Adventurous Escape to Peru: The Ausangate Trek

Seven Lagoons and Steamy Bliss

Day three of our Ausangate trek was nothing short of magical. It was a day of vibrant colors, both in the stunning landscapes we traversed and in the rich cultural experiences we soaked in. From the breathtaking 7 Lagunas to the soothing Aguas Termales Pacchanta, every moment felt like a postcard come to life. I couldn't wait to share it all with you.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Cafè Inkaterra in Cusco. The anticipation for the day ahead was palpable as we fueled up with traditional Peruvian fare. I always appreciate starting the day with a good meal, especially knowing the physical demands of trekking at high altitude. I made sure to have a coca tea to help with the altitude. I remember when David and I first moved to Toronto, I missed the familiar tastes of Bermuda so much. Discovering Caribbean restaurants in the city was such a comfort, a little piece of home away from home. It’s funny how food can be such a powerful connector to our roots.

With our stomachs full and spirits high, we set off for the 7 Lagunas (7 Lagoons) of Ausangate. The drive itself was an adventure, winding through the Andes, each turn revealing even more spectacular vistas than the last. The landscape transformed from rolling green hills to stark, rocky terrain, a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Peru. I made sure to pack my camera; I'm hoping to capture some of the natural beauty I've witnessed and share it with you all!

Sometimes, the most breathtaking views come after the toughest climbs.

The hike around the 7 Lagunas was challenging, to say the least. The altitude, hovering around 14,000 feet, made every step feel like a monumental effort. But the views? Absolutely worth it. Each lagoon boasted a unique hue, from turquoise to emerald, reflecting the surrounding snow-capped peaks and the vast, endless sky. It was like walking through a painting, each lagoon a different brushstroke in a masterpiece of nature. I couldn’t help but think of Jasmine and how much she would have loved this. She's always been drawn to vibrant colors and stunning landscapes, much like her mom!

We paused at each lagoon, taking photos and simply soaking in the tranquility. The crisp mountain air, the silence broken only by the gentle lapping of water against the shore, it was a moment of pure serenity. It's moments like these that remind me why I love to travel, to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life and reconnect with nature. I made sure to drink plenty of water and take breaks when needed, remembering the tips I'd read about acclimating to high altitude. I even chewed on some coca leaves, a local remedy for altitude sickness, which seemed to help.

For lunch, we stopped at Restaurante Ausangate. After the invigorating hike, we were all ravenous. The restaurant offered hearty, traditional Peruvian dishes that warmed us from the inside out. I had a delicious quinoa soup, which was exactly what I needed to replenish my energy. My friends enjoyed alpaca steaks and other local specialties. The restaurant itself was cozy and inviting, with friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere. It was the perfect place to relax and refuel before continuing our adventure.

After lunch, it was time for the highlight I had been eagerly anticipating: Aguas Termales Pacchanta. After hours of trekking, the thought of soaking in warm, mineral-rich waters was incredibly appealing. The hot springs are located in the small village of Pacchanta, nestled at the foot of the majestic Ausangate Mountain. The setting was simply stunning, with panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and the surrounding valley.

The Aguas Termales Pacchanta consists of several outdoor pools, each with varying temperatures. The water, naturally heated by the volcanic activity beneath the earth, is rich in minerals and believed to have therapeutic properties. As I sank into the warm water, I could feel my muscles instantly relax, the tension of the trek melting away. It was pure bliss. I made sure to stay hydrated, drinking plenty of water and taking breaks from the hot water to cool down. The air was crisp and cool, a refreshing contrast to the warmth of the springs.

Spending time in the hot springs was not only physically rejuvenating but also a wonderful cultural experience. I struck up conversations with some of the locals, learning about their traditions and way of life. It was a reminder that travel is not just about seeing new places but also about connecting with new people and cultures. I found myself reflecting on my work as a Community Outreach Coordinator, thinking about the importance of cultural preservation and sustainable tourism. It's so important to support local communities and ensure that tourism benefits everyone, not just a select few.

Before heading back to Cusco, we made a quick stop at a trekking store to pick up a few souvenirs. I found a beautiful hand-woven scarf made from alpaca wool, a perfect reminder of my time in the Andes. I always try to support local artisans and businesses when I travel, knowing that it makes a real difference in their lives. There are many trekking stores in Cusco, such as Tatoo Adventure Gear and The Trekking Store.

Our final stop for the day was dinner at El Tupay Restaurant in Cusco. Located in the Belmond Hotel Monasterio, this restaurant is known for its exquisite Peruvian cuisine and elegant ambiance. The restaurant is housed in what was once the monastery's refectory, adding to its historic charm. We indulged in a multi-course meal, savoring the flavors of Peru. The service was impeccable, and the atmosphere was romantic and sophisticated. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day. I felt grateful for the experiences I had, the people I met, and the beauty I witnessed.

As I reflect on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude and wonder. The Ausangate region is truly a special place, a hidden gem in the heart of the Andes. The 7 Lagunas were a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of nature, and the Aguas Termales Pacchanta offered a much-needed respite from the rigors of trekking. It was a day of vibrant colors, breathtaking views, and rich cultural experiences. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to explore this incredible region and share it with you all.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of the Ausangate region, including the Área de Conservación Regional Ausangate and Mirador Ausangate. I am excited to see what new adventures await us!