A day in the Andes, paced by mountain views. This 1-day tour brings you from Cusco into the high country to track down the 7 Ausangate lagoons, then end with a soak at Pacchanta hot springs. I love that it feels focused and nature-first, not like a box-checking parade, and I especially like the way the guides keep an eye on altitude pace as you climb.

Two things I really like: you get a real hike (around 10 km total) with photo-worthy scenery, and you also get a human-scale experience with stops in local community areas for breakfast and lunch. The main thing to consider is that this is intense hiking for the height—so if you’re sensitive to altitude or want an easy day, you’ll need to manage expectations carefully.

Quick hits before you go

• Ausangate’s 7 lagoons: a scenic sequence, not just one pretty stop
• Around 10 km walking: plan for real effort at altitude, even if the route is “medium”
• Hot springs at Pacchanta: a warm finish after the cold air and exertion
• Bilingual guidance (English/Spanish): and guides who pay attention to how you’re feeling
• Food in local communities: breakfast and lunch are part of the day, not an afterthought
• Optional horse at the start: helpful if you want a lighter launch into the route

From Cusco to Ausangate Lagoons: what the day is really about

This tour is built around one big idea: see how the snow-fed Ausangate creates a chain of lagoons high in the Andes. You’re spending your day outdoors, moving between points where the scenery changes fast—colors, wind, and that long, wide Andes sky that makes you want to stop every few minutes.

I like that the format is simple. You’re picked up in Cusco, fed in Paccanta, then you walk the lagoon route, and you’re back before night falls. It’s the kind of trip that helps you experience a different side of the Cusco region without needing multiple days and extra hotel nights.

Morning Pickup and Breakfast in Paccanta

You start with hotel pickup in Cusco, and you should be ready in the lobby about 10 minutes before the scheduled time. From there, the day turns toward the community of Paccanta, where breakfast gets you moving with something more substantial than a quick snack.

This breakfast stop matters more than you’d think. The hike is in thin air, and a steady start helps your body handle the climb-like effort even when you’re not sprinting. I’d treat breakfast as part of your altitude strategy, not just a meal.

The Trek to the First Lagoon (and why the pacing feels different)

After breakfast, you head into the Andes mountain range. The first lagoon is about a 1.5-hour walk away, so the morning gradually transitions from travel-time legs to hiking legs.

A good mental model: you’re not just “doing distance,” you’re doing altitude. Even if the route is described as doable or medium for some people, the effort can feel heavier in the beginning. When the air is thin, your breathing becomes the boss.

Then you continue through the lagoon sequence. The full route is about 10 km, and you’re looking at roughly 5 hours of walking time across the day’s outdoor stretch.

Visiting the 7 Lagoons: what you’re looking for each step of the way

The heart of the tour is visiting the 7 beautiful lagoons of Ausangate in the middle of the Andes. Each lagoon is surrounded by high-country fauna and vegetation, so you’re not only photographing water. You’re also noticing how the ecosystem survives cold and wind.

Here’s what makes this more interesting than a single scenic viewpoint: the lagoons appear as part of a system created by snowmelt from Ausangate. That means you’ll see changes in light and color as you move, plus small shifts in the surrounding vegetation and terrain.

Also, keep your eyes open for the practical side of the trail. On a day like this, footing and caution matter. The natural settings are beautiful, and they can also be slick, uneven, or exposed. Treat every step like it counts.

The altitude reality check: how the guides affect your comfort

Altitude is the main variable that can make or break your experience. This isn’t a flat stroll where everyone can keep the same pace. It’s a hike where breathing slows down, and your body asks for shorter bursts and steady rhythm.

I really value the way the guides handle this side of the day. On this tour, I’ve seen examples of guides staying attentive to altitude concerns—checking how people are feeling and adjusting the approach. One guide named Frank is specifically described as careful about altitude, and another guide named Guillermo is noted for keeping the trip relaxed even when the hike feels intense.

If you want to get the best version of the day, follow this simple strategy:

• Keep your pace controlled, especially early.
• Stop briefly when you need to catch your breath.
• Let the guide know if you feel off.

You don’t need to “push through” discomfort at altitude.

