Seven lakes, one early start, altitude included. This day trip turns a pre-dawn Cusco pickup into snowy Ausangate views and high-Andes lakes, then finishes with a soak in Pacchanta hot springs. I like the way the plan mixes hiking with breaks and support from guides like Diana and Carlos, but the cold morning and thin air above 4,800 meters can be a real challenge.

You’ll leave Centro Histórico around 4:00–4:30 am, drive about 3 hours to Pajchanta/Pacchanta, eat breakfast, trek roughly 13 km total, and return to Cusco between 6 and 7 pm. The good news: breakfast, lunch, an oxygen bottle, and a first aid kit are included. The one thing to plan for: hot springs/entrance costs (30 soles) and any extra items are paid in cash in Peruvian soles.

Key things to know before you go

• Ausangate at the center of it all: the Apu Ausangate peaks near 6,384 meters framing your day.
• Altitude is part of the itinerary: you’ll go over 4,800 meters, with the highest trek point at 4,620 meters.
• Sunglasses are not optional: they’re mandatory through the hike due to strong high-altitude glare.
• A mix of hiking and horse riding: sections are walked, and other sections may be done by horse depending on pace and needs.
• Hot springs reward the effort: you’ll have time to swim, but hot springs/entrance fees are extra (30 soles).

Cusco pickup at 4 am: the real start of your Ausangate day

This trip is built for early light. Pickup starts from Centro Histórico at about 4:00–4:30 am. If you’re the first person collected, you may wait while the van gathers everyone else. That can mean sitting in the dark longer than you expect, so I’d rather you plan for it than get annoyed by it.

Once you’re moving, you’ll do a long drive, about 3 hours, to Pajchanta/Pacchanta. Morning temps there are around 5–9°C, and your guide will have you in layers for a reason. Bring an extra warm sweater, jacket, hat, and gloves. This is one of those days where a light hoodie can feel fine while you’re still in Cusco, then suddenly feels useless the moment you’re out in the cold wind.

I also like that the tour doesn’t pretend altitude isn’t coming. It includes an oxygen bottle and a first aid kit, and guides tend to stay attentive. Names that come up often in past groups include Kevin, Eduardo, Carlos, Sebastian, and Diana, and the common thread is checking on breathing and pacing. Your main job is to show up with the right gear and keep your effort steady.

Pajchanta breakfast and the rhythm shift before the hike

In Pacchanta, you stop for breakfast for about 30 minutes. It’s simple but practical: you need calories for a day of climbing and cold air. Several people note the meals are solid and enough to get you through, even if it’s not a gourmet feast. One person even flagged lunch/food as cold or not their favorite, so I’d pack an extra small snack if you personally get picky when food is chilled.

Before you start, you’ll get time to organize your day pack. This matters more than it sounds. If your bag is heavy or awkward, it can slow your first stretch. Also note the rules: luggage or large bags aren’t allowed. Keep it small, easy to carry, and within what you can handle comfortably.

You’ll also be reminded that you’re going high. Even before the highest point, the body can feel like it’s working harder than usual. The dirt-road drive itself can contribute to altitude discomfort for some people, so having your personal altitude plan ready helps. The tour suggests having personal medicine or altitude pills if you use them.

And yes, sunglasses really do matter. The day data states they’re mandatory during the hike, and you’ll feel why once the light is strong and the air is thin.

Trekking the Ausangate 7 Lakes: 13 km, steep steps, and big pacing

The core of the day is the Ausangate Lakes trek. Total hiking distance is about 13 kilometers (around 8 miles), taking roughly 4.5 hours at a comfortable pace with a small group and an attentive guide. The terrain is described as steep in places, and altitude changes happen as you move.

You’ll reach a highest point around 4,620 meters (about 15,090 feet). And the bigger headline number: you will trek over 4,800 meters above sea level. That’s where your breathing becomes part of the trail. If you’ve never hiked at altitude, treat this as a stamina and breathing test, not a speed challenge.

One thing I appreciate in how this day is set up: guides adjust for different walkers. You won’t all move at the exact same pace. The guide may be in different spots helping the group, which sounds chaotic on paper but usually works because it keeps people from forcing themselves too hard. In past experiences, guides like Noe, Waldri, and Eduardo are praised for patience with slower trekkers and constant check-ins.

As for views, you get multiple lake stops with photo moments. One person compared the experience to Humantay and said this route feels less crowded, which lines up with the general idea that Ausangate gets fewer tourists. You’ll likely notice more silence and more open sky than you’re used to.

Weather is a factor. One group mentioned a cloudy day and rain and still called it amazing. Another noted that the local partner isn’t responsible for changing conditions, so you should choose the best departure day using your own weather checks. In the Andes, “best forecast” is still only a forecast.

Where horse riding fits in (and what it means for your body)

The schedule includes horse riding segments alongside walking. In practice, this often helps when altitude makes steep sections feel brutal. Some people absolutely love having a horse as support for the harder stretches, and it can turn the day from a survival mode climb into a you-can-still-enjoy-the-views walk.

Here’s the practical part: if you rent a horse for your needs, plan to pay extra in cash. Reviews mention riders paying about 120–130 soles. The tour info also warns that if you rent a horse, the local partner won’t manage the rental process. Translation: don’t assume it’s booked the same way as the rest of the tour. If horses are offered for your situation, confirm the cost and what you’re actually getting before you get on.

Even if you don’t rent a horse, the presence of horse riding in the day is a clue: the route isn’t meant to be conquered at a casual stroll speed. It’s okay to take advantage of options if your breathing is struggling. One review specifically recommends the horse highly if you’re not used to altitude.

Also, don’t count on horses for mobility issues. The trip isn’t suitable for mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or people with back problems. It also flags heart and respiratory issues. If any of those apply, you should choose a gentler plan.

