Ride through high puna and alpaca fields to reach Ausangate’s seven colorful lagoons on a private, one-day horseback tour from Cusco. Expect high-altitude terrain, glacier views, hot springs, and hands-on encounters with local Andean culture.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning air at 4,200 meters bites and the first light slides over a ridge of wind-sculpted snow. You leave Cusco before dawn in private transport, and the road unwinds into the high puna—grasslands that roll toward the silhouette of Ausangate. By the time you meet your horse and local hosts in Pacchanta, alpacas cluster like deliberate punctuation across the slopes and the mountain begins to dominate the horizon.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9–10 hours
Fitness Level
Comfortable with prolonged sitting, able to walk short uneven sections; cardiovascular tolerance for 4,000+m altitude recommended
Wildlife
History
The Ausangate corridor is part of traditional Quechua pastoral lands and features routes used for llama and alpaca herding for centuries.
Conservation
Stick to established trails and photography areas, avoid feeding wildlife human food, and use biodegradable sunscreen to protect fragile alpine wetlands.
Reserve your spot on the Horseback Riding to Ausangate and 7 Lakes 1-Day Private Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize first
Spend 1–2 days in Cusco (3,400 m) before the ride to reduce altitude sickness risk.
Wear stiff-soled boots
Riding plus short dismounts on rocky ground is easier with supportive, grippy footwear.
Hydrate and pace
Sip water frequently and avoid sudden exertion—the thin air makes even gentle rides more taxing.
Protect from sun and wind
High UV and cold winds demand sunscreen, sunglasses and a windproof outer layer.
Layered insulated jacket
Traps heat at high altitude and blocks cold mountain winds between sunny and overcast spells.
Sturdy hiking or riding boots
Provides ankle support for mounting/dismounting and walking on rocky lakeshores.
Water bottle or hydration system (1–2 L)
Maintains hydration in dry, high-elevation air—guides supply some water but bring your own.
High-SPF sunscreen and sunglasses
UV intensifies above 4,000 m; sun protection prevents burns and snow glare issues.