Trip Itinerary
TRIP ITINERARY
Cusco Hotel Pick-Up → Pacchanta → Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike → Natural Hot Springs → Return To Cusco
Your adventure begins with pick-up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. The exact pick-up time will depend on the location of your accommodation and will be confirmed after your reservation. Once the group is ready, we will begin the journey toward one of the most impressive high-altitude landscapes in the Cusco region.
The drive to Pacchanta takes approximately three hours. Along the way, you will pass through traditional Andean communities, open valleys, and beautiful mountain scenery, with views of snow-capped peaks and herds of alpacas and llamas grazing in the highlands.
Upon arrival in Pacchanta, located at approximately 4,600 meters above sea level, we will stop for a complete Andean breakfast. This warm and energizing meal will help you prepare for the hike and adapt to the high-altitude conditions.
After breakfast, your guide will provide important information about the route, weather conditions, altitude, and recommended walking pace. We will then begin the hike with a gradual uphill section lasting approximately one and a half hours. As you gain altitude, you will enjoy increasingly impressive views of the Ausangate mountain range, glaciers, and the surrounding Andean landscape.
Once we reach the first lake, the trail becomes mostly flatter and includes some gentle downhill sections. From this point, we will continue exploring the famous Seven Lakes of Ausangate, each with its own color, shape, and character. Their shades of turquoise, green, blue, and reddish tones are created by the minerals found in the surrounding mountains and glaciers.
Throughout the circuit, you will have time to take photographs, admire the scenery, and learn about the geology, wildlife, local culture, and spiritual importance of Ausangate for the nearby Andean communities. On clear days, the views of the snow-covered Ausangate massif and its glaciers are especially impressive.
The complete hike takes approximately four to five hours, depending on the group’s pace, weather conditions, and time spent at each lake. After completing the circuit, we will return to Pacchanta for a well-deserved buffet lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients. The meal usually includes soups, traditional Peruvian dishes, salads, side dishes, and vegetarian options.
After lunch, you will have the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta. The warm, mineral-rich waters are ideal for resting your muscles after the hike, while enjoying beautiful views of Ausangate and the surrounding mountains.
Once the visit to the hot springs is finished, we will begin the return journey to Cusco. The drive takes approximately three hours, depending on traffic and road conditions. We expect to arrive in Cusco between 6:30 and 7:00 PM, with the final drop-off near Plaza Regocijo and Cusco’s Plaza de Armas.
Trip Summary
- Starting point: Pacchanta, approximately 4,600 meters above sea level
- Maximum altitude: Ausangate Seven Lakes circuit, approximately 4,800 meters above sea level
- Total hiking distance: Approximately 8 km round trip
- Estimated hiking time: Approximately 4 to 5 hours
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging, mainly due to the altitude
- Weather: Cold and windy, especially near the lakes and glaciers
- Tour type: Guided full-day hiking tour
- Meals included: Breakfast and buffet lunch
- Transportation: Round-trip tourist transportation from Cusco
- Estimated return to Cusco: Between 6:30 and 7:00 PM
Tour Inclusions
Inclusions
Included
Hotel or Airbnb Pick-Up Service
We will pick you up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco between 4:15 and 4:45 AM. The exact pick-up time will be confirmed after your reservation, once we receive the name and address of your accommodation. Please be ready at the hotel reception or main entrance at the confirmed time, as your guide and tourist transportation will arrive punctually. If your accommodation is located near the Machu Picchu Team office, you may choose to meet us directly there at 4:45 AM instead of requesting hotel pick-up.
Round-Trip Tourist Transportation
Enjoy comfortable and safe round-trip transportation from Cusco to Pacchanta, the starting point of the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike, and back. We use well-maintained tourist vehicles operated by experienced professional drivers to provide a smooth and reliable journey, so you can relax and take in the beautiful Andean landscapes along the way. Transportation is included from your hotel or the agreed meeting point in Cusco, with return to the city at the end of the tour.
Hearty Andean Breakfast
Start your day with a delicious and energizing Andean breakfast before beginning the hike. Enjoy fresh fruit juice, hot chocolate, coffee or tea, fruit salad, and your choice of bread or pancakes served with butter and jam. This complete breakfast is designed to provide the energy you need for the journey ahead, while allowing you to enjoy a warm and relaxing start to your Ausangate 7 Lakes adventure.
Authentic Buffet Lunch
After completing your hike, enjoy a well-deserved buffet lunch prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu typically includes warm soups, traditional Peruvian dishes, rice, pasta, fresh salads, vegetables, and a variety of side dishes. Vegetarian, vegan, and other special dietary options are available upon request. This generous buffet is the perfect way to recover your energy, relax, and enjoy the flavors of Peru after your Ausangate 7 Lakes adventure.
Expert Bilingual Guides
Explore the Ausangate 7 Lakes with an experienced professional guide who speaks both English and Spanish. Our guides are trained not only to coordinate every part of the tour safely and efficiently, but also to share valuable information about the region’s culture, history, traditions, geography, and natural environment. Throughout the journey, your guide will provide clear instructions, answer your questions, assist you during the hike, and help you adapt to the altitude and trail conditions. Friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, our guides are committed to making your Ausangate 7 Lakes experience safe, informative, and enjoyable.
Small-Group Experience
We prioritize personalized service by organizing groups of approximately 12 to 14 travelers, with a maximum of 16 participants. This limited group size allows our guide to provide more individual attention, answer questions, and support each traveler throughout the hike. Traveling in a smaller group also creates a friendlier atmosphere, improves coordination, and makes the overall Ausangate 7 Lakes experience more comfortable, organized, and enjoyable.
Safety and Emergency Support
Your safety is our priority throughout the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike. Our guide carries a comprehensive first-aid kit and a portable oxygen tank to provide immediate assistance in case of altitude-related discomfort, minor injuries, or other unexpected situations along the trail. Our guides are trained to monitor participants, recognize common symptoms of altitude sickness, and respond appropriately when support is required. They will also provide advice on maintaining a comfortable pace, staying hydrated, and adapting safely to the high-altitude conditions.
Drop-off in Cusco: Machu Picchu Team Office (Plaza Regocijo)
At the end of the tour, we’ll drop you off at the Machu Picchu Team office, located in Plaza Regocijo, just one block from the Plaza de Armas. The tour concludes between approximately 6:30 and 7:00 PM.
Free Luggage Storage
When you book the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour with Machu Picchu Team, you can leave your luggage safely at our main office, located just one block from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, at no additional cost. The tour finishes at the Machu Picchu Team office, so you can conveniently collect your belongings as soon as you return from the excursion.
Not Included
Ausangate Seven Lakes Entrance Fee
The entrance fee to the Ausangate 7 Lakes is not included in the tour price and must be paid directly at the local checkpoint.
- International visitors: 20 soles per person
- Peruvian citizens: 10 soles per person
Pacchanta Hot Springs Entrance Fee
After completing the hike, you will have the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta, one of the most enjoyable parts of the tour.
- International visitors: 5 soles per person
- Peruvian citizens: 3 soles per person
All entrance fees must be paid directly at the site in cash and in Peruvian soles. Credit cards, debit cards, and digital payments are not accepted. We recommend bringing enough cash to cover the 7 Lakes entrance fee, the hot springs, optional services, and any personal expenses during the tour.
What to Pack
What to Pack
WHAT TO WEAR AND PACK FOR THE AUSANGATE 7 LAKES TOUR
The Ausangate 7 Lakes route reaches very high altitudes, where temperatures can change quickly throughout the day. Wearing the right clothing will help you stay warm, dry, and comfortable during the hike.
HOW TO DRESS
- Wear layers that you can easily add or remove as the temperature changes.
- Use a thermal base layer, a warm fleece, and an insulated jacket.
- Wear comfortable, lightweight, and quick-drying hiking pants.
- Choose sturdy hiking shoes or boots with good grip and ankle support.
- Bring a waterproof jacket or rain poncho, even during the dry season.
- Wear a warm beanie and gloves for the cold morning and higher sections of the route.
- Bring a sun hat or cap for protection during the day.
- Use UV-protective sunglasses, as sunlight and glacier glare can be intense.
- Avoid jeans, sandals, flip-flops, and casual shoes that are not suitable for uneven terrain.
WHAT TO CARRY IN YOUR BACKPACK
Carry a small, comfortable daypack with only the essentials to avoid unnecessary weight during the hike.
