The "Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Hiking Day Trip With Lunch" promises an exhilarating outdoor adventure in the breathtaking Ausangate region. Embarking on a 10-hour excursion, participants can look forward to captivating scenery, from the deep blue of the aptly named Blue Lake to the striking red hues of Red Lake. With an early morning pickup, a hearty breakfast, and a delicious lunch in Pacchanta, this day trip offers a truly memorable experience amidst nature’s wonders. But what makes this tour truly stand out, and why should adventurers consider adding it to their Cusco itinerary?
Key Points
- This full-day hiking tour from Cusco explores 7 vibrant and diverse lagoons in the stunning Ausangate region, including the iconic Blue and Red Lakes.
- The tour provides round-trip transportation from Cusco, breakfast in Pacchanta, and a hearty lunch upon return, creating a comprehensive and convenient experience.
- Knowledgeable local guides enhance the tour by providing valuable information about the lagoons and the surrounding landscapes, ensuring a memorable and educational exploration.
- Preparation is key, as the tour involves hiking at high altitudes, and participants are advised to take necessary precautions to mitigate potential altitude sickness.
- With an overall rating of 4.5/5 based on 90 reviews, the tour is highly recommended for its breathtaking natural scenery and well-organized itinerary, offering an unforgettable adventure in the Andes.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview
- Itinerary and Experience
- Highlights and Scenic Features
- Participant Feedback
- Guide Experience
- Preparation Recommendations
- Considerations and Cautions
- Tour Package Details
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How Difficult Is the Hiking Level for This Tour?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
- Is There an Option to Hire a Porter for My Luggage?
- What Is the Refund Policy if I Need to Cancel?
- Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Cusco
- More Lunch Experiences in Cusco
- More Tour Reviews in Cusco
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Tour Overview
The "Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Hiking Day Trip with Lunch" is a 10-hour tour that provides visitors with the opportunity to explore the stunning Ausangate Lagoons.
Priced at from COP982 per person, the tour includes round-trip transportation, breakfast, lunch, a professional guide, and necessary equipment.
Pickup is available from Cusco’s Plaza de Armas and historical center. The tour is likely to sell out, but travelers can reserve now and pay later.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, it’s a flexible option for adventurous hikers.
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Itinerary and Experience
Pickup begins at 04:00 a.m. from Cusco, with breakfast provided in the community of Pacchanta.
The day’s hike starts with a 2-hour trek to a scenic viewpoint, followed by 3 hours exploring the lagoons.
The main stops include:
- Upper Lake
- Otorongo Male and Otorongo Female
- Red Lake, Ccomer Lake, Blue Lake, and Alqa Lake
After the lagoon tour, the group returns to Pacchanta for lunch before heading back to Cusco.
The tour includes round-trip transportation, meals, a professional guide, first aid, and necessary equipment, ensuring a comfortable and well-supported experience.
Highlights and Scenic Features
What impresses visitors most about this hiking day trip are the impressive lagoon colors and natural landscapes.
The tour allows travelers to experience the full beauty of the Ausangate region, with stops at several stunning lakes, each displaying a unique hue. From the deep blue of the aptly named Blue Lake to the vibrant red of the Red Lake, the diverse palette of colors is simply breathtaking.
Beyond the lagoons, the hike also provides opportunities to witness the region’s remarkable geography, with dramatic mountain vistas and lush alpine meadows.
Throughout the day, participants can enjoy the serene natural surroundings and enjoy the scenic splendor of the Andes.
Participant Feedback
Travelers’ overwhelmingly positive feedback on the Ausangate lagoons hiking day trip underscores its exceptional quality.
With an impressive 4.5/5 rating based on 90 reviews, the tour earns praise for its stunning natural scenery and knowledgeable guides like Edwin Salas.
Reviewers highlight three key aspects of the experience:
- The breathtaking beauty of the lagoons’ vibrant colors and diverse landscapes.
- The unique opportunity to visit the Pacchanta community and its thermal waters.
- The well-organized transportation and informative guidance throughout the hike.
While some critiques mention communication issues with pickup details, the overall consensus praises the tour as a must-do adventure for visitors to Cusco.
