Cusco: Ausangate Tour Seven Lagoons + meals

Cusco: Ausangate Tour Seven Lagoons + Meals — An In-Depth Review

If you’re looking for a day that combines breathtaking scenery, local culture, and some well-earned relaxation, the Ausangate Seven Lagoons Tour might just be what you need. For around $35 per person, this 14.5-hour adventure takes you from Cusco into the high Andes, where you’ll visit seven stunning turquoise lagoons and soak in Paqchanta’s thermal baths, all topped off with a hearty breakfast and lunch.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances spectacular nature with authentic Peruvian cuisine. The highlights—such as marveling at the snow-capped Ausangate and snapping incredible photos—make it a memorable experience. Plus, the opportunity to relax in natural hot springs after a long walk offers some well-deserved comfort.

That said, the journey isn’t perfect. The long bus ride (around three hours each way) can be tiring, especially if the bus gets crowded. Also, the walk itself, while rewarding in views, is about five hours round trip, so it’s best suited for travelers in good physical shape. If you’re ready for a physically active adventure that offers truly unique photo opportunities and a taste of local life, this could be a great fit.

This tour is best suited for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and those willing to handle a bit of altitude and a full day on their feet. It’s not ideal for travelers with mobility issues or those who prefer a less strenuous experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Scenery: The turquoise lagoons and snow-capped mountains are unforgettable.
• Cultural & Natural Insights: The tour offers a chance to see local wildlife, birds, llamas, and alpacas.
• All-Inclusive Meal & Relaxation: Enjoy a local breakfast, hearty lunch, and relaxing thermal baths.
• Long but Worthwhile Day: The journey takes around 14.5 hours, including transport, walks, and meals.
• Physical Demands: The walk is about 5 hours round trip, so good fitness helps.
• Mixed Reviews: Some travelers found the bus crowded and the guide less informative, but others loved the views.

A Closer Look at the Ausangate Seven Lagoons Tour

Getting There and Setting Off

Starting early in the morning (pickups from 4:30 to 5:00 a.m.), you’ll head out from Cusco by tourist transport, embarking on a roughly three-hour drive. The vehicle’s comfort can vary, and some reviews mention overcrowding—so keep that in mind if space is important to you. The bus ride offers a chance to get a glimpse of the Peruvian countryside, but it’s a long haul before you even start walking.

Once you arrive in Pacchanta, the trip officially begins with a local breakfast. This is a nice touch—fueling up with traditional food before heading into the highlands. The walk itself is gradual, winding upward to the first lagoon, then continuing past the others, each distinguished by their vivid blue, turquoise, and green shades.

The Lagoons: Natural Miracles

You will visit seven lagoons: Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Q’omercocha, Orqo Otorongo, and China Otorongo. Each offers unique visual splendor—some resemble giant natural mirrors reflecting the sky, while others are smaller but equally vibrant.

The lagoons are set in a landscape dotted with Andean birds, alpacas, and llamas, which adds to the sense of being in a living, breathing corner of nature. We loved the way the different colors and sizes of the lagoons created a constantly changing panorama perfect for photos or simply soaking in the scenery.

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The Walk and Altitude

The five-hour round-trip walk is the core activity, rising gradually through high-altitude terrain. The tour notes that decent physical condition is necessary, as the altitude (up to around 4,800 meters or 15,700 feet) can be challenging. Some travelers might experience shortness of breath or fatigue, so bringing your outdoor clothing, gloves, and snacks is essential.

Rest and Relaxation

After the walk, you’ll return to Pacchanta for a delicious lunch—a hearty, local-style meal that recharges you after a long walk. Then comes the best part: relaxing in the thermal baths, which are said to have thermo-medicinal properties. These natural hot springs are a popular feature, but some reviews note that entry to the thermal waters costs a small fee (about 10 soles).

Returning to Cusco

You’ll head back in the late afternoon, arriving in Cusco around 7:30 p.m. This makes for a very long day, but the stunning views and relaxing baths can make it worthwhile.

Practical Tips for Making the Most of Your Tour

• Arrive prepared: Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and layer your clothing—weather can change rapidly.
• Bring cash: For optional expenses like the thermal baths or souvenirs.
• Altitude awareness: If you’re prone to altitude sickness, consider acclimatizing in Cusco before the trip.
• Physical readiness: The walk’s length and altitude make this tour best suited for those in good shape.
• Group size: Expect a large group; some reviews mention overcrowded buses, so patience is key.
• Photography: Bring your camera! The lagoons and mountain scenery are truly special.

Authentic Experiences and Considerations

While the natural beauty is undeniable, some travelers have found the guide’s commentary lacking—”the guide didn’t take care of anything,” as one reviewer put it. This points to the importance of managing expectations: some tours lean more on self-guided exploration, and others focus on storytelling.

The value of this experience comes from the spectacular scenery and the chance to see high-altitude lagoons in vivid color. For a modest price, you’re getting a full-day adventure that combines nature, culture, and relaxation, making it a good deal for those eager to see iconic landscapes without a multi-day trek.

However, if you’re looking for a more informative guide or less crowded transport, you might want to explore other options or prepare accordingly. The long bus ride and the potential for overcrowding can detract from the experience for some.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is best for adventure lovers who don’t mind a long day, are in good physical shape, and seek incredible photos and scenery. It’s also suitable for those wanting a taste of the highlands with minimal effort—since the walk is moderate but at high altitude. It’s not recommended for pregnant women, those with mobility issues, or travelers sensitive to altitude or fatigue.

The Sum Up

The Cusco Ausangate Seven Lagoons Tour offers a remarkable window into some of the most vibrant and pristine landscapes in Peru. The combination of stunning lagoons, local cuisine, and hot springs creates a well-rounded day that’s packed with natural beauty and authentic experiences. While the long bus ride and crowded conditions might not suit everyone, the scenery alone makes it a worthwhile adventure for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.

If your goal is to see eye-popping landscapes and enjoy a day outdoors, this tour delivers. It’s particularly suited for travelers who love a physical challenge and want to capture unforgettable moments in the Andes. Just pack your patience, dress appropriately, and prepare to be amazed.

FAQ

How early do I need to be ready for pickup?
The tour pickup begins between 4:30 and 5:00 a.m., so be prepared for an early start. The guide will call you 10 minutes before pickup in your hotel lobby.

What should I bring with me?
Comfortable shoes, sun protection, a sun hat, sunglasses, swimwear, towel, camera, snacks, a jacket, gloves, cash, and outdoor clothing are recommended to stay comfortable and prepared.

Is this tour suitable if I have altitude sickness?
This tour takes place at high elevations, reaching around 4,800 meters. If you’re prone to altitude sickness, ensure you’ve acclimatized in Cusco beforehand or consider alternative options.

How long does the entire tour last?
The full experience lasts about 14.5 hours, including transport, walks, meals, and relaxation time in the thermal baths.

Are meals included?
Yes, a traditional breakfast in Pacchanta and a hearty lunch are included. You’ll also have the option to relax in thermal baths afterward.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexible planning.

Embark on this adventure if stunning landscapes and a taste of local highland life appeal to you—just remember to come prepared for a full day of exploration and elevation.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby