Cusco : Ausangates Hike – Seven Glacial Lakes – Full Day

Nestled in the majestic Andes, the Cusco: Ausangates Hike – Seven Glacial Lakes full-day tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Trekking through breathtaking landscapes, hikers will be rewarded with stunning views of seven glacial lakes. Though the challenge is not for the faint of heart, with a 1,500 ft elevation gain, the journey offers a chance to take in the region’s natural splendor. Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or seeking a new thrill, this tour provides an opportunity to explore Cusco’s hidden wonders.

About Your Stay

• A full-day tour from Cusco that includes a scenic 9-mile hike to the Ausangates mountain with the opportunity to view seven glacial lakes.
• The hike covers an elevation gain of approximately 1,500 feet, reaching an altitude of around 15,000 feet.
• The tour includes pickup from Cusco accommodations, breakfast, lunch, and entry fees to the hot springs and Tinki site.
• Preparation for the hike is essential, with recommendations including acclimatization, proper clothing, sturdy footwear, and altitude sickness medication.
• Traveler feedback highlights the tour’s scenic beauty and engaging guides, but also mentions potential issues with transportation and communication.

Tour Overview

The Cusco: Ausangates Hike – Seven Glacial Lakes – Full Day tour offers an exhilarating adventure for travelers visiting Cusco, Peru. Priced from $49 per person, the tour includes a long 3-4 hour drive from Cusco to the hike location.

With a maximum group size of 12 travelers, the tour is led by English/Spanish-speaking professional guides. Hikers can expect a scenic 9-mile trek with a 1500 ft elevation gain, reaching altitudes around 15,000 ft.

The tour includes breakfast, lunch, hot springs, and Tinki site entrance fees. Travelers should prepare for potential weather changes and altitude challenges.

Inclusons

Included in the Cusco: Ausangates Hike tour are several key amenities.

Travelers are picked up from their Cusco accommodations around 5 AM. Breakfast and lunch are provided during the day. Fees for entry to the hot springs (~5 soles) and Tinki site (20 soles) are covered.

Travelers are picked up at 5 AM from Cusco accommodations. Breakfast, lunch, and entry fees to hot springs and Tinki site are included.

The long 3-4 hour drive from Cusco to the hike location is included. While the group size is capped at 12, some experiences have reported up to 19 travelers.

Throughout the day, an English/Spanish-speaking professional guide leads the scenic 9-mile hike with a 1500 ft elevation gain to the seven glacial lakes.

Preparing for the Hike

Given the high altitude of the hike, reaching up to 15,000 feet, travelers should prepare for the challenging conditions.

Acclimate to the elevation by spending a few days in Cusco before the trek. Bring layers of warm clothing, including a waterproof jacket, as the weather can change rapidly.

Wear sturdy hiking boots with good traction. Stay hydrated and eat high-calorie snacks to keep energy levels up.

Bring altitude sickness medication, if prescribed, and be aware of symptoms like headaches and nausea.

Pace yourself during the hike and don’t hesitate to take breaks. Preparing properly will help ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.

The Hiking Experience

Although the hike to the Ausangates lakes is strenuous, the breathtaking scenery and sense of accomplishment make it well worth the effort.

During the approximately 9-mile trek, you’ll ascend around 1,500 feet, reaching an altitude of roughly 15,000 feet. Along the way, you may spot local wildlife like alpacas and horses.

The weather can be unpredictable, with the possibility of hail storms, so it’s essential to be prepared. The path can also be challenging due to the high elevation, so pacing yourself and listening to your guide’s advice is crucial.

The end result, however, is the rewarding sight of the stunning glacial lakes.

Wildlife Encounters

As you make your way through the stunning landscape, you may be rewarded with sightings of local wildlife. Alpacas and horses are commonly spotted grazing along the trail. Keep an eye out for these gentle creatures and snap some photos if you’re lucky. You might even catch a glimpse of other wildlife, such as foxes, condors, or small rodents.

| Animal | Habitat | Characteristics |

| — | — | — |

| Alpaca | Mountainous regions | Fluffy, long-necked camelids with soft fiber |

| Horse | Mountain meadows | Powerful, agile equines used for transportation |

| Condor | Soaring above peaks | Massive vultures with impressive wingspans |

While wildlife encounters are not guaranteed, the tranquility of the hike provides ample opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you.

Dealing With Weather Changes

The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so hikers should be prepared for sudden changes. Hail storms are a common occurrence, and temperatures can drop quickly.

Bringing proper layering, waterproof jackets, and sturdy boots is essential. Hikers should also pack extra snacks and water in case the hike is delayed due to inclement weather.

While the scenic views are worth the effort, unexpected weather can make the hike more challenging. Hikers should be prepared to adjust their pace and route if necessary, and follow the guidance of their experienced local guide.

Traveler Feedback and Recommendations

Traveler feedback on the Cusco: Ausangates Hike tour has been mixed.

Positive reviews highlight the scenic beauty of the lakes and mountains, as well as the friendly and engaging guides.

However, some travelers have reported issues with transportation and communication, such as late pickups and cramped vans.

Plus, some felt the bilingual guide service was misleading, and the food and restaurant options were unsatisfactory.

To ensure a positive experience, it’s recommended to prepare for the altitude challenge and consider coping strategies for elevation sickness.

Confirming pickup details and reviewing the tour company’s reputation before booking are also advisable.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Group Size Range for This Tour?

The group size for this tour has a maximum of 12 travelers, though some experiences have reported group sizes up to 19 participants.

How Long Is the Drive From Cusco to the Hike Location?

The tour involves a long 3-4 hour drive from Cusco to the hike location. Travelers should prepare for this lengthy commute before embarking on the scenic 9-mile hike with a 1,500 ft elevation gain.

Is the Guide Fluent in Any Other Languages Besides English and Spanish?

The tour’s professional guide is fluent in both English and Spanish, providing language support for travelers. However, there’s no mention of the guide being proficient in any additional languages beyond these two.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for This Hike?

There are no specific age or fitness level restrictions for this hike, but it’s physically demanding with a 1500-ft elevation gain. Travelers should be prepared for the high altitude and challenging terrain.

Is It Possible to Book This Tour as a Private Group?

The tour can be booked as a private group, though group size is typically limited to 12 travelers. This allows for a more personalized experience and flexibility in scheduling. Private bookings may incur additional costs compared to joining a shared tour.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Cusco: Ausangates Hike – Seven Glacial Lakes tour offers an unparalleled adventure for outdoor enthusiasts. With a challenging 9-mile trek, stunning scenery, and expert guidance, this full-day excursion provides an immersive experience amidst the Andes’ breathtaking landscapes. Travelers can expect a rewarding journey, complete with opportunities to encounter wildlife and adapt to changing weather conditions. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking an unforgettable hiking adventure in the Cusco region.