From Cusco: 7 Lakes Ausangate Trek with Breakfast and Lunch

If you love high-altitude views that feel real, not staged, this one-day Ausangate 7 Lakes trek hits hard. You’ll wake up early from Cusco, ride out to Pacchanta, and spend the day moving through dramatic Andean scenery with guides like Diana and Kevin. Two things I really like: the chance to get up close to snow-capped Ausangate and those calm, photo-ready alpine lake stops.

The main consideration is the altitude. You’ll be trekking over 4,800 meters, and even with an oxygen bottle and first aid kit, you still need to pace yourself and take cold mornings seriously.

Key things to know before you go

• Snowy Ausangate views early on: you’ll first see the Apu Ausangate towering at 6,384 meters.
• High lakes, then a hot spring reset: cold air, icy wind, and then Pacchanta hot springs.
• A workable one-day format: about 13 km total walking, finished the same day with a return to Cusco by 6 to 7 pm.
• Guides that manage your pace: many groups mention patient support, including for slower walkers.
• Horse riding is part of the day: it can help when the altitude or steep sections get tough.
• Cash is part of the plan: hot springs and entrance fees cost extra, and payments are in Peruvian soles.

Why this trek feels more personal than the typical Cusco hike

Ausangate has a reputation for being wild and spare, and this route leans into that. You’re not just walking through a scenic postcard. You’re crossing high Andean terrain where the air feels thin and everything slows down, even your breathing.

The lakes are the big visual reward. But what I like most is the way the day is built around a rhythm: cold start, steady movement, lake stops for views, then lunch and hot springs to get you back to normal. It’s the kind of day that makes you feel accomplished without needing to be an ultra-fit mountain person.

The early-morning run from Cusco to Pacchanta (and why it matters)

Pickup happens from the Centro Histórico area, typically around 4:00 to 4:30 am. You’ll meet your guide and get loaded into a van for about a 3.5-hour ride toward Pacchanta. Morning temperatures in the area can sit around 5 to 9°C, so plan for wind chill and cold fingers.

One practical note I’d take seriously: the drive involves dirt roads that aren’t in the best condition. That can feel rough, and it can also contribute to altitude-related discomfort for some people. Your operator includes an oxygen bottle and first aid kit, and several reviews highlight guides checking in on how folks are feeling.

Also, be ready for pickup variation. One person said they were asked to be ready at 3:50 am and didn’t get picked up until about 4:30 am. So if you hate waiting in the dark, pack a small light or plan to sit tight at your lobby.

Pacchanta setup: cold gear, sunglasses, and the first Ausangate moment

When you arrive in Pacchanta, you’ll have breakfast for about 30 minutes and time to get organized. This is not the moment to wing it. You’ll be moving at high altitude soon, and mornings can turn quickly with cold wind.

Your guide will help you prepare your day pack, and you’ll get a first big look at the Apu Ausangate Mountains. The summit is listed at 6,384 meters, so even before you hike, the scale is real. It’s the kind of view that makes you stand still for a bit, even if you’re itching to get going.

Two small but important details:

• Sunglasses are mandatory throughout the hike.
• Bring a warm sweater, jacket, hat, and gloves, even if you think you packed enough for Cusco weather.

The hike itself: distance, altitude, and how the trail rhythm works

The total walking distance is roughly 13 km, about 8 miles, and the main hike section is around 4.5 hours. The highest point is 4,620 meters (15,090 feet). That’s not “just a warm-up.” This is a real altitude trek.

The terrain is described as steep with changing altitudes. In other words: you can be fit and still feel it, especially when the trail tilts up and the air gets thinner. The best strategy is simple. Go slower than you think you need to go. Your body will thank you later when the trail keeps rising.

You’ll also stop at several alpine lake viewpoints along the way. One of the best parts is that you’re not hiking through a single tunnel of effort. The trail includes photo stops and lake scenery breaks, and many groups mention having time to actually look, not just pass through.

Horse riding options: helpful support, not a cheat code

This tour includes horse riding segments as part of the day. That can be a relief if altitude hits hard or if your legs feel heavy on the steeper parts. Reviews back up this practical reality, with people saying getting a horse is highly recommended if you’re not used to the altitude.

Cost varies based on what you choose, and your tour info notes that if you rent a horse, the local partner won’t manage the rental process. Some people reported paying separate fees in the range of 120 to 130 soles, depending on circumstances.

My advice: if you think you might want a horse, decide early. Wait too long and you can end up frustrated at the exact moment when you’re least able to be. Also, keep your bag situation in mind. The tour notes that luggage or large bags are not allowed, so travel light.

Lake time: what you’re really seeing at the Ausangate lagoons

The “7 lakes” part is the heart of the day. You’ll pass multiple lakes, and there’s a dedicated photo stop too. The lake water and surrounding slopes can look almost unreal when the light is right, and you’ll likely feel a strong urge to pause and stare.

One thing I appreciate about this route is that it tends to feel quieter than the most famous single-lake alternatives. People in the group sometimes describe it as less touristy, with long stretches where you mostly hear wind and steps, not crowds.

Weather is a factor. The info you’re given notes that guides are not responsible for changes in conditions, so the day you choose matters. One cloudy or rainy day can still be stunning, but it can also mean colder wind and grumpier feet. Bring rain gear, even if the forecast looks decent.

Lunch in Pacchanta: your energy matters for hot springs later

Lunch is included and served back in Pacchanta for about 30 minutes. It’s described as a fortifying local lunch. In practice, expect something simple and filling, not a gourmet meal.

