Activity from Cusco to 7 Lagoons of Ausangate

Experience the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate from Cusco: An Authentic Mountain Trek

If you’re craving a full-day adventure away from the busy streets of Cusco, the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate tour offers a chance to explore some of Peru’s most spectacular natural scenery. For just $49 per person, this approximately 15-hour trip takes you through the Vilcanota Mountain Range, visiting seven vibrant lagoons with incredible colors—blue, emerald, turquoise, and even reddish hues—set against a backdrop of imposing peaks. Your journey begins with an early pickup, often between 3:30 and 4:10 am, and ends back in Cusco near the Plaza de Armas, around 7 pm.

Two things we love about this experience are the diverse landscape and the attentive guides who seem genuinely interested in sharing their knowledge and making sure you get the most out of the day. The mountain scenery is truly unforgettable, especially as you get close to the lagoons and see those stunning colors firsthand. Also, the inclusion of hot springs at the end adds a relaxing touch to the day, perfect after the demanding hike. The only thing to consider is the moderate physical fitness requirement—this isn’t a stroll in the park, but if you’re prepared, it’s very rewarding.

This tour is ideal for those who enjoy mountain trekking, spectacular landscapes, and authentic local experiences. If you’re comfortable with walking around 13 km over uneven terrain and rising to high altitudes, you’ll find it well worth the effort. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate guided tours where safety and information are priorities, and who want a comprehensive experience in a single day.

Key Points

• Beautiful Lagoons: Seven lagoons with vivid and contrasting colors, each offering a unique view.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides, like Celinda and Lisbeth, enhance the experience with attentive service and local insights.
• Moderate Trekking: About 13 km of walking at high altitude, with a mix of uphill, plains, and highlands.
• Inclusion of Food and Relaxation: Breakfast in Pacchanta, a hearty buffet lunch, and the opportunity to soak in hot springs.
• Transport and Safety: Air-conditioned vehicle, trekking poles, first aid, and oxygen ensure a comfortable and safe journey.
• Early Start and Long Day: Be prepared for an early pickup and a long, rewarding day out in the mountains.

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Your day begins quite early—early enough that the cool mountain air might catch you off guard. The pickup between 3:30 and 4:10 am ensures you beat the crowds and arrive at Pacchanta after about 3 hours of travel. The early morning chill (around 5° to 9°C) is something to pack for; layers are your friend in this kind of adventure.

Once at Pacchanta, you’ll enjoy a traditional American breakfast—a good way to fuel up before the trek. After breakfast, the real adventure begins: a roughly 5-hour walk covering about 13 km. Expect a combination of uphill sections, flat plains, and high-altitude passes. The first stop is Azulcocha, a lagoon right at the foot of Humashraju, famous for its deep blue waters. From there, you’ll visit Huchuypukacocha, Hatunpukacocha, Tecyacocha, Otorongo Varon, Otorongo Mujer, and Qeyllacocha, each with their own mesmerizing palettes and unique settings.

Travelers report that the uphill sections are demanding but manageable, especially with the provided trekking poles and the guidance of seasoned guides like Celinda. One reviewer noted, “Celinda’s expertise made this trip truly unforgettable,” emphasizing how a good guide can make the challenging parts easier and more enjoyable.

The Scenic Highlights

The colors of the lagoons are the true stars of this tour. Expect to be captivated by the striking contrast between the blue lagoons at Azulcocha and the reddish hues of some of the others, which are often caused by mineral content. The high-altitude landscape offers sweeping panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, rugged terrain, and expansive skies that seem to stretch forever.

A particularly treasured part of the trip is the hot springs in Pacchanta. After the long hike, soaking in these natural thermal waters provides a perfect way to relax tired muscles. Many reviews noted their satisfaction after enjoying the hot springs, describing it as a “reward” for the effort.

Transport, Guides, and Safety

The air-conditioned vehicle ensures comfort during the roughly three-hour drive from Cusco. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, which allows for a more personalized experience. The guides are bilingual, offering explanations about the landscape, local flora, and cultural insights—adding depth to the visual feast.

Safety is clearly a priority, with first aid kits, oxygen, and trekking poles included in the price. The guides are attentive, ensuring that everyone stays together and manages the ascent at a comfortable pace.

The Cost and What You Get

For $49, this tour offers incredible value, especially given the inclusion of breakfast, buffet lunch, transportation, trekking poles, and guiding services. The price reflects the comprehensive nature of the experience, and many reviewers have expressed satisfaction with the quality of the service. One reviewer mentioned, “Good transportation, beautiful views, attentive guide”—a good indication that your money is well spent.

Potential Drawbacks

The main challenge is the early start and long hours. If you’re not a morning person or have mobility issues, this might be a tough day. Plus, the moderate physical fitness requirement means you should be comfortable walking 13 km at high altitude. Weather can also be unpredictable, so be prepared for possible cold and wind. Cancellations due to poor weather are rare but possible, and the policy offers free rescheduling or full refunds.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adventure-seeking travelers who want to see the iconic colors of the Lagoons of Ausangate without trekking all week. If you enjoy guided hikes with knowledgeable leaders, stunning natural beauty, and a touch of local culture, this tour checks all those boxes. It’s also suitable for those eager to experience the mountain hot springs and learn more about the high-altitude environment from a trusted guide.

Final Thoughts

The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate tour offers an authentic, visually spectacular day in Peru’s mountains, combining breathtaking scenery, cultural insights, and physical activity. While it demands a good level of fitness and early rising, the reward—a day surrounded by some of the most vibrant lakes and majestic peaks—is absolutely worth it. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or an enthusiastic nature lover, this trip provides a balanced mix of adventure and comfort, led by guides who genuinely care about your experience.

If you’re after one of the most visually striking landscapes in the Cusco region and want a guided experience that emphasizes safety and local knowledge, this tour is a wise choice. Expect an unforgettable day that will leave you with incredible memories of Peru’s stunning high-altitude lakes and mountains.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
Pickups generally occur between 3:30 and 4:10 am, so be prepared for an early start.

What should I wear for this trip?
Layered clothing is best to adapt to the cool early morning temperatures and warmer midday weather. Pack a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?
It requires moderate physical fitness. The walk is about 13 km, with uphill sections, at high altitude, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with sustained walking and some elevation gain.

What’s included in the price?
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, breakfast, buffet lunch, guide, trekking poles, first aid kit, and oxygen.

Can I visit the lagoons and hot springs separately?
Access to the hot springs is included at Pacchanta after the hike, but entry to the lagoons themselves is part of the guided tour.

What about the weather?
Weather can be cold and unpredictable at high elevations, especially early in the morning. The tour can be canceled due to poor weather, with options for rescheduling or a refund.

How long is the walk?
Approximately 13 km round trip, taking about 5 hours of walking.

What is the group size?
Groups are limited to a maximum of 20 travelers for a more personalized experience.

Does the tour provide any safety equipment?
Yes, trekking poles, a first aid kit, and oxygen are included for safety and comfort.

What’s the best way to prepare for this trip?
Ensure you are physically comfortable with walking distances and altitude, and pack appropriate clothing for varying temperatures.

To sum it up, this tour offers a meticulously balanced day of spectacular scenery, cultural richness, and physical challenge. If you’re ready to embrace the mountain adventure and want a guide-led experience that emphasizes safety and storytelling, the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate tour is hard to beat. It’s an excellent choice for those who want to see some of Peru’s most colorful lakes while enjoying the camaraderie of a small group and the expertise of local guides.