BigFoot Machu Picchu

BigFoot Machu Picchu
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Cultural · Ausangate

Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour – 1 Day

Full Day5 travelers maxPhysical rating 3/5
Ausangate 7 Lakes Tour – 1 Day

The experience

Why this journey stays with you.

Discover the magic of the Andes with Bigfoot Machu Picchu on our unforgettable 1-day tour of the 7 Lakes of Ausangate.

Duration
Full Day

Group size
5 travelers max

Max altitude
5400 msnm

Difficulty
Moderate

Tour style
Cultural

Highlights

Early Morning Pick-Up in Cusco Your adventure with Bigfoot Machu Picchu begins with hotel pick-up in Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. From there, we travel toward…

Scenic Drive to Pacchanta We drive for approximately three hours to the small mountain community of Pacchanta, the starting point of our hike. Here, you’ll enjoy…

Hike to the First Glacial Lake After breakfast, we start a gentle uphill walk of about one and a half hours to reach the first turquoise lake. This…

Exploring the Seven Lakes From the first lagoon onward, the trail becomes mostly flat or slightly downhill as we continue visiting the remaining lakes. Each one…

Day by day

Follow the journey.

Choose a day, explore each stop and see the route on the map.

1 day

Full Day

Cusco → Lunch and Hot

Route map

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  1. 1.Early Morning Pick-Up in Cusco
  2. 2.Scenic Drive to Pacchanta
  3. 3.Hike to the First Glacial Lake
  4. 4.Exploring the Seven Lakes
  5. 5.Lunch and Hot Springs
  6. 6.Return to Cusco

Plan with confidence

Everything you need to know.

Inclusions

What's included

  • Hotel pick-up from your accommodation between 4:30 and 5:00 AM. You may also meet us directly at our office at 5:10 AM if you prefer.
  • Round-trip transportation in comfortable and modern vehicles to and from the Ausangate region.
  • Breakfast with fruit juice, hot chocolate, coffee, tea, fruit salad, and bread or pancakes with butter and jam.
  • Buffet lunch served after the hike, offering a variety of local dishes and options for different dietary preferences.
  • Small group service with 10 to 14 participants, maximum 16, for a more personalized experience.
  • Professional English-speaking guide sharing cultural, historical, and environmental knowledge throughout the tour.
  • First-aid kit and oxygen bottle available during the entire excursion for your safety.

What's not included

  • Entrance fee to Ausangate 7 Lakes 20 soles per person, paid in cash directly to the local communities.
  • Entrance fee to the hot springs 5 soles per person, payable in cash.
  • Personal trekking gear such as hiking clothing, proper walking shoes, and water bottles.
  • Tips for guides and drivers, which are optional.

Packing list
  • Original passport
  • Small daypack
  • Comfortable hiking boots with good grip
  • Warm layers including thermal shirt and fleece
  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
  • Hat and gloves for cold weather
  • Sun hat or cap
  • Sunglasses with UV protection
  • Sunscreen and lip balm
  • Reusable water bottle
  • Personal snacks such as energy bars or nuts
  • Cash in soles for entrance fees and hot springs
  • Swimsuit and small towel if you plan to use the hot springs in Pacchanta
  • Personal medication if needed

Important information

Location

The Seven Lakes circuit is located in the highlands south of Cusco, near the community of Pacchanta, at the base of Ausangate, one of the most sacred and highest mountains in the region.

Altitude

The trek takes place at high elevation, reaching approximately 4,600 meters (15,090 ft). Proper acclimatization in Cusco for at least one or two days before the tour is strongly recommended.

Difficulty Level

This is considered a moderate trek. The first section includes a gradual uphill hike, followed by mostly flat or gently descending trails. A reasonable level of physical fitness is important due to the altitude.

Duration

The full experience lasts around 12 to 14 hours, including transportation from Cusco, breakfast, the guided hike, lunch, and return transfer.

Weather

Weather conditions can change quickly in the Andes. Mornings are often cold, temperatures rise during the day under strong sun, and rain is possible at any time of year. Dressing in layers is essential.

Best Time to Visit

The dry season, from April to October, offers clearer skies and better mountain views. The rainy season, from November to March, brings greener landscapes but a higher chance of precipitation.

Hot Springs

After the hike, visitors have the option to relax in the natural hot springs in Pacchanta for an additional small entrance fee.

What Makes It Special

Unlike crowded tourist routes, the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek offers raw Andean scenery, glacial lagoons in different shades of turquoise, and an authentic cultural setting surrounded by traditional highland communities.

FAQs
Do I need previous trekking experience?

No previous trekking experience is required, but you should be comfortable walking several hours at high altitude.

How high is the trek?

The highest point of the hike reaches approximately 4,600 meters above sea level, so acclimatization in Cusco beforehand is important.

Is the hike very difficult?

The route is considered moderate. The first section is uphill, and the rest is mostly flat or gently downhill. The altitude makes it more challenging than a typical day hike.

Are the hot springs included?

Access to the hot springs in Pacchanta is optional and requires a small additional cash payment at the entrance.

What should I bring?

Warm layers, a waterproof jacket, sun protection, comfortable hiking shoes, water, snacks, and cash in soles for entrance fees.

Is there food included?

Yes, the tour includes breakfast before the hike and lunch after completing the circuit.

What is the best time of year to go?

The dry season from April to October usually offers clearer skies and better mountain views.

Can children join the tour?

Yes, but due to the altitude and hiking duration, it is recommended for older children who are used to walking and are properly acclimatized.

What happens if I feel sick due to altitude?

Guides carry a first-aid kit and oxygen. If necessary, they will assist you and coordinate a safe return to the starting point.

Why Big Foot Machu Picchu?
  • 100% licensed local tour operator
  • Excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and Google
  • The best experiences for your vacation

Prepare for this journey

A little knowledge goes a long way.

Local stories and practical guides selected around this tour, its destinations and its trekking route.

All Ausangate guides