7 Lakes of Ausangate

Health & Safety

• This tour is not suitable for travelers with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

• Not recommended for pregnant travelers.

• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness.

• Minimum age: 8 years old.

• Travelers over 60 years old should only participate if they have previous hiking experience at altitudes above 4,000 meters (13,100 ft).

• This tour is not wheelchair accessible.

Weather Conditions

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, so please dress accordingly.

• Due to the high altitude, temperatures can drop close to freezing, especially in the early morning.

High Altitude Warning

• The Seven Lakes of Ausangate are located at over 4,300 meters (14,100 ft) above sea level.

• Wear warm clothing, carry only essential items, and consider bringing coca leaves to help with altitude adaptation.

Rainy Season Advisory

• During the rainy season, we strongly recommend avoiding afternoon visits due to possible lightning caused by the area’s high mineral content.

Tour Quality Notice

• Around Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, many agencies offer cheaper tours with large groups of 25–35 people per guide.

• Our service focuses on small groups, ensuring a safer, more personalized, and more enjoyable experience.

Recommendations

• Acclimatize properly before the hike. We recommend staying in Cusco for at least 2–3 days prior to the tour.

• Drink plenty of water to help prevent altitude sickness. Bring at least 2 liters per person during the hike and leave an extra bottle in the vehicle.

• Get a good night’s sleep and avoid alcohol the night before the tour.

• If visiting Machu Picchu the day before, request an early return train from your travel company.

Cost for Photos with Locals

• Taking photos with locals and their llamas is welcome.

• A small tip of around 5 soles (approx. USD 2) is customary and helps support the local community.

Local Culture

• Many local residents wear traditional clothing, not for tourism, but as part of their cultural heritage.

• Along the route, you may see locals herding llamas and alpacas, a daily activity passed down through generations.

Prepare for the Altitude

• To adapt properly, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least three days before the tour.

• A suggested itinerary is: Cusco City Tour → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu → Ausangate 7 Lakes.

• Stay well hydrated, and if necessary, consult your doctor about altitude medication such as Diamox (only if you are not allergic).

Dress in Layers

• Weather conditions can change quickly.

• Wear layered clothing so you can adjust easily between cold mornings and warmer daytime temperatures.

Take Care of the Environment

• Stay on marked trails, avoid leaving trash, and respect wildlife.

• Help preserve this unique ecosystem by being a responsible and conscious traveler.

Hiking Tips

• Go slow and maintain a steady pace.

• Drink water frequently.

• Take breaks whenever needed and listen to your body.

Group Hiking Dynamics

• Group members may walk at different speeds.

• Most of the trail is flat, allowing the group to stay together about 60% of the time.

• On steeper sections, faster hikers will wait at designated points for the rest of the group.

Strikes & Protests

• If roads are blocked due to strikes or protests, the tour will be canceled for safety reasons.

• In such cases, you will receive a full refund.

Cancellations & Refund Policy

• Full Refund: Cancel up to 24 hours before the tour (minus credit card transaction fees).

• Partial Refund: Cancel between 24 hours and 7:00 PM the day before the tour—only the deposit is non-refundable.

• No Refund: Cancel after 7:00 PM the day before the tour.