Ausangate Glaciers by ATV | ATV Tour from Cusco
TRIP SUMMARY
The Ausangate Glaciers by ATV tour is an ideal adventure experience for travelers who want to explore one of the most impressive areas of the Andean mountain range without doing a long hike. This route combines ATV adrenaline, high-mountain landscapes, turquoise lagoons, natural viewpoints, and privileged views of the majestic Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain.
Located in the Vilcanota Mountain Range, Ausangate is considered one of the most representative mountains in Cusco and a sacred Apu for Andean communities. Its summit reaches over 6,300 meters above sea level, and its surroundings stand out for their glaciers, high-Andean lagoons, and natural landscapes of great cultural and scenic value.
During this adventure, you will leave early from Cusco toward Cusipata, where you will enjoy an Andean breakfast before receiving a safety briefing on how to drive the ATV. Then, you will begin the ATV route along high-altitude roads with views of mountains, valleys, alpacas, llamas, and unique Ausangate scenery.
After the ATV section, you will take a short hike to natural viewpoints and lagoons near the snow-capped mountain. This part of the tour allows you to take photos, enjoy the landscape, and connect more closely with Andean nature.
Why choose this tour?
This tour is perfect if you are looking for a different experience in Cusco, with more adventure than a traditional tour and less physical demand than a long high-altitude hike. It is also an excellent alternative for travelers who have already visited Rainbow Mountain or want to explore a less crowded area with glacier landscapes, lagoons, and panoramic views of Ausangate.
Itinerary
The tour begins with pickup from your accommodation in Cusco at around 4:00 a.m. Then, we will travel by tourist transport to the Cusipata area, passing through Andean landscapes and local communities as we approach the Ausangate route.
Upon arrival, we will enjoy an Andean buffet breakfast, perfect for recharging your energy before starting the adventure. Afterward, our guide will give a safety briefing of approximately 15 minutes, explaining how to drive the ATVs correctly, the route rules, and the recommendations needed to enjoy the experience safely.
Then, we will begin the ATV ride along high-altitude roads surrounded by mountains, valleys, and high-Andean landscapes. Along the way, you will be able to see llamas, alpacas, and, with a bit of luck, vicuñas in their natural habitat.
At the end of the ATV section, we will take a moderate hike toward the viewpoints and lagoons near the Ausangate glaciers. This hike allows you to appreciate the snow-capped mountain up close, its natural colors, and the beauty of the turquoise lagoons that contrast with the high-mountain landscape.
After enjoying free time for photos and videos, we will return to the starting area and continue to Cusipata, where a buffet lunch will be waiting for us. Finally, we will begin the return trip to Cusco, arriving approximately in the afternoon.
Included
Hotel pickup from the city center.
Professional guide in Spanish and English.
Tourist transportation.
Breakfast.
Lunch.
ATV and safety equipment.
First aid kit and oxygen tank.
Not Included
Entrance ticket: 30.00 PEN.
Professional trekking poles: extra cost of 5.00 USD.
Services not mentioned.
Water and snacks.
Tips.
Recommendations
WHAT YOU NEED TO BRING FOR THE AUSANGATE GLACIERS TOUR:
Entrance ticket: not included in the price; you can purchase it along the route. Bring cash.
Valid passport or identity document.
Small backpack with a water bottle, snacks, and other essentials.
Extra cash in Peruvian soles to buy souvenirs, optional.
Sun hat or cap and sunglasses.
Sunscreen, SPF 35+.
Light and warm clothing.
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho if your visit is between October and March.
Rain poncho, September to April.
Camera and extra batteries.
Alpacas: photos with locals and animals are available for a tip of approximately 5 soles, about $2 USD.
Prices
Frequently Asked Questions
The tour lasts approximately a full day. It starts early in Cusco and ends in the afternoon, depending on the group’s pace, the weather, and the route conditions.
The approximate maximum altitude is 5,020 meters above sea level, so it is recommended to be acclimatized before taking this experience. On your current page, this information already appears as part of the important tour details.
The tour has a moderate to challenging level. Although most of the route is done by ATV, it also includes a short hike at high altitude, so good physical condition and prior acclimatization are recommended.
Previous experience is not essential. Before starting the route, the guide provides a safety briefing on how to drive the ATVs and explains the route rules.
The tour can be done on a single ATV or a shared ATV for two people, depending on availability and the traveler’s preference at the time of booking.
The best time is usually the dry season, from May to October, because there is a higher chance of clear skies and better conditions to enjoy the landscapes.
It is recommended to bring an identity document, warm clothing, a waterproof jacket, gloves, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, water, snacks, a camera, and cash for personal expenses or payments not included.
It is not recommended for small children due to the altitude, cold weather, and level of effort. For teenagers or older minors, it should be evaluated according to their acclimatization, physical condition, and whether they are accompanied by a responsible adult.
Final
Dare to experience a different kind of adventure in Cusco. Ride through high-Andean landscapes by ATV, admire the Ausangate glaciers, and discover a route full of nature, adrenaline, and Andean culture.
Book your Ausangate Glaciers by ATV Tour with Kantu Peru Tours and secure your ATV experience from Cusco.
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