Photo stops and the high viewpoint feel

You’ll have time for a photo stop centered on the Ausangate 7 Lagoons area. This is where the day turns from effort to reward. The lakes and their surrounding peaks are why you’re here, and the pause gives you a chance to slow down and actually look.

Some guides add extra meaning too. One group mentioned a ceremony at the top led by Joseph, which shows that the day can be more than physical activity. Even if the ceremony isn’t guaranteed, it’s a good reminder that Ausangate is culturally important, and a good guide will help you connect the scenery to local beliefs.

If you’re the kind of person who hates feeling rushed, here’s the honest note: one review said the hike felt a bit rushed for those who want to stare longer at views. Another said pace worked fine and allowed time for lake views. So your experience will depend on group speed and how your guide manages photo time. The tip is simple: don’t treat it like a marathon, and communicate your pace early.

Lunch back at Pacchanta, then Pacchanta hot springs

When you finish the main trek sections, you head back to Pacchanta for lunch. Lunch is included and takes about 30 minutes. In general, people describe the food as sufficient and sometimes even plentiful. Still, quality can vary, and a few notes suggest it can be basic. Bring a snack if you know your stomach likes options.

Then comes the payoff: hot springs. The schedule includes about 30 minutes in the hot springs area. Entrance fees and the hot springs themselves are not included and cost 30 soles. Plan to bring cash in Peruvian soles, because extra expenses during the trip are paid that way.

One of the best feelings after high altitude walking is heat on tired muscles. And here the heat comes with views around the highlands. It’s not just a bath; it’s the decompression stage that helps the whole day feel worth it instead of just exhausting.

Value check: what $29 includes versus what you pay on the day

This is a budget-priced day trip, and the value comes from the structure. For about $29 per person, you get hotel pickup, a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, a first aid kit, an oxygen bottle, and drop-off near Cusco center. That’s a lot for a one-day hike, especially with early pickup and the long drive.

What’s not included is mainly the “you need cash now” stuff: entrance fees and hot springs (30 soles), plus water, souvenirs, and any extra purchases. The trip data is clear that these are paid with cash in Peruvian soles.

So I’d plan your day like this:

• Have enough soles for hot springs/entrance plus small extras.
• Bring your own water and snacks when you can, because you may not find the exact brand or quantity you want out in the countryside.
• Don’t show up with a heavy backpack. A few people specifically warn against bringing a heavy bag, and it’s smart advice for altitude walking.

Who this Ausangate 7 Lakes day trip is best for

This is best for people who want a full Ausangate experience in one day and can handle steep trail sections at altitude. You should be comfortable hiking steadily for hours, even if you use horse segments when needed.

It can also work for people traveling with kids around 11–12 years old if they’re already used to activity and don’t rush. Past groups mention kids enjoying the walk and alpacas along the way. That said, altitude is altitude. If your child has any breathing or heart concerns, this probably isn’t the right fit.

You’ll feel most at home if you:

• Like out-of-the-way places and fewer crowds than the famous blue-lagoon routes
• Appreciate strong guiding and pacing help
• Want the hot springs payoff without spending extra time planning it yourself
• Pack for cold mornings and changing weather

It’s not suitable for people with back problems, mobility impairments, wheelchair users, heart problems, respiratory issues, or people over 264 lbs (120 kg).

Practical packing and smart habits that prevent misery

If you do just a few things right, your day gets easier.

Bring:

• Snacks and water
• Rain gear
• Hiking shoes
• Sunglasses (mandatory)
• Comfortable clothes plus extra warm layers (hat and gloves really matter)

Leave:

• Luggage or large bags at home. The tour is strict about this.

Smart habits:

• Start slow. Altitude rewards slow.
• Keep your day pack light.
• If the drive triggers headaches or nausea, tell your guide early. Some people react strongly to the road + altitude combo.
• Do your own weather check the night before. The local partner isn’t responsible for sudden changes.

Should you book the 1-day Ausangate 7 Lakes trek?

Book it if you want a one-day hit of high-altitude adventure with real payoff: snow-capped Ausangate views, multiple lakes, solid guiding, and hot springs at the end. It’s also a good value because breakfast, lunch, oxygen support, and pickup are handled for you.

Don’t book it if you’re sensitive to altitude, have respiratory or heart issues, need mobility accommodations, or hate cold mornings. Also skip it if you can’t keep up a steady pace on steep sections, since you will be working at over 4,800 meters.

If you’re on the fence, the decision comes down to one question: can you hike slow, breathe carefully, and handle a day where weather and temperature can change fast? If the answer is yes, this is one of the more satisfying one-day trips out of Cusco.

FAQ

What time does pickup happen from Cusco?

Pickup starts from the Centro Histórico area around 4:00 to 4:30 am. The collection can take 30 to 45 minutes since the van gathers everyone, so if you’re picked up early you may wait.

How high will I go during the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek?

You will trek over 4,800 meters above sea level, with the highest point of the trek reaching about 4,620 meters.

Is breakfast and lunch included?

Yes. Breakfast is included during the stop at Pajchanta/Pacchanta, and lunch is also included after you return from the trek.

Are the hot springs included in the price?

Hot springs (and entrance fees) are not included. The cost is listed as 30 soles, and extra expenses are paid in cash in Peruvian soles.

Do I need sunglasses during the hike?

Yes. Sunglasses are mandatory throughout the hike.

Can I cancel and still get a refund?

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

You Might Also Enjoy

Manaslu Circuit TrekFrom Ho Chi Minh City: Can Gio Mangrove & Monkey Island TrekSmall Group: 4-Day Inca Trail Trek to Machu PicchuInca Trail Trek to Machu Picchu – 2 Days (Small Group or Private)