Andean Route: Machu Picchu & the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate

Travelers seeking a blend of iconic sights and lesser-known beauty will find this 8-day adventure in Cusco, Peru quite rewarding. Priced at $936 per person, this tour hits the major highlights—Machu Picchu—and takes you into the wilds of the Andes with visits to Rainbow Mountain, Humantay Lagoon, and the stunning 7 Lagoons of Ausangate.

With a focus on authentic experiences and diverse landscapes, it’s a comprehensive way to see the best of the highlands.

What we love most about this tour is how it balances cultural sites with spectacular natural scenery. The guided visits to Qoricancha and Sacsayhuamán introduce you to the Inca’s impressive architecture and spiritual centers, while the excursions to Rainbow Mountain and the 7 Lagoons offer some of the most breathtaking views you’ll encounter in South America.

Plus, the organized nature of the trip alleviates the stress of planning logistics—you just focus on enjoying each moment.

One thing to consider is the intensive schedule, with early mornings and multiple high-altitude hikes. If you’re not accustomed to altitude or long days of walking, some parts might be challenging. But for those in good health and eager for a true adventure, this tour offers an immersive experience.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, well-organized trip that hits the major highlights and some off-the-beaten-path treasures. It’s perfect if you’re looking to combine cultural exploration with unforgettable natural beauty, all with knowledgeable guides and small group intimacy.

Key Points

• Diverse landscapes: From Machu Picchu’s ruins to Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant slopes and the serene 7 lagoons.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides enhance understanding of each site’s significance.
• Authentic experiences: Opportunities to visit less crowded sites like Waqrapukara and the salt mines of Maras.
• Challenging hikes: Expect early mornings and high-altitude walks that demand good fitness and preparation.
• Well-rounded itinerary: Mix of cultural, historical, and natural wonders with comfortable transportation.
• Good value: The price includes most major entrance fees, guided tours, and some meals, offering a lot for the cost.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and Cusco City Tour

Getting to Cusco is the first step, and it’s wise to arrive a day early if possible—altitude sickness can hit hard, and a rest day helps. Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed by an authorized representative and transferred to your 2-star hotel, where we loved the simple comfort and central location. The afternoon city tour begins at 2:00 pm, giving you a gentle introduction to Cusco.

In the tour, you’ll explore Qoricancha (the Temple of the Sun), a site that reveals the Inca’s mastery of stonework and their spiritual focus. Then, visiting Sacsayhuamán allows you to marvel at enormous stone walls, perfectly fitted without mortar. The stops at Qenqo, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay round out the afternoon, each offering insights into Inca military, religious, and water management systems.

This day’s highlight is the manageable pace, allowing your body to adjust to the altitude while soaking in Cusco’s lively atmosphere. As one traveler noted, “The city tour gave us a great sense of the Inca’s ingenuity, and our guide, Juan, was fantastic—full of stories that brought the stones to life.”

Day 2: Machu Picchu – The Iconic Wonder

The early morning train ride to Aguas Calientes is a scenic prelude to the day’s main event. The train’s panoramic windows offer views of terraced hillsides and the rushing Vilcanota River. Once you arrive, a short bus ride takes you up to Machu Picchu.

Your guide will lead a 2-hour tour of this legendary site—expect to walk among the terraces, temples, and plazas that have fascinated travelers for centuries. We loved how the guide explained the stonework and the theories about the site’s purpose, making the ruins feel alive and meaningful.

After the visit, you’ll have time for lunch in Aguas Calientes, a small town with a bustling market atmosphere. The return journey by train takes you back to Cusco, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel. Many reviews praise the smooth logistics, noting the value of the included train and bus tickets.

Day 3: Humantay Lagoon – A High-Altitude Marvel

Rising at 4:00 am, this early start takes you by bus to Mollepata in about three hours. After breakfast, it’s a 2-hour hike uphill to the Humantay Lagoon, famed for its shimmering emerald waters. The hike demands good stamina and acclimatization, but the scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

The lagoon’s tranquility and vivid color are unforgettable. One traveler said, “Standing by the water, with the snow-capped peaks all around, felt like being in a different world.” Returning to Mollepata for lunch, you’ll head back to Cusco, arriving in the evening.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 4: Maras and Moray – Inca Agricultural Innovations

Leaving at 7:30 am, you’ll visit Maras’ salt mines, where salt is still extracted using traditional methods. The circular terraces are fascinating and demonstrate sustainable resource use. Then, at Moray, you’ll walk through concentric terraces that the Incas used as experimental agricultural terraces—an impressive engineering feat.

