Tucked away in the Andes near Cusco lies the enchanting 7 Lagoons of Ausangate, a natural wonder that beckons adventurous travelers. This day trip offers the chance to take in the region’s breathtaking landscapes, from a scenic 2-hour trek to the exploration of vibrant lagoons. With comprehensive organization, friendly guides, and unparalleled scenery, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience for nature enthusiasts. What makes the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate so captivating, and why should one consider adding this to their Cusco itinerary?

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Key Points

A 10-hour hiking adventure to the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate near Cusco, including roundtrip transportation, breakfast, lunch, and a professional guide.
The itinerary includes a 2-hour trek to a viewpoint, followed by 3 hours exploring the lagoons.
Recommended to bring altitude sickness medication, sun protection, and cash for the entrance fee and additional expenses.
The tour has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 134 reviews, praising the beautiful scenery and friendly, supportive guides.
The tour is available in English and Spanish, with prices ranging from Kč 794 to Kč 992 per person.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The tour offers a day trip to explore the stunning 7 Lagoons of Ausangate near Cusco.

Explore the stunning 7 Lagoons of Ausangate near Cusco on a day trip.

This 10-hour hiking adventure includes roundtrip transportation from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas, breakfast and lunch, and a professional guide.

Hikers will trek for 2 hours to a viewpoint overlooking the 7 lagoons, then spend 3 hours exploring them.

The tour is available in English and Spanish, with a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

Priced between Kč 794 and Kč 992 per person, this is an excellent opportunity to take in Cusco’s breathtaking natural landscapes.

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Itinerary

The day trip begins with a 04:00 a.m. pickup from hotels in Cusco’s historical center.

The first stop is the town of Pacchanta, where hikers enjoy breakfast.

From there, the 2-hour hike leads to a viewpoint of the 7 stunning lagoons – Upper Lake, Otorongo Male, Otorongo Female, Red Lake, Ccomer Lake, Blue Lake, and Alqa Lake.

Hikers then spend 3 hours exploring the lagoons.

After the tour, the group returns to Pacchanta for lunch before heading back to Cusco, arriving in the afternoon.

Inclusions

This hiking day trip includes pickup from select areas of Cusco’s historical center. The tour also provides round-trip transportation, breakfast and lunch, and a professional guide.

Hikers can expect these key inclusions:

A first aid kit and oxygen balloon for their safety and comfort.
Walking sticks to assist them during the hike.
Entry fees, except for the 20 soles entrance fee, which isn’t included.

With these thoughtful inclusions, travelers can focus on seeing the stunning natural beauty of the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate.

Recommendations and Health Tips

Since the hiking day trip takes place at high altitudes, it’s crucial for travelers to be prepared.

The tour organizers recommend bringing altitude sickness medication, as some participants have reported experiencing it.

Sunblock and a hat are essential to protect against the intense sun.

Bringing cash is advised for the entrance fee and any other expenses.

Those prone to motion sickness should consider taking pills for the winding bus ride.

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Customer Reviews

According to the 134 customer reviews, the Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Hiking Day Trip has an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Travelers highlight the tour’s key strengths:

Travelers highlight the tour’s key strengths: the beautiful scenery, friendly guides, and high organization level.

The beautiful scenery, including mountains, lagoons, and alpacas, which left a lasting impression.
The friendly and supportive guides who provided a flexible pacing for hikers.
The high organization level, which was noted by many participants as a positive aspect of the tour.

Some reviewers found the route less popular but more rewarding than other hikes in the region, such as Humantai.

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Pickup and Transportation

The tour includes pickup from select areas in Cusco’s historical center, such as Plaza de Armas.

Travelers will be collected promptly at 4:00 a.m. and transported to the starting point of the hike. The round-trip transportation is provided in a comfortable bus.

The journey to the town of Pacchanta, where breakfast is served, takes approximately 2 hours due to the winding mountain roads. Guests are advised to consider motion sickness medication for this portion of the trip.

After breakfast, the hike to the lagoons begins, allowing participants to admire the stunning Andean scenery along the way.

Hiking Difficulty and Terrain

The hiking route to the 7 Lagoons of Ausangate is considered moderately challenging. Trekkers will encounter:

Gradual ascents and descents with an elevation range of 4,800 to 5,100 meters (15,700 to 16,700 feet).
Uneven terrain with some rocky and steep sections, requiring sturdy boots and hiking poles.
Exposure to high-altitude conditions, which can cause altitude sickness, so proper acclimatization and medication are advised.

Despite the moderate difficulty, the stunning landscapes and unique geological formations make this hike a rewarding experience for adventurous travelers in good physical condition.

Preparing for the Adventure

To make the most of the Cusco 7 Lagoons of Ausangate hike, travelers should adequately prepare. This includes packing the right gear, managing altitude sickness, and staying hydrated.

| Packing Essentials | Altitude Preparation | Staying Hydrated |

|:——————-|:———————|:—————–|

| Warm layers | Medication | Water |

| Good hiking boots | Drink plenty of water| Electrolyte drinks|

| Sun protection | Take it slow | Avoid alcohol |

Following these tips will help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience exploring the stunning 7 lagoons.

Things To Know

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

Yes, travelers can bring their own food and snacks on the hike. The tour package includes breakfast and lunch, but allowing participants to supplement with their own provisions can be a convenient option.

Is the Tour Available Year-Round or Only During Certain Seasons?

The tour is available year-round, though the weather and conditions may vary by season. Visitors should check with the tour operator for the best time to go based on their preferences and comfort level with the climate.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for the Hike?

The hike is suitable for most age groups and fitness levels, though it’s recommended for those comfortable with moderate hiking. There are no strict age or fitness restrictions, but participants should be prepared for the high altitude and challenging terrain.

Is It Possible to Take a Private Tour or Only Group Tours Are Available?

The tour is available as both private and group options. Travelers can choose the tour type that best fits their needs and preferences. Private tours offer more flexibility but come at a higher cost compared to the group tours.

Can I Rent Additional Gear Like Hiking Boots or Jackets From the Tour Company?

The tour company does not rent additional gear like hiking boots or jackets. Participants should come prepared with their own appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear for the hike. The tour focuses on providing transportation, guides, and meals rather than rental equipment.

Sum Up

The 7 Lagoons of Ausangate day trip from Cusco offers an unforgettable hiking adventure amidst stunning Andean landscapes. With comprehensive organization, knowledgeable guides, and a full-day itinerary, this tour is a perfect choice for nature enthusiasts seeking an exhilarating outdoor experience. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the vibrant lagoons and breathtaking viewpoints, making memories that will last a lifetime.