Excursion to Ausangate 7 lakes from Cusco.

Exploring Ausangate’s 7 Lakes from Cusco: An Authentic High-Altitude Adventure

If you’re looking for a full-day escape from the hustle of Cusco that combines spectacular scenery, local wildlife, and a taste of Andean life, the Ausangate 7 Lagoons tour is a fantastic choice. For just $28.50 per person, you’ll spend approximately 15 hours marveling at colorful lagoons, hiking through high-altitude landscapes, and soaking in natural hot springs.

The tour includes a professional guide, delicious meals, and comfortable transportation, making it a reasonably priced way to experience some of Peru’s most Instagram-worthy spots.

What really draws us in are two things: First, the “visit to lagoons of different colors”—each one more mesmerizing than the last, with shades of blue, turquoise, and green that seem almost surreal. Second, the hot springs at the end of the day offer a relaxing finish after several hours of hiking at elevation.

The only potential downside: because the tour’s logistics can be a bit tricky, it’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with early mornings and some moderate physical activity. If you're keen on guided hikes with decent organization and value, this trip is likely to suit you well.

Who would appreciate this experience most? Nature lovers, trekkers, and those eager to see the less-touristy side of the Andes will find this appealing. If you’re after a mix of adventure, scenery, and cultural insight—all at a reasonable price—this tour should be on your list.

Key Points

• Stunning Lagoons: View multiple lagoons in vibrant shades, some resembling natural mirrors, offering perfect photo opportunities.
• Expert Guide: Led by knowledgeable guides who enhance the experience with helpful insights, despite some group management issues.
• Value for Money: The inclusion of meals, transportation, and entrance fees makes this a cost-effective way to explore the highlands.
• Early Departure: The 4:30 a.m. pickup means an early start but allows plenty of time for exploration.
• Moderate Hiking: Expect 5 hours of walking, with opportunities to take horses if needed, at high elevations.
• Relaxing Hot Springs: End your day with a soak in natural thermal waters, a perfect way to unwind after the hike.

A Deep Dive into the Ausangate 7 Lagoons Experience

When you sign up for this tour, you're signing on for a full immersion into the spectacular landscapes of southeastern Peru. The journey begins in Cusco, where your van picks you up early in the morning—around 4:30 a.m. to 5:00 a.m. — because this is a long day, but one packed with sights and experiences.

The Transportation and Departure

Traveling by air-conditioned vehicle provides a comfortable ride over the roughly three-hour drive to Pacchanta, the starting point of the hike. The early start is a bit brutal—especially for those not accustomed to the high altitude—but it allows enough time to soak in the scenery and beat the crowds. The group size is limited to 15 travelers, which helps keep things manageable and personal, though some reviews note that having only one guide for a mixed-ability group can be challenging.

The Hike and Lagoons: A Palette of Colors

Once in Pacchanta, breakfast fuels your body for the ascent. The hike itself is about 5 hours round trip, with some sections steep but manageable. The real star here is the series of lagoons you will visit, each with its own personality and hue.

• Azulcocha and Pucacocha are among the initial lagoons, famous for their vivid blue and green colors.
• Otorongo and Q'omercocha are large, mirror-like bodies of water reflecting the sky, perfect for photography.
• Alqacocha and China Otorongo add to the rainbow of shades you’ll witness.

Travelers consistently mention the beauty of these lagoons—some describe them as "natural mirrors" or "characterized by their different colors." During the walk, you'll also encounter Andean birds, alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas, which add a touch of wildlife charm.

Food and Rest Breaks

A significant plus is the included breakfast and lunch. We loved the quality of the meals—fresh, hearty, and fuel for the mountain activity. After the trek, a relaxing stop at the hot springs offers a perfect way to soothe tired muscles. The water temperature is about 90°F—enough to relax but not so hot as to be uncomfortable. Some travelers find the springs worth the wait, while others like one reviewer felt it wasn’t quite hot enough to warrant a dip, but in any case, it’s a peaceful end to a busy day.

The Return and Timing

The return journey is equally long, with the group arriving back in Cusco around 7:30 p.m. The long day can be tiring but rewarding—especially given the cost, which covers transportation, meals, and activities. Keep in mind that admission tickets to the lagoons aren't included, so you'll need to budget for that separately.

Real Traveler Feedback: What Works and What Could Improve

The positive aspects are clear. Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides, who help make the experience informative and enjoyable. The delicious food is another highlight, making the long day more pleasant. The spectacular scenery and unique lagoons are what most remember, with some calling the views "more than worth the early start."

However, some travelers note logistical hiccups. One review mentions how poor communication from the tour operator caused significant stress—no pickup instructions, delays, and confusion. The reviewer, Soumya, describes their experience as “a nightmare,” emphasizing the importance of clear communication and reliable logistics.

Another point to consider is group management. With only one guide for a diverse group, some travelers felt rushed or left behind. The suggestion to have two guides to better serve different paces is solid and could improve this experience significantly.

Practical Tips for Future Travelers

• Prepare for early mornings: Set multiple alarms and be ready for an early start.
• Altitude awareness: The hike reaches elevations of around 15,000 feet, so take it slow if you’re sensitive to altitude.
• Bring cash for entrance fees: The tour price doesn’t include the lagoons’ entrance tickets.
• Consider a horseback ride: For some, taking a horse up steep sections (costing around 100 soles) might be worth it if you're looking to conserve energy or avoid steep climbs.
• Pack layers: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so bring warm clothing and sun protection.
• Stay flexible: Expect some logistical hiccups and be patient with the staff.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventure-minded travelers eager to see the colorful lagoons and high-altitude scenery without breaking the bank. It’s perfect if you’re comfortable with moderate hiking and early mornings. It’s also a good choice for those seeking an authentic experience—away from overly touristy spots—with the chance to see wildlife and local culture.

If you prefer a more organized experience or are worried about group pacing issues, you might want to look for options with two guides or more structured logistics. But overall, if you’re seeking value, stunning views, and a taste of the Andean wilderness, this tour offers plenty of memorable moments.

FAQ

Is transportation provided? Yes, you are picked up from your hotel in Cusco in an air-conditioned vehicle, which takes you to Pacchanta where the hike begins.

How long is the hike? The hike lasts about 5 hours round trip, with some sections steep but manageable, especially if you take horses.

Are meals included? Yes, the tour includes breakfast at the start and a hearty lunch after the hike, both of good quality.

What should I bring? Pack warm clothing, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Consider bringing cash for entrance fees and optional horseback riding.

Is this tour suitable for children or elderly? With moderate physical activity and high altitude, it’s better suited for travelers with a good level of fitness who can handle some walking and altitude.

Will I see wildlife? Yes, during the hike, you may see Andean birds, llamas, alpacas, and vizcachas.

What if I want to skip the hot springs? You can choose to relax in the springs or skip them, but keep in mind they are part of the tour’s relaxing end.

In sum, the Ausangate 7 Lagoons tour offers an affordable, scenic outing that showcases some of the most striking natural beauty the Andes have to offer. It’s best suited for those who value authentic landscapes, are comfortable with early starts and moderate hikes, and aren't overly concerned with minor logistical hiccups. If you’re looking for a memorable day of nature, wildlife, and mountain majesty at a budget-friendly price, this trip will deliver many unforgettable moments.