Cusco: Private Ausangate 7 Lakes Full-Day Hike | Optional Horse
Location: Cusco Region, Peru
Country: Peru
Rating: 5/5 (based on 3 reviews)
Price: $148 per person
Duration: 12-15 hours, check availability for start times
Supplier: Apu Ausangate Trek EIRL
A quick snapshot of this adventure
If you’re after a day filled with jaw-dropping scenery and authentic Andean flavor, this private full-day hike to the Ausangate 7 Lagoons might just be your ticket. For $148, you’ll get a long but rewarding trip that starts before dawn—think 4 a.m. pickups—taking you over rough roads to the quaint village of Pacchanta, perched at 4,100 meters. From there, it’s a scenic drive, a hearty breakfast with local ingredients, and then into the mountains for about 5 hours of hiking among lakes that almost look painted—turquoise, emerald, and every shade in between.
What we love about this tour? First, the chance to see seven lakes in one day, each with its own distinct hue and setting, shows off Peru’s natural diversity. Second, the knowledgeable local guides bring the landscape to life with stories about flora, fauna, and the glacier’s importance—adding depth to the stunning visuals.
A possible drawback? It’s a long day — expect 12 to 15 hours—so stamina and comfort with early mornings are a must. Also, the tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or those with respiratory or altitude sickness issues, so plan accordingly if you’re sensitive to high elevations.
This experience is best suited for adventurous travelers who appreciate scenery, cultural interactions, and don’t mind a full day of activity. If you’re looking for a relaxed, low-effort trip, this might not be your best fit. But if you want genuine, off-the-beaten-path beauty and a guide who shares insights along the way, this tour offers great value.
Key Points
- Stunning Landscapes: Seven lakes with vibrant colors and mountain vistas.
- Authentic Experience: Local breakfast, interactions with Andean communities, optional horseback riding.
- Long, But Rewarding: A 12-15 hour trip requiring stamina and early starts.
- Knowledgeable Guides: Guides share stories about flora, fauna, and cultural significance.
- Private Group: Personalized experience without big crowds.
- All-Inclusive Pricing: Entrance fee, transportation, and bilingual guide included.
If you’re craving a day where natural beauty takes center stage, this tour offers a comprehensive experience that balances adventure, cultural insights, and comfort. Starting with an early pickup from your Cusco hotel at 4 a.m., you’ll hop into a private vehicle for a roughly three-hour drive to Pacchanta, a charming village at the foot of Ausangate Mountain. Here, you’ll be greeted with a nutritious breakfast made with traditional Andean ingredients—a perfect boost before heading into the mountains.
Why the early start? Because the high-altitude landscapes shine brightest in the morning light, and this timing maximizes your time among the lakes and peaks. While the journey is long, it’s smooth and private, allowing for a relaxed environment where your guide can point out interesting sights along the way.
You can check availability for your dates here:The Drive and Breakfast
The drive through the rugged Peruvian countryside offers glimpses of rural life and towering mountains that seem to reach the sky. Once at Pacchanta, the local hosts prepare a hearty breakfast, giving you a taste of regional flavors—something you won’t forget amid the stunning natural backdrop. This stops not only energizes you but also connects you with the local culture, a highlight many travelers appreciate.
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Hiking into the Heart of the Andes
The core of this experience is the hike, which covers about 10 kilometers and takes roughly five hours. You’ll start by visiting the first lagoon about 5-6 kilometers from Pacchanta, reachable in about 1.5 hours. It’s here that the colors strike you most—the lakes are a rainbow of shades, from bright turquoise to deep emerald green, set against the jagged peaks.
As you continue, the trail winds through lush vegetation, with occasional sightings of alpacas grazing—a sign of authentic rural life. The guides are experts at pointing out local flora and explaining the significance of each sight, making it more than just a walk.
