7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek: An Expert’s Review

Okay, so you’re thinking about checking out the 7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek near Cusco, Peru? It’s, in some respects, an absolutely fantastic choice! Very often overshadowed by the ever more crowded Rainbow Mountain, the 7 Lagoons trek presents a way more peaceful and equally amazing alternative. Very different to a lot of the super famous treks, this day trip provides unbelievable mountain scenery, glistening turquoise lakes, and, basically, a very good workout. The views? Seriously breathtaking.

What Makes the 7 Lagoons Trek Special?

Right then, what sets this trek apart, right? I mean, as a matter of fact, it’s very unlike most day trips from Cusco. It isn’t just another tourist hotspot packed with people. Instead, it’s a chance to seriously immerse yourself in the beautiful Andes Mountains. So, instead of seeing one super famous colored mountain, you’re going to see seven distinct, brilliantly colored lakes, all snuggled beneath the stunning Ausangate glacier. The feeling of seclusion, combined with the unbelievable natural artwork, very makes it all especially special. So too its a bit challenging.

And speaking of Ausangate, arguably this really is the star of the show. At over 6,384 meters (20,945 feet), as a matter of fact it towers over everything. So, in addition, this gigantic, snow-capped peak has some deep cultural meaning for the local people. Arguably, the Incas considered it holy, and to this day, you often see offerings and ceremonies taking place nearby. Experiencing this in itself is like being involved in local customs – is that cool or what?!

Planning Your Trek: What You Ought to Know

Alright, let’s talk preparation, we should, right? I mean, trekking at altitude needs that bit more planning, that’s very fair. Here are some ideas to remember:

Acclimatization: Arguably, this really is number one! Spend at least two or three days in Cusco (at 3,400 meters/11,152 feet) getting used to the thinner air. Seriously, don’t attempt the trek right after arriving. Altitude sickness is no joke! If you don’t take acclimatisation seriously you may start vomiting a little, which is very, very bad!

Booking a Tour: Right, there are loads of tour operators in Cusco that provide the 7 Lagoons Trek. Now, is that cool or what?! It’s a good plan to read reviews and compare what they include (transportation, meals, guide, entrance fees) before you sign up. Also, very ask about the size of the group. A tinier group is sometimes a better choice for a seriously more personal experience. Make sure you are involved in making wise selections. Seriously get into local selection customs and beliefs. What’s that cool local product they use for hiking again, so, so cool!!

What to Pack: So here is a list for what you ought to include, or not. You ought to include only very essential stuff. I mean like really basic!

A comfortable daypack
Layers of clothing (thermal base layers, fleece jacket, waterproof outer shell)
Hiking boots with very, very good ankle support
Warm hat and gloves
Sunscreen and sunglasses (the sun at altitude can be intense)
Plenty of water (at least 2-3 liters)
Snacks (energy bars, dried fruit, nuts)
Coca leaves (help with altitude sickness – they are a tradition, that’s pretty serious)
Camera (very important to capture the unforgettable views!)
Cash (for souvenirs or extra snacks)

Physical Fitness: The 7 Lagoons Trek, basically, is rated as moderate to difficult. So, be ready for a full day of trekking with some steep inclines. I mean like the big hills will kill you. Regular exercise, just a little before your trip, will allow you to experience the journey far easier.

Experiencing the 7 Lagoons: What to Expect on the Trail

Now, let’s run through what a trek day usually looks like, eh? Tours tend to start very early, that’s very, very, very bad, with pickup from your Cusco accommodation around 4-5 am. From there, you’ll take around a three-hour drive to the starting spot of the trek.

The trailhead, basically, is typically near the village of Pacchanta, more or less. Very often, this village has hot springs where you could actually chill after your hike, if your group schedules it in, I guess. It adds a very pleasant finish to the day. So too if your group schedules this it is a very pleasant and positive feeling you will encounter!

On the Trail:The hike typically loops for around 12-15 kilometers (7.5-9.3 miles) and goes up to altitudes of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Now, is that cool or what?! It goes without saying that pacing yourself, taking steady steps, and drinking plenty of fluids will allow you to conquer it! Each lagoon displays a different tint, based on its mineral content and the reflection of the sky. Expect to observe glacial lakes with unreal blues and greens! Also, very be on the watch for local wildlife, including vicuñas and lots of mountain birds!

The Lagoons: So here is what you might observe:

Ausangate Qocha: It is usually the first lagoon you encounter. With it’s almost surreal blue colors from melted glaciers it seems just amazing! It feels awesome!
Azul Qocha: This second lake is actually a short detour from the path. Very crystal clear! You may even be convinced its pretty good!
Puka Qocha: This translates into the red lake and offers stunning views! More of the views? Yes they are actually still cool!
Alqa Qocha: The color is not nearly as vibrant compared to that of the other lagoons! You would really expect even cooler water. Is the water super cool in comparison to any other place? That water there is very super in comparison.
Q’omer Qocha: Now that one has very strong colors. Just wait a bit, the color on that one lagoon is awesome, dude!!
Mina Paruro Qocha: Just like Q’omer Qocha, it has fantastic colors, which makes it feel so cool! It’s almost amazing.
Patacocha: Okay this may well be a mirage on that final climb! Its probably really the case for you after so long. Expecting that after your journey feels positive!!

Remember too that the weather changes suddenly up there. That’s pretty rough I reckon. I mean seriously bring clothing for all occasions, just a little precaution can have all the affect. And pay respect to the mountain – it’s actually very likely you’re on holy ground.

Making it Responsible: Respecting the Environment and Community

Travel lightly. Very treat the location with the respect it has long warranted. It’s very possible to take these simple steps:

Leave No Trace: Take out everything you carry in. More or less, don’t leave any garbage at all on the trek.

Support Local Communities: Very pick tour operators who have good principles. Respect all involved, don’t have bad principles please dude.

Be Mindful of Wildlife: Observe from a distance. Very don’t disturb all the cute llamas dude.

Conserve Water: It’s important. Save water and everything will be alright.

Respect Local Customs: As a matter of fact, respect those holy places!! Seriously, that culture may have an effect. It is said you must pay them the most attention and worship like you worship those llamas and peaks.

Is the 7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek Best for You?

Alright, now for the very significant question. It’s possible that this trek meets your desires and capability? Consider, you have got to feel like one, I believe.

You Love a Physical Challenge: You feel at one with steep trails. Now, is that actually so for you?

You Want to Avoid Crowds: You dream of tranquil mountain scenes.

You Appreciate Natural Beauty: The idea of seven vivid glacial lakes calls.

You’re Interested in Culture: Very engaging with Inca heritage seems awesome. Is there anything cooler? Tell us!

If you’re nodding along to most of these points, seriously then this hike is just that little meant for you. I guarantee that it’ll just make one of your favorite memories.

Overall, the 7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek isn’t merely a hike. So too its something very similar. Very comparable to other treks around, yet incomparable too. More or less a very different feel and culture awaits! Arguably it actually goes to the hearts, minds and bodies.

Final Thoughts

Okay, seriously so should you do the 7 Lagoons Ausangate Trek? If, perhaps, you’re searching for an alternate adventure, something separate from the crowds and brimming with outstanding beauty, that choice could just be spot on. So make the climb, see the colors, respect the mountains. It’s actually very something you will treasure.

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