Pomacanchi Lagoon: A natural treasure guide in Cusco

What is Pomacanchi Lagoon?

Pomacanchi Lagoon is a spectacular natural water mirror located between the districts of Pomacanchi and Acopía, in the province of Acomayo, Cusco region. It sits at an altitude of 3,669 meters above sea level, covering an area of 2,120 hectares (22.5 km²) with a maximum depth of 140 meters. It is the largest lagoon in the famous Circuit of the 4 Lagoons and one of the most important ecotourism destinations in the region, recognized as part of Cusco’s natural heritage.

What does Pomacanchi mean?

The name “Pomacanchi” comes from Quechua and is closely related to the abundance of natural resources in the area. The lagoon takes its name from the homonymous district, which has historically been an important center for agricultural, livestock, and fishing activities in the Cusco Andes. The term reflects the water wealth and the significance this water source has held for Andean communities for centuries.

Where is it located?

It is located between the districts of Pomacanchi and Acopía, in the province of Acomayo, Cusco region. The lagoon is approximately 104 kilometers southeast of the city of Cusco, at coordinates 13°43’25″S, 71°24’16″W. It is situated in the upper part of the Urubamba or Vilcanota River, being one of the most important water bodies in the regional watershed.

How to get to Pomacanchi Lagoon?

Main access from Cusco

Access is primarily by road, combining public and private transport. The complete journey from Cusco takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, including necessary connections.

Detailed access route

First stage: From Cusco, we head towards Cusipata, taking a bus from Avenida Huayruropata (2 hours of travel). Second stage: From Cusipata, we continue to the town of Pomacanchi using local public transport (45 minutes to 1 hour). Third stage: From Pomacanchi, we travel an additional 2.5 kilometers (10 minutes by vehicle) to reach the lagoon.

Public transport

• Take a bus from Avenida Huayruropata (Cusco) to Cusipata ($3-4, 2 hours)
• From Cusipata, take local transport to Pomacanchi ($3-4, 1 hour)
• From Pomacanchi, hire a taxi or private transport to the lagoon (included in a tour for $15-30 for the complete circuit)

What are the lagoon’s characteristics?

Physical characteristics

It is a natural attraction of impressive dimensions, with an irregular elongated surface from south to north. Its crystal-clear bluish-green waters and a maximum depth of 140 meters beautifully contrast with the stunning mountainous landscape and cliffs that surround it. The bottom features rocky areas to the south and marshy zones to the west, where the Pomacanchi, Thupahuiri, and Marcaconga rivers flow, creating an ecosystem rich in reeds and aquatic vegetation.

Climate

It belongs to the ecological zones of quechua and suni (Andean), with typical high-altitude climatic characteristics. The maximum temperature during the day reaches 18°C, and at night it can drop to -2°C. Water temperatures range from 9°C to 15°C throughout the year. It has two well-defined seasons: dry (May-September) and wet (October-April).

What fauna and flora can be observed?

Among the fauna, you can find silverside fish, trout, carp, wild ducks, coots, Andean flamingos, herons, Andean gulls, choqas, ajoyas, and more than 12 species of birds. In the surrounding areas, it is common to see cattle, sheep, alpacas, and llamas grazing in the extensive natural meadows. Sport fishing with rods is also practiced, making it one of the most popular activities.

As for flora, there are abundant species such as totora, mirmi, llachu, cjoyo, ceqa, matajillo, chinqui, and extensive natural grasses that surround the lagoon, creating a unique and well-preserved Andean ecosystem.

What activities can be done?

Main activities

Sport fishing: The star activity of the lagoon, with species such as trout, silverside, and carp. Over 300 local fishermen are associated to provide services and equipment.

Birdwatching: Especially Andean flamingos, herons, wild ducks, and other aquatic species during sunrise and sunset.

Boat rides: Pedal boats and smaller vessels are available to explore the lagoon with a local guide.

Camping: There is a tourist campsite with totora huts, a shelter for meals, and grills for preparing trout.

Nature photography: The views at sunrise and sunset are particularly stunning, with perfect reflections in the crystal-clear waters.

Hiking: Walks around the lagoon and to natural viewpoints with panoramic views.

Traditional ceremonies

It is common for the 40 communities involved in the tourist circuit to perform Andean rituals such as offerings to Pachamama. Pomacanchi holds deep significance for local communities, who consider the place sacred. According to accounts, it was a space for offerings to Mother Earth and continues to be used in Andean ceremonies, especially related to the abundance of water and fish.

What is the best time to visit?

The best time is between May and September, during the dry season, when the days are sunny and the ground conditions facilitate access. During these months, rainfall is less frequent, and the trails are in better condition. For sport fishing, the months of April, May, September, and October offer the best conditions. The wet season (December-March) presents greener landscapes but with more complicated access.

What to bring for the visit?

Recommended equipment

Clothing: Comfortable walking shoes, layered warm clothing (temperatures can drop to -2°C at night), waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves.

Equipment: Sunscreen and sunglasses, enough water and energy snacks, a camera with an extra battery, fishing gear (if applicable) or local rental.

Other items: Medications for altitude sickness, headlamp, waterproof bags.

Important tips

• Acclimatize to the altitude before engaging in intense activities
• Respect the environment and do not leave trash
• Consider hiring a local guide to learn about the stories and legends of the place
• Respect the closed seasons for sport fishing

Connection routes from Pomacanchi

From Pomacanchi Lagoon, various tourist routes distribute: Circuit of the 4 Lagoons (main route to Acopia, Asnaqocha, and Pampamarca/Tungasuca), route to Q’eswachaka Bridge (45 km, the last Inca hanging bridge), route to Waqrapukara (85 km, Inca fortress), connection to Upismayo hot springs (60 km), and route to the Sacred Valley (120 km).

Is there an entrance fee?

Free access. No entrance fee is required to visit Pomacanchi Lagoon, making it one of the natural attractions with free access in Cusco. The only costs are for additional services such as private transport ($20-30 for the complete circuit), local guide ($15-20/day), camping ($5-10/night), boat rental ($5-15/hour), and fishing equipment ($10-20/day).

Conservation status

The 40 surrounding communities, through community efforts and sustainable tourism programs, provide constant maintenance to the lagoon and its surroundings. The lagoon remains in excellent condition thanks to the collaborative care of local communities and its official recognition as the “Ecotourism Capital of the Inca Region.”

Cultural and tourist importance

Cultural value

As part of the region’s natural heritage, Pomacanchi Lagoon is culturally significant for local communities and for the preservation of Andean cultural identity. It is part of the Andean worldview regarding the importance of water as a sacred element and source of life.

Economic impact

The tourism generated by the lagoon provides significant economic benefits to the 40 nearby communities through job creation in specialized guiding, family lodging, traditional food, local transport, handicraft sales, and sport fishing services.

Connection with other attractions

Pomacanchi Lagoon can be perfectly combined with visits to other attractions in the region:

Circuit of the 4 Lagoons: Acopia (famous for Valicha), Asnaqocha (the stinky lagoon), and Pampamarca/Tungasuca (the highest at 3,750 meters above sea level).

Q’eswachaka Bridge: The last Inca hanging bridge in the world, renewed annually with ancestral techniques.

Waqrapukara Fortress: An Inca archaeological complex with unique horn-shaped architecture.

The lagoon represents a unique experience that combines pristine nature, exceptional biodiversity, sustainable community tourism, and ancestral Andean culture, making it ideal for travelers seeking authentic adventure and a connection with nature in one of the best-preserved ecosystems of the Peruvian Andes.