Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 4D/3N
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
4 Days / 3 Nights
Group Size
02 - 15 People
Max Altitude
4,600 msnm
Description
In Ausangate, the majesty of nature will lead you to discover the greatness of your adventurous spirit.
This package sounds like an incredible adventure! It is perfect for hiking enthusiasts looking for an authentic experience in the Andes, away from large crowds of tourists. You will enjoy unparalleled views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain and the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). The multicolored peaks will leave you speechless, and you will be able to capture magical moments with your camera as you walk through valleys and summits covered in vibrant colors.
Local fauna. You will have the opportunity to interact with typical Andean wildlife, such as alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. These animals are an essential part of the landscape and will make you feel even more connected to life in the mountains.
Away from the crowds. This trek is ideal if you are looking for a quieter and less touristy experience. You will immerse yourself in nature, exploring solitary paths, enjoying the peace and silence of the mountains, allowing for a deeper connection with the Andean environment and culture.
Physical effort and reward. Although the journey can be demanding due to the altitude and ascents, the reward is enormous. The effort is reflected in the panoramic view of the mountains, the crystal-clear lakes, and the fresh air of the heights. Every step you take will bring you closer to the majesty of the place.
This 4-day trek through Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain sounds incredible! The combination of stunning landscapes, crystal-clear lagoons, alpacas and llamas, and the mystique of the Seven Colors Mountain (Vinicunca) makes this journey a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Spectacular views: You will pass through desert fields and deep valleys that offer panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and a diversity of colors found only in the Andes. The turquoise-colored lagoons and the landscape filled with alpacas and llamas will make every step worthwhile.
Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): This is one of the main attractions, famous for its incredible range of colors. This natural wonder is still relatively uncrowded by tourists, allowing you to enjoy it in all its splendor. The mountain’s vibrant colors are due to the mineralization of the soil, creating a surreal scene that leaves everyone in awe.
Apu Ausangate: This sacred mountain is one of the highest peaks in the region and holds great significance in the Andean worldview. It is believed that Ausangate is a deity and has been a place of worship since pre-Inca times. Being near it is a way to connect with Andean spirituality.
Hot springs: One of the most relaxing moments of the trek will be when you get to enjoy the hot springs in the middle of an astonishing natural setting. Imagine unwinding in these warm waters while having a direct view of Apu Ausangate.
Day 1: Cusco | Ocongate - Upis Community - Upis Camp - Huayna Ausangate Lagoon
How exciting the first day of this adventure sounds! Here’s a breakdown of what to expect. We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 a.m. and travel in our private vehicle to the town of Ocongate (3,500 m / 11,482 ft). During this 2-hour drive, you’ll see picturesque villages and beautiful lagoons along the Vilcanota Valley from the comfort of your transportation.
Then, we will drive for approximately 1 more hour to reach Tinke, where you can make any last-minute purchases before arriving at the Upis Community (4,250 m / 13,944 ft), the starting point of our trek. Here, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet the team of cooks and muleteers who will accompany us on our adventure.
Our first day begins on a flat terrain with direct views of the immense Ausangate glacier (6,372 m / 20,905 ft). As we walk, we will encounter locals dressed in beautifully colored traditional clothing. You will also see many herds of llamas and alpacas.
We will arrive at the Upis hot springs (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) to enjoy our first spectacular lunch, prepared by our talented chef. Our campsite will also be set up here, right in front of the Ausangate mountain.
In the afternoon, we will hike to the Huayna Ausangate Lagoon, a 2-hour round-trip walk. The trail to this beautiful lagoon is flat for about 40 minutes, with a gradual uphill climb for the last 20 minutes. We will enjoy a breathtaking sunset that bathes the glacier’s snow in golden light.
At night, we will have a delicious dinner and spend our first night in the mountains. Afterward, we will head out to marvel at the starry night, a moment you will remember for a lifetime.
🍽 Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
🏕 Accommodation: camping
🥾 Total hiking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 5 hours
📈 Difficulty level: moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 4,250 m / 13,943 ft
📍 Maximum altitude: 4,480 m / 14,698 ft
🛏 Accommodation elevation: 4,400 m / 14,435 ft
Day 2: Upis | Arapa Pass - Yanacocha - Hatun Pucacocha
We will wake up early at 5:00 a.m. with a warm coca tea brought to your tent. Then, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast in the cold, high-altitude environment before beginning our hike.
