Ausangate 7 lagoons

Ausangate 7 Lagoons Tour: A Colorful Day in the Peruvian Andes

Exploring the Ausangate 7 Lagoons tour offers a window into the striking natural beauty of the Vilcanota mountain range. For just $30 per person, you get a full day of unforgettable scenery, vibrant lagoons, and encounters with local traditions. The tour starts early from Cusco and typically lasts about a day, making it accessible for most travelers with limited time but a taste for adventure.

We love how this trip combines spectacular mountain vistas with a chance to interact directly with local communities. The visit to the charming town of Pacchanta, with its welcoming family and natural hot springs, makes this experience feel both authentic and rejuvenating. Plus, the panoramic views of Ausangate, one of Peru’s most impressive glaciers, are truly memorable.

One possible consideration is that the itinerary involves a significant amount of walking and altitude, with some hikers reporting a climb of around 3.5 hours. Travelers should be prepared for the physical activity and the high elevation, especially if they’re not used to mountain trekking. This tour is best suited for those comfortable with moderate hiking and eager to see Peru’s hidden natural treasures.

This tour suits travelers looking for a combination of adventure, culture, and scenic beauty. If you’re after a day that goes beyond typical tourist spots and want to see the Andes’ quieter, more remote corners, this could be an ideal choice.

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Key Points

• Stunning mountain scenery and crystal-clear lagoons create a picture-perfect landscape.
• Authentic local experiences through interactions with families and visits to small villages.
• Well-organized day trip with transportation, guides, and meals included for good value.
• Moderate physical activity involved, suitable for those comfortable with hiking at altitude.
• Hot springs and lunch add a relaxing and tasty element to the day.
• Entrance fees are not included, so budget extra for tickets and hot springs.

Exploring the Ausangate 7 Lagoons Tour in Detail

The Starting Point and Journey

The adventure begins with a pick-up at your Cusco hotel (or a designated meeting point), setting the stage for a day filled with natural beauty and cultural sights. As we head south along the interoceanic highway, the scenery transforms into a tapestry of colorful houses and traditional costumes, offering a glimpse into the local way of life.

Traveling through picturesque towns, we make a brief stop in Ccatca, a small town with a charming square and narrow streets that exude history. This stop allows you to stretch your legs and appreciate the authentic Peruvian atmosphere before continuing into more remote areas.

The Drive to Pacchanta and Breakfast

Our next major stop is the municipality of Pacchanta, perched over 4,000 meters above sea level. Here, a friendly local family welcomes us into their home for a hearty breakfast made with Andean ingredients—a delicious opportunity to fuel up for the day ahead. The warm hospitality helps set the tone for a day of discovery.

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The Trail and Lagoons

From Pacchanta, the trek begins with a 3.5-hour hike to the Ninaparayoc viewpoint. Along the way, you’ll pass through the stunning Comercocha and Alqacocha lagoons, both boasting vivid green and turquoise waters. These lagoons sit at the foot of the Callangate glacier, providing dramatic backdrops for photos and moments of awe.

As we descend back toward Pacchanta, you’ll pass by additional lagoons such as Patacocha, Otorongococha, and Azulcocha, each offering unique shades of blue and green. The variety of colors and shapes in these lagoons highlight the geological diversity of this high-altitude landscape. Expect plenty of opportunities to snap photos and marvel at nature’s palette.

Relaxation at the Hot Springs and Lunch

After the hike, there’s time to unwind in Pacchanta’s famous thermal waters—a natural treat after a day of walking at altitude. The hot springs are said to have therapeutic properties, and many visitors find them both relaxing and enjoyable. Entrance to the springs is an additional 5 PEN, but well worth it for the soothing experience.

Before heading back to Cusco, you’ll return to the host family’s home for a delicious buffet lunch featuring local ingredients and flavors. This meal caps off the day with a taste of regional cuisine and a chance to reflect on the stunning sights seen.

The Return Journey

In the late afternoon, we retrace our route back to Cusco, passing through small villages and scenic landscapes. The trip concludes with a drop-off at your hotel, leaving you with memories of spectacular lagoons, towering peaks, and warm local hospitality.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package covers hotel pick-up, round-trip transportation, a breakfast, buffet lunch, a professional bilingual guide, first aid kit, and trekking poles—a solid setup for a day trip.

However, you should budget extra for entrance fees (20 PEN) and hot springs ($5 PEN) if you want to dip into the thermal waters. These additional costs are minor but worth noting for planning.

Worth Considering

Some travelers, like one reviewer who noted, “nothing. we were not picked up,” indicate the importance of confirming logistics in advance. Ensuring your pickup arrangements are clear can save potential frustration.

Why This Tour Works for You

If you’re seeking a moderate hike with breathtaking scenery, this trip delivers. The Lagoons are visually stunning, and the chance to see Ausangate Glacier up close makes it special. It’s also perfect if you want to interact with local families and enjoy some relaxing hot springs after the trek.

However, if you’re sensitive to altitude or prefer very easy walks, this might be a bit challenging. Be prepared for high elevations and some steep sections. Also, the cost is quite reasonable given the included meals, guide, and transfers, offering good value for those wanting a comprehensive day out.

Final Thoughts

The Ausangate 7 Lagoons tour offers a rich blend of natural beauty, cultural interaction, and physical activity. It’s an excellent choice for travelers eager to see Peru’s less-traveled natural highlights and experience genuine local hospitality. The scenic lagoons, combined with the impressive Ausangate glacier, make for unforgettable photos and stories.

While the physical demands and potential weather variability at high altitude are considerations, the overall experience is rewarding. The inclusion of a local breakfast, a hearty lunch, and time in soothing hot springs adds layers of enjoyment—making this day trip both invigorating and restorative.

Best suited for active travelers with a curiosity about local culture and nature lovers, this tour stands out for its authenticity and stunning landscapes. It’s a perfect way to escape the crowds and discover some of the Andes’ best-kept natural secrets.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It involves a 3.5-hour hike at high altitude, so it’s best for those comfortable with moderate walking and physical activity. If you’re used to hiking or trekking, you’ll enjoy it more.

How early does the tour start?
Start times depend on availability; check with your provider to confirm the exact departure time. Early starts help maximize daylight and avoid afternoon weather changes.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast in Pacchanta and a buffet lunch after the trek. Both meals feature local ingredients, offering authentic regional flavors.

How much extra should I budget for entrance fees?
You should plan for approximately 20 PEN for entrance to the lagoons and 5 PEN for the hot springs, if you wish to enjoy them.

What should I bring?
Bring layers to handle temperature changes, sun protection, water, and possibly a camera. Trekking poles are provided, but you might want your own if you prefer.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change unexpectedly.

Is it possible to customize the experience?
Since this is a guided tour with set stops, customization options are limited. However, you can discuss special needs or interests with the guide beforehand.

What if I get sick or feel unwell during the hike?
The tour includes a first aid kit and oxygen for emergencies, but inform your guide if you feel unwell so they can assist accordingly.

To sum it up, the Ausangate 7 Lagoons tour offers an impressively scenic and culturally rich day in the Peruvian Andes. It’s best for travelers who want a meaningful outdoor experience, are comfortable with some physical effort, and are eager to see the quieter, more pristine side of Cusco’s surrounding mountains. With its combination of stunning vistas, local warmth, and relaxing hot springs, it’s a memorable way to connect with Peru’s natural treasures.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby