Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek Full Day (Smal group)

The Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek Full Day (Small Group): A Complete Guide

If you’re visiting Cusco and craving a day outside the city’s bustling streets, the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek offers one of the most scenic, spiritual, and memorable mountain experiences. Priced at $116 per person, this full-day tour takes roughly 13 hours and visits seven stunning lagoons surrounding the towering snow-capped Ausangate mountain. The trip includes round-trip transportation, a guide, meals, and some essential safety gear—making it a very convenient way to explore some of Peru’s lesser-known natural wonders.

What we love most about this tour is how it combines spectacular landscapes with a touch of local culture, especially at Pajchanta, a small village where you can relax after the hike. The delicious food and knowledgeable guides really stand out, giving the experience more depth than just sightseeing. However, keep in mind that this is a long and physically demanding day, suitable for those with a moderate fitness level. If you’re looking for a peaceful, scenic escape into nature without the crowds, this tour might be just right.

This adventure is best suited for travelers eager to see high-altitude lakes, enjoy mountain vistas, and experience local villages. It’s ideal if you appreciate guided hikes in a small group setting, and don’t mind an early start. If you’re after a less strenuous day or prefer luxury comforts, you might want to explore other options. But for those craving authentic natural beauty combined with a touch of adventure, this tour offers plenty of value.

Key Points

• Early start with pickup at 4:00 am ensures you beat most of the crowds and catch the sunrise.
• Visiting seven lagoons, each with its own unique color and character, makes for a truly memorable experience.
• The guide’s knowledge and friendly attitude are frequently praised, enhancing the overall trip.
• The lunch and breakfast included are well-reviewed, especially considering the remote setting.
• Safety gear like a first aid kit and oxygen cylinder are provided, which is reassuring at high altitudes.
• Some reviews mention infrastructure issues at certain stops, so flexibility and patience are recommended.

Exploring the Full Itinerary: What to Expect

Pickup and Early Morning Drive to Pajchanta

Your day begins at 4:00 am with a pickup directly from your Cusco hotel. Expect a roughly 3.5-hour drive southward, heading toward the peaceful village of Pacchanta. The drive itself is part of the adventure; you’re treated to a beautiful dawn over the mountains and valleys, setting the tone for the day.

We’ve read glowing reviews about this early start—most travelers appreciate beating the crowds and witnessing the sunrise over the Andes. One reviewer called it a “magical, peaceful, and awe-inspiring” journey, which perfectly captures the mood. Pack some warm clothing for this part—temperatures can be cold before the sun fully rises.

The Trek to the 7 Lagoons

Around 8:30 am, the group begins the walk toward the lagoons. The hike lasts about 3.5 hours, covering a trail that varies in difficulty but is manageable for most with moderate fitness. The guide provides insights about the landscape, local customs, and altitude, making the experience richer. Expect a mixture of uphill sections and flat stretches with panoramic mountain views.

The highlight here is the seven lagoons, each with its own mesmerizing hue, from turquoise to deep blue, and even greenish shades. One reviewer described feeling like they were on “a movie set,” thanks to the breathtaking scenery. The lakes are often described as mystical, surrounded by high peaks and colorful mineral deposits—perfect for photos.

Cultural and Relaxation Break at Pajchanta

After visiting all the lagoons, you’ll return to Pajchanta, a small village where you can enjoy a well-deserved rest. Here, many travelers indulge in a hot spring bath (optional), which is a nice way to relax those tired muscles and enjoy local scenery. If you prefer, you can explore the village or simply relax and soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Lunch is included here, often praised for its quality and local flavors. Several reviewers mention the delicious food, which adds to the value, especially after such a strenuous hike. The guide is known for being attentive and accommodating food preferences whenever possible.

Return to Cusco

The journey back starts after lunch, and you’ll arrive in Cusco around 6:30 pm. Expect a long but rewarding day filled with stunning vistas, cultural insights, and a sense of accomplishment.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, entrance fees, a guide, first aid kit, and an oxygen cylinder—all key for high-altitude excursions. These inclusions make it a good value, especially considering the remote and pristine nature of the lakes.

However, travelers should bring their own snacks or additional drinks, as only what’s provided is included. Tipping is not included but always appreciated for guides and drivers.

Real Traveler Insights: What People Say

Reviews paint a picture of a mostly positive experience, with several emphasizing the expert guides and beautiful scenery. One reviewer called the guide “the best for the whole group” and praised the delicious food, describing the experience as “spectacular” and “not to be missed.”

On the other hand, some travelers noted organizational issues—such as poor infrastructure at certain stops or outsourced guides. A few found the service lacking, especially when the guide or driver seemed reckless or unhelpful. These comments serve as a reminder that, while the scenery is stunning, the overall experience can vary depending on the guide and local arrangements.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

• Dress warmly for early morning; temperatures can be quite cold before sunrise.
• Bring sun protection—high-altitude sun can be strong even on cloudy days.
• Wear comfortable hiking shoes; the trail can have rocky or uneven sections.
• Prepare for high altitude—stay hydrated and take it slow to avoid altitude sickness.
• Carry some cash if you want to buy souvenirs or enjoy the hot springs (optional and paid locally).
• Be aware that the infrastructure at certain stops might be basic; pack any necessary personal items accordingly.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for adventurous travelers looking for a full day of breathtaking scenery, culture, and light physical activity. It’s well-suited for those with moderate fitness levels who want to experience multiple high-altitude lakes and learn about local villages. The small group size fosters a more intimate experience, and the inclusion of meals and safety gear adds peace of mind.

If you’re excited by nature, photography, and local culture, and don’t mind an early start and a full day’s effort, this tour offers tremendous value. It’s ideal for people who want an authentic, scenic escape from the city, with the reassurance of guides and logistics taken care of.

However, if you prefer luxury or a less strenuous pace, or have specific infrastructure expectations, you might want to explore other options. Still, for those eager to witness seven stunning lagoons and enjoy a high-altitude adventure, this is a deep, memorable experience.

FAQs

What time does the tour start?
Pickup begins at 4:00 am, allowing you to get an early start and enjoy the day’s scenery.

How long is the drive from Cusco to Pajchanta?
It takes approximately 3.5 hours, offering scenic views along the way.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes transportation, breakfast, lunch, entrance fees, a guide, first aid kit, and an oxygen cylinder.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It’s recommended for travelers with moderate physical fitness. The hike involves some elevation gain and walking on uneven terrain.

Can I see the lakes without hiking?
No, the lakes are reached through a hike of about 3.5 hours, but the scenery makes the effort worthwhile.

What should I bring?
Warm clothes, sun protection, comfortable hiking shoes, water, and perhaps a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Is there an option to relax at the hot springs?
Yes, at Pajchanta, you can take an optional bath in the water thermal springs—a popular stop for relaxation.

Are meals included?
Yes, both breakfast and lunch are included and well-liked by travelers.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Who provides the tour?
The experience is operated by Peru Grand Travel, with small group sizes limited to 10 travelers for a more personalized experience.

This tour offers a blend of stunning natural beauty, cultural insights, and adventure, making it a meaningful addition to your Cusco itinerary. Just prepare for an early start, bring your camera, and get ready for a day that promises unforgettable views and authentic encounters.