Ausangate Glacier with 3 Lakes -- Full Day Tour

Why choose this experience with us?

Small groups and guaranteed departures: The trip is organized in groups of a maximum of 16 people, so you can enjoy a more authentic experience throughout the journey. Additionally, departures are confirmed from 2 passengers, giving you the flexibility to plan your adventure with complete confidence.

Unconventional route: Get away from the most crowded tourist circuits and explore a high mountain landscape where turquoise lagoons, glaciers, and Andean communities create a unique setting.

Professional guide throughout the tour: From the pick-up at your hotel to the end of the experience, you will have the continuous support of our professional guide. He will be able to address each of your questions, as well as provide you with information and security throughout the entire journey.

Enjoy each destination without haste: Our itinerary is designed to explore each attraction along the route at a leisurely pace, appreciating the natural landscapes and the cultural richness of the destination in detail.

Program Summary

Full day | Cusco - Cusipata - Ausangate Property - 3 Lagoons - Glacier - Cusco Discover a spectacular glacier alongside three turquoise lagoons of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain in a one-day adventure from the city of Cusco. During the journey, you will be able to appreciate the vast landscapes of the Southern Valley until you reach Predio de Ausangate, where the hike to the glacier and the three lagoons begins.

Technical tour data

Walking distance:

Day 1: 4–5 km / 2.5–3.1 miles (round trip)

Walking time:

Day 1: 3 hours (ascent, tour between the lagoons, and descent)

Maximum altitude:

Ausangate Glacier: 4,950 m / 16,240 ft

Minimum altitude:

Cusipata: 3,460 meters above sea level / 11,352 feet

Level of difficulty:

Moderate.

Highlighted places

Ausangate Glacier: This impressive glacier is part of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, its extensive masses of ice, surrounded by mountains and turquoise water lagoons, create a landscape of great beauty.

3 Turquoise Lagoons: The Ausangate, Qori Sonqo, and Ancascocha lagoons stand out for their bluish and greenish waters, which contrast with the surrounding mountains and snow-capped peaks.

Nevado Ausangate: It is the most important and highest sacred mountain in Cusco, surrounded by glaciers, lagoons, and spectacular Andean landscapes.

Cusipata: Traditional Andean village south of Cusco, the point where breakfast and lunch are enjoyed during the excursion.

Full day | Cusco - Pitumarca - Pre-Ausangate - 3 Lakes - Glacier - Cusco 03:30 – 04:00 a.m. | Pickup from your hotel in Cusco Our adventure begins very early, with the pick-up from your hotel in the city of Cusco. Next, we will begin the journey in a tourist vehicle toward the Vilcanota mountain range, while enjoying the first Andean landscapes and the sunrise along the way.

Cusipata | Breakfast

The first stop of the trip will be Cusipata, located approximately 3,460 meters above sea level / 11,352 feet. Here we will enjoy breakfast before continuing our journey to the high mountain area of the Ausangate snow-capped peak.

Route to the Ausangate base camp

After breakfast, we will continue the journey for approximately one hour until we reach the Ausangate pasture, located at about 4,200 meters above sea level / 13,780 feet.

During the journey, we will pass through Andean communities that have preserved their customs through generations. We will be able to observe alpacas and llamas grazing in the vast high Andean plains, as well as local families engaging in traditional activities such as weaving.

The route will be accompanied by stunning landscapes of the Southern Valley.

Start of the hike | First lagoon

Upon reaching the Ausangate base, we will begin our high-altitude hike. After just 10 minutes of walking, we will reach the first lagoon, where we can admire its turquoise waters surrounded by the imposing mountains.

Second lagoon | Qori Sonqo

We will continue with the tour, and after approximately 30 minutes, we will arrive at the Qori Sonqo lagoon, located at approximately 4,600 meters above sea level / 15,092 feet.

This beautiful turquoise lagoon is located at the foot of the Ausangate glacier, offering a spectacular mountain landscape. Here we will have time to contemplate the surroundings, take photographs, and enjoy the tranquility of the place.

Ausangate Glacier

From the Qori Sonqo Lagoon, we will continue ascending for approximately 15 minutes until we reach the observation point of the Ausangate Glacier, located around 4,950 meters above sea level / 16,240 feet.

Upon arrival, we will find ourselves in front of one of the most impressive landscapes of the mountain range. We will be able to contemplate the glacier, the mountains, and the high mountain environment, in addition to having time for photographs and to enjoy this spectacular natural setting.

Third lagoon | Ancascocha

Continuing with the journey, we appreciate the Ancascocha Lagoon, located approximately at 4,400 meters above sea level / 14,436 feet. Its turquoise waters, surrounded by the imposing mountains of the Ausangate range, offer a beautiful contrast to the high-altitude landscape.

After enjoying the scenery and taking photographs, we will begin the descent along the route until we return to the transport.

