Cusco is extremely popular for attractions like Machu Picchu or The Sacred Valley, but it has so much more to offer, specially for those looking for adventure in the heights of the largest mountain range in the world: The Andes.
With peaks over 6000 m (19685 ft), the Vilcanota Range is the perfect stage to adventure into the mountains to find glaciers, glacier-melt lakes, the Andean Puna and diverse wildlife. This is where the 7 lakes of Ausangate loop takes place.
This loop has been stablished as one of the most popular mountain activities close to Cusco. Due to the chance of completing this activity in a single day. It offers the opportunity to experience from close the beauty of the Andean peaks. Plus the experience of the culture, wildlife and unique hot springs in the tiny town of Pacchanta.
Highlights of this trail/experience:
1 full day experience: it doesn’t require several days, offering an easier option to multi-day treks from the Rainbow Mountain.
Stunning Natural Landscape: The trail covers 7 lakes with mindblowing colors (turquoise, blue and emerald), nestled in the valleys between peaks like Apu Ausangate and Occongate offers a unique view of the glaciers and the Puna grasslands.
Spiritual and Cultural significance: Apu Ausangate, considered to be a sacred mountain in the Qechua spirituality, is a protector spirit and giver of water and fertility. Riding around this area is the perfect opportunity to see firsthand traditional farming practices.
Community based Eco-Tourism: The impact is local, since the entrance fees to the area and hot springs goes directly to the community members, contributing with their income. The activities in the area have low impact in the environment and are respectful with the local fauna and flora.
Why E-bikes?
Mountain biking has been an alternative to get to know this area for a while now, but with the new boosted alternative we can go further.
In the past this ride was focused mainly in fit athletes, capable of the pedaling at such altitude requires. Our E-bike ride options bring this experience to a wider range of people.
Less effort and time up. Meaning we can go even further now, or make of this a family friendly activity.
An alternative to horseback riding or mules. Traditionally these animals have been used as the main option to complete this loop for those unfit to tame the altitude struggles. Now, E-bike riding offers the chance to do it yourself, while preventing trail erosion or animal over exhaustion.
We can still impact locally. All of the complementary services like food and beverage or the hot springs are still locally operated. Making this loop more attainable to a wider public, means more tourists with out the activity been extremely disruptive.
