If you’re visiting Ayacucho and craving a peaceful day surrounded by lush scenery, then the Tour to Laguna Esmeralda is a wonderful choice. For just $59 per person, this full-day trip offers a chance to see some of the region’s most beautiful natural sights, with plenty of opportunities for walking, boat riding, and soaking in spectacular views. Led by friendly guides, you’ll spend around 11 hours exploring, with a well-paced itinerary that balances adventure and cultural stops.

What we love about this tour is how accessible and well-organized it is. The early start means you’ll beat the crowds to the lagoon, and the small group limit of 10 participants ensures a more personal experience. Plus, the chance to paddleboard in emerald waters adds a fun twist that sets this apart from typical sightseeing trips.

A minor consideration is the long day’s length—it’s not suited for those who prefer shorter excursions or have mobility issues, given that the main trek is about 25 minutes uphill at a high altitude (4300 meters). Still, if you’re comfortable with walking and want to see a spectacular natural wonder, this tour is a fantastic value.

This tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and cultural enthusiasts who want to enjoy a peaceful, scenic day outside of Ayacucho’s city buzz, with just enough activity to keep it lively.

Key Points

Stunning Views: The emerald waters of Laguna Esmeralda are truly breathtaking, a highlight for any visitor.
Balanced Itinerary: Combines trekking, boat rides, cultural stops, and city tours for a well-rounded day.
Small Group: Limited to 10 participants, making it easier to connect with guides and fellow travelers.
Cultural Stops: Includes a visit to the Sanctuary of Uchuraccay and Huanta, adding historical and cultural context.
Value for Money: At $59, includes transportation, guide, safety equipment, and first aid, making it a cost-effective option.
Seasonal Limitations: Best visited from May to December to enjoy the lagoon at its most vibrant.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Tour

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Early Morning Departure and Breakfast in Huanta

The day begins at 6:00 am in Ayacucho’s main square, where you gather at Portal Constitución N° 9, right in front of the Cathedral. From there, you’ll travel by comfortable bus, heading towards Huanta, with a breakfast stop around 7:20 am (though food and drinks are not included). This early start allows for a full day of exploring, and it’s a good way to beat some of the heat and crowds later in the day.

The Scenic Trek to Laguna Esmeralda

Around 11:00 am, you’ll arrive at the last vehicle point, from where a 25-minute trek begins up to the lagoon. This walk takes you through high-altitude terrain (4300 meters above sea level), so you’ll want to pace yourself. The path is manageable for most, but some may find the altitude challenging. We appreciated the guides’ advice about hydration and pacing, which helped make the ascent smoother.

Boat and Paddleboard Experience

Once at Laguna Esmeralda, the real magic kicks in. The turquoise-green waters are so clear you can see the bottom, and the surrounding scenery of mountains and lush vegetation makes for spectacular views. You’ll be offered the chance to rent a boat to glide across the water, taking in the tranquil surroundings from a different perspective. For an added dash of fun, many enjoy trying out the paddleboarding, which offers a peaceful way to get closer to the water and enjoy the scenery up close.

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Cultural and Scenic Stops Post-Lagoon

After the water activities, the tour continues with a visit to the Sanctuary of Uchuraccay, a site with a poignant story—here, the guide will tell you about the tragic event involving eight journalists. This stop adds depth and reflection to your day.

Later, you’ll explore Huanta’s White Christ statue and take a brief city tour to see some local sights. These stops balance the natural beauty with cultural insights, enriching your understanding of the region.

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Return Journey and Final Highlights

By around 4:30 pm, you’ll start heading back to Ayacucho, stopping briefly at the tour’s starting point. The day wraps up with the return to the city by 6:00 pm, just in time for a relaxed evening or dinner.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The tour’s structure is designed to maximize what you see and do without feeling rushed. The early morning pickup is crucial to making the most of your time at Laguna Esmeralda, which is the literal highlight of the journey. The 25-minute trek to the lagoon is scenic but at high elevation—so be prepared for possible shortness of breath or fatigue, especially if you’re not acclimated.

The boat ride is a relaxing way to experience the lagoon’s serene waters, and paddleboarding adds a playful element that many travelers find memorable. The guides are attentive and prioritize safety, providing safety equipment and first aid kits, which reassures even the most cautious travelers.

Visiting the Sanctuary of Uchuraccay provides historical context, reminding us of the region’s complex past. The city tour of Huanta, including the White Christ, offers a taste of local life and architecture, rounding out your day with some cultural flavor.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Many reviewers praise the tour’s stunning views and well-organized schedule. One noted, “The scenery was absolutely incredible—truly one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen.” Others appreciated the small group size, which fostered a more intimate experience—“It felt like exploring with friends rather than a large tour.”

A couple of comments mentioned the altitude challenge, reminding travelers to stay hydrated and take it slow. The timing was generally well-paced, though some suggested that the long day might be tiring for those not used to early mornings or high elevations.

Practical Tips for Your Trip

Bring water—staying hydrated is key, especially at high altitude.
Pack beachwear or quick-drying clothes if you plan to paddleboard or take a boat ride.
Since tickets are not included, budget for entrance fees to the lagoon and other sites.
The best time to visit is from May to December when the lagoon is most vibrant—avoid rainy season if possible.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for moderate trekking.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or visually impaired travelers due to the nature of the terrain.

The Sum Up

This tour offers a compelling mix of natural beauty, cultural depth, and gentle adventure—all for a very reasonable price. The stunning views of Laguna Esmeralda are the main draw, and the chance to paddleboard or take a boat ride makes it a fun experience as well. The inclusion of historical stops adds meaningful context to your day, helping you connect with the region beyond just its scenery.

If you’re looking for a day trip that’s well-organized, budget-friendly, and offers authentic encounters with Peru’s highlands, this tour is a fantastic pick. It’s especially suited for travelers who value scenic landscapes, enjoy light physical activity, and have a flexible schedule that can handle a full 11-hour day.

Just remember, the high altitude and the extended day can be taxing, so come prepared for a full but rewarding adventure.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, round-trip transportation from Ayacucho’s main square is included, making it convenient to focus on the experience rather than logistics.

What is the starting time?
The tour generally starts early, around 6:00 am, but check availability to confirm exact times for your planned date.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included in the price, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to buy something during the stops.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Given the high-altitude trek and the full-day schedule, it might be better suited for older children or teenagers who can handle a long day and some physical exertion.

Do I need to book tickets separately?
Yes, tickets for the lagoon and other sites are not included, so be prepared to purchase them on the day or in advance if possible.

Is the tour guided in English?
The tour is led by a Spanish-speaking guide, so some basic knowledge of Spanish will help you get the most out of the explanations.

Can I do paddleboarding if I don’t have experience?
Yes, paddleboarding is offered as an activity, and guides typically assist beginners—just let them know if it’s your first time.

This detailed review aims to give you all the insights needed to decide whether this tour fits your travel style. With its stunning scenery, cultural stops, and manageable pace, it’s a memorable way to experience some of the best sights near Ayacucho.