Pacchanta hot springs and lunch: the payoff after the hike

Once the trekking portion is done, you return to the community of Paccanta to recharge. The hot springs are the classic reward here, because they help your muscles cool down and recover from the cold and effort.

Hot springs entry is optional and costs 5 soles if you want to enter the baths. Even if you don’t use the hot springs, you still get the community time and then lunch.

Lunch is included, and it’s another part of why this tour works as a full day. You’re not just eating on the move. You’re getting a proper break after exertion—time to sit, warm up, and reset for the ride back to Cusco.

Price and what your $35 really buys

The price is $35 per person for a 1-day tour. What you get at this price is meaningful: transport, breakfast, a bilingual guide (English/Spanish), and lunch.

You should also budget for two potential add-ons:

• An entry ticket of 10 soles (not included)
• Optional Pacchanta hot springs entry for 5 soles

That’s a small extra cost compared with what’s already included—especially since transport and guide support are covered. In plain terms: this is good value if you’re comfortable hiking at altitude and you want a structured day out of Cusco with meals handled.

If your plan includes both entry fees, you’re spending a bit more than $35 total, but you’re still getting a full day package rather than piecing together multiple vendors.

Bathrooms, timing, and the one thing you should plan for

For me, the most important practical consideration isn’t the scenery—it’s basic logistics during long outdoor hours. One recurring point from real experiences is that bathroom availability can be something to consider on this kind of hike.

So here’s what I’d do: plan ahead mentally. If nature calls, don’t wait until it becomes urgent. Go early when you can. And expect that facilities may not feel like what you’d find in town.

Also, there’s a caution worth respecting about timing. In at least one experience, pickup and coordination didn’t go smoothly for a group, with delays and last-minute changes. That doesn’t mean the tour is always like that, but it does mean you should be proactive:

• Confirm your pickup details the day before.
• Have a little patience for mountain schedules.
• Keep your phone charged and reachable.

What to pack for this hike (so the day stays fun)

Because the tour is high-altitude hiking, your comfort depends heavily on what you bring. You don’t need fancy gear, but you do need the basics for wind and cold.

I’d pack:

• Layers (even in daytime, it can feel sharp in the high Andes)
• Gloves or something for cold hands
• Good hiking shoes with grip
• A warm layer for pauses and the ride home
• Water (and a way to manage it comfortably)
• Sun protection (high altitude sun is no joke)

And if you’re prone to altitude symptoms, don’t be shy about telling your guide how you feel. This day is easier when the guide knows your limits early.

Who this tour suits best

This tour is best for you if you want an authentic day outside Cusco and you’re okay with a serious hike. People describe it as intense for some, but manageable with a steady pace and the right support.

You’ll likely enjoy it most if:

• You’re used to walking on uneven terrain.
• You want the quiet, nature-focused feel rather than a heavy-tourist schedule.
• You want community food stops—breakfast and lunch are part of the day.
• You like the idea of having a warm recovery stop at the end.

If you’re chasing a super-easy day with minimal walking, you might find the distance and altitude challenging. The good news is that there’s an option to ride a horse at the start of the route, which can lighten the beginning.

Should you book the Cusco 7 Lagoons Tour?

I think you should book this tour if you’re motivated by Ausangate lagoons, you’re comfortable hiking at altitude, and you want a single-day itinerary that includes meals and guide support without complicated planning.

Don’t book it if you strongly prefer easy walks, or if you know you react badly to altitude and can’t pace down. In that case, consider a gentler alternative from Cusco or plan for medical advice before attempting high-elevation activities.

My final take: this tour is value-rich for the effort you put in. You pay an accessible price, you get transport, guide, breakfast, lunch, and a powerful outdoor story—cold air, long views, and a warm finish. Just respect the altitude and protect your day with practical prep.

FAQ

How long is the 7 Lagoons Tour from Cusco?

The tour duration is 1 day.

What’s included in the tour price?

Transport, breakfast, a bilingual guide (English/Spanish), and lunch are included.

Are the entry tickets included?

No. There is an entry ticket of 10 soles that is not included.

Are the Pacchanta hot springs included?

Hot springs entry is optional and costs 5 soles if you want to enter.

What time does the tour end in Cusco?

You return to the city of Cusco around 7:00 pm.

What language options are available?

The live tour guide is available in English and Spanish.

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