Full Day Tour to Ausangate 7 Lagoons

A Full Day to Ausangate’s Seven Lagoons: An Authentic Mountain Adventure

If you’re looking to go beyond the usual tourist spots around Cusco, the Full Day Tour to Ausangate’s 7 Lagoons offers a rewarding escape into one of Peru’s most spectacular landscapes. For around $119 per person, this roughly 14-hour trip takes you from bustling Cusco to the remote, colorful lagoons and sacred peaks of Ausangate, with a comfortable mix of guided hiking, local village visits, and authentic regional cuisine.

What we love about this experience are the stunning views of the turquoise-green lagoons, each one uniquely tinted by natural minerals, and the chance to witness rural life in the tiny village of Pacchanta, where breakfast and lunch are served amidst llamas and alpacas. The personal touch of a small group—limited to 15 travelers—means you get a more intimate, customized experience.

That said, the tour is geared toward those with good physical fitness, given the high elevations and the approximately 6-hour hike. Be prepared for a long day with some rugged conditions, and note that your ticket price doesn’t include the entrance fees for the lagoons and hot springs, which you’ll need to pay locally.

This tour is ideal for adventurous travelers craving authentic scenery and cultural encounters, especially those who enjoy hiking and are comfortable at high altitudes. If you’re keen on a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience, this may not be your best option.

Key Points

• Stunning landscapes of colorful lagoons and snow-capped peaks
• Small-group size ensures a more personal experience
• Hiking over 4,500 meters offers both challenge and awe
• Local village visits provide insight into Andean rural life
• Hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Cusco hotel
• Admission fees for lagoons and hot springs are paid separately

The Itinerary in Detail

Starting Early from Cusco

The adventure kicks off at around 4:00 am, so be prepared for a very early morning. The tour begins with a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle pickup at your hotel, which is a real plus after a late night or if you’re not a morning person. The drive to the highlands takes roughly an hour to reach Ocongate, a vibrant colonial town that still maintains a relaxed country vibe. Here, you’ll get a glimpse of local life before heading further into the mountains.

Stop at Aguas Termales Pacchanta

Your first real stop is at Aguas Termales Pacchanta, a tiny village situated over 4,000 meters above sea level. This is where you’ll enjoy breakfast and later lunch amid the natural hot springs, which are a delightful way to relax after the drive and before the hike. The area is lively with locals tending to llamas and alpacas, giving you a taste of rural Andean life. Keep in mind that admission to hot springs isn’t included in the tour price, so you’ll need to pay that on site.

The Main Event: Ausangate Trek and Lagoons

The highlight of the day is the approximately 6-hour hike around the Ausangate lakes, a trail that leads you over 4,500 meters in elevation. The lakes are truly the star attraction—each one displaying a different hue, from vivid turquoise to emerald green—caused by the mineral deposits and natural processes in the region.

Hiking in such high-altitude terrain can be demanding, but the scenery makes it worthwhile. Your guide, Lizardo, mentioned in reviews, is a key asset here—knowledgeable and attentive, he keeps the group moving safely along rugged paths. You’ll love the way the landscape shifts constantly, with snow-capped peaks towering overhead and the lagoons reflecting the sky and mountains.

Visiting Nevado Ausangate

While most visitors see Ausangate from a distance, this tour promises a one-day glimpse of this sacred mountain, which usually takes five days to fully explore. Seeing it from afar during your hike, you’ll appreciate its awe-inspiring presence—a mountain revered by locals and a stunning backdrop for your adventure.

Return to Pacchanta and End of Day

After the hike, you’ll return to Pacchanta for lunch, sharing tables with local families and fellow travelers. The meal is served in a rustic setting—no gourmet expectations here, but the food is hearty and authentic, a true taste of the region. Then, the journey back to Cusco begins, with a relaxed arrival in the evening.

Practical Aspects and What You Should Know

Transportation and Group Size

The tour offers hotel pickup and drop-off, which is a major convenience in a city like Cusco where transportation can be tricky. The vehicle is air-conditioned, and with a maximum group size of 15 travelers, you’ll have more space and better opportunities to ask questions and interact with your guide.

Pricing and Value

At $119, this tour provides a comprehensive day of exploring high-altitude lakes, local villages, and Andean scenery. Admission fees are not included, so budget for these extras—hot springs and lagoon entrances—on top of the ticket price. Considering the long day, comfortable transportation, and knowledgeable guide, the value is fair for those craving an authentic mountain experience.

Physical Preparation and Altitude

The tour involves a 6-hour hike at high altitudes, over 4,500 meters. We recommend travelers be physically fit and prepared for high-altitude conditions. Some reviewers noted the caution of the driver and the cautious pace—all important to ensure safety and enjoyment.

Food and Facilities

Breakfast and lunch are included, served in Pacchanta. The reviews mention that the food is served in a rustic setting, which is typical for these remote regions. If you’re expecting gourmet cuisine, keep expectations in check, but if you value hearty, local food, you’ll be pleased.

Weather and Cancellation

Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, so the tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which offers some peace of mind.

Authentic Encounters and Authenticity

One of the most appreciated aspects, according to reviews, is the knowledgeable guide, Lizardo, who makes the experience more meaningful. Travelers also value the authentic rural setting—seeing llamas and alpacas, enjoying local food, and witnessing a part of Peru that many travelers miss.

While some feedback points to bus cleanliness and the language barrier—the main operator speaks mostly Spanish—these are minor inconveniences in an otherwise authentic experience. The guide’s attentiveness and the breathtaking scenery often overshadow these small drawbacks.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who enjoy long hikes and high-altitude scenery. It’s perfect for those who want to see colorful lagoons and experience rural Andean culture up close. The small group setting and local guides make it ideal for travelers seeking a more personal, immersive experience.

If you prefer a more relaxed day or have mobility challenges, this may not be the best fit, given the physical demands. Also, if you’re not comfortable paying extra for entrance fees or prefer a fully inclusive package, plan accordingly.

FAQs

• Does the tour include hotel pickup?
  Yes, the tour offers hassle-free pickup and drop-off at your Cusco hotel.

• How long is the hike?
  The trek around the lagoons lasts about 6 hours, over rugged terrain at elevations above 4,500 meters.

• Are meals included?
  Breakfast and lunch are included and are served in Pacchanta, with a rustic yet hearty regional style.

• Are the lagoon entrance fees included?
  No, these are paid separately at the hot springs or lagoons.

• Is this tour suitable for children or less active travelers?
  Due to the physical demands and altitude, it’s better suited for active, physically fit travelers.

• What is the group size?
  A maximum of 15 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience with your guide.

• What should I bring?
  Bring layers for variable mountain weather, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and hiking sticks (which are provided).

• Can I cancel the tour?
  Yes, with a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Less than 24 hours’ notice results in no refund.

Final Thoughts

The Full Day Tour to Ausangate’s 7 Lagoons offers a rare glimpse into Peru’s unspoiled mountain scenery and a chance to experience local culture in a remote setting. The combination of stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and authentic meals makes it a memorable adventure for those prepared for a full day of physical activity at high altitudes.

While not without its challenges—such as the demanding hike and additional entrance fees—the experience pays off with breathtaking views and genuine cultural interactions. This tour suits adventurers and nature lovers eager to explore off the beaten path, and who appreciate the value of small-group travel and authentic regional encounters.

If your idea of a perfect day involves mountain vistas, colorful lakes, and rural villages, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember: pack your stamina, a sense of adventure, and a spirit ready for high-altitude discovery.