match the combination of altitude, silence, color, and connection this route offers.
When Is the Best Time to Hike the Ausanagte Trek?
Weather in the Cusco mountains is unpredictable and changes throughout the day. There are two main seasons to consider:
Dry Season (May – October): Little or no rain, clear skies, and bright sunshine in the mornings. Nights can be very cold, but visibility is excellent — ideal if you want the clearest views and dry trails.
Rainy Season (November – April): Expect rain for a few hours during the day. The advantage is lush, green landscapes. With proper gear, this season can be just as rewarding.
In the end, it comes down to the experience you’re looking for: crisp views or green scenery.
Pacchanta Natural Hot Springs
Just minutes from Sky DOme Glamping, the natural thermal pools of Pacchanta are one of the best-kept secrets of the Ausangate area. After a long day of hiking, soak your muscles in these medicinal waters while gazing at the glaciers above. Entry costs approximately USD 7 with no time limit — just relax and enjoy.
Culture and Hiking: You Can Have Both
The Ausangate area offers a perfect blend of cultural and outdoor experiences:
- Culture: Witness daily Andean life — farming, animal herding, Quechua language, traditional clothing, and local food prepared by community members who often rent horses or mules to tired trekkers.
- Hiking: The mountains around Ausangate are designed to be explored. Hidden glaciers, high-altitude lakes, and sweeping views reward every step.
How to Get to Pacchanta
Pacchanta is a small village about 3 hours from Cusco, located at the foot of Ausangate Mountain. You have two options to get there:
Option 1 – Guided Tour: Most travel agencies offer all-inclusive tours to the Seven Lakes and surrounding area, including transportation from Cusco and a stop in Pacchanta.
Option 2 – On Your Own:
- Go to Hermanos Ayar Street in Cusco and take a bus to Tinki (Ocongate district). Cost: approximately 25 soles / USD 8. Travel time: ~2.5 hours.
- From Tinki, take a shared taxi (colectivo) to Pacchanta. Cost: approximately 10 soles / USD 4. Travel time: ~30 minutes.
Once in Pacchanta, you can start the 7 Lakes Hike, begin the Ausangate Trek, or simply check into Skycamp and rest under the stars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Pacchanta area like?
Pacchanta is a classic Andean highland — cold, rocky, green, and surrounded by mountains. Expect distant views of Ausangate, lots of camelids roaming free, and a peaceful atmosphere far from city noise.
Where can I stay overnight?
Sky Dome camp’s panoramic domes are the first glamping-style accommodation in the area. Hotel-style beds, stunning mountain views, and a unique experience under the stars — all at the foot of Ausangate.
Is there electricity and Wi-Fi?
Yes. Sky Dome Glamping offers electricity for charging devices and satellite Wi-Fi to stay connected. If you have roaming activated on your phone, you’ll also have cell signal in the area.
Will I have hot showers?
Yes — Sky Dome Glamping includes private bathrooms with hot showers. Comfort at altitude is possible.
Is it worth visiting Pacchanta?
Absolutely. Living culture, dreamlike landscapes, and a true connection with nature make Pacchanta one of the most authentic destinations near Cusco.
What treks can I do from Skycamp?
- Ausangate Trek (3–4 days)
- Rainbow Mountain Trek with overnight stay
- 7 Lakes of Ausangate (day hike)
How do I book a stay at Skycamp?
You can book through our website or via WhatsApp at [insertar número de WhatsApp aquí]. Our team will help you plan the perfect experience.
Ready to sleep under a thousand stars? Skycamp in Pacchanta is waiting for you.
