The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour from Cusco offers a chance to witness the stunning natural beauty of the Andes. Travelers can experience a scenic trek to a viewpoint overlooking vibrant glacial lakes, savor delicious meals, and unwind in thermal baths – all while enjoying comfortable roundtrip transportation and the guidance of a knowledgeable professional. This full-day adventure promises an unforgettable exploration of the region’s breathtaking landscapes. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or seeking a unique cultural experience, this tour provides an opportunity to learn about the heart of the Andes.

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Key Points

A day-long tour from Cusco that includes a 2-hour walk to a viewpoint overlooking 7 glacial lakes in the Ausangate region.
Breakfast in Pacchanta before the trek and lunch after, with roundtrip transportation, a professional guide, and entry to thermal baths included.
Stunning scenery with lakes featuring unique colors, suitable for those in good physical condition and acclimatized to the high altitude.
Essential items to bring include passport, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, cash, and a daypack.
Tour unsuitable for wheelchair users or individuals with respiratory issues, with a maximum group size of 15 and free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour departs from Cusco and takes visitors on a day-long journey to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Ausangate mountain range.

The tour includes a 2-hour walk to a viewpoint overlooking 7 pristine glacial lakes, each with its own unique color and charm. Participants will visit Lake Superior, Otorongo Masculino, Otorongo Femenino, Lake Rojo, Lake Comer, Lake Azul, and Lake Alka.

The tour also includes a breakfast in Pacchanta before the trek and a lunch after. Roundtrip transportation, a professional guide, and entry to the thermal baths are all included in the price.

Looking for more options in Cusco? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins with an early pickup at 4:00 AM from hotels in Cusco’s historic center.

The tour begins with an early pickup at 4:00 AM from hotels in Cusco’s historic center.

After breakfast in Pacchanta, guests embark on a 2-hour walk to a viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of 7 stunning lagoons.

These include the serene Lake Superior, the captivating Otorongo Masculino and Otorongo Femenino, the vibrant Lake Rojo, the peaceful Lake Comer, the breathtaking Lake Azul, and the alluring Lake Alka.

Following the trek, a hearty lunch is provided in Pacchanta before the return journey to Cusco, arriving by 6:00 PM.

Included Services

The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Roundtrip transportation from Cusco hotels and a professional tour guide are provided. Meals, including breakfast and lunch, are included. For safety, a first-aid kit and oxygen are available.

Trekkers can use walking sticks, and a horse ride option is offered. Entry fees for the thermal baths are also covered.

With these all-inclusive services, travelers can focus on immersing themselves in the stunning natural landscapes and cultural highlights of the Ausangate region.

Preparation and Restrictions

To fully prepare for the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour, travelers should bring essential items like their passport, sunglasses, sun hat, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, cash, and a daypack.

The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, individuals with respiratory issues, or those with pre-existing medical conditions. Proper preparation is crucial as the high-altitude trek can be challenging.

Travelers should be in good physical condition and acclimatized to the elevation. Following the tour guide’s instructions and taking necessary precautions will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the stunning Andean lakes.

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Customer Feedback

Eleven reviews for the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour have awarded it an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5.

Customers praised the tour’s exceptional organization and the breathtaking natural scenery. They highlighted the excellent service and guidance provided by the tour leader, Heber, who offered valuable advice throughout the excursion.

The tour’s combination of culture, outdoor adventure, and comfortable amenities like meals and transportation left a lasting impression on participants.

There's plenty more to explore in Cusco

Pricing and Booking

Priced from $37.00 per person, the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour offers a full-day adventure departing from Cusco.

The tour has a group size limited to 15 participants and is available in English and Spanish.

The tour has a group size limited to 15 participants and is available in English and Spanish.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, customers can book their spot without upfront payment.

The 1-day itinerary includes pickup, breakfast, a 2-hour trek to the 7 lakes, lunch, and return to Cusco by 6 PM.

Additional services like horse rides and thermal baths are also included.

This immersive nature experience has earned an impressive 4.8/5 rating based on 11 reviews.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with an early pickup at 4:00 AM from hotels in Cusco’s historic center. Guests are transported to the town of Pacchanta, where they’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before embarking on the day’s activities.

The roundtrip transportation is included in the tour price, ensuring a seamless and convenient experience. Throughout the journey, the guide provides commentary and assists participants.

After visiting the seven lakes, the group returns to Pacchanta for lunch before heading back to Cusco, arriving by 6:00 PM.

Exploring the 7 Lakes

After breakfast in Pacchanta, participants embark on a 2-hour walk to a viewpoint that offers stunning vistas of the seven lakes.

The lakes are named: Lake Superior, Otorongo Masculino, Otorongo Femenino, Lake Rojo, Lake Comer, Lake Azul, and Lake Alka.

Each lake has its own distinct color and character, from the deep blue of Lake Azul to the vibrant red of Lake Rojo.

Visitors can admire the natural beauty of these glacial lakes set against the dramatic backdrop of the Andes mountains.

The tour provides ample time to explore the lakes and take in the serene, awe-inspiring scenery.

Since You Asked

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

There is no minimum age requirement for this tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for very young children or infants due to the physical demands of the hike and high altitude.

Can I Bring Alcoholic Beverages on the Trek?

According to the tour details, the consumption of alcoholic beverages is not permitted during the trek. The tour is focused on enjoying the natural beauty of the lakes, and the priority is maintaining a safe and responsible environment for all participants.

How Experienced Do I Need to Be for the Hiking Portion?

The tour is suitable for hikers with moderate experience. While no technical skills are required, participants should be able to walk for 2 hours over uneven terrain at high altitude. Proper preparation and pacing are advised to fully enjoy the scenic lakes.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour to Multiple Days?

There’s no option to extend the tour to multiple days. The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour is a one-day excursion from Cusco. However, travelers can consider multi-day trekking packages in the Ausangate area for a more immersive experience.

Are There Any Toilet Facilities Along the Trail?

There are no permanent toilet facilities along the trail. However, the tour guide will identify appropriate spots for bathroom breaks during the trek. Hikers should be prepared to use the natural environment discreetly and pack out any waste.

The Sum Up

The Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour from Cusco offers a breathtaking day-long adventure in the heart of the Andes. Highlights include a scenic trek to a stunning viewpoint, delicious meals, access to thermal baths, and roundtrip transportation. With a professional guide and included services, this tour ensures a memorable and fulfilling experience for visitors seeking to explore the region’s natural beauty.