From Cusco: Ausangate 7 Lagoons Hiking Excursion

A full-day journey from Cusco to the spectacular Ausangate 7 Lagoons offers a chance to witness Peru’s high-altitude beauty up close. For just $40, you’ll spend around 15 hours traveling through the Vilcanota mountain range, taking in turquoise lakes, towering peaks, and perhaps even spotting llamas, alpacas, or the majestic Andean condor. Guided by friendly English-speaking guides, this tour promises an authentic taste of the Andes, packed with scenic vistas and memorable moments.

What we love most about this experience is how accessible it makes this rugged landscape—especially considering the price. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and transport makes it a good value. Plus, the hot springs at Pacchanta give a soothing finish after a challenging but rewarding hike. That said, keep in mind this is a long day, and the altitude can be tough for some travelers. It’s best suited for those comfortable with strenuous activity and eager to embrace high-altitude adventures with a local guide.

This tour is perfect if you’re eager to see Peru’s natural beauty beyond the more tourist-heavy sites. It suits active travelers who enjoy hiking and want a mix of adventure, breathtaking scenery, and cultural sights in one day. If you’re looking for a relaxing half-day or a less physically demanding experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re in Cusco and craving a day in the mountains, this trek offers a genuine and scenic escape.

Key Points

• Stunning views of volcanic peaks and turquoise lagoons that capture the imagination.
• Authentic experience with local guides providing insights into the landscape and culture.
• Includes transport, breakfast, and lunch—great value for a full-day outdoor adventure.
• Hot springs at Pacchanta offer a relaxing break after hiking.
• Family-friendly? It’s suited for active travelers, but the altitude and length require some stamina.
• Limited extras: You might want to bring hiking poles and cash for optional entries.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Ausangate 7 Lagoons Tour: What You Can Expect

Starting Out: From Cusco to Tinki and Pacchanta

Your adventure begins early with a hotel pickup in Cusco, setting the tone for a full day of exploration. The private minibus whisks you out of the city and into the highlands, a scenic 2-hour drive that offers glimpses of rural life and distant mountain ranges. You’ll stop in Tinki, where the journey really kicks off, and then continue to Pacchanta, a small village famous for its thermal hot springs and friendly atmosphere.

Here, a hearty breakfast awaits. Expect typical Peruvian fare—bread, eggs, perhaps some fresh fruit—fuel for the day ahead. We appreciate this thoughtful start, as it helps build energy for what’s to come. The guides, usually friendly and knowledgeable, will brief you on the day’s itinerary and safety tips, emphasizing the importance of acclimatization for high-altitude trekking.

The Hike Begins: Through the Vilcanota Mountain Range

After breakfast, the real fun begins. You’ll set off on foot, walking through the Vilcanota mountain range—a landscape of jagged peaks and rolling hills. The first major highlight is the chance to see the peaks of Mariposa, Jampa, Pucapunta, Tike, and Ausangate. Ausangate itself is a colossal presence at nearly 21,000 feet, and it’s the sixth-largest mountain in Peru, making it an awe-inspiring backdrop.

The trail is designed to be manageable for most, but the altitude—over 15,000 feet at some points—means you might find breathing a little heavier. That’s normal, and guides are prepared to assist with oxygen tanks and first aid if needed. We loved the way the guides provided constant encouragement, making sure everyone felt safe and comfortable.

Wildlife and Flora: Llamas, Alpacas, and Viscachas

As you hike, keep your eyes peeled for llamas and alpacas, which are pretty much part of the landscape in these parts. Viscachas—a sort of chinchilla-like rodent—also make an appearance. If luck is on your side, you might spot the Andean condor, soaring effortlessly above the peaks. We found these moments to be some of the most memorable, as they connect you deeply with the local environment and its inhabitants.

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The Seven Lagoons: Colorful Oases in the Mountains

The main attraction? The seven turquoise lagoons, each offering a different shade of blue, green, or gray. These include Azul Cocha, Pucacocha, and Sibinacocha—each one a postcard-perfect mirror of the sky and mountains. The lakes sit at different elevations, and each is worth stopping at for photos and some quiet reflection.

A couple of the stops are particularly special: one is at a small lake in a unique location with dazzling water colors, and another offers a panoramic view of the surrounding peaks. The guides usually give some insights into the lakes’ formation and the local myths tied to them.

Rest, Relax, and Rejuvenate in Hot Springs

After several hours of hiking and sightseeing, you’ll descend to Pacchanta for a well-earned hour of relaxation. The hot springs here are a delightful reward—warm, mineral-rich waters that soothe tired muscles. Many reviews mention how refreshing it is after a long climb, and it’s a favorite part of the day for many travelers. It’s a simple, authentic experience that enhances the overall value of the tour.

Returning to Cusco: Filling Up with Local Flavors

Post-soak, a hearty lunch of traditional dishes awaits, often including local specialties like cuy (guinea pig) or pollo a la brasa, along with fresh vegetables and rice. The meal is a chance to swap stories with fellow travelers and reflect on the day’s highlights.

The return trip takes you back through scenic highland villages, arriving in Cusco in the late afternoon or early evening. You’ll be dropped near the main square, tired but full of stories and photos.

Practical Tips and Considerations

This tour offers great value, with transport, breakfast, lunch, and guided expertise included. The price of $40 is quite reasonable given what you see and do. However, the full-day nature and the altitude mean you should be prepared for a physically demanding experience. Bring layers—weather can change quickly in the mountains—and don’t forget cash for optional entries and souvenirs.

Hiking poles aren’t included, so if you need extra support, consider bringing your own. The entry fee for the hot springs is S/ 5 (about US$1.30), and the Tinki entrance costs S/ 20 (roughly US$5.30), so budget accordingly.

The tour’s length and early start might not suit everyone, especially those who prefer shorter, less strenuous outings. But for active travelers craving a true high-altitude adventure filled with stunning scenery, this trip hits the mark.

The Sum Up: Who Will Love This Tour?

This full-day excursion is ideal for those who love mountain landscapes and aren’t afraid of a good challenge. It’s a fantastic way to see a different side of Peru—one filled with vibrant lakes, towering peaks, and a sense of connection with nature. The inclusion of hot springs and local food makes it a well-rounded experience that provides true value for the price.

If you’re after a deep connection with the Andes and enjoy physical activity, you’ll find this trip rewarding. Those with limited mobility or very young children might want to consider something less demanding, but for everyone else, it’s a genuine, scenic adventure that captures the essence of high Peruvian Andes.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 15 hours, starting early in the morning and returning to Cusco in the evening.

What’s included in the price?
Transport by minibus, hotel pickup and drop-off, an English-speaking guide, breakfast, lunch, oxygen tank, and a first aid kit.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, you should budget for optional entries like the Pacchanta Hot Springs (S/ 5) and Tinki entrance fee (S/ 20).

Is it suitable for children or elderly?
It’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with high-altitude hiking. The long day and altitude can be challenging for some.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, cash for optional entries, layers for changing weather, and hiking poles if needed.

Can I see the condors?
There’s a good chance, but wildlife sightings depend on luck. The guides do their best to point out these majestic birds.

What about the weather?
Expect variable mountain weather—sun, wind, or rain. Dress in layers and be prepared for changing conditions.

Do I need to be an experienced hiker?
Not necessarily, but you should be comfortable walking at high altitude and prepared for a strenuous day.

How do I book?
You can reserve through the provided link, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This trip balances the thrill of high-altitude hiking with the comfort of guided support and included amenities. For anyone wanting to see the Andes’ most colorful lakes and peaks without tackling a multi-day trek, it offers a memorable, authentic experience—worth every step.

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