Experience the quiet beauty of Peru’s high Andes with the Cusco: Ausangate Tour, Seven Lakes with Lunch. For about $43, you’ll spend roughly 8 hours exploring the breathtaking landscapes at the foot of Ausangate, a revered mountain sacred to locals, and visiting seven pristine lagoons that are often overlooked by mainstream travelers. Led by friendly guides, this trip offers a perfect blend of nature, gentle hiking, and local culture, making it an excellent choice for those seeking authentic scenic beauty away from the crowds.

Two features that really stand out for us are the intimate encounters with little-known landscapes—these lagoons, each with its own character and vivid color, are as peaceful as they are picturesque—and the chance to soak in thermo-medicinal waters right after a satisfying local lunch. Plus, the fact that transport, guided support, and some essentials are included simplifies logistics and adds value.

A key consideration is the altitude, which reaches over 4,600 meters. Travelers should be prepared to acclimatize properly, especially if you have a tendency toward altitude sickness. The early start—between 4 and 5 a.m.—might be tough for some, but it’s necessary to beat potential clouds and enjoy the full day’s scenery. This tour is ideal for active travelers who appreciate quiet, natural spaces and don’t mind a bit of walking and altitude.

In short, this tour suits adventurous, nature-loving visitors who want to see lesser-known parts of the Cusco region, enjoy a full-day scenic hike, and finish with relaxing thermal baths. It’s a good fit for those who value small-group experiences and cultural authenticity over ultra-comfort, as well as travelers who don’t mind a bit of a physical challenge.

Key Points

Authentic landscapes: Explore seven high-altitude lagoons rarely visited by travelers.
Physical activity: A roughly 2-hour uphill hike plus 2 more hours downhill.
Local culture & comfort: Includes breakfast, lunch, and optional thermal baths.
Altitude awareness: Important to acclimatize before the tour.
Transportation & guides: All logistics handled, with professional bilingual guides.
Value for money: For $43, a full day of scenery, walking sticks, first aid, and oxygen is quite reasonable.

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Exploring Cusco: The Ausangate Seven Lakes Tour in Detail

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An Early Start for a Big Reward

We appreciate how this tour begins early, with pickup between 4 and 5 a.m. from central Cusco hotels. While that’s a very early wake-up call, it’s a small price for the quiet beauty ahead. The roughly 3.5 to 4-hour bus ride to Pacchanta takes you through stunning highland scenery, giving you a taste of the rugged landscape that surrounds Cusco. The journey itself is a slow reveal of the towering peaks and sparse, strikingly beautiful páramo wilderness.

Arriving at Pacchanta: A Mountain Community

Once we arrive in the tiny community of Pacchanta at 4,300 meters, we’re greeted with a simple continental breakfast. This is a good moment to hydrate and prepare for the hike. The village itself is charming, with humble homes and a welcoming local atmosphere, offering a glimpse into life at high altitude.

The Hike and the Seven Lagoons

Without over-exaggerating, this is a demanding part of the day, but the rewards are worth it. The guide leads us on a 2-hour uphill trek, navigating uneven terrain and thin air, so pacing is key. Along the way, you’ll get to visit seven lagoons—each with its own unique hue and character:

Otorongo Macho & Otorongo Hembra (tiger and female tiger lagoons)
Puca Cocha (red lake)
Alqa Cocha (white lake)
Ccomer Cocha
Azul Cocha (blue lagoon)
Pata Cocha

Our guide, Maria, shared that “each lagoon feels like a hidden gem,” and we loved the contrast of vivid blues, greens, and reds against the highland landscape. You’ll have about an hour to take photos, soak in the serenity, and marvel at the mountain backdrop.

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Descending and Lunch

After the lagoons, a 2-hour downhill walk takes us back toward Pacchanta. The descent is easier on the lungs but just as scenic, with views of snow-capped peaks and sprawling pastures. We then gather for lunch around 2 p.m., enjoying local dishes that include hearty Peruvian staples like quinoa, potatoes, and occasionally humble but flavorful local stews.

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Thermal Baths & Relaxation

Post-lunch is the moment many look forward to—the thermal baths. For around 40 minutes, you can soak in warm, thermo-medicinal waters known for their relaxing and healing qualities. Whether you’re tired from the hike or simply want to unwind, the baths are a nice treat, though they cost a small entry fee of 10 soles.

Return to Cusco

The journey back is about 3.5 hours, with a final drop-off near Plaza San Francisco around 7-8 p.m. It’s a long day, but filled with striking vistas, fresh mountain air, and a sense of accomplishment. Our guide Javier kept us engaged with stories about local legends and the significance of Ausangate, which added depth to the experience.

What Makes This Tour Special?

Contact with Nature and Authentic Landscapes

Unlike more popular excursions, this trip takes you to little-known lakes and landscapes that are often missed by travelers. The lagoons’ vivid colors and peaceful setting provide a real sense of untouched wilderness. As one reviewer noted, “It felt like we were explorers rather than travelers,” which is exactly the vibe you want on such a scenic adventure.

A Genuine Cultural Experience

The small community of Pacchanta and the chance to see traditional ways of life at high altitude adds an authentic touch. The optional thermal baths are a local tradition, and the tour’s inclusion of local meals helps support the nearby community.

Physical and Mental Challenge

The hike’s altitude, uneven terrain, and physical effort mean this tour is best for active travelers comfortable with walking. Some reviews highlighted how important it is to acclimate beforehand—taking at least a day in Cusco to prevent altitude sickness. The use of walking sticks, first aid, and oxygen support are thoughtful safety features.

Value and Practicality

At just $43, the tour offers a lot—transport, bilingual guides, meals, a comprehensive itinerary, and quality gear like walking sticks. While optional extras like entry to thermal baths and horses cost extra, most travelers find the overall package reasonable for an immersive day trip.

Potential Drawbacks

The early start and altitude are the main considerations. If you’re not used to high elevations, you might find the altitude and physical effort challenging. Also, since the tour is a long day with limited free time, it’s best suited for those who enjoy structured outdoor activities rather than leisurely sightseeing.

Who Is This Tour For?

This trip fits travelers who love adventure, nature, and authentic experiences. It’s ideal for those prepared for physical activity and altitude, and who appreciate quiet, scenic spots away from crowded tourist sites. If you’re seeking a memorable, off-the-beaten-path day in the Andes with a focus on natural beauty and local culture, this tour hits the mark.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for people with altitude sickness?
Because the tour takes place at elevations over 4,300 meters, it’s essential to acclimatize beforehand. Travelers with altitude sensitivity should take precautions like medication and rest in Cusco before the trip.

How long is the total travel time?
The round-trip transportation from Cusco takes approximately 7 to 8 hours, including stops, with the actual hiking part lasting around 4 hours.

What’s included in the price?
The $43 fee covers transportation, a professional bilingual guide (Spanish or English), breakfast, lunch, walking sticks, a first aid kit, and oxygen if needed.

Are there any optional extras I should know about?
Yes, entry to the thermal baths costs around 10 soles, and horses are available as an optional extra for those who prefer not to walk the uphill sections.

What should I bring?
Be sure to pack change of clothes, rain gear, comfortable outdoor clothing, a swimming cap, and anything else you’d need for high-altitude outdoor activities.

Is the tour suitable for children or elderly travelers?
The physical demands and altitude mean it’s not ideal for very young children or older travelers with mobility issues.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in planning your trip.

To sum it up, the Cusco: Ausangate Tour, Seven Lakes with Lunch offers a chance to step off the beaten path into a highland paradise of lagoons and mountain scenery. It’s a wonderfully authentic experience for active travelers eager to connect with nature and local culture. While the early start and altitude pose challenges, the magnificent vistas and peaceful lakes make it worth the effort for those prepared to embrace the high Andes. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or simply seeking a different perspective on Cusco’s surroundings, this trip promises a memorable, scenic adventure—one that’s worth the small price for such a full and genuine day in Peru’s mountain heart.