Tour 7 Ausangate Lagoons

The Tour 7 Ausangate Lagoons offers an immersive trekking experience through the breathtaking Ausangate mountain range in Peru’s Cusco region. Designed to showcase the area’s scenic beauty and cultural heritage, the guided tour takes participants on a journey to vibrant glacial lakes while providing insights into Inca mythology. With hotel pickup, meals, and access to hot springs included, this comprehensive package caters to adventurous travelers. However, before embarking on this trek, it’s essential to consider the physical demands and potential service quality issues that may arise, as they can greatly impact the overall experience.

About Your Stay

• The Ausangate Lagoons tour offers a scenic hiking experience to explore seven glacial lakes in the Andes mountains near Cusco, Peru.
• The tour includes transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and access to hot springs, providing an immersive cultural and natural experience.
• Participants should have moderate fitness levels, as the tour involves 4-5 hours of hiking, and be aware of potential challenges due to high altitude.
• While the tour has received mixed reviews, positives include the stunning landscapes and insights into Inca mythology, while concerns include service quality issues.
• Deciding to book the tour depends on individual priorities and willingness to accept potential drawbacks, such as group size and accessibility limitations.

Overview of the Tour

The Tour 7 Ausangate Lagoons is a hiking excursion located in Cusco, Peru that takes travelers on a journey to explore the stunning Ausangate mountain range and its surrounding lagoons.

Rated 3.5 out of 5 stars, the tour promises scenic views, cultural insights, and a moderate level of physical activity. Priced from $82.06 per person, the tour accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, though some reports indicate the group size may be larger.

The itinerary includes hotel pickup, transportation, an experienced guide, and access to hot springs, delivering an immersive experience in the Andean landscape.

Itinerary and Inclusions

The tour begins with a pickup from either the traveler’s hotel or the Plaza Mayor de Cusco, the main square in the city.

The itinerary includes:

• Hiking on the Trail of the Apu, which offers scenic views and opportunities to learn about Inca mythology and local culture
• Complimentary breakfast and lunch
• Hotel pickup, entrance to the 7 Lagoons Tourist Route, and transportation by tourist vehicle
• A professional guide, a first aid kit, horses, and hot spring tickets

The round-trip lasts approximately 8 hours, with 4-5 hours spent hiking.

This tour isn’t suitable for those with limited mobility or serious medical conditions, as it requires a moderate level of physical fitness.

Transportation Details

Pickup for the tour occurs 10 minutes before the scheduled time, though staff may communicate last-minute changes to the pickup timing.

The tour starts and ends at the meeting point in Plaza Mayor de Cusco. The round trip takes approximately 8 hours, with 4-5 hours dedicated to hiking.

Travelers can expect to return to the starting location at the end of the day. Transportation is provided via tourist vehicles, and the staff ensure the group’s safe arrival and departure.

Health and Safety Considerations

Accessibility to the Ausangate Lagoons tour is limited, as the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.

The tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness, as the itinerary involves 4-5 hours of hiking. Travelers should consider the following health and safety factors:

• The high altitude of the Andes region can pose risks for those with respiratory or heart conditions.
• Extreme weather conditions, such as sudden changes in temperature and precipitation, can be challenging.
• Potential exposure to wildlife, including alpacas and llamas, requires caution.
• Proper hydration, sun protection, and appropriate clothing are essential for a safe and enjoyable experience.

Customer Feedback and Experiences

According to customer reviews, the Ausangate Lagoons tour offers both positive and negative aspects.

On the positive side, travelers praise the scenic landscapes and knowledgeable guides.

However, the tour operator has faced criticism for misleading advertising regarding group size and pickup times.

Plus, non-Spanish speakers have reported poor handling of conflicts between them and Spanish-speaking passengers.

Some customers have also expressed dissatisfaction with the dining experiences, citing hygiene concerns, as well as long wait times during transportation, especially for early morning pickups.

Exploring the Ausangate Lagoons

The Ausangate Lagoons, nestled in the heart of the Cusco region, offer travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes.

Hike along the Trail of the Apu, where you’ll:

• Marvel at the vibrant hues of the seven glacial lakes
• Learn about the Inca’s mythological connections to the Apu, a sacred mountain
• Witness the diverse array of wildlife, including the iconic Andean condor
• Soak in the rejuvenating waters of nearby hot springs

This tour showcases the region’s natural wonders while providing insights into the rich cultural heritage of the local communities.

Deciding to Book the Tour

With the details provided, travelers must weigh the tour’s positive and negative aspects to decide whether to book the Ausangate Lagoons experience.

The scenic landscapes and knowledgeable guides are appealing, but the service quality issues, such as misleading advertising, poor handling of conflicts, and unsatisfactory dining experiences, are concerning.

Plus, the group size reported sometimes exceeds the maximum, and there are accessibility limitations.

Travelers with moderate fitness levels may find the 4-5 hours of hiking rewarding, but those with serious medical conditions or mobility issues should reconsider.

Ultimately, the decision depends on one’s priorities and willingness to accept the potential drawbacks of this tour.

Questions About Your Stay

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t specify a minimum age requirement. However, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions, indicating it may not be suitable for young children or infants.

Does the Tour Operator Provide Any Luggage Storage Facilities?

The tour operator doesn’t explicitly mention providing luggage storage facilities. Travelers should inquire about storage options if they need to store any belongings during the tour.

Are There Any Additional Costs for Porter Services or Pack Animals?

The tour includes horses to carry travelers’ belongings, so there are no additional costs for porter services or pack animals. However, travelers should inquire about any weight limits or extra fees for excessive personal items.

Can the Tour Be Customized or Personalized to Individual Preferences?

Based on the information provided, it’s unclear whether the Tour 7 Ausangate Lagoons can be customized or personalized to individual preferences. The tour itinerary and inclusions seem fixed, with no mention of flexible options.

What Is the Guide-To-Participant Ratio During the Hiking Portions of the Tour?

The tour’s maximum group size is 12 participants, though it’s reported they sometimes overload to 19-20. The guide-to-participant ratio during the hiking portions isn’t specified, but likely ranges from 1:12 to 1:20 based on the group size details provided.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Tour 7 Ausangate Lagoons offers a unique opportunity to explore the breathtaking Ausangate mountain range in Peru. While the trek can be physically demanding, the stunning glacial lakes and insights into Inca mythology make it a worthwhile adventure. Travelers should carefully consider their fitness level and potential service quality issues before booking this comprehensive package.