We will trek for approximately two and a half hours through a beautiful Andean valley towards the Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). The spectacular Ausangate glacier will accompany us throughout the journey.
From the top of the pass, the beauty of the landscape multiplies, and you will be amazed by the natural splendor of this part of the world. You will witness the vastness of the mountain range, and if you’re lucky, you may even spot the majestic Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world. Our guide will explain more about the impressive local flora and fauna to enrich your experience as you walk through this remarkable terrain.
Afterward, we will descend towards the stunning crystal-clear Yanacocha Lagoon (also known as the “Black Lagoon”). Then, we will continue for about an hour to reach Hatun Pucacocha (4,500 m / 14,763 ft), where we will take in the breathtaking landscape and admire the shimmering waters framed by snow-capped mountains.
Later, we will explore the nearby lagoons and relax with a soothing cup of tea. In the evening, a nutritious dinner will be waiting for us before we head to our camp for a well-deserved rest and energy recovery.
🍽 Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
🏕 Accommodation: camping
🥾 Total hiking distance: 11 km / 6.84 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 6 hours
📈 Difficulty level: moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 4,400 m / 14,435 ft
📍 Maximum altitude: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
🛏 Accommodation elevation: 4,500 m / 14,763 ft
Day 3: Hatun Pucacocha | Puka Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya Pass - Surinecocha
Starting the day with a warm coca tea is the perfect way to synchronize with the energy of the Andes. This ancestral practice has been used since Incan times to help with altitude acclimatization and is a natural energy booster. A hearty breakfast will provide the strength needed for the day’s journey.
We will begin with a 2-hour ascent to Puka Pass (4,870 m / 15,977 ft). As we move forward, we will be surrounded by glaciers and deep green valleys. The imposing presence of Apu Ausangate will accompany us, and you will have time to take photos of the stunning turquoise lagoons along the way.
Upon reaching Puka Pass, the view of Apu Ausangate’s face will be awe-inspiring. You will stand face-to-face with this sacred mountain, feeling the profound connection it holds for Andean communities.
From the pass, you will also see the Chilca Valley, home to herds of llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully. Additionally, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Rainbow Mountain Range, with its vibrant, multicolored layers that will leave you breathless.
After enjoying the views and taking some incredible photos, we will gradually descend to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), where we will have a delicious lunch and some time to rest.
Once re-energized, we will embark on a 2-hour ascent to Warmisaya (4,985 m / 16,354 ft), where the feeling of being surrounded by mountains will make you feel like a bird soaring through the sky. The vastness of the landscape will be truly spectacular, allowing you to take in the full horizon.
Finally, we will descend for about an hour to Surinecocha Lagoon (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where our campsite for the night awaits. This is a perfect spot to witness the sunset, especially with the Seven Colors Mountain as a backdrop. The peace and tranquility of this moment will offer a deep sense of serenity and connection with nature.
After a full day of adventure, we will enjoy an excellent dinner and a well-earned rest beneath a sky full of stars, surrounded by mountains and the magic of Apu Ausangate.
🍽 Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner
🏕 Accommodation: camping
🥾 Total hiking distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 6 hours
📈 Difficulty level: moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
📍 Maximum altitude: 4,985 m / 16,355 ft
🛏 Accommodation elevation: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Day 4: Surinecocha | Rainbow Mountain - Red Valley Viewpoint - Cusco
The fourth day of your Ausangate Trek is a true gem filled with natural and cultural wonders. Here’s a breakdown of what awaits you.
You will start the day with an early breakfast to prepare for one of the most impressive sights of the entire trek: Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca. Early in the morning, you will head towards Rainbow Mountain, known for its vibrant colors ranging from red, magenta, and yellow to green—a unique visual spectacle!
You will arrive before the crowds, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this natural wonder under the golden light of sunrise. You can take incredible photos and appreciate the serenity of the place. Your guide will explain how these unique colors were formed and share the recent history of this natural wonder’s discovery. While colorful mountains are rare, Vinicunca is one of the most famous, and the fact that it was only recently “discovered” makes it even more fascinating!
After visiting Rainbow Mountain, you will continue toward Red Valley, a much less visited but equally spectacular destination. This valley has an almost Martian appearance, with its red rock formations and unique landscape. After a 45-minute hike, you will reach the Red Valley Viewpoint, where you can take the best photos of this otherworldly scenery. The peace and tranquility you will experience here are unparalleled.
