From Cusco: Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour + Meals

Embark on an unforgettable adventure with the Ausangate Route tour from Cusco. This 14-hour excursion promises a breathtaking glimpse into the natural beauty of the Cusco region. Early morning pickup, hearty breakfast, and a bilingual guide set the stage for an immersive experience exploring seven stunning lagoons, including the mesmerizing Azulcocha and Qomercocha. As you hike amidst the majestic Nevado Ausangate, savor delicious meals and unwind in natural hot springs. With competitive pricing, this tour offers an opportunity to truly connect with the region’s captivating landscapes.

Key Points

• A 14-hour excursion from Cusco to explore the Ausangate Route and 7 captivating lagoons, including Azulcocha and Qomercocha.
• The tour includes breakfast, lunch, entrance tickets, and access to hot springs, as well as a bilingual guide.
• Participants hike for approximately 5 hours and marvel at the snow-capped Nevado Ausangate and surrounding flora and fauna.
• The tour is not suitable for individuals with certain medical conditions, and proper preparation and adherence to guidelines are essential.
• The tour has received mixed reviews, with praise for the beautiful landscapes and enjoyable hikes, but concerns about organization and transportation quality.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers travelers a chance to explore the stunning Ausangate Route and visit 7 captivating lagoons in the Cusco region.

Explore the stunning Ausangate Route and discover 7 captivating lagoons in the Cusco region on this unforgettable tour.

It’s a 14-hour excursion that departs early from Cusco’s historic center, with pickup included. Guests will travel to the community of Pacchanta at 4,200 meters, enjoy breakfast, and then embark on a 5-hour round-trip hike to see lagoons like Azulcocha and Qomercocha.

Along the way, they’ll marvel at the Nevado Ausangate and local flora and fauna. After the hike, they’ll relax in Pacchanta’s hot springs before returning to Cusco.

The tour includes meals, transportation, entrance fees, and a bilingual guide.

Itinerary and Activities

After an early pickup at 4:30 a.m., travelers will travel to Ocongate and the community of Pacchanta, situated at an elevation of 4,200 meters above sea level.

Following breakfast in Pacchanta, the hike begins at 8:00 a.m. Hikers will visit various lagoons: Azulcocha, Pukacocha, Oqecocha, Alqacocha, and Qomercocha.

They’ll explore the snow-capped Nevado Ausangate and observe the surrounding fauna and vegetation.

The 5-hour round trip hike concludes with lunch and relaxation in the hot springs of Pacchanta before returning to Cusco by approximately 6:00 p.m.

Inclusions

The tour includes tourist transportation, meals (breakfast and lunch), entrance tickets to the 7 lagoons, and access to the hot springs of Pacchanta.

A first aid kit and oxygen bottle are also provided for safety.

Travelers will have a bilingual tourist guide (English/Spanish) to accompany them throughout the experience.

This comprehensive package ensures a seamless and well-supported journey to explore the stunning Ausangate route and its captivating natural wonders.

Participant Restrictions and Recommendations

Although not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with heart problems, vertigo, respiratory issues, recent surgeries, or motion sickness, the Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour offers recommendations for participants.

The tour recommends bringing a passport/ID, warm clothing, sunglasses, sun hat, hiking shoes, sunscreen, and water. Participants should avoid large luggage, alcohol, drugs, littering, explosive substances, and nudity.

The tour provides a first aid kit and oxygen bottle, as well as a bilingual tourist guide. Proper preparation and adherence to these guidelines will ensure a safe and enjoyable experience on the 5-hour round trip hike.

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Customer Feedback

Customers have provided mixed reviews regarding the Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour, with an overall rating of 3.3 out of 5 based on 3 reviews.

While some praised the tour’s beautiful landscape and enjoyable hike, others expressed concerns about the organization and quality of transportation.

Mixed reviews on the organization and transportation quality of the Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour, despite praise for its beautiful landscape and enjoyable hike.

Notable areas for improvement include:

• Communication between the tour operator and participants

• Condition of the vehicles used for transportation

Reasons to Book This Tour

Despite the mixed reviews, the Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour offers several compelling reasons to book it.

First, the tour provides an opportunity to explore the stunning Ausangate mountain and its surrounding lagoons, a breathtaking natural landscape.

Plus, the inclusion of meals and access to the hot springs in Pacchanta adds to the overall experience.

The tour also includes pickup from Cusco’s historic center, making it convenient for travelers.

On top of that, the tour is priced competitively, with potential savings of up to 25% per person.

Lastly, the presence of a bilingual guide ensures an informative and enjoyable experience.

What to Expect on the Hike

The hike through the Ausangate Route begins early at 8:00 a.m. after a hearty breakfast in Pacchanta.

Trekkers will explore a stunning landscape, visiting 7 distinct lagoons along the way. The hike includes:

• Marveling at the turquoise waters of Azulcocha, Pukacocha, and Oqecocha

• Observing the diverse flora and fauna, including the majestic Nevado Ausangate

• Experiencing a 5-hour round trip hike that showcases the region’s natural beauty

After the hike, participants can relax in the hot springs of Pacchanta before returning to Cusco by approximately 6:00 p.m.

Tips for a Successful Ausangate Route Adventure

To have a successful Ausangate Route adventure, hikers should pack the right gear and be prepared for the high-altitude terrain. Warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, and sun protection are essential.

Staying hydrated and pacing oneself are crucial on the challenging 5-hour hike. Travelers should be aware of the participant restrictions, as this tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions.

Following the guide’s instructions and staying with the group are important for safety. With proper preparation and caution, adventurers can enjoy the breathtaking landscapes and serene lagoons of the Ausangate region.

Things To Know

Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour Instead of a Group Tour?

Yes, the tour operator offers a private tour option. Guests can book a private tour with a personal guide for an additional fee, allowing for a more customized and exclusive experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Hike?

Yes, participants can bring their own food and snacks on the hike. The tour inclusions only cover breakfast and lunch, so bringing extra provisions is recommended, especially for energy during the 5-hour round trip hike.

Are There Any Restroom Facilities Available During the Hike?

The tour itinerary doesn’t mention any restroom facilities during the hike. However, the description suggests there may be basic amenities available at the starting point in Pacchanta before the hike begins. Hikers should plan accordingly.

What Is the Policy Regarding Tipping the Tour Guide?

The tour policy does not mention a tip requirement for the guide. However, it’s customary to tip tour guides in the local currency if you’re satisfied with their service, typically 10-15% of the tour price.

Can I Rent Hiking Equipment From the Tour Company if I Don’t Have My Own?

The tour company doesn’t offer hiking equipment rentals, so participants need to bring their own. They recommend appropriate hiking shoes, warm clothing, and other essential gear for the high-altitude trek. It’s the traveler’s responsibility to come prepared.

Sum Up

Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking Ausangate Route, where you’ll discover seven stunning lagoons, indulge in delicious meals, and relax in natural hot springs. With a bilingual guide by your side, you’ll learn about the natural beauty of the Cusco region, creating memories that will last a lifetime. This tour offers a competitive price and an experience that’s not to be missed.

You can check availability for your dates here: