Cusco: Ausangate Tour Seven Lagoons + Meals

Set out on a captivating journey to the mesmerizing Ausangate region with Cusco’s premier tour. This 14.5-hour excursion whisks you through stunning landscapes, where you’ll discover seven dazzling lagoons and encounter remarkable Andean wildlife. From hearty meals to relaxing thermal baths, every aspect is thoughtfully curated to ensure an unforgettable experience. Get ready to learn about the breathtaking beauty of this Peruvian gem.

Key Points

• A 14.5-hour guided tour from Cusco to Ausangate, including transportation, hiking to seven lagoons, wildlife viewing, and thermal bath relaxation.
• The tour is priced between $34.99 and $31.49 per person and includes hotel pickup, meals, and entry tickets.
• The demanding 5-hour round-trip hike to the lagoons is not recommended for pregnant women, those over 60, or with low fitness levels.
• Exposure to high altitudes during the tour may lead to altitude sickness, so proper preparation is essential.
• The tour provides opportunities to spot Andean birds, alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas, as well as enjoy the natural thermal baths.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Cusco: Ausangate Tour offers a comprehensive day-long adventure that takes visitors on a journey to explore the stunning natural wonders of the Ausangate region.

Set out on a comprehensive day-long adventure to explore the stunning natural wonders of the Ausangate region.

Priced from $34.99 to $31.49 per person, the tour lasts 14.5 hours and provides pickup from Cusco hotels between 4:30 a.m. and 5:00 a.m.

A live guide is available in both Spanish and English.

The tour includes transportation, hiking to seven lagoons, wildlife spotting, and relaxation in thermal baths before returning to Cusco by 7:30 p.m.

Itinerary and Activities

The tour begins with a 3-hour transport to Pacchanta, where travelers enjoy a hearty breakfast.

The main event is a 5-hour round-trip hike to visit seven stunning lagoons:

• Azulcocha

• Otorongo

• Pucacocha

• Alqacocha

• Qomercocha

• Orqo Otorongo

• China Otorongo

Along the way, hikers may spot Andean birds, alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas.

After the trek, they can relax in thermal baths before the return to Cusco by 7:30 p.m.

Included Amenities

This tour includes a range of amenities to enhance the overall experience. Guests receive hotel pickup and drop-off, ensuring a seamless start and end to the day.

A professional guide leads the tour in both English and Spanish, providing valuable insights throughout. Transportation is provided, as well as a first-aid kit for safety.

Hearty meals, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, are included. Entry tickets to Ausangate and the thermal baths are covered. Horses are available if needed.

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

Suitability and Expectations

Certain travelers may find this tour unsuitable for their needs.

The tour isn’t recommended for pregnant women, individuals with mobility issues, those over 60, people prone to altitude sickness, or those with low fitness levels.

Potential participants should consider the following:

• Demanding 5-hour round-trip hike to reach the seven lagoons

• Exposure to high altitudes, which can lead to altitude sickness

• Possibility of encountering challenging weather conditions, even during the tour

• Lack of accessibility for those with mobility impairments

• Need for a good level of physical fitness to fully enjoy the experience

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What to Bring

Hikers should pack a variety of items to ensure a comfortable and prepared experience on the Ausangate Tour. Essential items include comfortable hiking shoes, sunglasses, and a sun hat to protect against the strong Andean sun.

A swimsuit and towel are necessary for enjoying the relaxing thermal baths after the hike. Layered outdoor clothing, such as a warm jacket and gloves, is crucial for the changing temperatures and weather conditions.

Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the stunning landscapes, as well as snacks and cash for any additional expenses. Proper preparation is key for this challenging but rewarding tour.

Acclimatization and Physical Fitness

Given the high elevation of the Cusco region, proper acclimatization is essential for participants of the Ausangate Tour.

Good physical condition is also required, as this tour involves strenuous hiking at high altitudes.

Key considerations include:

• Spending 1-2 days in Cusco to allow your body to adjust to the altitude

• Avoiding vigorous exercise during the first 24 hours in Cusco

• Staying hydrated and eating light, easily digestible meals

• Managing symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headaches and nausea

• Informing the tour operator of any medical conditions or concerns

Participants must be prepared for the physical demands of this tour.

Weather Conditions

The Cusco: Ausangate Tour operates rain or shine, as the weather in the Andes can be unpredictable.

Temperatures can range from freezing in the early morning to warm during the day. Sudden rainstorms or snowfall are common, and the high altitude means UV exposure is intense.

Layering clothing and packing weatherproof gear is essential. The tour continues regardless of conditions, as the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife viewing opportunities make for an unforgettable experience.

Participants should be prepared for changes in the weather and adjust their attire and gear accordingly throughout the day-long excursion.

Customer Feedback

According to customer reviews, the Cusco: Ausangate Tour received a mixed response from participants.

While some praised the stunning landscapes, others were critical of the experience:

• Positive comments highlighted the natural beauty of the seven lagoons and the opportunity to spot Andean wildlife.

• Negative feedback centered around overcrowded transportation, lack of guide engagement, and discomfort during the long bus ride.

• One notable review mentioned insufficient guidance during the hike, leading to a challenging experience for the traveler.

Things To Know

Can I Modify the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, you can typically modify the tour itinerary to better suit your preferences, such as adjusting the hiking duration, adding or removing activities, or customizing the meals. Tour providers often allow a degree of personalization to deliver a more enjoyable experience.

What Is the Group Size for This Tour?

The group size for this tour is not explicitly stated. However, as a typical group tour, it likely accommodates between 8 to 15 participants to ensure a personalized experience while maintaining efficient logistics.

Are There Any Additional Costs Not Mentioned in the Tour Description?

The tour description does not mention any additional costs. It covers hotel pickup, transportation, guide services, meals, and entry fees. However, travelers should budget for personal expenses like snacks, tips, and any optional activities not included in the package.

How Challenging Is the Hike Compared to Other Treks in the Region?

The hike to the seven lagoons is moderately challenging, requiring a good level of fitness and acclimatization. It’s more strenuous than some other treks in the Cusco region due to the higher elevations and longer duration.

Can I Leave My Luggage at the Hotel During the Tour?

Travelers can typically leave their luggage at their hotel during the tour. This is a common arrangement, as the tour does not require bringing large bags or suitcases. The hotel will securely store the luggage until the tour’s return.

Sum Up

The Cusco: Ausangate Tour to seven lagoons is an incredible opportunity to take in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Andes. From the tranquil thermal baths to the stunning vistas, this 14.5-hour adventure promises an unforgettable experience. With a hearty meal plan, knowledgeable guides, and a focus on wildlife and photography, this tour is a must-do for nature enthusiasts visiting the Cusco region.

You can check availability for your dates here: