Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour

Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour
Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour
Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour
Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour

From

US$ 80.00

per person

4.9 +120 reseñas
See prices

Tour Description

ook the best Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour from Cusco. Explore turquoise lagoons and sacred snow-capped peaks on a professional qua

Experience the thrill of the Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour, where adrenaline meels the majesty of the sacred Andes. Reach pristine turquoise lagoons and massive glaciers with minimal effort on a powerful quad bike, capturing world class views that most travelers miss. Don´nt just visit Cusco - conquer its highest peaks on this ultimate high - altitude adventure!


Ausangate Glaciers Route

Ausangate Glaciers Route

On this trek along the Ausangate Glacier Route, after just 5 minutes of walking we can already see the first turquoise lagoon, and along the way we will discover more than 5 lagoons surrounded by glaciers and sacred mountains.

Quick view

Tour Description

12 key points

Review the tour format, effort level and the key details that help you decide faster.

  • Tipo / Modalidad Adventure / ATV (Quad Bike)
  • Duración Approx. 12 - 14 Hours
  • Nivel de dificultad Easy - Moderate (Level 2)
  • Altitud máxima 5,000 m (16,400 ft) above sea level
  • DESCRIPTION

    The Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour begins with an early morning pickup from your accommodation in Cusco. Our journey starts with a comfortable drive toward the South Valley, crossing inter - Andean landscapes and traditional rural villages that offer a glimpse into authentic local life.
    Upon reaching the district of Cusipata, we make a strategic stop to enjoy a traditional Andean buffet breakfast. This meal is essential for acclimatization, providing the energy needed before ascending to higher altitudes. Afterward, we continue our trip to the Japura base, the official starting point for this Ausangate quad bike adventure.
    Once at the base, your professional guide will provide a technical briefing on safety rules and ATV operation. After a brief practice session to ensure everyone feels confident, we embark on a 1.5 - hour ride. During this strech, you will navigate through high - altitude trails, vast pampas, and grazing areas where you can spot llamas and alpacas under the shadow of the majestic Ausangate Mountain.
    The quad bike portion concludes at a strategic transition point near the glacier's edge. From here, we begin a 40 - minute scenic hike through natural trails surrounded by intense reddish tones and glacial formations. This path leads us to the hidden gems of the circuit: the turquoise lagoons of Ausangate. You will have ample time at the lookout to appreciate the Qorisonqo and Pucacocha lagoons, as well as the imposing presence of the sacred "Apu" Ausangate.
    Following the visit, we descend for approximately 40 minutes to reconnect with our vehicles. The Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour continues with a return ride to the Japura base, where we board our transport back to Cusipata for a recovery buffet lunch. Finally, we conclude this unforgettable experience by returning to Cusco city in the late afternoon.

  • HIGHLIGHTS: PLACES YOU WILL VISIT ON THE AUSANGATE GLACIERS ATV TOUR
  • Cusipata - Gateway to the South Valley

    Our journey begins with a stop in this traditional village Surrounded by inter - Andean landscapes and agricultural communities. It is the perfect spot for our Andean buffet breakfast and essential acclimatization before reaching higher altitudes.

  • Japura - ATV Adventure Base

    The official starting point of our adrenaline - filled route. Here, you will receive a safety briefing, professional gear, and a driving practice session. From this base, the Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour officially enters the mountain trails.

  • High-Andean Ausangate Route

    As you ride your quad bike, you will traverse vast "pampas" and high - altitude terrain. This stretch offers stunning panoramic views of the Ausangate Glacier, majestic snow - capped peaks, and the chance to observe Andean wildlife like alpacas and llamas in their natural habitat.

  • Ausangate Trailhead - Hiking Transition

    This is where the ATV portion ends and the trekking experience begins. In this area, the environment becomes more intimate with the glacier, providing a closer look at the high - altitude ecosystem and the towering sacred peaks.

