Cusco Ausangate Lagoons Day Trip Review: A Must-Read Before You Go

Okay, so you’re thinking about that day trip from Cusco to see the 7 Ausangate Lagoons, huh? Very cool! That said, before you actually go and plunk down some cash, it’s maybe worth getting a real lowdown, you know, an inside peek from someone who’s been there. I just came back, so here is what I experienced, all the details to help you figure out if this eye-popping Andean experience is very much for you. It’s not just about the views – of which there are many; it is also about getting there, what it does actually feel like, and, quite frankly, what to think about before you go.

Why Choose the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Day Trip?

Okay, so there are lots of trips from Cusco, that’s pretty clear, so that begs the question: what is the great appeal about this specific one? Is it, you know, particularly something special? Well, yeah, kind of it is. For one, you’re seeing some serious altitude – we’re talking over 15,000 feet, which provides sights that most people, realistically, just don’t ever see. Secondly, you get seven. Yep, seven vibrantly colored lagoons, each providing a totally different personality, with Ausangate Mountain keeping guard of that entire spectacle. You do also get away from crazy crowds. Compared to, let’s say, Machu Picchu, this trip offers a more secluded feel. For those seeking an adventure, it’s an unforgettable experience.

Booking Your Trip: What to Consider

Booking the trip can, often, be simple, but there are a couple points where there’s opportunities to be smart, you know? You will notice heaps of agencies providing this tour within Cusco, so shop around a little, maybe check reviews, that’s worth doing. And definitely, find out what is exactly included in the costs, that would be sensible. Find out if the agency provide things like trekking poles. Find out if they offer oxygen – these considerations could truly make or break this experience. Plus, think about when to go; the dry season (May-September) often offers much more of a spectacular landscape and, therefore, provides easier trekking conditions, you know? The trip from Cusco will normally cost you around $100, maybe a little less depending on how well you shop.

The Altitude Challenge: Preparation and Acclimatization

Alright, let’s get real about the altitude, that can truly play a role here. Ausangate sits really, very high, and altitude sickness is not just, you know, some myth – it’s a real deal. It’s very recommended spending at least 2-3 days acclimatizing in Cusco first, that’s smart. Consume plenty of water, sidestep alcohol, perhaps give coca tea a go, just so you know, and take it rather easy on your very first day in Cusco. Most tour guides may provide oxygen if anyone struggles, that’s also another reason to assess which tour operator to choose, very useful information to acquire. To handle any altitude-related challenges, that is also an extra consideration that is probably sensible to remember.

What to Pack: Essentials for the Day Hike

Okay, so, packing smart can improve this trip so much. Layering your clothes happens to be super crucial, is that correct. Beginning with a base layer, bringing a fleece or lightweight down jacket and a waterproof jacket that should set you up. Sunscreen is also important, without doubt, shades, a hat and, for sure, some comfortable hiking boots are, again, musts. Don’t forget some blister plasters for any hot spots which come about on your feet – new boots are known to generate some issues, that is right! A little backpack to place your water, snacks, and any extra camera lenses that, very cooly, you want to cart along. Having all this stuff should set you up rather well.

The Drive: Cusco to Pacchanta

The adventure begins way, very early – think around 4 am, maybe? Yep, that is right, pretty savage! Be prepared for a roughly 3-hour ride to Pacchanta, the starting point for your hike. Very cool thing to take note of is, the ride does show a real look at rural Peru, seeing tiny villages and those landscapes that start to shift as you go up. The roads may get a little bumpy, kind of. Catching some sleep happens to be difficult but have a go, try. Once at Pacchanta, take a second to loosen up and then stretch before the hike really begins. The local area does happen to be rather lovely.

Hitting the Trail: The Hike Begins

Alright, with everything going in place you will be hitting the path, yeah? The very first portion often runs on a very slow incline, so you may get an opportunity to fall in with the pace of it. The altitude is definitely present here; going a little bit slower than normal is totally fine – seriously, don’t burn yourself out within the initial hour, is that clear? Look behind, turning around sometimes helps spot those fantastic views that already appear. The guides tend to go in front and at the back, for extra reassurance if required. It’s also quite nice making conversations with your fellow travelers. It does give a boost, yeah?

Lagoon by Lagoon: Experiencing the Seven Wonders

You are there – now it’s about the main display: those lagoons, the reason for this journey! Every lagoon has its very own color, that really depends on minerals and sunlight – from deep blues right through to vibrant turquoises. Your guide probably will provide the detail surrounding each one. Don’t hesitate to whip your camera out – seriously! However, putting that equipment away, from time to time, and soaking the environment, also feels very neat. Usually, there are also alpacas close by, often in fancy outfits! Try not to get too close to these as their character is best when in a calm, non-aggressive, environment, you know? Be responsible.

Lunch with a View: A Well-Deserved Break

Lunch. You get some lunch included, and let me reassure you, it has never been so very welcome. Most tours put on a buffet-style lunch with things like quinoa soup, pasta, possibly some chicken – hearty stuff really very designed to recharge your batteries! Eating with the massive Andes mountains keeping watch over the scene provides this feeling which you likely will always have, yeah? Make a point of having conversations with fellow hikers; swap pictures and, really very honestly, talk about shared sensations from the hike. Make sure you rehydrate really well, because there will be a bit further to go, quite naturally.

The Descent: Heading Back Down

That walk down probably seems to be a lot easier, I mean, gravity helps, naturally! Although, be warned that downhill can, probably, be strenuous on your knees, particularly for anyone with weaker joints or joint problems. Using those trekking poles assists with stabilizing you and lessen the strain. Keep viewing the landscapes given it tends to present totally unique in diverse lights, as the afternoon comes closer, is that valid? Simply be mindful of those loose stones which may be present on that path. And also remember to glance over your shoulder and wave goodbye!

Pacchanta’s Hot Springs: An Optional Relaxation

So, some tours tend to factor in a visit to those Pacchanta hot springs right after the trek – a truly nice way for rewarding tired muscles! I can confirm the waters do soothe any aches, also reflecting on those remarkable views as you soak occurs to be a genuinely fantastic bonus. There usually is a small added charge for utilizing the springs; that probably will vary, I mean, check that before jumping, definitely. Do bring a swimsuit as well as a towel if planning a dip! Seriously, after the hike, that genuinely felt just superb. A wonderful option if you require an end to your journey, you know?

The Ride Back: Reflecting on the Day

That trip back might seem long given everyone probably feels quite physically tired by now, so true. Lots of people end up falling straight asleep. The sights are, still, remarkable when you glance out that window – take some seconds to maybe reflect on what has occurred, you know? Getting back happens to be estimated to be approximately 7 or 8 pm, but, very naturally, traffic or unforeseen delays often make things fluid, so true. Arriving back to that Cusco hotel you may feel physically beat. At the end of this all it might prove wise getting ready for, very maybe, the best sleep ever.

Is the Ausangate Lagoons Day Trip Worth It?

Okay, so, is it seriously worthwhile, very honestly? Totally, for pretty much any individual ready to push themselves maybe, just maybe. That setting is stunning; that feeling from achieving something kinda testing, genuinely satisfying. Clearly, this can’t be known as just a cakewalk – the altitude happens to be real and then preparations may also prove necessary. Although, if equipped, it’s truly a very outstanding addition to the travels throughout Peru. Maybe make sure the tour firms tick some boxes from this short review, okay? Get that research performed, maybe see some exceptional landscape. You may love this.

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