- At least 1.5 to 2 liters of water
- High-energy snacks such as nuts, chocolate, granola bars, dried fruit, or energy gels
- High-protection sunscreen and lip balm
- Rain poncho or waterproof protection
- An extra warm layer
- Personal medication, if required
- Camera or fully charged smartphone
- Portable charger or power bank
- Swimsuit and a small towel for the Pacchanta hot springs
- Cash in Peruvian soles for the 7 Lakes entrance fee, hot springs, tips, and personal expenses
- Toilet paper or tissues
- Hand sanitizer
Being properly prepared will help you enjoy the Ausangate 7 Lakes hike safely and comfortably. Dress in layers, keep your backpack light, stay hydrated, and be ready for rapidly changing mountain weather.
Prices
Pricing
AUSANGATE FULL DAY TOUR 7 LAKES GROUP TOUR PRICES | 2026–2027 SEASONS
We offer two rates for our Ausangate 7 Lakes Full Day Group Tour: a standard price for new customers and a special promotional rate for travelers who have previously booked any tour with Machu Picchu Team. Returning customers can book the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour at the promotional rate, subject to verification of their previous reservation.
STANDARD RATE: $29 USD per person
PROMOTIONAL RATE: $27 USD per person
Group Size
Our Ausangate 7 Lakes Full-Day Tour usually operates with groups of 12 to 14 travelers, with a maximum of 16 participants. Groups are formed by travelers from different countries who book the same departure date. Each group is accompanied by a professional bilingual guide who speaks English and Spanish. Keeping the group size limited allows for better coordination, closer assistance during the hike, and a safer, more comfortable, and enjoyable experience at high altitude.
Guaranteed Daily Departures
We offer guaranteed daily departures for the Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour throughout the year. You can book for any available date, even at short notice, subject to availability. As a direct local tour operator, Machu Picchu Team organizes its own transportation, guides, meals, departures, and logistics. This allows us to operate the tour every day and provide a reliable, well-coordinated service from Cusco.
Addons & Upgrades
How to Book
How to Book with Machu Picchu Team
HOW TO BOOK THE AUSANGATE 7 LAKES FULL DAY TOUR FROM CUSCO
Online Booking: Booking your Ausangate Seven Lakes Full-Day Tour online is quick, simple, and secure.
- Click the BOOK NOW button.
- Select your preferred tour date. We offer daily departures throughout the year.
- Enter your personal information, including your full name, nationality, hotel or accommodation in Cusco, and WhatsApp number.
- Complete your payment securely using a debit or credit card. A 3.99% online payment processing fee applies.
- Once your payment is completed, you will automatically receive a confirmation email with your payment receipt and tour reservation details.
- Our team will then send you a second email with your exact hotel pick-up time and important information to help you prepare for the tour.
Online reservations are accepted until 9:00 PM on the day before the tour, subject to availability.
Booking at Our Office in Cusco: You can also make your reservation in person at our main office at Portal Nuevo 270, Plaza Regocijo, Cusco Our team will explain the complete itinerary, tour inclusions, entrance fees, hot springs access, recommended clothing, packing list, and other important details before confirming your reservation.
Payment Methods
- Cash in Peruvian soles, US dollars, or euros
- Debit or credit card, subject to a 3.99% processing fee
Information Required to Book
To confirm your reservation, please provide:
- Full name
- Nationality
- Hotel or accommodation name in Cusco
- WhatsApp number with country code or a Peruvian mobile numberYour accommodation and contact details are essential for coordinating your exact hotel pick-up time.
CHANGES, CANCELLATIONS, AND REFUNDS
Changes and Rescheduling
You may reschedule your Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour or change your reservation to another available full-day tour, such as Rainbow Mountain, Palcoyo, Humantay Lake, or the Sacred Valley, at no additional cost until 7:00 PM on the day before your scheduled departure.
To request a change, contact us through:
📧 Email: info@machupicchuteam.com
💬 WhatsApp: +51 974 217 700
All changes are subject to availability.
Customer Cancellation Policy
- 100% refund: For cancellations made at least 24 hours before the tour starts
- 50% refund: For cancellations made within 24 hours of the tour but before 7:00 PM on the previous day
- No refund: For cancellations made after 7:00 PM on the day before the tour or in case of a no-show
Any applicable payment processing fees may be non-refundable.
Cancellation by Machu Picchu Team
If Machu Picchu Team must cancel the tour due to severe weather, road closures, political situations, safety concerns, or other circumstances beyond our control, we will offer you the option to reschedule, choose another available tour, or receive a refund for the services that could not be provided.