Once the hike is finished, we will board our transportation and return to Cusipata. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a lunch before continuing our journey back to Cusco.

After lunch, we will begin the journey back to the city of Cusco, once again enjoying the Andean landscapes and the communities we will encounter along the way.

5:30 – 6:00 p.m. | Arrival in Cusco

The experience through the Ausangate Glacier and 3 Turquoise Lagoons concludes with your arrival at your hotel in Cusco.

Walking distance:

Day 1: 4–5 km / 2.5–3.1 miles (round trip)

Walking time:

Day 1: 3 hours in total (ascent, walk between the lagoons, and descent) Maximum altitude:

Ausangate Glacier: 4,950 m / 16,240 ft

Minimum altitude:

Cusipata: 3,460 meters above sea level / 11,352 feet

Level of difficulty:

Moderate to challenging, mainly due to the altitude and high mountain terrain.

Guaranteed entry

The entry ticket is included in the service.

Accompaniment and safety

Virtual assistance before the tour Before the start, the team provides virtual assistance to resolve all the traveler's questions and doubts about the program, so they can enjoy their trip without worries.

Bilingual professional guide (Spanish and English) An excellent staff of professional guides, highly trained in history, culture, and tourist information, accompanies the entire tour to provide a safe, informative, and memorable experience.

First aid kit and oxygen tank Sakura Expedition prioritizes safety during each tour. Therefore, the guides receive constant training in first aid, ensuring timely assistance and a safe journey for all passengers.

1 trekking poles Trekking poles provide greater stability and support during ascents and descents, reducing effort throughout the journey.

24/7 Customer Service The team is available to address the traveler's inquiries from start to finish, with an emergency phone number they can call whenever needed.

Food

During the adventure, a buffet breakfast and lunch are enjoyed in Cusipata, the rest point before and after the hike.

Tourist transfers

Pick-up in tourist service from the hotel in Cusco.

Tourist transportation during the tour.

What is not included?

Horse rental (optional):

Travel insurance (recommended): For greater peace of mind during your trip, we recommend purchasing insurance that provides coverage for unforeseen events such as flight cancelations or delays, loss or delay of luggage, illnesses, accidents, trip interruptions, loss of tourist services due to delays, as well as medical assistance and personal protection throughout your entire adventure.

Tips: Optional.

Additional expenses due to causes beyond the agency's control: adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications for safety, illness, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, or other similar circumstances.

Note: the amounts in dollars are for reference and are subject to the current exchange rate. The payment is made in soles.

Private service at your own pace. A more comfortable and personalized experience, with flexible schedules, more time for photographs, and the freedom to take breaks. To be discussed with the sales executive. Ancestral hike with llamas (private service). An exclusive experience accompanied by llamas from the local community, which carry part of the luggage during the hike, with moments shared with Andean families and a traditional herbal drink from the region.

Mandatory documents

Original valid passport or ID card (mandatory).

Recommended luggage

Lightweight backpack or handbag (20 to 30 liters) for the essentials.

Water bottle and snack.

Cash, preferably in small bills, for shopping and souvenirs.

Clothing and footwear

Trekking shoes or boots with a good non-slip sole.

Layered clothing: breathable base layer, coat, and down jacket (it's very cold at the summit).

Waterproof jacket or rain poncho.

Chullo and gloves for the morning.

Hat or cap for the sun and sunglasses.

Bandana or buff to protect against wind, dust, and solar radiation.

A special set to capture unforgettable photographs.

Personal items

Sunscreen.

Personal medication.

Basic personal first aid kit.

Wet wipes or toilet paper.

Hand sanitizer.

Energy snacks (chocolate, nuts, energy bars).

Equipment and extras

Camera or cell phone.

Portable battery

Extra cash for drinks, souvenirs, or tips.

Important considerations

It is recommended to acclimate for at least 2 days in Cusco before this tour.

Avoid heavy luggage to better enjoy the experience.

Always keep documents and valuables with you.

Before the trip

What is the difficulty level of the Ausangate Glacier and 3 Lakes tour?

The experience has a moderate to challenging difficulty, mainly due to the altitude. The hike starts at around 4,200 meters above sea level / 13,780 feet and reaches approximately 4,950 meters above sea level / 16,240 feet at the glacier observation point.

How long does the hike last?

The hike has an approximate duration of 3 hours total, including the ascent, the visit to the three lagoons, the trek to the glacier, and the descent. The time may vary depending on the group's pace and weather conditions.

What is the maximum altitude of the route?

The highest point is located near the Ausangate Glacier, at approximately 4,950 meters above sea level / 16,240 feet. Due to this altitude, it is important to have proper acclimatization before undertaking the experience.

Can I suffer from altitude sickness during the tour?

