From Cusco: Full Day Tour to the 7 Ausangate Lagoons

Imagine a day spent wandering through a landscape painted with the brightest blues, greens, and purples, all against the backdrop of towering peaks like Ausangate. For just $40 per person, this full-day tour takes you from Cusco to the beautiful high-altitude lagoons of Ausangate, a journey filled with breathtaking scenery, local wildlife, and authentic Peruvian flavors. Your adventure begins early, with a pickup in Cusco around 5 a.m., ensuring you’re on the road before the crowds and the heat set in.

What we love about this tour is how it combines natural beauty with local culture. First, there’s the chance to walk amid seven stunning lagoons—each with its own character and color, from the vivid blues of Azulqocha to the tranquil greens of Patacocha. Second, the opportunity to relax in Pacchanta’s natural hot springs offers a perfect way to unwind after a day of hiking. To top it off, the guide, who shares insights in both Spanish and English, makes sure you understand the significance of each spot and keeps the atmosphere friendly and informative.

A key consideration is the length and pace of the trip. It’s a long day—about 14 hours from pickup to return—so it’s best suited for active travelers comfortable with early mornings and some moderate walking. Also, since the lagoons are at high altitude, travelers should be mindful of possible altitude sickness and hydrate well. This tour is most ideal for those craving authentic highland scenery, wildlife encounters, and a taste of local community life, away from the more touristy spots.

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Key Points

Stunning landscapes: Seven uniquely colored lagoons and views of towering mountains like Ausangate.
Cultural experience: Enjoy traditional breakfast and a local lunch with regional flavors.
Wildlife sightings: Keep an eye out for alpacas, llamas, vibrant birds, and possibly the majestic Andean condor.
Natural relaxation: End the day soaking in Pacchanta’s medicinal hot springs.
Value for money: At only $40, this includes transport, breakfast, lunch, and a knowledgeable guide.
Limited group size: Small groups of 10 or fewer make for a personalized experience.

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The Journey Explained: What to Expect on This Tour

Early Departure and Scenic Drive

Your day begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco at approximately 5 a.m., giving you a head start on the day. This early start might seem daunting, but it’s worth it for the quiet roads and the chance to watch the sunrise over the Andes. The roughly six-hour drive to Pacchanta takes you through some of the most scenic highland landscapes, with plenty of opportunities to snap photos of the rugged terrain, traditional villages, and grazing llamas.

The journey itself is comfortable, thanks to the modern bus and the professionalism of the guide, who shares interesting insights in both English and Spanish. We loved the way the landscape gradually changes from the bustling streets of Cusco to the serene, open vistas of the high Andes.

Breakfast in Pacchanta

Once in Pacchanta, a small mountain community, we stop for a traditional regional breakfast. The food is hearty and nourishing—think local breads, maybe some bread with cheese, and perhaps a warm drink to combat the altitude. This moment of local hospitality helps set the tone for the day, grounding us in the culture amid the stunning scenery.

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Hiking the Lagoons

After breakfast, the real adventure begins—a 7.5 km walk around the 7 lagoons, which takes approximately five hours. The hike isn’t overly strenuous, but because of the altitude (around 4,350 meters or 14,271 feet), it’s important to pace yourself and stay hydrated.

Each lagoon has distinct colors and characteristics. For instance, Azulqocha is famous for its striking blue hues, while China Otorongo offers a more subdued, reflective surface. The guide explains the significance of each lagoon and points out wildlife, from alpacas and llamas grazing nearby to native birds and, with luck, a soaring Andean condor.

We loved the way the landscapes shifted as we moved from lagoon to lagoon, revealing different mountain vistas like Ausangate, Mariposa, Pucapunta, and Caracol. The views are jaw-dropping, especially when the peaks are dusted with snow. The blend of vibrant water, rugged terrain, and soaring peaks makes this hike an authentic highland experience.