  • Turquoise Lagoons of Ausangate

    During the hiking portion, you will explore the most iconic lagoons of the circuit, each famous for its vibrant and unique colors. You will visit the Qorisonqo Lagoon, known for its shifting tones of green and turquoise, the Pucacocha Lagoon with its deep and intense turquoise waters, and the serene Ausangate Lagoon, which is nestled in a pristine natural setting. These stunning bodies of water are fed by glacial meltwater and are surrounded by the imposable peaks of the Andes.

  • Nevado Ausangate (Sacred Glacial Peak)

     A central point of the entire experience. At 6,384 meters, Ausangate is one of the highest mountains in Peru and a sacred "Apu" in Andean culture. Throughout the tour, you will enjoy direct and impressive views of its massive glacier.

Things you should know about this tour

View Map

View Map

Prior Acclimatization:

We strongly suggest staying at least 1 to 2 days in Cusco before taking this tour. The extreme altitude of the Ausangate range is demanding, and proper adaptation will help you enjoy the adventure without fatigue or illness.

Pacing During the Hike:

When walking toward the lagoons, maintain a slow and steady pace. Do not rush; listen to your body and take breaks if needed. At 5,000 meters, every effort counts, and a calm rhythm is the best way to avoid shortness of breath.

Responsible ATV Operation:

Treat the quad bike ride as a scenic journey rather than a race. It is essential to enjoy the landscape while maintaining a controlled and safe speed.

Strict Speed Limit:

For the safety of the entire group, the maximum permitted speed is 30 km/h (18 mph). This rule ensures total control of the vehicle on irregular high-altitude terrain and open trails.

No Alcohol Consumption:

Avoid drinking alcohol at least 24 hours before theb tour. Alcohol can significantly worsen the effects of altitude and reduce your physical capacity during the ride and the hike.

Follow the Guide's Instructions:

Your professional guide is responsible for the group's safety. It is mandatory to follow all instructions regarding ATV handling, designated stops, trekking routes, and rest periods.

Positive and Flexible Mindset:

Maintain a calm and open altitude. High-mountain environments can be unpredictable; the goal of the Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour is to experience nature and the sacred "Apu" safely and respectfully.

Physical Energy Management:

Avoid overexerting yourself in the initial stages. Conserve your energy so you can fully enjoy both the quad bike driving and the final trek toward the stunning turquoise lagoons.

The tour includes round-trip tourist transport from Cusco, a professional bilingual guide, a fully equipped ATV with safety gear (helmet and gloves), Andean buffet breakfast and lunch, trekking poles, oxygen tanks, and permanent assistance throughout the route.

Altitude Awareness:

This adventure takes place at extreme altitudes, reaching approximately 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) above sea level. This altitude can cause mild fatigue or symptoms of altitude sickness (soroche). We strictly recommend a prior acclimatization of at least 1 to 2 days in Cusco.

Weather Conditions.

Expect freezing temperatures, especially during the early morning hours. Throughout the day, the weather can fluctuate between intense solar radiation, strong winds, and low temperatures near the glacier. Dressing in layers is essential to adapt to these changes.

Level of Difficulty:

The tour is rated as moderate. While ATV driving is accessible for beginners, the 40 - minute hike to the lagoons is influenced by the lack of oxygen at high altitudes, requiring a steady and calm pace.

Terrain Type

The route combines stabilized roads, high-Andean dirt trails, and irregular natural paths. The trekking portion is conducted on dirt trails with some rocky sections, though it does not feature extreme inclines.

Mobile Signal:

Please note that mobile signal is limited or non-existent throughout most of the route, particularly in the glacier and lagoon areas. We recommend handling any important communications before departing from Cusco.

Actual Physical Effort:

The physical demand is concentrated in two main stages consisting of approximately 1.5 hours of ATV driving for the outbound stretch and 1.5 hours for the return, combined with a scenic hike of approximately 40 minutes to reach the lagoons and another 40 minutes to return to the vehicles.

