Exploring the Ausangate Trek: A Journey through Peru's Andean Wonders
Day 4: Chasing Rainbows and Soaking Sore Muscles: My Day at Ausangate's 7 Lagunas
Discover the magic of Ausangate's 7 Lagunas and the soothing embrace of Pacchanta's hot springs. A day of Andean beauty and relaxation.
Seven Lagoons and Steamy Dreams
Today was a day of high-altitude wonders and well-deserved relaxation. The Ausangate region never ceases to amaze, and today's adventure to the 7 Lagunas followed by a soak in the Pacchanta hot springs was nothing short of magical. It's days like these that remind me why I traded the predictability of corporate life for the freedom of freelance and the thrill of the open road.
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ausangate 7 Lagunas, a stunning trek through vibrant lagoons and majestic mountains in the heart of the Andes.
The morning started early, as most Andean adventures do. We piled into our transport, fueled by excitement and Restaurante Ausangate's hearty breakfast. The drive itself was a scenic prelude, winding through valleys dotted with small villages. I always find myself reflecting on my family back in Berlin during these moments, especially Leila. I imagine her wide-eyed at the sight of the alpacas and llamas we pass, a stark contrast to the pigeons she chases in Tiergarten. I made a mental note to find a good alpaca plushie in TEXTILES POMATAYLLA tomorrow to bring back for her.
Our destination: the famed Ausangate 7 Lagunas. As we ascended, the landscape transformed into a surreal panorama of snow-capped peaks and vibrant turquoise lakes. The air thinned, reminding us of the altitude, but the views were more than worth the effort. Hiking alongside my friends, I felt a sense of camaraderie and shared wonder. We were all breathing the same crisp air, marveling at the same breathtaking vistas. It was a shared experience that transcended our individual lives back home.
The hike itself was challenging, but not overly strenuous. The trail wound its way past each of the seven lagoons, each boasting a unique hue and character. From the deep blues to the shimmering emerald greens, it was a photographer's dream. I made sure to capture as much as possible, already envisioning the blog post and the chance to share this beauty with the Evendo audience. I did regret forgetting my extra memory card, though. Note to self: always double-check the essentials!
The mountains are calling and I must go. - John Muir
We stopped for lunch at Huillca Restaurant, where the traditional Andean fare was both delicious and nourishing. The flavors were simple yet satisfying, a perfect complement to the raw beauty surrounding us. I even tried some coca tea, hoping it would give me an extra boost for the afternoon's adventures.
Discover authentic Peruvian cuisine at Huillca Restaurant in Ausangate, where traditional flavors meet breathtaking mountain views.
After conquering the 7 Lagunas, our reward awaited: the Aguas Termales Pacchanta. As the sun began to dip behind the mountains, we soaked our weary muscles in the warm, mineral-rich waters. It was pure bliss. The combination of the cool air and the hot springs created a sense of utter relaxation. I closed my eyes, letting the stress melt away, and thought about Greta. I knew she would have loved this moment. The springs are located at 4,200 meters above sea level, and the water temperature ranges from 38 to 44 degrees Celsius. There are seven pools of varying sizes and depths to enjoy.
Discover the healing powers of nature at Aguas Termales Pacchanta, a serene thermal bath retreat in the heart of Peru's breathtaking landscapes.
As evening approached, we made our way back to Cusco, stopping for dinner at Full House Peruvian cuisine & craft beer. The food was delicious, and the craft beer was a welcome treat after a day of hiking and soaking. The atmosphere was lively, and we shared stories and laughter, reliving the day's adventures.
Discover authentic Peruvian flavors at Full House - a must-visit restaurant in Aguas Calientes for food lovers exploring Machu Picchu.
The night ended with a brief stop at The Space Club Cusco. The music was great, and the atmosphere was electric, but after such a long day, I was ready for bed. Plus, tomorrow we are planning to visit Rainbow Mountain Cusipata Trail Parking and Área de Conservación Regional Ausangate.
Discover the electrifying nightlife of Cusco at The Space Club, where vibrant beats and an energetic crowd await every night.
Today was a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation, a testament to the magic of the Ausangate region. From the stunning 7 Lagunas to the soothing Pacchanta hot springs, it was a day that will stay with me for a long time. And as I drift off to sleep, I can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to experience such incredible beauty and share it with the world.
Join us on a 14-day adventure through Peru's Ausangate Trek, exploring breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultures with friends.
Meet this Featured Explorer
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Occupation: Freelance Marketing Consultant
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Country: Germany
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Age: 38
Aloha, world! I'm Kai Lee, a 38-year-old travel blogger originally from Hilo, Hawaii, now based in Berlin with my amazing wife, Greta, and our daughter, Leila. After years of soaking up the island vibes, I traded my surfboard for a laptop and embarked on a journey to explore the globe. As a freelance marketing consultant, I have the flexibility to blend work with my passion for travel, documenting our family's adventures on my blog, Evendo. I'm all about sustainable tourism, cultural exchange, and creating meaningful experiences while leaving a positive impact on the planet. Join us as we discover hidden gems, share travel tips, and celebrate the beauty of our diverse world.
- Sustainability
- Cultural exchange
- History
- Ocean conservation
- Photography
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