A guided tour of approximately 2 hours offers insights into their importance. Returning to Cusco in the afternoon, you’ll have the evening free to explore or relax. Many reviews highlight how these sites connect the past with the present, giving a real sense of Inca ingenuity.

Day 5: Rainbow Mountain – Chromatic Wonder

An early 4:00 am pickup sets the tone for a full day. The bus ride to Tintinco takes about two and a half hours, followed by a 2-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain. The trail is steep but well-marked, and the vibrant mineral deposits paint the slopes in reds, oranges, yellows, and greens.

The views are stunning—colors that seem almost surreal. After taking photos and soaking it in, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch in Tintinco before returning to Cusco by 5:00 pm. Reviews often mention the high altitude as a challenge but also say the experience is worth every gasp and sweat.

Day 6: Waqrapukara – An Offbeat Inca Site

Starting with breakfast in Sangarara, you’ll hike for 2 hours to Waqrapukara, a less-visited archaeological site perched high above the surrounding landscape. The ruins are impressive, with terraces and stone structures that seem to blend naturally into the rugged terrain.

Exploring Waqrapukara gives you a quieter, more intimate connection to Inca architecture. Returning for lunch, you’ll head back to Cusco, arriving around 7:00 pm. Several reviews mention that this site offers a peaceful alternative to the busier ruins, making it a highlight for those seeking authentic exploration.

Day 7: The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate – Nature’s Masterpiece

Very early at 4:30 am, you’re off to Pacchanta for about three hours. From there, a 3-hour hike leads to the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate—a sequence of crystalline, colorful waters amid towering peaks. The hike is demanding but incredibly scenic, with each lagoon offering a new perspective.

After exploring, you’ll enjoy a buffet lunch and relax in natural hot springs, a perfect way to unwind. The return to Cusco by 6:30 pm caps off this high-altitude adventure. Reviewers love the serenity and beauty of the lagoons, describing them as “a hidden gem” worth the effort.

Day 8: Farewell and Departure

The tour ends with a private transfer to Cusco’s airport or bus station. If your plans allow, spending an extra day in Cusco to absorb the city’s vibrant atmosphere might be worthwhile.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Beyond the obvious Machu Picchu, what sets this trip apart is its focus on less crowded sites like Waqrapukara, Maras and Moray, and the 7 Lagoons—each offering a different slice of Andean life and landscape. The guided approach ensures you understand the history and significance of each place, making the experience richer.

The tour’s balance of cultural sights and natural wonders gives you a well-rounded picture of the region. The inclusion of hot springs at Pacchanta and the buffet lunches make the days manageable and comfortable.

However, the heavy schedule—with early starts and significant walking at high elevations—means this itinerary isn’t suited for everyone. If you’re prone to altitude sickness or prefer leisurely pace, consider that some days will be quite demanding.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour Best For?

This journey is ideal for travelers with a good fitness level who crave a mix of culture and adventure. It’s perfect for those who want to see the most famous sights like Machu Picchu but also visit lesser-known gems, avoiding the crowds. The small group size adds an intimate feel, allowing for more personalized attention from guides and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Since most major entrance fees, transportation, and guiding services are included, it offers solid value for the price—especially considering the diversity of experiences packed into just eight days. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or someone who wants to tick off a bucket list destination in style, this tour covers a lot of ground and leaves you with memories of a lifetime.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for someone with limited mobility?
This tour involves a lot of walking and hiking at high altitudes, so it’s best suited for those in good health without mobility restrictions. Some sites require manageable hikes, but there may be challenges for those with mobility impairments.

Are meals included during the trip?
Most meals aren’t included except for breakfasts, buffet lunches, and some special meals during excursions. You’ll have options for lunch on most days, but additional meals are at your own expense.

How much walking should I expect on the tour?
Expect to walk several hours each day, often in high-altitude conditions. The hikes to Humantay Lagoon, Rainbow Mountain, and Waqrapukara are notably demanding, so good fitness helps.

Do I need to book Machu Picchu tickets separately?
Yes, you must book your Machu Picchu entrance tickets in advance—ideally 2 months before—since they’re limited. The tour includes the bus and train tickets, but the entrance must be secured separately.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the physical demands suggest it’s better suited for adults or older teens who are comfortable with long walks and altitude exposure.

What should I bring for the excursions?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, camera, hiking gear, and warm clothes for higher altitudes. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains.

This Andean Route combines the best of Peru’s natural beauty and archaeological treasures, delivered through a well-organized, value-packed package. Whether you’re looking to tick off Machu Picchu or enjoy the quiet serenity of the lagoons, it’s an adventure that will leave lasting impressions. Just be ready for some early mornings and high-altitude hikes—trust us, the views are worth it.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby