Exploring the Ausangate & 7 Lagoons Full Day Tour from Cusco offers an unforgettable journey into the high Andes, where vibrant lakes, towering mountains, and native wildlife create a tapestry of natural beauty. For just $40 per person, this 1-day adventure takes you from Cusco early in the morning to the impressive landscapes surrounding Ausangate, one of the most revered peaks in Peru. Led by bilingual guides, you’ll trek approximately 7.5 km through a series of stunning lagoons, enjoy regional cuisine, and unwind in hot springs — a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation.

What we love most about this trip is the chance to witness the ‘billion colors’ of the lagoons, with each one offering a unique hue and setting that feels almost surreal. Also, the inclusion of a regional breakfast and lunch makes this experience not only scenic but also delicious, giving us a taste of Peruvian flavors amid the mountains. That said, one potential consideration is the early start — at 5:00 am — which might be tough for night owls or those with limited energy for a full-day outing. Nevertheless, if you’re fond of nature, photography, and authentic cultural scenes, this tour offers excellent value and memorable scenery.

This experience suits those who enjoy moderate outdoor activity, are comfortable with a full day of travel, and appreciate local cuisine paired with stunning views. It’s particularly appealing for travelers seeking a combination of adventure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight in a manageable day trip from Cusco.

Key Points

Stunning Landscapes: Marvel at the vivid colors of the 7 Lagoons and majestic peaks like Ausangate and Mariposa.
Authentic Regional Experience: Enjoy a typical regional breakfast and a flavorful local lunch.
Wildlife & Nature: Spot native birds, llamas, alpacas, and possibly the regal Andean condor.
Relaxation in Hot Springs: Unwind in Pacchanta’s natural thermal waters after a day of trekking.
Balanced Itinerary: About 7.5 km walking over five hours, with opportunities to rest and take photos.
Affordable Price: For just $40, you get transportation, guides, meals, and an unforgettable landscape tour.

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A Detailed Look at the Ausangate & 7 Lagoons Tour

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Starting Early for a Big Day

As soon as you book, you’ll want to prepare for an early start — pickup from your Cusco hotel at 5:00 am. While this might seem daunting, it ensures you beat the afternoon clouds or potential weather shifts that can affect the high mountain views. The approximately six-hour drive to Pacchanta takes you through rugged highland landscapes, filled with native flora and fauna. This part of the journey is as much about the scenery as the destination, giving you glimpses of llamas, alpacas, and perhaps the elusive vizcacha (a kind of chinchilla).

The First Meal & Briefing in Pacchanta

Once arrive in Pacchanta, you’ll be greeted with a hearty, regional breakfast — think fresh bread, local cheese, and perhaps some herbal tea. This sets the tone for the day, fueling you for the trek ahead. Your guide will give a quick briefing on what to expect during the walk, highlighting safety tips and points of interest. The sense of anticipation builds as you prepare to explore the lagoons.

Trekking Through a Kaleidoscope of Lagoons

The main event is a roughly five-hour trek covering 7.5 km, visiting seven distinct lagoons: Azulqocha, Orco Otorongo, China Otorongo, Puqacocha, Alqacocha, Qomercocha, and Patacocha. Each lagoon offers a different palette, with some shimmering bright blue, others a deep emerald or turquoise. The mountain backdrops, including Ausangate, Jampa, and Caracol, frame these water bodies, creating picture-perfect vistas.

One of the key highlights is the chance to observe native wildlife. Birdwatchers will appreciate the sight of native birds, while animal lovers might spot llamas and alpacas grazing nearby. With luck, you could see the majestic Andean condor soaring overhead — a symbol of Peruvian highlands.

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The Significance of the Landscape

The lagoons aren’t just pretty sights; they hold spiritual and cultural importance for local communities. Their vibrant colors often reflect mineral deposits and natural phenomena that have fascinated explorers and locals alike for centuries. Your guide will likely share stories about indigenous beliefs and the significance of the mountains, adding depth to your appreciation.

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Lunch and Relaxation in Pacchanta Hot Springs

After soaking in the scenery, you’ll return to Pacchanta for a well-deserved local lunch, often featuring traditional ingredients like potatoes, corn, and regional herbs. Many travelers mention the food as plentiful and flavorful—”abundant food” was specifically praised in reviews. Following lunch, you can unwind in the natural hot springs. These thermal waters are a perfect way to relax tired muscles, especially after a full day of walking and elevation.

Return to Cusco

The journey back to Cusco takes around six hours, arriving around 7:00 pm. Though long, this drive offers one last chance to reflect on the incredible sights you’ve seen and the fresh mountain air you’ve breathed. The early start means you’ll be back in the city with plenty of time to relax or explore further.

Practical Aspects and Value

Transportation & Guides

Transportation is included, with comfortable tourist vehicles taking you from Cusco to Pacchanta and back. This simplifies logistics and ensures you don’t have to worry about navigating rural roads yourself. The guides, fluent in both Spanish and English, are experienced and provide insightful commentary on the landscapes and local culture. Their knowledge enhances the experience, especially if you’re interested in the stories behind the scenery.

Meals & Entrance Fees

The tour covers breakfast and lunch — both regional and hearty, making the price of $40 seem quite reasonable. Entrance to the lagoons costs an additional S/20, and the hot springs are S/5 — these are optional expenses to budget for. The tour does not include water or alcohol, so plan to bring your own bottles for hydration.

Considerations

The early start might be a challenge for some, especially if you’re not used to early mornings. The walking is moderate, but keep in mind the altitude and potential weather changes in the mountains. Also, the tour does not include a saddle horse, so be prepared for a walk of about five hours on uneven terrain. For those who prefer less walking, this might be a demanding experience, but for adventurers, it’s manageable and rewarding.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This tour is perfect for those who love scenic outdoor experiences, are comfortable with a full day of travel and walking, and want to see some of the most beautiful lagoons in the Andes. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate authentic local cuisine and are interested in seeing the natural highland environment.

Final Thoughts

The Ausangate & 7 Lagoons Tour offers a well-rounded experience — a mix of spectacular views, cultural insights, regional food, and relaxation. For $40, you get a full-day guided trek that balances adventure with comfort, with knowledgeable guides ensuring you enjoy the best of what this part of Peru has to offer. While the early start and full day might not suit everyone, those who embrace the mountain magic will find this an enriching experience.

If you’re looking for a scenic, authentic, and reasonably priced day trip from Cusco that showcases the stunning colors of the Andes, this tour should be high on your list. It’s a chance to see nature at its most vibrant and to connect with the local communities in a meaningful way.

FAQ

What time does the tour start?
Pick-up from your Cusco hotel begins at 5:00 am, ensuring an early start to make the most of the day in the mountains.

How long is the walk during the tour?
The trek covers approximately 7.5 km and takes about five hours, with plenty of opportunities for breaks and photos.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour includes a regional breakfast in Pacchanta and a traditional lunch. Optional expenses are the entrance fee to the lagoons and hot springs.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable walking shoes, warm clothing, sun protection, water, and perhaps a camera. A hat and sunglasses are also recommended for the high-altitude sun.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
While the walk is moderate, the early start and altitude might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues. Check with your guide if unsure.

Can I participate if I don’t want to walk the whole route?
Yes, some travelers choose to ride a saddle horse, although this is not included in the price. Discuss options with your guide beforehand.

This adventure packs a punch for anyone eager to see the vivid hues of the Andean lakes and experience authentic mountain life, all while enjoying tasty regional food and relaxing in hot springs. It’s a day that promises a vivid palette of colors, scenic vistas, and cultural richness worth every penny.