Exploring Cusco’s Hidden Gems: Horseback Riding to Ausangate and the 7 Lakes

If you’re looking for a day-long escape into the breathtaking landscapes surrounding Cusco, this Horseback riding to Ausangate and the 7 lakes tour might just be what you need. Priced at $190 per person, the tour lasts around 9 to 10 hours, offering an authentic, immersive experience into the Andes’ natural beauty. Led by friendly guides, it combines horseback riding, visits to vividly colored lakes, and relaxing hot springs, all wrapped into one memorable day.

What we love most are the stunning vistas of glaciers and snow-capped peaks—especially the towering Ausangate, reaching 6,384 meters. The chance to interact with local alpacas and enjoy a traditional Andean breakfast in a remote community make this tour feel genuinely authentic. Also, the horseback riding experience is a highlight, giving you a chance to explore rugged terrains at a comfortable pace.

One possible consideration is the early start—setting out at 4:30 am might be tough for some, but it’s necessary to maximize daylight and avoid afternoon weather changes. This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers who love nature, wildlife, and picturesque mountain scenery. If you’re eager to see some of Peru’s most beautiful high-altitude lakes and enjoy a dose of authentic rural life, this experience suits you well.

Key Points

Stunning scenery: View glaciers, snow peaks, and vibrant lakes in one of the most beautiful parts of the Andes.
Horseback riding: A 15 km ride through extraordinary landscapes with professional guidance.
Local culture: Start the day with a traditional Andean breakfast in Pacchanta and feed alpacas.
Relaxation and refreshment: Enjoy hot springs with mountain views after your adventure.
All-inclusive value: Entrance to the lakes and hot springs, meals, horses, and private transportation are included.
Small group feel: It’s a private tour for your group, enhancing comfort and personalized attention.

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A Deep Dive into the Adventure

The Journey Begins Early and Comfortably

This tour kicks off at 4:30 am, with private transportation picking you up at your Cusco hotel. Yes, it’s a very early start, but the quiet morning drive through the Andean landscape sets the tone for a peaceful, anticipation-filled day. Traveling privately means no waiting for other groups, which often translates into a more relaxed, less hurried experience.

First Stop: Pacchanta and a Hearty Andean Breakfast

Your first real taste of local life comes when you arrive at Pacchanta, a small community where a welcoming local family offers a nutritious traditional breakfast. This is more than just a meal—it’s a chance to connect with the local culture and understand the daily rhythm of Andean life. Many reviews mention how this authentic touch enhances the overall experience, making it more meaningful than a typical sightseeing tour.

The 7 Lakes and Alpaca Paradise

After breakfast, the real adventure begins. You’ll journey through the Andes Mountains, with spectacular views of glaciers and rugged terrain. The highlight is the visit to the 7 lagoons, each with its own unique hue—vivid blues, greens, and even reddish tones—set against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks.

Horseback riding is the best way to navigate this region, and you’ll cover about 15 km on well-trained horses. The tour guides, fluent in English and Spanish, will point out wild rabbits perched on giant rocks and alpacas wandering freely. As one reviewer noted, “We loved the way the guide shared stories and pointed out perfect photo stops.” It’s a chance to capture jaw-dropping photos of animals and landscapes that seem straight out of a postcard.

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The Land of Alpacas and Photo Opportunities

This tour is nicknamed the Alpaca Paradise for a reason. You’ll see herds grazing near the lakes and can take the opportunity to feed and photograph these charming animals. Their fluffy coats and curious expressions make for perfect snapshots.

Relaxing in the Hot Springs at Pacchanta

After hours of riding and sightseeing, you’ll descend to Aguas Termales Pacchanta, where hot springs offer a welcome break. Surrounded by majestic mountains, soaking in the thermal waters is both relaxing and rejuvenating. As one traveler put it, “The hot springs with mountain views are worth the early start alone.” You can sip a drink, unwind, and enjoy the stunning scenery before heading back.

Delicious Local Cuisine

A highlight is the lunch prepared by a professional chef—a satisfying meal after a day of adventure. The focus is on fresh, local ingredients, and many find the food to be both hearty and authentic, a perfect way to cap off the day.

Return to Cusco

After lunch, you’ll be transported back to your hotel in Cusco, usually arriving in the late afternoon. The private transportation ensures comfort and convenience, especially after a full day outdoors.

The Experience in Detail

Transportation and Timing

Starting early is key to this tour—by leaving at 4:30 am, you maximize your daylight hours and avoid cloud cover that can obscure mountain views. The private transportation setup means you won’t be crammed with strangers, and the journey itself offers stunning vistas of the highlands.

Horseback Riding

The 15 km ride is designed for a range of riding abilities, with horses trained for the circuit. While no specific experience level is mentioned, the ride appears accessible for most, especially with professional guides nearby. The ride provides a different perspective on the landscape, allowing you to cover more ground comfortably and enjoy the fresh mountain air.

The Lagoons and Alpacas

The seven lakes are a spectacular highlight, each with its own color and character. The ability to explore these on horseback means you can slow down and appreciate the scenery without the fatigue of hiking. The guide’s storytelling, as described, adds a layer of cultural and natural insight to the sightseeing.

Hot Springs and Lunch

The hot springs are a rewarding end to the outdoor activities, offering a gentle way to relax muscles sore from riding and walking. The local lunch is well-rated, emphasizing the tour’s focus on authentic, regional flavors.

Authentic Local Interaction

Feeding alpacas and experiencing a traditional breakfast are touches that set this tour apart from more generic highland excursions. These opportunities connect travelers with local ways of life, making the experience more meaningful.

Customer Feedback

Reviewers consistently praise the stunning views and the professional, friendly guides. As Sicong_H noted, “The two lovely guard dogs protected us and made the horseback adventure incredibly safe.” Such comments reflect a sense of trust and comfort on the tour.

Final Thoughts: Who Is This Tour For?

This experience is ideal for adventurous souls eager to see iconic highland scenery without the rigors of multi-day treks. It’s perfect for those who want a balanced mix of activity and relaxation, with opportunities to interact with local culture and wildlife. The early start might not suit everyone, but it ensures a full, rewarding day.

Travelers who love breathtaking mountain vistas, animal encounters, and authentic local experiences will find this tour well worth the price. It’s especially suitable for those who appreciate a small-group or private setting and want a comprehensive day of high-altitude adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the horseback riding suitable for beginners?
The tour uses trained horses and professional guides, making it accessible for most riders, even those with limited experience. If you’re unsure, you may want to ask your guide for a quick briefing before riding.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring layers suitable for mountain weather, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera. Water is provided, but it’s good to stay hydrated throughout the day.

Are the lakes and hot springs accessible year-round?
The tour generally runs as scheduled, but weather conditions can affect accessibility. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

How long is the horseback riding portion?
The ride covers approximately 15 km, lasting about four hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the scenery and take photos.

What’s included in the tour price?
Your fee covers breakfast, lunch, entrance tickets to the lakes and hot springs, horseback riding, guided assistance, and private transportation from and to Cusco.

Can I participate if I don’t ride horses?
The tour is centered around horseback riding, so a certain level of comfort with riding is necessary. If you prefer to hike, this might not be the best option.

Final Word

This Horseback riding to Ausangate and the 7 lakes tour offers a well-rounded, authentic glimpse into Peru’s highland beauty. It’s a full-day adventure that combines spectacular landscapes, local culture, and relaxing hot springs. If you’re seeking an active, scenic, and culturally enriching experience in Cusco’s surroundings, this tour is hard to beat.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want more than just a quick look—the early start and full itinerary reward those eager to witness the splendor of the Andes while enjoying the comforts of private transportation and guided insight. This is a memorable way to connect with Peru’s natural wonders and rural life in a single day.