From Cusco: Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour + Meals

The Ausangate Route in Peru’s Andes is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, and the 7 Lagoons Tour from Cusco promises to immerse visitors in this captivating landscape. Departing at the crack of dawn, travelers can expect to witness stunning vistas, including the vibrant Azulcocha and Pukacocha lagoons, while fueled by a hearty breakfast and lunch. With safety measures and bilingual guides in place, this full-day excursion offers a chance to explore the region’s serene lakes and majestic mountain peaks. But the true allure of this tour lies in the opportunity to connect with the Andean environment and uncover its hidden gems – a prospect that leaves one eager to embark on this remarkable adventure.

Key Points

• This full-day excursion from Cusco takes visitors on a 5-hour hike through the Peruvian Andes to visit 7 stunning lakes, including Azulcocha and Pukacocha.
• The tour includes pickup from Cusco accommodations, a hearty breakfast, and lunch, as well as entrance fees to the lagoons and hot springs.
• The hike is rated as moderate to challenging, and the tour may not be suitable for individuals with certain health issues.
• Participants will have the opportunity to soak in hot springs and enjoy breathtaking views of the Ausangate region after the hike.
• The tour is priced from £33.12 per person and has a duration of approximately 14 hours, with a departure time of 4:30 a.m. from Cusco.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

The Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour is a full-day excursion that takes travelers on a journey through the stunning landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.

Priced from £33.12 per person, this 14-hour tour includes pickup from accommodations in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. and guided exploration in both Spanish and English.

Participants will hike for 5 hours round-trip to visit 7 picturesque lagoons.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with heart problems, vertigo, respiratory issues, visual impairments, recent surgeries, or motion sickness.

Guests can cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.

Itinerary and Experience

The tour kicks off with a departure from Cusco to Ocongate, followed by a journey to Pacchanta, which sits at an elevation of 4,200 meters above sea level.

Once there, a hearty breakfast is provided to fuel the group for the day’s hike. The adventure begins at 8:00 a.m. as the group sets out to visit five stunning lagoons:

• Azulcocha
• Pukacocha
• Oqecocha
• Alqacocha
• Qomercocha

The round-trip hike takes approximately 5 hours.

Upon returning to Pacchanta, the group enjoys a well-deserved lunch and a relaxing soak in the hot springs before the estimated 6:00 p.m. return to Cusco.

Inclusions

The tour includes a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable and well-supported experience.

Travelers will enjoy tourist transportation to and from the starting point in Pacchanta. An English and Spanish-speaking guide will lead the group, providing insights and assistance throughout the journey.

Meals include a hearty breakfast and lunch to keep explorers energized. Safety equipment like a first aid kit and oxygen bottle are also provided.

Entrance fees to the 7 lagoons and the Pacchanta hot springs are covered, allowing seamless access to the natural wonders.

With these inclusions, participants can focus on seeing the stunning Andean landscapes.

What to Bring and Not Allowed

Essentials for the Ausangate Route Tour include a valid passport or ID, warm clothing to combat the chilly Andean temperatures, sunglasses and a sun hat to shield from the intense UV rays, sturdy hiking shoes, sunscreen to protect the skin, and a water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the journey.

Travelers should leave behind:

• Luggage or large bags
• Alcohol and drugs
• Litter
• Explosive substances
• Alcoholic drinks in the vehicle
• Nudity

These restrictions ensure the safety and enjoyment of all participants during the tour.

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Customer Feedback

Based on the available customer reviews, the Ausangate Route Tour has garnered a mixed overall rating of 3.3 out of 5 stars from 3 reviewers.

While some praised the beautiful landscapes and recommended the hike, others expressed concerns about the tour’s organization, lack of information, vehicle condition, and driver safety.

Specifically, reviewers noted poor planning, insufficient details provided, and issues with the transportation quality and driver behavior.

Despite the stunning natural scenery, the tour’s execution seems to have fallen short for some customers, suggesting room for improvement in the tour operator’s logistics and service delivery.

Tour Highlights

Embarking on the Ausangate Route Tour promises an immersive adventure amidst the region’s stunning natural wonders.

Trekkers will be captivated by the picturesque landscapes, including:

• The azure hues of Azulcocha Lake
• The vibrant Pukacocha Lake, nestled against a backdrop of snow-capped peaks
• The serene Oqecocha Lake, reflecting the surrounding rugged terrain
• The serene Alqacocha and Qomercocha lakes, each offering unique vantage points to admire the breathtaking scenery.

The tour’s carefully curated itinerary ensures that participants have the opportunity to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Ausangate region, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Packing Tips

Packing the right gear is crucial for ensuring a comfortable and successful Ausangate Route Tour.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, along with warm clothing like jackets, gloves, and hats to protect against the cool mountain temperatures. Sun protection, including sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen, is a must. Comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes are essential for navigating the trails.

Don’t forget to pack plenty of water and snacks to keep energy levels up. Large bags and luggage aren’t allowed, so travelers should pack light.

Banned items include alcohol, drugs, explosives, and open alcohol containers in the vehicle. Following these packing tips will help make the Ausangate adventure a memorable and enjoyable experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

Travelers may have additional questions about the Ausangate Route Tour. Some frequently asked questions include:

• What’s the difficulty level of the hike?
• Can I book this tour if I’ve a medical condition?
• Is there an option to do a shorter version of the hike?
• Can I bring my own food and drinks on the tour?

The hike is considered moderate to challenging, covering about 5 hours of round-trip trekking.

Certain medical conditions may make the tour unsuitable, so it’s best to consult the tour operator.

While the full 7-lagoon hike is the main option, a shorter 3-lagoon version may be available upon request.

Bringing personal snacks and water is allowed, but the tour includes breakfast and lunch.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Physically Demanding Is the Hike?

The hike is moderately challenging, covering around 5 hours of walking at high altitudes. It involves climbing to an elevation of 4,200 meters, which may be strenuous for those unaccustomed to such heights. Proper preparation and pacing are advised.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Requirements?

There are no specific age or fitness requirements for this tour, but it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with certain medical conditions, or those who struggle with physical activity. Participants should be in reasonably good shape to handle the hike.

Can We Stop and Rest During the Hike?

Yes, hikers can stop and rest during the 5-hour round-trip hike. The tour allows for breaks to enjoy the beautiful lagoon scenery and catch one’s breath on the high-altitude trail.

Is It Possible to Visit the Lagoons Individually?

Based on the information provided, it seems the tour follows a set itinerary where the group visits the 7 lagoons together. There’s no indication that visitors can explore the lagoons individually during the hike. The tour appears to have a fixed schedule.

What Are the Specific Safety Precautions Taken?

The tour provider takes several safety precautions, including providing a first-aid kit, oxygen bottle, and live guide. Individuals with medical conditions aren’t recommended to participate. Proper hiking gear and clothing are required for the high-altitude hike.

Recap

The "From Cusco: Ausangate Route – 7 Lagoons Tour + Meals" is a breathtaking adventure through the Peruvian Andes. With a 5-hour hike, stunning lagoons, and hearty meals included, this tour offers an unforgettable experience. Safety measures and multilingual guidance ensure a memorable day for all participants, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to explore the natural beauty of the region.

You can check if your dates are available here: