Imagine waking before dawn in Cusco, eager to explore one of Peru’s most striking natural sights. For just $35, you can join a day trip that whisks you southeast to the spectacular Ausangate Lagoons. This tour combines a scenic drive, a moderate hike through varied terrain, and a chance to take in some of the most colorful lakes in the region—plus a delicious lunch in the charming town of Pacchanta.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances the thrill of adventure with comfort: round-trip transport, a professional guide, and a breakfast to start your day right. We also love the opportunity to see seven distinct lagoons, each with its own character, from the fiery red lake to the vivid blue waters. The landscape surrounding Ausangate is genuinely breathtaking—snow-capped peaks, rugged mountains, and the purest natural environment you can find close to Cusco.

A possible snag is the early start and a fair bit of walking—about five hours of trekking in total. This might be a challenge if you’re not used to walking or have mobility issues. Still, for anyone passionate about landscapes, photography, or just looking for an authentic outdoor experience, this trip hits the mark.

This tour is ideal for travelers who love nature and don’t mind a bit of exercise. If you’re curious about the high-altitude environment and want to see the real wild side of Peru, this trip offers a well-rounded taste of both natural beauty and local culture.

Key Points

Spectacular Colors: The lakes feature vivid hues ranging from deep reds to bright blues, a photographer’s dream.
Authentic Landscape: You’ll experience a completely natural environment, away from urban noise and crowds.
Moderate Trek: The hike offers great views but requires some stamina; it’s suitable for those with a basic fitness level.
Local Culture: Visiting Pacchanta introduces you to a small local community with thermal waters.
Value: At $35, this tour offers a lot of scenery and activity for the price, including transport, guides, and meals.
Early Start: Keep in mind the departure time at 4 a.m., which means an early wake-up but also more time to enjoy the day.

The Day Trip to the 7 Ausangate Lagoons begins with a pre-dawn pick-up from your hotel near Cusco’s main square. This early start—at around 4 a.m.—can be tough, but it pays off with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures that make the landscape even more dramatic. Your transport, usually a comfortable bus or van, whisks you out of the city and into the highlands, heading toward the small town of Pacchanta.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Journey: Scenic and Comfortable

The drive itself is part of the experience. As you leave Cusco, the scenery shifts from colonial streets to rugged mountain vistas. Your guide, whose name might be shared, will often point out interesting sights or local stories along the way. Included in the price are pickup, transport, and a wholesome breakfast in Pacchanta—an appreciated start after the early hours.

While in Cusco, here are other experiences we've covered

Trekking to the Lagoons

From Pacchanta, the real adventure begins with a two-hour walk to a vantage point overlooking the lagoons. We loved the way our guide explained that this viewpoint offers a snapshot of the full circuit—the perfect spot to snap photos and get a feel for the landscape. The terrain is varied but manageable, with some gentle inclines and uneven paths typical of mountain trails.

After soaking in the view, you’ll trek for another three hours, wandering around the lakes themselves. The guide often emphasizes the unique features of each lagoon: Laguna Superior with its expansive size, the Male and Female Otorongo lakes, and the striking Red, Blue, Ccomer, and Alqa Lagoons. The colors are genuinely mesmerizing: the reds might remind you of volcanic activity, while the blues are as pure as mountain lakes come.

The Seven Lagoons: What Makes Them Special?

Laguna Superior: The largest and most accessible, with stunning reflections.
Otorongo Lakes: Named “Tigers” in Quechua, these two lakes show contrasting colors, and the guide often points out the differences.
Laguna Roja (Red Lake): The fiery hue results from mineral deposits, making it a standout.
Laguna Ccomer: Known for its tranquil, mirror-like surface, perfect for photography.
Laguna Azul: As the name suggests, its vibrant blue waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding landscape.
Laguna Alqa: The last stop before heading back, offering peaceful scenery.

The Community and Thermal Waters

A notable feature of this tour is the visit to Pacchanta, a small local community. Here, you might have the chance to relax in the thermal waters—a perfect way to soothe tired legs. Several reviews mention the “thermo-medicinal waters,” which are a nice bonus and an authentic touch, connecting you to local traditions.

More Great Tours Nearby

Lunch and Return

After exploring the lakes, the group returns to Pacchanta for a well-deserved lunch, included in the tour. The meal might be traditional Peruvian fare, providing a satisfying end to the trek. The return trip to Cusco is generally smooth, with the guide sharing insights and helping everyone reflect on the day’s highlights.

While in Cusco, here are other experiences we've covered

What the Tour Feels Like

Travelers consistently mention the stunning views and the unique colors of the lagoons as the main attractions. One review states, “The scenery is so colorful and surreal that I kept stopping for photos,” emphasizing how remarkable the landscape truly is.

Others appreciated the professional guidance and the fact that the tour caters to a range of fitness levels—though some note that the walk can be tiring, especially given the altitude. The early departure and the 5-hour total trekking might be a challenge for some, but most found it manageable with proper preparation.

Practical Details

The price of $35 includes almost everything: hotel pickup, transport, guide, breakfast, lunch, and even oxygen and trekking sticks—valuable additions considering the altitude. It’s a good value, especially considering the scenic payoff. However, note that entrance to the hot springs isn’t included, so if you want to soak after the hike, you’ll need to pay separately.

What to bring? Comfortable hiking shoes, camera, sunscreen, and cash for optional extras. Because it’s an outdoor experience at high elevation, be prepared for variable weather.

This trip suits travelers who are comfortable with moderate hiking and who want to see some of the most colorful natural scenery around Cusco. It’s especially appealing if you cherish photography and enjoy being out in the wild, away from crowded tourist spots. The early start might not be for everyone, but it rewards those willing to get an early jump with incredible vistas and fewer people.

It’s less ideal if you have mobility issues, are pregnant, or have respiratory problems, as the high altitude and walking could pose challenges. Also, children under 8 might find the trek too demanding.

The Cusco: Day Trip to the 7 Ausangate Lagoons offers a vivid snapshot of Peru’s rugged beauty. For a modest price, you get a chance to witness some of the most colorful lakes in the region, surrounded by towering mountains and a sense of untouched nature. The combination of scenic drives, manageable hikes, and cultural touches like visiting Pacchanta make it a well-rounded experience.

If you’re seeking a day away from historical sites and want to dive into natural splendor, this trip delivers. It’s perfect for those who love landscapes, photography, and a bit of adventure—just remember to pack your camera, some patience, and a sense of wonder.

What is the starting time for this tour?
The tour generally departs early in the morning, around 4 a.m., to make the most of daylight and avoid crowds, but check availability for exact times.

Is transportation included?
Yes, round-trip transport from your hotel in Cusco is included, making logistics much easier.

What should I bring for the hike?
Comfortable hiking shoes, a camera, hat, sunscreen, cash, and hiking pants are recommended. Also, bring your ID or passport.

Can I visit the hot springs?
Not directly as part of this tour, since entrance tickets to the hot springs are not included, but you might find time to visit if you wish, paying separately.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s generally not suitable for children under 8, due to the walking and altitude, and not recommended for pregnant women or those with mobility issues.

How long does the whole trip last?
The entire experience lasts about one day, with a total of roughly five hours of trekking, plus travel time.

This tour offers a colorful, refreshing escape into Peru’s high-altitude lakes and mountains—a true highlight for lovers of natural beauty and outdoor adventure, all at a very accessible price point.