About this experience
Enjoy an unforgettable all-inclusive horseback adventure to the stunning 7 Lakes of Ausangate, one of the most breathtaking destinations in the Peruvian Andes. This full-day experience is perfect for travelers seeking comfort, as the entire cabalgata to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate is done on horseback no hiking required.
Ride through spectacular Andean landscapes surrounded by turquoise lakes, alpacas, llamas, colorful mountains, and the majestic Ausangate glacier. During the experience, enjoy a relaxing Andean-style picnic in the middle of nature with incredible panoramic views of Ausangate Mountain and the surrounding lakes.
After exploring the famous 7 Lakes of Ausangate on horseback, relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta while admiring the snow-capped peaks of the Andes.
- Enjoy a 15 km horseback ride with beautiful views.
- Feed the alpacas and take photos.
- Enjoy a premium picnic with panoramic mountain views.
- Relax in the Pacchanta hot springs facing Ausangate Mt.
At a glance
- Duration: 9 hr–10 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 9 hr–10 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
Cusco Horseback Riding Guide
Plan a horseback ride near Cusco with clear advice on Sacsayhuamán-area routes, four-ruins itineraries, timing, the Cusco Tourist Ticket, altitude, costs, and smart booking questions.
What is included
- Entrance ticket to pacchanta hot springs
- Breakfasts
- Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the start of the trek.
- Horses trained to ride for the entire circuit
- Private transportation from the end of the trek to Cusco to your hotel.
- Lunches Picnic
- Water to drink on the way
- Experienced Guide speaks English and Spanish
- Entrance ticket to Ausangate and 7 lakes
Not included
- Tips for our staff
Itinerary and highlights
We start this unforgettable adventure bright and early! At 4:30 am, we’ll pick you up right from your hotel in Cusco and head toward the small Andean community of Pacchanta, nestled at over 4,300 meters above sea level at the foot of the sacred Apu Ausangate. On the way, you can relax, take a nap, or simply enjoy the peaceful beauty of the mountains, valleys, and charming local villages.
By 7:30 am, we arrive in Pacchanta, where a warm cup of coca or muña tea and a light breakfast will be waiting for you. After that, you’ll meet your horse and friendly local muleteer who will guide you through this special journey.
At 8:00 am, the horseback ride begins! The route is calm and scenic, with stunning views of Ausangate and plenty of alpacas along the way. After about 2 hours, we’ll reach the magical 7 lagoons—each one different in color and character. You’ll visit Azulcocha, Otorongo, Orco Otorongo, Alqacocha, Qomercocha, Pucacocha, and Patacocha, all surrounded by glaciers and pure mountain silence. Your guide will share the stories and legends behind each lagoon.
Around 11:30 am, we’ll take a well-deserved break for a picnic lunch right in nature. Spread out on colorful Andean blankets, you’ll enjoy a tasty and healthy meal made with local ingredients: quinoa with veggies or an Andean omelet, artisanal cheese, homemade jam with mountain bread, seasonal fruits, lemonade or juice, and coca or muña tea. Simple, fresh, and delicious—just how nature intended.
If you're traveling between May and November, you'll be treated to our special seasonal picnic, featuring a glass of regional wine to toast the experience, along with a selection of hot and cold drinks to suit the mountain weather. It’s a cozy and flavorful break that makes this moment even more memorable.
At 12:30 pm, we hop back on the horses and begin the return ride to Pacchanta, which takes about 1 to 1.5 hours. Once we arrive (around 2:00 pm), you’ll have the chance to soak and unwind in the natural hot springs—the perfect way to end your adventure.
At 3:30 pm, we’ll head back to Cusco in our private transportation. You’ll arrive at your hotel around 6:30 pm, full of fresh air, amazing memories, and stories to tell about your day among sacred lagoons, snow-capped peaks, and local culture.
Meeting and pickup information
- The pick-up will be from your hotel in the center of Cusco. At the end of the tour, you will be dropped off back at your hotel. The vehicle may take around 5 minutes to reach your hotel, depending on traffic.
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Peru Hike
Meeting points and locations
Accessibility and practical details
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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