7 Lakes Trek in Ausangate

Explore the 7 Lakes Ausangate Trek in a 1 day hike & witness dazzling glacial lakes!

Our off the beaten trek takes you to the bewildering circuit of 7 lagoons, which hugs the gigantic Apus Mountain of Ausangate (6 384m/20 945ft). We trek through the spectacular high elevation Vilcanota Mountain range, passing herds of llamas, alpacas and possibly the protected vicuñas, as well as indigenous Quechua speaking communities. The scenery is unrivaled, combining glacial peaks, rushing rivers and of cause the stunning 7 lakes all 4 500m above sea level.

To end this unique trek, we visit the soothing and medicinal hot springs in Pacchanta to soak in our tired muscles before our long drive back to Cusco. On our 7 Lakes of Ausangate Full Day Tour, we get you away from the crowds to a place where everything seems untouched and undiscovered.

This full-day trek will take you and a small group to Humantay Lake, nestled below the famous Salkantay Mountain. Hike to one of Peru’s most magical lakes, whilst surrounded by the impressive Salkantay and Humantay peaks. Start with a hot breakfast on arrival, followed by snacks along the way, a gourmet lunch prepared by our chef, private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and a fluent English-speaking guide. Humantay Lake Tour hikes to one of Peru’s most magical glacial lakes, with picturesque turquoise waters. The views are breathtaking!

Appreciate the newly discovered geological wonder the natural marvel that is Rainbow Mountain. Hike through isolated communities, passing herds of llamas and alpacas. Hike at high altitudes along side the great Ausengate snow-capped mountain peak.. stunning turquoise lakes, locals dressed in colorful traditional attire and a diverse range of fauna like the massive soaring Condor and Cara Cara falcons.

The hike is challenging because its  such high altitude, however the trail itself is a gradual incline with only one steep section. As a reward for reaching the top, feast your eyes on the many vibrant colors that cover the  mountain like turquoise, lavender, orange. gold and so much more.

This half day South Valley tour takes us to the unique archeological site of Tipon where we enjoy the impressive irrigation system created by the Incas, then to Piquillacta where you discover the huge urban planning of the Wari culture. Next, we continue on to Andahuaylillas often referred to as the “the Sistine Chapel of the Americas” which has impressive mural paintings from the XVII century.

Please note: The Cusco City Tour is only offered to our clients doing at least a 2-day tour or trek to Machu Picchu.

The Sacred Valley is a treasure trove of timeless ancient Inca archeological sites and stunning natural landscapes that will simply take your break away. As you can imagine, agriculture presented a massive challenge for the Incas because of the craggy, mountainous terrain of the Andes. However, the Sacred Valley is a fertile and lush stretch of land with endless sources of fresh water. This was the heart of Inca land; the temperature is mild compared to the rest of Cusco and the views are incredible.

Our tour takes you on a comprehensive journey through traditional weaving villages and the Inca ruins of Pisac that remain a true representation of Inca agricultural practices. We explore a camelid farm surrounded by llamas, alpacas and vicunas. Driving of the main road, we visit the experimental farming terraces of Moray and the Pre- Inca Maras Salt mines, that’s still function as a main source of income for this small community and supplies Peru with over 90% of its salt. As the sun begins to set, we visit the archeological site of Ollantaytambo, where the ultimate and most intense battle between the Inca Empire and Spanish invaders took place.

Cusco was the capital of the Inca Empire called Tawantinsuyu and is a living museum overflowing with the country’s history and culture. You can see the different stages of history from ancient times to the conquest up to modern days. There are numerous archeological sites, Cathedrals, museums, night clubs in the social scene and many shops to explore. Cusco is the most important tourist destination in Peru as it is the gateway to the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu, not to mention a lot of fun!

Visit the most interesting sites in and around Cusco such as the Cusco Cathedral, the Koricancha, which was once filled with gold until plundered by invaders, Sacsayhuaman fortress and its military Inca architecture, and the archaeological sites of Q’enqo, Puca Pucara and Tambomachay!