Reviews are mixed here. Some people say the meal is plentiful and good. Others say it was basic, cold, or not the best. Either way, you’ll want enough calories to make hot spring time enjoyable instead of miserable.

Plan to treat lunch as fuel. Don’t skip water. Don’t eat only half because you feel too cold. High altitude changes your appetite and your timing.

Pacchanta hot springs: the payoff and the extra cost

After the trek, you’ll hop into Pacchanta hot springs for about 30 minutes. This is where the day clicks into place. Your muscles go from stiff to loose, and your face warms up in a way that feels almost unfair after hours in the cold.

Important cost detail: the hot springs entrance fees are not included. You should expect to pay 30 soles for entrance and hot springs. The tour info also says extra expenses are paid with cash in Peruvian soles, so plan ahead.

Also, don’t show up thinking it’s a long spa session. Thirty minutes is enough to relax your body, but it’s not enough for deep lounging.

Return to Cusco: a full day, finished by early evening

You’ll head back by van, and you should arrive in Cusco between 6 and 7 pm. That timing is a big selling point. You get a serious trek experience without losing a whole day to logistics.

The drive takes about 3.5 hours, and you may feel tired from altitude even if the hike didn’t feel that long. When you get back, hydrate and eat. This is not the day for a heavy night out.

Price and value: why this can be a smart deal at $29

The price is listed at $29 per person, and it includes hotel pickup, a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, a first aid kit, an oxygen bottle, and drop-off near Cusco center.

That bundle matters. A one-day trek at altitude where someone is coordinating transport, safety gear, and meals is usually where costs climb fast. Here, the operator also gives you the basics for comfort and safety, so you’re not scrambling mid-day.

What’s not included is entrance fees and hot springs (30 soles). That’s the main add-on you need to budget for. If you end up renting a horse, that’s separate as well, and people report different fees.

Overall, I’d call it good value if you want a real high-altitude experience without needing multiple days or a more intense expedition.

Guides and group vibe: you’ll feel it in the pace

One of the best parts across the shared experiences is the way guides manage the group. Names that came up include Diana, Kevin, Sebastian, Carlos, Eduardo, Joseph, Inti, Noe, and Waldri. Across these cases, the common theme is support and patience.

Many people specifically mentioned having time to go at their own pace, not being pushed forward no matter what. That matters on steep terrain, where one fast walker can unintentionally stress out everyone else. When your guide stays mindful of pacing, the altitude is more manageable.

Language coverage is Spanish and English, so you should be able to understand safety instructions and get context on what you’re seeing.

What to bring for cold, altitude, and long hours

Here’s what I’d treat as non-negotiable based on the info you’re given:

• Warm layers: warm sweater, jacket, hat, gloves
• Rain gear (because weather can flip)
• Hiking shoes with grip
• Water
• Snacks (the tour includes breakfast and lunch, but extra snacks help)
• Sunglasses (mandatory for the hike)
• Comfortable clothes you can layer

Also: avoid bringing heavy luggage. The tour says luggage or large bags are not allowed. If you hate carrying weight on steep terrain, you’ll feel this right away on the first stretch.

If you’ve ever had trouble with altitude before, consider bringing personal medicine or altitude pills, since the dirt road and altitude can contribute to discomfort. The info specifically recommends altitude pills or personal medicine.

Who should book this trek, and who should skip it

This is a great fit if:

• You want a one-day Ausangate experience with real high-altitude views
• You’re okay with steep sections and can walk at a steady pace
• You want lake scenery and hot springs in the same day
• You like smaller, less crowded-feeling routes

But it is not suitable if you have:

• Back problems
• Mobility impairments or wheelchair use
• Heart problems
• Respiratory issues
• Weight over 264 lbs (120 kg)

Altitude is the big deal. Even with oxygen and first aid, the tour instructions clearly flag the need for caution above 4,800 meters. If you have any health uncertainty, talk with a clinician first and be honest with yourself about your limits.

Should you book the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek from Cusco?

If your goal is a serious day in the Andes with snow-capped mountain views, alpine lakes, and a real recovery moment in hot springs, then yes, I think this is a strong booking choice. The schedule is efficient, the included meals are there to keep you going, and the guide support seems to be a consistent win.

I’d hesitate only if altitude is already a known struggle for you, or if cold mornings and steep terrain would genuinely ruin your trip. If that’s you, look at gentler options, or be ready to use horse riding strategically when offered.

FAQ

What time do they pick me up in Cusco?

Pickup is usually from the Centro Histórico area between 4:00 and 4:30 am. In practice, pickup can vary, and you might be asked to be ready a bit earlier.

How far do we hike on the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek?

The total hike is about 13 km (around 8 miles). It takes roughly 4.5 hours for the hiking portion, with additional time spent at stops.

What altitude should I prepare for?

You’ll trek over 4,800 meters above sea level, with the highest point listed at 4,620 meters (15,090 feet).

Are breakfast and lunch included?

Yes. Breakfast is included in Pacchanta (about 30 minutes), and lunch is also included (about 30 minutes).

Do I have to pay extra for the hot springs?

Yes. Entrance fees and hot springs cost an additional 30 soles, and it is not included in the tour price.

Is horse riding included?

Horse riding is part of the day’s itinerary, but the tour info also notes that if you rent a horse, it can involve extra costs. You’ll want cash on hand if you choose to ride.

What should I bring for the cold and high altitude?

Bring an extra warm sweater, jacket, hat, and gloves, plus rain gear, hiking shoes, sunglasses (mandatory), water, and snacks.

Can I cancel and get a full refund?

Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.