More Great Tours NearbyGuide Experience
According to reviews, the knowledgeable guides, such as Edwin Salas, play a crucial role in ensuring the success of the Ausangate lagoons hiking day trip.
Guests praise the guides’ expertise and ability to navigate the varied terrain and weather conditions. The guides provide valuable information about the lagoons, the local community, and the natural surroundings, enhancing the overall experience.
They also ensure the group’s safety and well-being, offering assistance when needed, and tailoring the pace to accommodate different fitness levels.
The guides’ professionalism and dedication contribute significantly to the positive feedback received for this hiking adventure.
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Preparation Recommendations
Reviewers recommend several key preparations to ensure a successful and enjoyable Ausangate lagoons hiking day trip.
Firstly, being aware of and prepared for potential altitude sickness is crucial, as the hike takes place at high elevations.
Packing essential items like sunscreen, layers of warm clothing, and proper hiking boots is also highly advised.
Plus, reviewers emphasize the need to stay hydrated and well-fed throughout the trek, as the demanding nature of the hike can be taxing.
By following these recommendations, travelers can maximize their chances of having a safe and memorable experience exploring the stunning Ausangate lagoons.
- Be aware of and prepared for potential altitude sickness.
- Pack essential items like sunscreen, warm clothing, and proper hiking boots.
- Stay hydrated and well-fed throughout the trek.
Considerations and Cautions
Certain individuals may not be suited for this Ausangate lagoons hiking day trip due to pre-existing medical conditions. Pregnant women and those with heart problems are advised not to participate. Weather can change drastically, so proper preparation is crucial.
| Considerations | Cautions |
|---|---|
| Medical Conditions | Not Recommended for Pregnant Women or Those with Heart Problems |
| Weather Fluctuations | Drastic Changes Require Preparedness |
| Local Services | Merchandise, Snacks, and Bathroom Facilities Available Along the Path |
The tour allows freedom to explore, but participants must stay attentive to the group. Following the guide’s instructions and remaining alert is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Tour Package Details
The tour provides a comprehensive package for visitors seeking to explore the stunning Ausangate lagoons. Priced at from Kč982 per person, the 10-hour day trip includes:
-
Round-trip transportation from Cusco, with pickup from the Plaza de Armas and historical center.
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Breakfast in Pacchanta and a delicious lunch upon return.
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Services of a professional guide, first aid kit, oxygen balloon, walking sticks, and all necessary entry fees.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option.
With an overall rating of 4.5/5 from 90 reviews, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience amidst the natural wonders of the Ausangate region.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Difficult Is the Hiking Level for This Tour?
The hiking level for this tour is moderate, with a 2-hour hike to the viewpoint and a 3-hour tour of the lagoons. It requires a good level of fitness and preparation for varying weather conditions.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks?
Yes, participants can bring their own food and snacks on the tour. The tour includes breakfast and lunch, but providing additional provisions allows hikers to customize their experience and energy levels throughout the day.
Is There an Option to Hire a Porter for My Luggage?
Yes, you can hire a porter to carry your luggage during the Cusco hiking tour. The tour provider offers this service for an additional fee, allowing you to enjoy the hike without the burden of carrying your belongings.
What Is the Refund Policy if I Need to Cancel?
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Cancellations made within 24 hours of the start time are not eligible for a refund.
Can I Customize the Tour to Visit Additional Sites?
The tour itinerary is set, but you can request to add or modify stops if the guide approves and the changes don’t conflict with the tour’s overall schedule and logistics. Additional fees may apply for customized experiences.
Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Hiking Day Trip With Lunch
“It was an incredible experience! Pablo was a very nice guide, everything went alright. I recommend a lot for everyone to do this trip!”
Recap
The "Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Hiking Day Trip With Lunch" provides an immersive adventure through the stunning landscapes of the Ausangate region. Trekkers can expect breathtaking viewpoints, vibrant lagoons, and a delectable lunch, all while being led by experienced guides. This day trip offers an unforgettable opportunity to explore the natural wonders of the Andes in Cusco.
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