The Seven Lakes
Each lagoon has its own character, and the views are breathtaking. Some travelers mention having clear weather, which makes the lakes’ colors pop, while others find the clouds and mist adding a mysterious touch. Whatever the weather, the scenery is mesmerizing, and the hike’s gradual incline is manageable thanks to well-paced breaks and the guide’s insights.
Optional Horseback Riding
If stamina is a concern, the tour offers an optional horseback riding upgrade, allowing you to enjoy the vistas from a different perspective without extra fatigue. Many travelers find this adds a fun element and helps cover more ground comfortably.
More Great Tours NearbyLunch and Hot Springs
After a rewarding morning of hiking, you’ll return to Pacchanta for lunch and a soak in natural hot springs—an ideal way to relax those sore muscles. The hot springs are a local favorite, and many reviews mention how they cap off the day with genuine bliss.
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Return Journey
The return trip is another three hours by private vehicle, giving you time to reflect on the day’s sights and stories. The adventure ends back in Cusco, usually late in the evening, tired but full of memories.
This private tour offers a rare chance to see some of the most beautiful high-altitude lakes in Peru without the hassle of large group tours. The private setting means your guides can tailor the experience and give personalized attention. The inclusion of a local breakfast and optional horseback riding enhances the cultural and scenic aspects of the trip.
You’ll love the expert guides who are eager to share their knowledge, and the variety of landscapes—from lakes to mountain peaks—keeps the day interesting. Many travelers, like Raphael and Emily, have praised the guides’ insights and the stunning views, making it clear that this experience exceeds expectations.
The main consideration is the length and physical demand—be prepared for a long day of walking at altitude. But for those who can handle it, the payoff is extraordinary scenery, authentic cultural interactions, and a sense of connection with Peru’s majestic landscape.
This experience suits adventurous travelers who don’t mind early mornings and a full day of activity. Given the private group setting, it’s ideal for those seeking a personalized experience. If you’re interested in native culture, stunning lakes, and mountain scenery, this tour hits the mark. It’s particularly appealing for travelers who value knowledgeable guides and the chance to avoid large crowds.
It’s less suitable for very young children, pregnant women, or visitors with respiratory issues or altitude sickness. The physical effort required makes it best for those in reasonably good shape and comfortable with long walks at high elevation.
If you’re looking for a day trip that combines natural beauty, cultural insight, and a bit of adventure, this private Ausangate 7 Lagoons trek offers excellent value. For $148, you get a well-organized, personalized experience that highlights Peru’s stunning lakes and mountain vistas, all led by guides who genuinely love sharing their homeland.
The inclusion of a traditional breakfast, optional horseback riding, and a relaxing soak in hot springs make it that much more memorable. It’s a great choice if you want to explore away from the crowds, with the comfort of a private group and expert guidance.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply someone who appreciates breathtaking scenery and authentic local interactions, this tour promises a day full of wonder, wrapped in the rugged beauty of the Andes.
What time does the tour start?
Pickup is typically at 4:00 a.m., but check availability for specific start times as they can vary.
How long is the drive from Cusco to Pacchanta?
About three hours each way in private transportation, offering a comfortable journey through scenic countryside.
What should I bring?
Your passport, camera, gloves, water, sunscreen, cash, comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and a daypack are recommended.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for children under 12 due to the long hours, altitude, and physical effort involved.
Can I choose the horseback riding option?
Yes, horseback riding is an optional upgrade that allows you to enjoy the scenery without the full hike.
What’s included in the price?
Pickup from your hotel, a bilingual guide, private transport, entrance tickets, and a local breakfast.
What is not included?
Dinner and horseback riding are extra costs; no lunch or additional activities are included unless specified.
Will the tour go ahead if it’s raining?
Yes, this tour takes place rain or shine, so come prepared for weather variations.
This private Ausangate 7 Lagoons hike combines natural beauty, cultural discovery, and a good dose of adventure—perfect for travelers eager to experience the authentic heart of the Andes.
You can check availability for your dates here: