Overview of the Cusco: Full Day Ausangate + 7 Lakes Tour

Imagine waking before dawn, the crisp mountain air already hinting at a day packed with breathtaking sights. For just $37 per person, this 12-hour guided tour takes you from Cusco’s historic center to some of the region’s most stunning high-altitude lakes and peaks. Led by friendly guides, you’ll explore seven colorful lagoons at the foot of the majestic Ausangate, one of Peru’s tallest snow-capped mountains, while enjoying included meals and activities like thermal baths.

What we love about this tour is how accessible it makes the spectacle of the high Andes—without requiring intense trekking. Plus, the opportunity to see Ausangate from the mountain of 7 colors adds a layer of visual wonder that’s hard to match. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the included breakfast, lunch, and even an oxygen balloon are thoughtful touches that elevate the trip.

One potential consideration is the early start — a 4:00 am pickup might be tough for those who prefer sleeping in or have mobility challenges. But if you’re eager for a full day of spectacular scenery and cultural insight, this tour offers excellent value and authentic experiences suited for adventurous travelers who want to see the high Andes, not just hear about them.

This excursion best suits those who love natural beauty, don’t mind early mornings, and want a balanced mix of light hiking, stunning photos, and culture without breaking the bank.

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Key Points

Affordable and comprehensive: For $37, you get transportation, meals, guided visits, and the chance to see the iconic Ausangate and seven lagoons.
Rich scenery: Expect a variety of landscapes—crystal-clear lagoons in different colors, snowy peaks, and panoramic mountain vistas.
Accessible experience: Light hikes make it suitable for most travelers, though not ideal for those with mobility issues.
Includes meals and amenities: Breakfast, lunch, and even an oxygen balloon help make the long day comfortable.
Early start: Prepare for a 4:00 am pickup, which means an early rise but allows for full daylight exploration.
Authentic local tour: Led by guides who speak both Spanish and English, offering insights into the region’s natural beauty and cultural significance.

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A Thorough Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Early for a Full Day of Adventure

The tour begins with a pick-up from your hotel or residence in Cusco between 4:00 and 5:00 am. While this might sound brutal, it’s necessary to maximize daylight and avoid the midday crowds. The roughly 3.5 to 4-hour drive takes you south of Cusco into the high Andes, where the air thins and the landscape opens into vast, rugged beauty.

First Stop: Ausangate Mountain and Photo Opportunities

Once you arrive, your guide will take you to a photo stop at Ausangate. Here, you’ll get a chance to capture stunning images of the snow-capped peak and the surrounding landscape. Many reviews highlight how spectacular the views are, with some travelers remarking that the mountain itself looks like a postcard scene. Your guide, often named as Jose or Carlos, will provide insights into the mountain’s significance and the geological forces that shaped this majestic region.

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The Lagoons and Light Hike

After a brief guided tour, you’ll prepare for a two-hour hike that brings you to the famous seven lagoons. These lakes are renowned for their vivid colors—deep blues, emerald greens, and even reddish hues—each telling a different story of mineral content and sunlight. The lagoons sit right at the foot of Ausangate, making for incredible photo ops.

During this hike, expect to see a diverse array of scenery: glaciers in the distance, rugged terrain, and perhaps some local wildlife. The guide will explain the cultural and environmental importance of these lakes, which are considered sacred by local communities.

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Time at the Lagoons

You’ll have about an hour at each lagoon—plenty of time to wander, take photos, and soak in the scenery. Reviewers consistently mention how pictures don’t do justice to the vibrant colors of these lakes. The feeling of standing at high altitude, with the mountains towering overhead and the lakes shimmering below, is truly memorable.

Downhill & Lunch

After the lagoons, you’ll descend back toward a cozy lunch spot around 2 or 3 pm. The included lunch typically consists of Peruvian staples—perhaps a hearty stew, rice, or local vegetables—fueling you for the afternoon activities. Some travelers mention that the lunch is simple but satisfying, especially after the morning’s exertion.

Thermal Baths and Relaxation

Post-lunch, there’s time allocated for visiting thermal baths, an appreciated break after hours of exploring. For a modest fee (around 5 soles), you can soak in warm waters and relax your muscles before heading back to Cusco. Many reviews say this is a highlight, especially after hiking in the high-altitude terrain.

Return to Cusco

Expect to arrive back in Cusco between 7:00 and 8:00 pm. The long but rewarding day ends with a sense of accomplishment and a camera full of stunning images. The journey back is a good chance to reflect on the day’s highlights.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The package is quite comprehensive: hotel pickup, tour guide, transportation, breakfast, lunch, and even an oxygen balloon—a thoughtful addition at high altitude. The entry fee (10 soles) and thermal bath fee (5 soles) are extras, but manageable costs that enhance your experience.

Note that this tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, given the hiking involved and the uneven terrain. The early start and physical exertion mean it’s best suited for moderately active travelers.

Authenticity and Value

At only $37, you get a well-rounded experience that balances scenic vistas, cultural insights, and practical amenities. The inclusion of meals means you won’t be hungry or dehydrated during the long day, and the guided aspect offers educational value. The small group size (implied by the personalized review tone) allows for more intimate moments and personalized attention.

Most travelers appreciate that the tour provides a true high-altitude adventure without excessive costs. Plus, the photos and stories you’ll collect are worth far more than the price tag.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for adventurous travelers eager to see the spectacular landscapes of the Andes without a strenuous multi-day trek. It’s great for those who enjoy natural beauty, photography, and cultural insight. If you’re okay with an early morning start and want a comprehensive day trip that offers both scenic vistas and cultural context, this is a solid choice.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer a more relaxed schedule, you might find the early start and hiking a bit challenging. Still, for most travelers wanting a full, authentic experience of Cusco’s highlands, this tour hits the right notes.

The Sum Up

In essence, the Cusco: Full Day Ausangate + 7 Lakes Tour offers an excellent value for those wanting a cost-effective, guided high-altitude adventure. With stunning mountain views, vibrant lakes, and included meals and amenities, it packs a lot into a single day. The early start is a small price to pay for the chance to see some of Peru’s most beautiful natural sights while enjoying the comfort of a guided experience.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor eager to tick off iconic landscapes or an experienced traveler craving authentic scenery, this tour makes high mountain beauty accessible and memorable. It’s a rewarding outing that balances adventure, comfort, and cultural insight—perfect for travelers who want to see the best of Cusco’s surrounding landscapes without sacrificing comfort or budget.

FAQs

What time does the tour start and end?
The tour begins with hotel pickups between 4:00 and 5:00 am and typically ends between 7:00 and 8:00 pm, giving you a full day of exploration.

Is the tour suitable for everyone?
It’s not recommended for people with mobility impairments due to the hiking involved and uneven terrain. The early start and physical activity make it better suited for reasonably active travelers.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast in the morning and a lunch later in the day. The meals are generally simple but hearty, designed to keep you energized.

What is the cost and what does it cover?
At $37 per person, the price covers transportation, guide services, meals, and some optional amenities like an oxygen balloon. Entry to the lagoons and thermal baths are at small additional costs.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Bring your passport or ID card, comfortable clothing for hiking, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the incredible views.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts unexpectedly.

This tour combines the joy of seeing spectacular highland scenery with practical comfort, making it an ideal day trip for those looking to experience the essence of the Peruvian Andes without extensive trekking or high costs.