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Wildlife and Photo Opportunities

Photographers will rejoice at the abundance of photo-worthy moments—brightly colored lagoons, flocks of llamas, and the chance to spot rare birds. We were pleased to see the guide pointing out local fauna, which adds an educational touch to the adventure.

Return and Hot Springs

After completing the circuit around the lagoons, you’ll return to Pacchanta, where a delicious regional lunch awaits. Expect traditional dishes that highlight local ingredients, providing a satisfying end to the hiking portion of the day.

Post-lunch, the tour offers a chance to relax in Pacchanta’s natural hot springs. The warm waters, rich in minerals, are said to have healing properties—an excellent way to soothe tired muscles and enjoy the stunning mountain backdrop.

Returning to Cusco

The day wraps up with a comfortable bus ride back to Cusco, arriving around 7 p.m. The long day means plenty of time to reflect or share photos with new friends, but it’s important to be prepared for a full schedule and potential fatigue.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your $40 includes most essentials: hotel pickup, transportation to and from Pacchanta, a breakfast and lunch, a professional guide fluent in English and Spanish, and safety equipment like first aid and oxygen tanks. We appreciated the transparency here because it reassures travelers about safety and comfort.

However, you’ll need to budget extra for entrance fees (S/20 for the lagoons and S/5 for the hot springs), and if you wish to ride a saddle horse, that’s an additional expense. Alcoholic drinks, water, and accommodations are not included—so bring your own water and snacks, especially if you’re sensitive to altitude.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Given its affordability and the richness of the experience, this tour offers excellent value. For just $40, you get a comprehensive day of stunning scenery, cultural flavor, and physical activity, all led by a knowledgeable guide. The inclusion of hot springs and regional cuisine makes it feel like a full immersion in highland life.

The small group size (limited to 10 participants) ensures a more personalized experience, where your guide can answer questions and tailor the trip slightly to your interests. The early start and full day might be demanding for some, but most find it worthwhile, especially with the memorable views and authentic interactions.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for active travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures and want to see something truly special outside of Cusco’s more popular sites. If you’re comfortable with walking and high altitudes, you’ll find this an enriching experience. It’s also ideal for those interested in native wildlife and local culture, as the tour offers plenty of opportunities for authentic encounters.

If you’re short on time but want an immersive highland experience, this is a strong choice. The price point makes it accessible for many, and the inclusion of food, transport, and guides means you won’t have to worry about logistics.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Tour to the 7 Ausangate Lagoons delivers a captivating blend of nature, culture, and adventure. You’ll leave with incredible photos, a sense of accomplishment, and a deeper appreciation for the rugged beauty of Peru’s high Andes. It’s a solid choice for those who want to escape the crowds and experience a landscape painted in the brightest colors.

While the long day requires some stamina and altitude awareness, the stunning vistas, delicious regional food, and relaxing hot springs make it well worth the effort. For travelers seeking an authentic, affordable, and visually stunning day outside Cusco, this tour hits the mark.

FAQ

How early does the tour start?
The tour begins with hotel pickup at around 5 a.m., so be prepared for an early start to maximize your day and beat the crowds.

How long is the drive from Cusco to Pacchanta?
The drive takes approximately six hours, offering scenic views of highland landscapes along the way.

What is the duration of the hike around the lagoons?
The walk covers about 7.5 km and takes roughly five hours, with plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the scenery.

Are the lagoons accessible for people with limited mobility?
Since the tour involves a significant walk at high altitude, it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues. However, you can opt for a saddle horse (additional cost) if needed.

What should I bring for the trip?
Bring warm layers, water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. It’s also wise to have some cash for entrance fees and optional extras.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While technically suitable for active children comfortable with walking and altitude, parents should consider the long day and physical demands before booking.

In all, the Ausangate Lagoons Tour offers a genuinely memorable day in one of Peru’s most vibrant natural settings—perfect for travelers eager to see the Andes in all their colorful glory.