Yes. Since the experience takes place between 4,200 and 4,950 meters above sea level, there is a possibility of experiencing altitude-related symptoms, such as headache, dizziness, fatigue, or nausea. We recommend spending a few days in Cusco beforehand to acclimate, get plenty of rest, stay hydrated, and communicate any discomfort to the guide.

Do I need to be acclimated before undertaking this experience?

Yes. We recommend being acclimated in Cusco before taking the tour. This experience reaches a considerably higher altitude than the city of Cusco, so it is not recommended to do it immediately after arriving from a low-altitude area.

Is trekking experience necessary?

Technical trekking experience is not required. However, it is important to have adequate physical condition and be prepared to walk in high mountain terrain at an altitude close to 5,000 meters above sea level.

Is the hike very steep?

The route has some sections of ascent and uneven terrain. Although the distance is not excessively long, the altitude makes the physical effort greater. The route is taken at a controlled pace, with breaks to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Is a llama hike conducted?

Yes. One of the special features of this experience is the contact with the Andean llamas, which are part of the landscape and culture of the local communities. The experience aims to make the journey different from the traditional high mountain circuits.

Which lagoons will I visit during the tour?

The experience includes visiting three turquoise lagoons, among them Qori Sonqo and Ancascocha, as well as a third lagoon located on the route to the Ausangate Glacier.

At what altitude is Qori Sonqo?

Qori Sonqo is located approximately 4,600 meters above sea level / 15,092 feet, at the foot of the Ausangate Glacier. It is one of the highlights of the hike for its landscape and its turquoise waters.

At what altitude is Ancascocha located?

The Ancascocha Lagoon is located at approximately 4,400 meters above sea level / 14,436 feet and is surrounded by stunning landscapes of the Ausangate mountain range.

At what altitude is the Ausangate Glacier?

The observation point of the glacier is located approximately at 4,950 meters above sea level / 16,240 feet, offering an impressive view of the high mountain landscape.

Can seniors take the tour?

It depends on their physical condition and ability to walk at high altitude. Since the route reaches almost 5,000 meters above sea level, we recommend a prior medical evaluation for older adults or people with pre-existing health conditions.

What clothes should I bring?

We recommend dressing in layers. Wear thermal clothing, a warm jacket, comfortable pants, trekking shoes with good grip, gloves, a hat, sunscreen, and a waterproof jacket or poncho for the rain.

What should I bring for the hike?

Bring water, sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, gloves, light snacks, personal documents, and a small backpack. We also recommend bringing extra clothing due to the temperature changes typical of high mountain areas.

What happens if I feel unwell during the hike?

Report any symptoms of discomfort to the guide immediately. The guide will assess the situation and determine the best option to continue, rest, or return. The safety of the passenger is always the priority.

Is there cell signal during the trip?

The signal may be limited or nonexistent in various sections of the route. We recommend informing family members or contacts in advance that during part of the route, communication may not be available.

Can the weather affect the route?

Yes. The weather conditions in the high mountains can change rapidly. The route may be affected by rain, snow, wind, low temperatures, or poor visibility. Our team will assess the conditions to prioritize the safety of the group.

Are breakfast and lunch included?

Yes. The program includes breakfast in Cusipata and lunch at the end of the hike, before starting the return to Cusco.

How long does the entire tour last?

It's a full-day experience. Pick-up from Cusco is approximately between 03:30 and 04:00 a.m., and return to the city is scheduled approximately between 05:30 and 06:00 p.m., depending on road conditions and traffic.

What is the reservation process like?

Step 1 - Availability inquiry: write to info@sakuraexpedition.com to check dates. A reservation form will be sent that each participant must complete.

Step 2 - Passenger Information: to manage the reservation, the following details as they appear in the passport are required: full name, gender, passport number, date of birth (dd/mm/yyyy), and nationality.

Step 3 - Deposit and confirmation: a guarantee per person is required to secure the space. It is recommended to book in advance, especially during holidays and peak season. Step 4 - Final Confirmation: Once the reservation is confirmed, the traveler receives the official invoice and their spot is guaranteed 100%.

How is the outstanding balance paid? The balance can be paid in cash (US dollars or soles) in Cusco, one or two days before the tour, according to the conditions indicated by the sales executive.

Can the date be canceled or changed? Yes, it is possible to cancel or change the date of the reservation up to 48 hours before departure. In these cases, an administrative fee applies, which is deducted from the total amount as appropriate.

Do you have any more questions? You can contact the sales team via WhatsApp at the numbers +51 993 150 947 or +51 941 411 418, or by email at info@sakuraexpedition.com.

Why choose Sakura Expedition?

Sakura Expedition is a 100% Peruvian company specialized in adventure and cultural tourism in the Cusco destination. It has a team of certified guides, porters, and operational staff committed to providing unique, safe, and high-quality experiences. Responsible and sustainable tourism, respect for local communities, and personalized attention in every service set it apart. Backed by its tourism quality certification, it guarantees standards of excellence in every detail of the operation.