Ausangate Lagoons Full Day Tour
Ausangate Lagoons Tour: Hike to the Sacred Apu
Venturing into the vastness of the Vilcanota mountain range is an experience that transforms any traveler’s perspective. The Ausangate Lagoons tour invites you to explore the circuit of shimmering lakes nestled at the foot of the highest and most sacred snow-capped peak in the Cusco region. Throughout this full-day trek, you’ll witness a geological paradise where the deep blue and emerald green of the lagoons contrast spectacularly with the perpetual white of the glaciers.
This expedition stands out not only for its breathtaking natural beauty but also for the profound cultural connection it offers. You’ll hike surrounded by herds of alpacas and llamas in a territory where Andean communities still jealously guard their ancestral traditions.
As the perfect reward after the challenge of the high-altitude trek, the tour culminates with a well-deserved and relaxing soak in the natural hot springs of the picturesque village of Pacchanta.
ITINERARY
Itinerary
The following outline describes the day’s expedition to the Seven Lakes Circuit. Times are approximate and may be adjusted according to weather conditions and the group’s needs.
- 4:00 – 4:30 AM – Pick-up from your hotel in the historic center of Cusco to board the tourist transport.
- 4:30 AM – Departure from Cusco, heading southeast along the Interoceanic Highway until the turnoff towards the Andes Mountains.
- 7:30 AM – Arrival at the Andean community of Pacchanta. Here, we will enjoy a nutritious local breakfast, essential to face the cold and the physical exertion.
- 8:30 AM – Start of the trek to the lagoon circuit. The ascent is gradual and will allow us to progressively visit beautiful bodies of water such as Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, and Q’omercocha, always with the imposing Ausangate mountain as a backdrop.
- 12:30 PM – End of the trek and descent back to the community of Pacchanta.
- 1:00 PM – Free time to relax. You’ll have the opportunity to soak in the soothing hot spring pools with direct views of the snow-capped peaks.
- 2:00 PM – Enjoy a hearty Andean lunch prepared by locals in Pacchanta to replenish your energy.
- 3:00 PM – Board your transport and begin the return trip to Cusco.
- 6:30 PM – 7:00 PM – Arrival in Cusco. Our services will conclude near the Plaza de Armas or at your accommodation.
INCLUDES
Includes
- Pick-up from your hotel located in downtown Cusco.
- Modern, fully equipped tourist transportation for high-altitude trekking (round trip).
- Meals consisting of breakfast and an Andean lunch in the community of Pacchanta.
- Service of a professional tour guide specializing in high-altitude trekking (Spanish and English).
- Wooden trekking poles for support and balance during the hike.
- First-aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
Not Include
- Entrance fee to the Ausangate Lakes Circuit (direct payment to community representatives).
- Entrance fee to the Pacchanta hot springs.
- Horse rental for the circuit (optional service arranged directly with the community members).
- Bottled drinks, rehydration drinks, or snacks during the trek.
- Personal expenses and purchases of local textiles.
- Voluntary tips for the guide and driver.
- Travel and rescue insurance.
Recommendations
Recommendations
- Ensure excellent acclimatization by spending at least three days in Cusco before embarking on this expedition, as the entire route takes place above 4,000 meters (14,000 feet) in altitude.
- Pack strategically using the layering system (thermal, fleece, and waterproof windbreaker), given the intensely cold glacial climate and strong winds.
- Pack a swimsuit, towel, and sandals in a small backpack if you plan to visit the hot springs at the end of the trek.
- Wear high-top, waterproof trekking boots with excellent traction for safe walking on rocky and wet terrain.
- Bring cash (local currency in small denominations) to cover community fees, hot spring access, and any unforeseen expenses.
Additional
Additional information
- Difficulty: Moderate to high. Although the terrain doesn’t have the steepest slopes of some other routes, the hike is long (approximately 10 kilometers in total), and the lack of oxygen presents a significant physical challenge.
- Climate: Extreme high-altitude cold. Temperatures along the route can drop below freezing, and icy winds and even sudden solid precipitation (snow or hail) are common.
- Altitude: The community of Pacchanta is located at 4,200 meters above sea level, and the highest points of the lagoon circuit reach 4,600 meters.
- Recommended age: This excursion is recommended for travelers between 12 and 60 years old who are in good physical condition and do not suffer from heart or respiratory problems.
- Reference times: An early morning departure is mandatory to take advantage of the most stable weather in the mountains and avoid the strong winds that develop after midday.
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