Faqs and Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions AUSANGATE FULL DAY TOUR 7 LAKES
Can I rent a horse for the Ausangate Seven Lakes hike?
Yes. Horses are usually available for rent at the beginning of the trail. Local residents provide this service for approximately 100 to 120 soles, depending on availability and local rates. The service generally includes a saddled horse and a local horse handler who guides it along the route, so you can remain seated while they take care of the horse. Payment must be made directly in cash and in Peruvian soles. Your tour guide can help you arrange the service.
What happens if I do not want to use the hot springs?
Using the Pacchanta hot springs is completely optional. After the hike, the guide usually allows approximately one hour for travelers who wish to relax in the thermal baths. Those who prefer not to enter can wait nearby, take photographs, rest, and enjoy the views of Ausangate and the surrounding mountains until the group is ready to continue.
Can I change my Ausangate Seven Lakes Tour to another tour?
Yes. You may change your reservation to another available full-day tour, such as Humantay Lake, Rainbow Mountain, Palcoyo, or the Sacred Valley. Please contact us at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure so we can coordinate the change. All modifications are subject to availability.
Why are they called the Seven Lakes of Ausangate?
There are many glacial lakes around the base of Ausangate Mountain. This particular route is known as the Seven Lakes circuit because it connects seven beautiful lagoons located relatively close to one another. The trail allows you to visit all seven lakes during the same hike while enjoying views of glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and high-Andean landscapes.
What colors are the Seven Lakes of Ausangate?
Most of the lakes display different shades of turquoise, blue, and green. Their colors may vary depending on the minerals in the water, the sunlight, and the weather conditions. The lakes also differ in size and shape. They are glacial lagoons formed and supplied by the melting snow and ice from Ausangate and the surrounding mountains.
Can I visit the Seven Lakes of Ausangate on my own?
Yes, it is possible to visit independently, but transportation can be difficult and expensive. There is no regular public or shared transportation that takes travelers directly to the trailhead. Most vehicles reaching Pacchanta are private or tourist transportation services carrying organized groups. For this reason, joining an organized tour is usually the easiest and most practical option, as it includes transportation, meals, a professional guide, and coordinated logistics.
Travel Guide
Gallery
Photo Gallery
WHY BOOK THE AUSANGATE SEVEN LAKES TOUR WITH MACHU PICCHU TEAM?
Travel Directly With the Local Operator
When you reserve your Ausangate Seven Lakes Tour with Machu Picchu Team, you are booking directly with the company that organizes and operates the experience. We coordinate the transportation, guides, meals, schedules, and daily logistics ourselves, without passing your reservation to another agency. This gives us greater control over the service and allows us to communicate with you clearly before and during the tour.
Honest and Competitive Prices
Our prices are based on the real cost of operating the tour in Cusco. We avoid unnecessary markups and clearly explain what is included and what must be paid separately, such as local entrance fees. You will know the total cost in advance, with no unexpected charges on the day of the tour.
Complete Transportation From Cusco
We take care of the transportation from the beginning to the end of your adventure. You will be picked up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco and taken to Pacchanta, where the Ausangate Seven Lakes hike begins. After visiting the lakes, enjoying lunch, and relaxing in the natural hot springs, we will bring you back to Cusco. The main drop-off point is near our office in Plaza Regocijo.
Airport or Bus Terminal Drop-Off Available
Are you traveling out of Cusco after the tour? Let our team know in advance, and we can arrange to drop you off at the entrance of Cusco Airport or the main bus terminal instead of our office. This convenient option can help you save time and avoid arranging an additional transfer after the tour.
Professional Bilingual Guide
Your tour will be led by an experienced guide who speaks both English and Spanish and knows the Ausangate region well. Throughout the hike, your guide will provide clear instructions, help you manage the altitude, answer your questions, and share information about the Seven Lakes, the glaciers, local traditions, wildlife, and the spiritual importance of Ausangate Mountain.
Buffet-Style Breakfast and Lunch
Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style, giving you the freedom to choose the dishes and portions that suit you best. The meals include a variety of local and Peruvian options, and vegetarian, vegan, and other special dietary alternatives can be arranged when requested before the tour.
Optional Trips
We offer additional tour options that maintain the same high quality you've come to expect. Explore new possibilities with us without compromising on excellence!"
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