Snow peaks greet you before breakfast. This one-day Ausangate 7 Lakes trek is a fast ticket to Apu Ausangate views, high-altitude lagoons, and an end-of-day dip in the Pacchanta hot springs.

I especially like how the route feels quieter than the usual Cusco-area day hikes, and how the pace stays human with an attentive guide watching the group. The other big win is the combo of walking plus recovery time: you earn the views, then you soak.

The main catch is altitude and cold. You’ll be trekking at very high elevation, sometimes listed as above 4,800m, with mornings that can hover around 5–9°C, so you need to dress smart and pace yourself.

Key moments that make this trek worth your time

• Apu Ausangate first views from Pacchanta without wasting the day
• Two chunks of lake walking (about 4.5 hours total) with chances to pause for photos
• Sunglasses required on the bright, high-altitude trail
• Hot springs payoff at the end after a long drive and thin-air trekking
• Guides who adjust to your pace and check in on how you’re breathing

The Ausangate 7 Lakes day trip: what you’re really signing up for

If you’re thinking of a one-day trek from Cusco that feels genuinely high-Andes, this is the kind of outing that delivers. Ausangate sits far enough from the main tourist circuits that the experience has more breathing room. And unlike short “summit and back” hikes, this one keeps you moving through varied terrain and along several alpine lakes, with the mountain views building as you go.

You’ll also notice the tour is built for the realities of high altitude. The route mixes walking with horse riding segments, which is a big deal if you’re not used to trekking above 4,000 meters. The goal is not to “race” the landscape. It’s to get you to the best parts of the day while keeping you safe and functioning.

One-day treks always compress things. You’re out early, you’re back late, and the day is structured. If your ideal travel day is slow and lingering for hours in one spot, you’ll need to find your balance between hiking time and photo pauses.

The 4 a.m. pickup and the Pacchanta start (bundle up)

Your morning starts brutally early. Pickup is from central Cusco, typically around 4:00–4:30 a.m., and it can take 30 to 45 minutes to collect the full group. Expect to wait a bit if you’re among the first picked up, since the van has to gather everyone.

Then comes the long drive to Pacchanta, about 3.5 hours. The good news: you’re not just riding in the dark for nothing. This is when you get set up mentally and practically—then the mountains start to show.

Temperatures around Pacchanta in the morning can run about 5–9°C, so dress like you’ll be standing still and waiting at elevation, not like you’re heading to a warm-weather stroll. Bring an extra warm sweater, jacket, hat, and gloves. A rain layer also helps, because high-Andes weather can change fast.

You’ll stop at Pacchanta for breakfast (about 30 minutes). It’s not a five-star meal, but it’s what you need to start hiking without feeling empty-stomach miserable.

Meet Apu Ausangate: the view moment you’ll remember

Before you walk far, you get your first wide views of Apu Ausangate—a massive peak rising to 6,384 meters above sea level. That first look matters. It sets the tone: this isn’t a flat “walk to a lake” trip. You’re working in real mountain country.

At this point, you’ll also prepare your day pack. This is the moment to get organized—water accessible, layers ready, snacks within reach, and anything you don’t want to carry tucked away. The tour also emphasizes that large bags or luggage aren’t allowed, so travel light.

Then you head onto the trek with a small group. Your guide is there for safety and pacing, and the route has steep sections with changing altitudes—so don’t treat it like a casual hike. Think steady effort and frequent little pauses.

Walking the lakes: pace matters more than speed

You’ll hike about 13 km (roughly 8 miles) total, and the main walking time is around 4.5 hours. In the day structure, that walking is broken into parts, with horse riding segments later to reduce fatigue and help with altitude. This mix is one of the best ideas here.

The highest point of the trek is listed at about 4,620 meters (15,090 feet). Separately, the trip guidance warns you to plan for trekking at over 4,800 meters, so I treat this as: plan for serious thin air even if your exact altimeter number changes depending on the day and route details.

What I like about this walking setup:

• You get to see multiple 7-lake viewpoints without the whole day being one relentless climb.
• The guide can keep people together by adjusting pace and offering help where needed.
• You’re given time for lake views and photos at key stops.

What to watch for:

• The trail is steep in places. If you’re not used to altitude, you’ll feel your breathing long before your legs give out.
• Sunglasses are mandatory. The sun can be intense at altitude, and glare off snow or pale ground is real.

On the trail, you may also spot llamas and alpacas along the way. It’s a nice reminder that this is living highland grazing country, not an artificial park.

Optional horse riding: when it helps (and when it doesn’t)

Horse riding is part of the day plan, and you may have the option to ride for segments. The tour guidance also makes an important point: if you rent a horse, the local partner won’t manage the rental process.

In practical terms, I see horses as a tool, not a gimmick:

• If altitude is hitting you hard, riding can help you conserve energy for the moments you really want to enjoy.
• If you packed too much weight, riding can save you from dragging a heavy load through steep terrain.

Some people in the experience data chose a horse and reported extra costs in the neighborhood of 120–130 soles. That won’t be the exact number every day, but it’s a useful reality check: if you think you might need a horse, bring cash just in case.

And here’s my honest take: if you can walk comfortably, do so. If you can’t, don’t be proud. The whole point is seeing the lakes and mountain views while still feeling strong enough to enjoy them.

Lunch at Pacchanta and the hot springs reset

After your walk segments, you return to Pacchanta for lunch (about 30 minutes). The meal is described as local and practical—enough food to refuel after cold, high elevation trekking. Based on what people experienced, quality can be simple: some meals are called plentiful and solid, while a few people found theirs cold or less tasty. Either way, it generally does the job.

Then comes the payoff: Pacchanta hot springs. You’ll have about 30 minutes for swimming. Entrance fees and the hot springs access are not included—plan on paying around 30 soles, and it needs to be in cash (Peruvian soles).

This is where the day stops being “hard” and starts feeling rewarding. Your muscles cool down. Your head clears. And because the surrounding highlands are visible from the area, you still get to look at the Andes while you soak.

Timing back to Cusco: a late arrival, a tired body, a satisfied mind

The drive back to Cusco takes about 3.5 hours, and you arrive back between 6 and 7 p.m. Drop-off is near the center, with a couple of locations listed.

So yes, you’ll be tired. But it’s the good kind of tired—the kind that comes from doing something real in thin air and still having a hot-spring finish to balance out the effort.

Price and value: what $29 buys you (and what it doesn’t)

At around $29 per person for a one-day trek, this is one of the more budget-friendly ways to experience Ausangate region scenery without organizing transport and guides yourself. You’re getting hotel pickup, a professional guide, breakfast and lunch, and practical support like a first aid kit and even an oxygen bottle.

What you should budget separately:

• Hot springs entrance (about 30 soles)
• Any extras paid locally in cash (water, souvenirs, and similar incidentals)
• Possible horse rental if you choose it

Also, double-check your expectations around food. It’s included and typically filling, but it’s not positioned as a gourmet meal. If you’re picky or very food-sensitive, pack extra snacks for your own comfort (the tour encourages bringing snacks).

In short: for the cost, the value is strong—especially if you want a guide-led day that covers the essentials and doesn’t leave you stranded at 4,800 meters.

Who should book this trek, and who should skip it

This is a serious hike at altitude. It’s best for you if you’re comfortable doing steep, cold highland walking and you’re willing to go early and move steadily.

It’s not suitable if you have:

• back problems
• mobility impairments
• heart problems
• respiratory issues
• wheelchair use
• weight over 264 lbs (120 kg)

Even if you don’t fall into those categories, I’d still be cautious if altitude tends to hit you hard. The drive is over rough dirt roads at elevation, and the guide notes that the drive can trigger altitude sickness. Bring any personal medicine or altitude pills you already use or have discussed with a clinician.

One more practical tip: keep your pack light. Several people noted that heavy bags made parts harder, and horses were a helpful option when needed.

A quick reality check on guides and the pace

Guides are a major part of why this tour works. Names that came up in the experience data include Diana, Kevin, Sebastian, Carlos, Eduardo, Joseph, Waldri, Inti, and Noe—and the common thread is care and pacing. People describe guides who:

• help everyone at different walking speeds
• watch for altitude trouble
• offer cultural context along the way
• stay patient and supportive with photo stops and slower trekkers

Just keep your own communication simple: tell the guide if you’re struggling with breathing, if you need slower pace, or if you want to ride a segment. The day is designed around adjustments, not around forcing one pace on everyone.

Should you book the 1-day Ausangate 7 Lakes trek with Pacchanta hot springs?

I’d book this if you want a one-day Cusco outing that feels truly Andean: early start, serious altitude effort, multiple lake viewpoints, and a hot-spring finish. The value is strong for what’s included, and the mix of walking plus horse riding gives you options if your legs or lungs need help.

I would hesitate if you’re easily knocked out by altitude, you have respiratory or heart concerns, or you want a leisurely day with no pressure to keep moving. This is not a gentle stroll. It’s a high mountain day, and you’ll enjoy it more when you treat it that way.

If you’re in the middle—fit enough to hike some, but unsure about altitude—this is still a good choice. Just pack warm, go slow, hydrate, and consider the horse option if you need it.

FAQ

What time is pickup from Cusco?

Pickup is arranged from your accommodation in the Centro Histórico area, usually between 4:00 and 4:30 a.m. Collection of the full group can take 30 to 45 minutes.

How high will we be on the trek?

The trek reaches a highest point listed around 4,620 meters. The guidance also notes that you will trek over 4,800 meters above sea level, so plan for altitude.

Is breakfast and lunch included?

Yes. You’ll have breakfast at Pacchanta and lunch there as well. Both are included in the tour price.

Are the Pacchanta hot springs included?

No. Entrance fees and the hot springs access are not included, and you’ll need to pay about 30 soles in cash.

Do I need to bring cash?

For extra expenses during the day, you’ll need cash in Peruvian soles. Entrance to the hot springs is also cash-only.

Is horse riding included?

Horse riding appears in the day plan, but the tour instructions say that if you rent a horse, that rental is not managed by the local partner. So you should expect extra local payment if you choose it.

What should I pack for the day?

Bring snacks, water, rain gear, hiking shoes, sunglasses, and comfortable clothes. Also pack extra warm layers (a warm sweater, jacket, hat, and gloves), and avoid bringing large bags or luggage.