Tour Expectations:

This experience is designed for travelers seeking high-mountain adventure, combining adrenaline with pristine natural landscapes. It is not an exhausting long -distance trek, but a balanced journey between accessibility and nature.

On this trek along the Ausangate Glacier Route, after just 5 minutes of walking we can already see the first turquoise lagoon, and along the way we will discover more than 5 lagoons surrounded by glaciers and sacred mountains.

Ausangate Glaciers Route

Tour rates and options

extreme adventure

This tour is offered in shared and private service depending on the size of your group.

"Check 24 hours before to confirm availability and avoid setbacks".

Shared Service
Price Book
Shared Service Price per traveler
$80.00 USD
Private service
Price Book
Group of 2 - 3 people Price per traveler
$130.00 USD
Group of 4 - 7 people Price per traveler
$115.00 USD
Group of 8+ people Price per traveler
$90.00 USD

Schedule office appointment

Urb. Dolorespata, Jr. Paititi F 3ª 270, Santiago-Cusco

Frequently asked questions

We answer the most common questions about Ausangate Full Day.

What is included in the Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour?
The tour includes round-trip tourist transport from Cusco, a professional bilingual guide, a fully equipped ATV with safety gear (helmet and gloves), Andean buffet breakfast and lunch, trekking poles, oxygen tanks, and permanent assistance throughout the route.
How long does the tour to the Ausangate glaciers by quad bike last?

The full-day experience lasts approximately 14 hours, starting very early in Cusco and ending in the late afternoon with the return to the city.

Is the ATV route to Ausangate difficult?

Not at all. The quad bike route is considered moderate and is conducted with a professional guide and a prior practice session. It is suitable for beginners with basic coordination or driving notions.

How much time will I spend driving the ATV during the tour?
 You will spend approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes driving on the outbound stretch and another 1 hour and 30 minutes on the return leg, crossing beautiful high-Andean landscapes.
How much walking is required during the tour?

There is a hike of approximately 40 minutes each way, starting from the point where the ATVs are parked up to the lagoons and glacial lookouts.

At what altitude does the Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour take place?
The tour reaches altitudes between 4,500 and 5,000 meters (14,700 to 16,400 ft) above sea level. Therefore, it is essential to be acclimatized in Cusco for at least 1 or 2 days before the trip.
What kind of landscapes will I see on this tour?
You will witness the majestic Ausangate glaciers, vibrant turquoise lagoons like Qorisonqo and Pucacocha, snow-capped mountains, native Andean wildlife (alpacas and llamas), and unique high-altitude ecosystems.
Can I take the tour if I have never driven an ATV before?

Yes, previous experience is not strictly required. However, we recommend having basic coordination or at least knowing how to ride a bicycle, as this helps with balance and vehicle control. Before starting, your guide will provide a full safety briefing and a practice session to ensure you feel secure.

What happens if I am affected by the altitude during the tour?

Our team carries portable oxygen and a first aid kit. Furthermore, our guides are trained to assist with altitude sickness and provide immediate support if needed.

Is it necessary to book this tour in advance?

Yes, we highly recommend booking in advance as spots are limited, especially during the high season (June to September) when demand for the Ausangate Glaciers ATV Tour is at its peak.

1 WHY CHOOSE THIS EXPERIENCE?

  • Breathtaking panoramic view of the Sacred Valley
  • No prior experience required
  • Safe activity: favorable topography and certified equipment
  • An exciting and different experience
  • Perfect for adventure, nature and unforgettable memories in Cusco
  • Horseback or trekking options
  • Daily departures all year round
  • Oxygen support and first-aid kit

2 WHY TRAVEL WITH US?

  • We are tour operators in Cusco
  • Professional and responsible work
  • 100% tourist vehicles
  • Safety for our visitors
  • Your trip will be the best experience
  • 100% responsible
  • Care for the environment
  • Commitment to service quality