Discover Ausangate’s 7 Lagoons in a Day: A Practical and Authentic Adventure from Cusco

This full-day tour takes you from Cusco to the breathtaking highlands around Ausangate mountain, home to seven vividly colored lagoons. For $40 per person, you’ll enjoy roughly 14 hours of sightseeing, walking, and relaxing — all with a guided experience that caters to your curiosity and interest in authentic Andean landscapes. Expect an early start, with pickup between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., and a day packed with stunning vistas, local wildlife, and delicious food.

What we love most about this tour is the combination of spectacular scenery and the chance to see Andean wildlife, along with the comfort of meal stops and hot springs. The guides’ knowledge and friendly attitude stand out, making the long day feel more manageable. The second highlight is the variety of lagoons, each with its own unique hue — from turquoise to deep blue — and the chance to walk among llamas and alpacas that roam freely along the route.

A potential downside involves the altitude. Starting at 4,200 meters and reaching 4,600 meters during the hike, the terrain can be challenging, especially for less acclimatized travelers. The walk lasts about 5 hours round-trip, so good shoes and a decent level of fitness help. This experience is best suited for those who enjoy nature, light hiking, and stunning natural beauty, rather than travelers seeking a leisurely day or those with mobility issues.

Key Points

Impressive landscapes: Seven colorful lagoons set against towering mountains.
Expert guides: Bilingual guides who enhance the experience with local insights.
Well-rounded day: Includes meals, hot springs, and scenic stops.
Challenging hike: The walk is about 5 hours, ascending to high altitudes.
Early departure: Starts before dawn, so rest well the night before.
Value for the price: At $40, it offers a full day of memorable sights and experiences.

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In-Depth Review of the Ausangate 7 Lagoons Tour

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The Starting Point and Early Morning Pickup

The tour begins with a pickup between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m. from your Cusco hotel or Airbnb — an early start, but necessary to make the most of the daylight. The transport is comfortable, with a scenic 3-hour drive to the small town of Pacchanta. Traveling at this hour means you might catch a few of Cusco’s quiet streets and see the sunrise over the mountains, setting the tone for a day of adventure.

The Scenic Road to Pacchanta

As we leave the city behind, the landscape changes dramatically. Expect to see rolling hills, rugged terrain, and glimpses of local farms. The ride itself is part of the experience, giving you a preview of the high-altitude scenery you’ll encounter on foot later. Keep in mind, the early start means you’ll want a good breakfast, which is included after arriving in Pacchanta.

Breakfast and the Start of the Walk

In Pacchanta, we enjoyed a hearty breakfast, essential fueling before the hike. The walking begins here, gradually ascending toward the first lagoon, Azulcocha. The trail is well-trodden and offers a chance to acclimate to the altitude, but the thin air at 4,200 meters can still make each step feel more challenging.

The walk covers about 12 km in total, taking approximately 5 hours round-trip. Along the way, you’ll encounter seven lagoons—each with its distinct colors and size. The lagoons are famous for their brilliant hues: bright blue, turquoise, and vivid green, often reflecting the surrounding mountains like a giant mirror. Several reviews mention the stunning scenery, with Maud describing it as a “very beautiful area,” although noting the walk as difficult at 4000 meters.

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Visiting the Lagoons

The highlight of this tour is undoubtedly the seven lagoons: Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Q’omercocha, Orqo Otorongo, and China Otorongo. Each offers a different visual treat, and the guides provide insights into the geology and local significance of these sites.

Azulcocha kicks off the visit with its striking blue waters.
The large lagoons like Pucacocha are so expansive they resemble natural mirrors, perfect for photos.
The visit to Otorongo and China Otorongo offers a chance to see the local wildlife, including various Andean birds, llamas, alpacas, and the elusive vizcachas.

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Wildlife and Landscape

The landscape is rugged and dramatic, with high mountain peaks and sweeping vistas. The guides often point out Andean wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might spot some llamas or alpacas grazing peacefully. Reviews appreciate the friendly guides who make the journey more engaging and educational.

Return to Pacchanta and Recovery

After about 5 hours of walking, we returned to Pacchanta, where a well-earned lunch awaited. The meals are generally hearty and include options that suit different preferences. Post-lunch, you’ll have a chance to unwind in the hot springs — a perfect way to soothe tired muscles after the trek.

Hot Springs and Relaxation

The hot springs are a popular part of the tour, costing a small fee (about S/ 5). Travelers find them relaxing and a delightful way to recuperate after the long walk. The warm water and mountain scenery combine for a memorable experience, with some reviews noting the springs as “relaxing” and “refreshing.”

The Return Journey

The trip back to Cusco takes about 3 hours by bus, allowing you to reflect on the day’s highlights. You’ll arrive back in the city around 7:30 p.m., tired but full of stories and photos.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Altitude: Starting at 4,200 m and reaching 4,600 m can be tough. Make sure you’re well-acclimated, stay hydrated, and wear layers.
Walking difficulty: The 5-hour walk is moderate but demanding due to altitude and length. Good hiking shoes and a sense of adventure are essential.
Weather: Be prepared for variable weather. Pack rain gear, sun protection, and extra clothes, especially since mornings can be chilly.
Meals and extras: Meals are included, but optional extras like souvenirs or additional hot springs visits are on your own.
Cost considerations: The entrance fee to the lagoons (S/ 20) and hot springs (S/ 5) are not included, so bring cash.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This adventure suits travelers who love outdoor activities, scenic drives, and natural beauty. It’s ideal for those prepared for physical activity at high altitude and who want to experience authentic Andean landscapes without the crowds. If you value knowledgeable guides, delicious local food, and relaxing hot springs, this tour delivers a well-rounded day of discovery.

However, it’s less suitable for pregnant women, people with heart problems, or mobility issues, given the altitude and active nature. The early start and long day require good planning and motivation, but the payoff—a day among vibrant lagoons and mountain peaks—is worth it.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable if I don’t have much hiking experience?
While the walk is about 5 hours, it’s mostly at a moderate pace, but at high altitude. Good footwear and moderate fitness help. If you’re concerned about the hike, consult your doctor first.

What should I bring for this trip?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sun protection, rain gear, water, a hat, camera, and extra layers. A daypack for your essentials is handy.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast in Pacchanta before the walk and a full lunch after the hike are included. You’ll also have the option to relax in the hot springs afterward.

How long does the entire tour last?
Expect about 14 hours, including pickup, transport, walking, meals, and return. The tour starts early and ends around 7:30 p.m.

What is the cost for entrance fees?
The entrance to the lagoons costs S/ 20, and hot springs S/ 5, paid on-site if you choose to visit.

Can I adapt this tour if I have limited mobility?
Given the walking distances and high-altitude conditions, this tour isn’t recommended for those with mobility issues or health concerns related to altitude.

To sum it up, the Ausangate 7 Lagoons Tour offers a memorable day for those eager to see some of Peru’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. It’s a fair price for a full day of scenic beauty, wildlife, and local culture, especially with experienced guides who make the journey more engaging. Perfect for adventure-minded travelers who enjoy walking, stunning vistas, and relaxing in mountain hot springs, this tour provides a genuine taste of the high Andes — with some effort required.