Exploring the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate: A Full Day in Nature’s Canvas

If you’re visiting Cusco and craving a day immersed in breathtaking landscapes, this full-day tour to the 7 lagoons of Ausangate might just be what you’re looking for. For $43 per person, you’ll spend roughly 12 hours exploring the snowy mountain, its vibrant lakes, and thermal springs. The tour departs early, around 4:30 am, with a pickup from your accommodation, usually in Cusco’s historic center. From there, the journey takes you into some spectacular scenery, with plenty of opportunities to connect with nature and enjoy authentic local flavors.

What we love about this experience is the chance to see Ausangate, a majestic snow-capped peak that dominates the landscape, and to witness the colorful lagoons that shimmer in the mountain’s foothills. Plus, the inclusion of a hot spring bath in Pacchanta offers a relaxing way to unwind after a vigorous hike. The tour also provides breakfast and a generous lunch, which makes the long day more comfortable and satisfying.

One thing to keep in mind is that the transportation involves a rather small van, which some travelers found a bit cramped — as one review notes, “the van was very small, we couldn’t barely move on our sits.” This can be an important consideration if you prefer more space or have mobility concerns. Also, the cost of entrances to the lagoons and thermal baths ($5 or 15 soles) is not included, so budget accordingly.

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy hiking, stunning scenery, and authentic local experiences. While not recommended for pregnant women or those with respiratory issues, it offers a fantastic opportunity to connect with Peru’s incredible natural beauty in a day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

Majestic Peaks: The tour offers unforgettable views of Ausangate, Peru’s stunning snow-capped mountain.
Colorful Lagoons: Expect vibrant, Instagram-worthy scenery with the changing light and landscape.
Authentic Experience: Includes a visit to Pacchanta’s thermal springs and local community, adding cultural flavor.
Comfort Considerations: The van is small, which might be uncomfortable for some travelers.
Value for Money: At $43, the tour offers a full day filled with natural beauty, food, and guided insights.
Physical Activity: The hike covers about 10 km, suitable for those comfortable with moderate walking.

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A Deep Dive into the 7 Lagoons Tour

The Itinerary: From Cusco to Mountain Marvels

The day begins early, with a pickup around 4:30 am, giving you a head start before the crowds and the heat of the day. The transportation takes you southeast from Cusco into the highlands, where the air is crisp and the landscape increasingly dramatic. The journey itself is a scenic drive, with your guide sharing insights about the region and its significance.

Once you arrive at the community of Pacchanta, you’ll enjoy a breakfast before commencing your hike. From this point, you’re set to explore the first lagoon, and from there, a series of six more, each with its own unique color and character. The 7 lagoons are fed by glacial melt from Ausangate, and each reflects a different shade, from emerald greens to deep blues to milky whites, all framed by snow-capped peaks.

The hike is approximately 10 km, winding through rugged terrain and offering sweeping views at every turn. As one reviewer remarked, “Overall, it was good. However, the van was very small, we couldn’t barely move on our sits. The guide and food were nice.” So, while the scenery makes the effort worthwhile, be prepared for a physically engaging day.

The Thermal Springs Experience

After exploring the lagoons, you’ll return to Pacchanta, where relaxing in the hot springs is a perfect way to soothe tired muscles. These thermal baths are not only soothing but also offer a glimpse into local life and traditional healing practices. Entry to the baths is an extra $5 or 15 soles, so be sure to bring some cash.

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The Lunch and Final Return

Post-thermal bath, a delicious local lunch awaits, featuring hearty Andean cuisine — an important highlight that helps replenish your energy after the morning’s adventure. We found this to be a real plus, with some reviews praising the quality of the food and the friendly service.

By late afternoon, around 7:00 pm, you’ll head back to Cusco, ending a full but rewarding day of natural beauty and authentic experiences.

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Practical Details: Transportation, Cost, and Group Size

Transportation is provided in a round-trip shared van, with a limited group size of about 15 participants, which allows for a more intimate and engaging experience. The small group size helps with personalized guiding but also means the vehicle can feel a bit crowded, as some reviews suggest.

The cost of $43 includes transportation, guide, breakfast, lunch, first aid kit, and walking sticks — offering good value considering the full day of sightseeing and activity. However, note that entrance fees for the lagoons and thermal baths are separate, adding about $5 or 15 soles to your expenses.

Timing and Weather

The tour is rain or shine, which emphasizes the importance of dressing appropriately. Bring comfortable shoes, as you’ll be walking on uneven terrain, and pack layers to handle changing mountain weather.

Authenticity and Experience Quality

While the tour offers a straightforward way to see some of the most remarkable natural sights near Cusco, reviews highlight some inherent limitations. For example, the small van may not suit everyone, and the day is quite packed, leaving limited time at each lagoon. Still, many appreciate the stunning scenery and the chance to combine hiking with relaxing thermal baths.

One reviewer shared, “It wasn’t what I expected but the landscapes are very beautiful,” which encapsulates the unpredictable nature of mountain excursions — sometimes the scenery exceeds expectations, sometimes the logistics challenge comfort.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers who love outdoor activities and are comfortable with moderate hiking. It offers a satisfying mix of spectacular views, culture, and relaxation in hot springs. If you’re seeking a full day away from the city’s hustle, eager to see colorful lakes and snow-capped peaks, this tour provides a memorable experience.

However, if you prefer more spacious transport or less physical activity, you might want to explore alternative options or private tours. It’s also best suited for those prepared for early mornings and variable weather conditions.

Final Thoughts

This full-day excursion to the 7 lagoons of Ausangate offers a compelling blend of natural beauty, authentic local touches, and physical activity. For just over forty dollars, you gain access to some of the most stunning mountain lakes in Peru, topped off with relaxing thermal baths and a hearty local meal. The views are genuinely breathtaking, and the experience, despite some logistical quirks, is worth the effort.

If you’re excited by mountain landscapes, vibrant lakes, and a bit of hiking, this tour is a solid choice. Just pack your shoes, your camera, and a sense of adventure — and be ready for a day that connects you with Peru’s extraordinary wilderness.

FAQ

How long is the entire tour?
The tour lasts approximately 12 hours, from the early pickup around 4:30 am until you return to Cusco around 7:00 pm.

What are the main highlights of this tour?
Expect to see the 7 lagoons of Ausangate, enjoy beautiful mountain views, relax in thermal springs at Pacchanta, and have a traditional lunch.

Is transportation comfortable?
The transportation is in a small van, which some travelers found a bit cramped. If you prefer more space, consider this before booking.

How much walking is involved?
The hike covers about 10 km, with moderate terrain. Be prepared for a physically active day.

Are meals included?
Yes, breakfast at the start and a full lunch are included. Entry to thermal baths is extra.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID, comfortable shoes, layers for variable weather, and cash for entrance fees and optional expenses.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women or those with respiratory issues due to altitude and physical activity.

Does the tour operate rain or shine?
Yes, it proceeds rain or shine, so dress accordingly.

What is the group size?
Limited to about 15 participants for a more personalized experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

By choosing this tour, you’re signing up for a day of stunning vistas, authentic mountain culture, and a well-rounded outdoor experience. For those eager to step outside Cusco’s city limits and into the spectacular highlands, it’s an adventure worth considering.