After enjoying this magnificent place, you will descend for two hours through ancient Andean communities. These small villages still preserve their ancestral traditions, adding a cultural touch to your journey. Additionally, you will see herds of llamas grazing in the fields.
Following the hike, you will enjoy a delicious lunch surrounded by the energy of the mountains. After lunch, you will take a bus back to Cusco, where you can rest after this unique experience.
🍽 Meals: breakfast, lunch
🥾 Total walking distance: 6.5 km / 4.04 miles
⏱ Total hiking time: 5 hours
📈 Difficulty level: moderate
📉 Minimum altitude: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
📍 Maximum altitude: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
Incluye
✓ PRE-DEPARTURE BRIEFING
- You will meet with your guide one day before the trek at your hotel for an orientation session. The meeting will take place at 6:00 p.m. You will also receive a duffel bag allowing you to pack up to 7 kg of personal belongings.
✓ PERMITS & ENTRANCE FEES
- Entrance ticket for the Ausangate Trek.
- Entrance ticket for Rainbow Mountain.
- Entrance ticket for Red Valley Viewpoint.
✓ FIELD STAFF
- Professional Guides:
Our guides are specialists in trekking, trained at accredited universities, and have 3 to 10 years of experience in various regional hikes. They are fluent in English, skilled in group management under pressure, and trained in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from Andean communities, bringing rich cultural heritage to your journey. Together with the rest of the team, they will ensure you have a unique experience. - Chefs:
Our chefs are trained in local gastronomy schools, specializing in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian dishes, international styles, as well as vegetarian and vegan options. They have extensive knowledge of the nutritional properties of their dishes and focus on quick preparation with strict hygiene and food safety measures. - Horsemen & Horses:
Our horsemen and their horses play an essential role in the trek by transporting camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessities. They also carry the duffel bags (up to 7 kg per participant, including sleeping bags). This allows you to hike comfortably with only a small backpack for your essentials, while our team ensures your luggage reaches the campsites.
✓ DUFFEL BAG SERVICE (7 KG LIMIT)
- During the pre-trek briefing, you will receive a duffel bag to pack up to 7 kg of personal items. These will be transported by horses throughout the trek and will be available at each campsite, ensuring you hike with only the essentials.
✓ MEALS
- 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 3 dinners.
- Breakfasts: Fruit salad, yogurt, oatmeal, hot chocolate, milk, coffee, tea, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, and butter.
- Lunches: Buffet-style with soup, 2-4 main courses, and hot drinks. Dishes include Peruvian classics such as Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef with rice and fries) and Ají de Gallina (creamy, mildly spicy shredded chicken). Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
- Dinners: Soups, chicken, pasta, vegetables.
- Wake-up Tea: Every morning at camp, you will be woken up with a hot cup of coca tea delivered to your tent.
- Tea Time (Happy Hour): Includes popcorn, crackers, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, and a variety of teas.
- Daily Snacks: Fresh and dried fruits, sweet and salty crackers, chocolates, and other treats.
- Drinking Water: We provide boiled water from the first lunch until the last lunch on Day 4.
- Hygiene Products: A small towel and soap will be provided for handwashing before each meal.
✓ PRIVATE CAMPING EQUIPMENT
- Tents: High-altitude, 4-season tents, capable of withstanding harsh winter weather, heavy rain, and snow.
- Sleeping Mats: Our Therm-a-Rest inflatable mats provide a warm and comfortable sleeping experience.
- Dining Tent: A spacious dining tent with chairs and a table ensures you enjoy meals comfortably, regardless of the weather.
- Kitchen Tent: Fully equipped with gas stoves and necessary cooking utensils for our chefs to prepare meals.
✓ TRANSPORTATION
- Day 1: Pick-up from your hotel in the morning and private transportation to the trek’s starting point.
- Day 4: After completing the trek, private transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Pack Mules: These will carry all camping gear and personal luggage (up to 7 kg / 15.4 lbs). The horsemen will take care of your duffel bag and belongings.
✓ EMERGENCY & REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
- Radios: 10 km range with 8 frequencies for communication between guides, chefs, and porters.
- First Aid Kit: Includes alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, adhesive medical tape, surgical gloves, painkillers, fever reducers, and digestive aids. If you take prescribed medication, bring your own.
- Portable Oxygen Tank
✓ IMPORTANT: Only a medical professional can issue prescriptions. Our guides cannot prescribe medication; any medicine provided is at your own discretion and responsibility. If you require prescribed medication, please bring it with you.
No Incluye
× SLEEPING BAG
- If you don’t have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our durable and efficient sleeping bags provide protection against temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-shaped and include a sleeping liner. Each bag is cleaned after every trip.
Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency.
× TREKKING POLES
- Equipped with extra rubber tips, these poles are extremely useful for rugged terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair from our company.
Rental available for $20 USD at Bestreks agency.
× DINNER IN CUSCO (DAY 4)
× ENTRANCE TO UPIS HOT SPRINGS (DAY 1)
× PERSONAL HIKING GEAR & CLOTHING
× TRAVEL INSURANCE
- While not mandatory, we highly recommend purchasing travel insurance in case of flight issues or unexpected health problems. Please check if your insurance covers high altitudes, as some policies may not be valid above 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Unforeseen delays beyond our control (e.g., landslides, bad weather, safety-related itinerary changes, illness, government policy changes, political instability, strikes, etc.) may result in additional expenses.
× TIPS FOR YOUR CREW
- Tipping is a standard custom in tourism and trekking excursions. Although we ensure fair wages for our entire team, extra tips are always appreciated considering the hard work they do. Usually, the group pools their tips together to distribute among porters, chefs, and guides.
× Why tipping is important:
- Recognizes the crew’s hard work and expresses gratitude for the service provided.
- Supports the local economy in tourist destinations and local communities.
- Encourages excellent service, motivating staff to maintain high hospitality standards.
- Builds positive relationships between hikers and the support team.
- Acknowledges the effort of porters, cooks, and guides who work 24/7 to ensure your comfort and a memorable trekking experience.
✓ ORIGINAL PASSPORT:
- If you have booked the service with your old passport and then renewed and obtained another one, it is very likely that your passport number has changed. Please inform us so we can update this information.
✓ BACKPACK:
- You will need a backpack to carry your gear, snacks, and water. Choose a backpack that is comfortable to carry and has a capacity of at least 30-40 liters.
✓ WATER STORAGE:
- Carry between 1.5 and 2 liters of water; consider a Camelbak or a similar system. Choosing a water bottle that keeps the water cold is essential.
✓ HIKING BOOTS:
- Light, comfortable, and well-broken-in. Make sure your shoes are neither too tight nor too loose. They should provide enough space for your toes to move freely.
✓ HEADLAMP:
- Essential for visibility in the early or late hours. It is a vital piece of equipment. It will not only illuminate the path in the dark but also help keep your hands free for other tasks. Some things to consider when choosing a headlamp are brightness, weight, and comfort.
✓ POWER BANK/BATTERY CHARGER:
- You should use your phone in airplane mode and bring a power bank or external battery; we recommend one of 20,000 mAh.
✓ FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG (LOMA BAG):
- 2-3 moisture-wicking T-shirts
- 3-4 pairs of hiking pants
- 4 sets of underwear
- 4 pairs of hiking socks
- 1 fleece jacket & 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
- 1 waterproof jacket & pants for unpredictable weather
- 1 sun hat & 1 wool hat for different temperatures
- Comfortable shoes for camp & sturdy boots for hiking
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves are fine)
- Rain jacket/poncho for heavy rain
- Quick-dry towel (larger than the provided one if preferred)
- Small soap bottle for personal hygiene
- Battery charger
- Large plastic bags for organizing and protecting items
- Sleeping bag (at least -10°C resistant for cold nights)
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen & face moisturizer for skin protection
- Wet wipes for quick cleaning
- Toothbrush & toothpaste
- Toilet paper for personal use
- Personal medications & basic first-aid kit
✓ INSIDE YOUR BACKPACK:
- Water: Bring enough for the first day; refills will be provided later.
- Rain & fleece clothing: Stay prepared for weather changes.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture the memories.
- Music: Bring an iPhone or similar device for entertainment.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain hygiene.
- Toilet paper & small plastic bags: Dispose of waste responsibly.
- Extra money: For additional purchases and tips (recommended in soles).
- Earplugs: For peaceful sleep.
✓ NOTES:
- Waterproofing: Protect your belongings from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Wear well-fitted, comfortable footwear to avoid blisters.
- Organization: Use compartments to keep essentials handy.
Following this complete checklist will help ensure a comfortable and memorable experience during your Ausangate trek.
✓ PRICE PER PERSON:
- $520 USD – Adults.
- To book the Ausangate Trek, an initial payment of $260 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT:
Additional items you can rent for this trip:
- Sleeping bag: $20.00 USD.
- Trekking poles (pair): $20.00 USD.
✓ PRICE GUARANTEE:
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase under any circumstances. Therefore, before booking, please make sure to read all the important information about the tour.
✓ HOW TO BOOK:
- Booking the Ausangate Trek is easy. You can reserve your spot online through our website, where our booking platform will guide you step by step.
- The tour payment can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your local currency for greater convenience.
✓ AUSANGATE TREK BOOKING:
To reserve your spot on the Ausangate Trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $260 USD. This deposit secures your place on the tour and allows us to purchase your tickets.
- Our booking platform gives you the option to pay only the deposit, along with any additional options you select, or you can choose to pay the full amount in advance.
- If you pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour departure.
✓ PAYMENT OF REMAINING BALANCE:
- If you opt to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour starts.
- The balance can be paid in soles or dollars, in cash or by card (with an additional 5% fee).
- You also have the option to pay online through our website, with a 5% surcharge.
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY:
Bestreks Agency has the following policies regarding reservation cancellations:
- Once the booking is made, the reserved space and acquired permit cannot be canceled.
- If you cancel 2 to 3 days before your trip, it will be considered a “no-show,” and you will have to pay 100% of the total cost.
- If you decide to stop the trek for personal reasons after it has begun, you will automatically forfeit all included services. Any additional expenses you incur during your return, such as food, transportation, or accommodation, will be at your own expense.
- Events beyond our control that make any part of the trip impossible (e.g., strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, hotel or flight overbookings). In any of these cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available) to make the trip possible. Any additional costs associated with these arrangements will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ RECOMMENDATIONS:
- We strongly recommend that you fully understand all booking and cancellation policies before making your payment to ensure your investment is protected and that you have a smooth booking experience for your Ausangate Trek adventure.
✓ INFORMATION MEETING OR BRIEFING
- All briefings take place the afternoon before your trip begins at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. Your guide will also provide you with the duffel bag during this meeting. The briefing lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
If you are unable to attend, you must coordinate another time via email or phone call.
✓ PAYMENT OF REMAINING BALANCE (IN CUSCO)
If you still have a pending balance, it must be paid one day before your trek or tour; otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed.
- Preferred payment method: Cash in USD or local currency at our Cusco office or during the briefing session.
- ATMs along Avenida El Sol offer cash withdrawals in both USD and Peruvian soles.
- Payments by credit/debit card or via IZIPAY (online or in person) are accepted but include a 5% processing fee applied by Niubiz and IZIPAY.
✓ CUSTOMER PICK-UP
All pick-ups take place within Cusco city.
- We highly recommend booking a hotel in the historic center for better accessibility.
- Our guide or staff will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour.
- Due to traffic conditions, the pick-up time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes.
- Cusco has many narrow, cobblestone streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs are in areas with no vehicle access or on steep hills, making luggage transport difficult.
- We strongly recommend booking accommodation with easy access.
✓ HEALTH CONDITIONS
- If you have any medical restrictions for activities included in your reservation, please consult your doctor and assess the risks before booking.
✓ WEATHER CONDITIONS
Weather in the Andes is unpredictable.
- The dry season in Cusco lasts from April to October, but rain can still occur in June, just as sunshine is possible in December.
- Regardless of the season, come prepared with:
- A rain jacket, waterproof pants, a poncho, and waterproof gloves.
- Warm clothing, as temperatures can drop significantly at night.
- The trek involves several microclimates, so dressing in layers is essential.
✓ ALTITUDE SICKNESS (SOROCHE) AND STOMACH ISSUES
- For travelers coming from sea-level locations, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before the trek.
The two most common health issues are:
Altitude sickness (Soroche): Symptoms include headaches and nausea.
- Over-the-counter medications such as Aspirin, Diamox, Sorojchi Pills, and Alti Vital can help.
- If symptoms persist, we provide oxygen support.
Stomach issues:
- Drink 3-4 liters of water daily to stay hydrated.
- Consume warm beverages such as coca tea.
- Stick to easily digestible foods like soups, vegetables, and light carbohydrates, avoiding fried or heavy meals.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Get at least 8 hours of sleep and avoid overexertion.
During the altitude adjustment period, it is important to eat in moderation and drink plenty of fluids.
✓ MEDICAL RESTRICTIONS
- Customers must inform their travel agency of any medical conditions before the trip begins.
Examples include:
- Allergies
- Special dietary needs
- Medications currently being taken
- Any existing health conditions
For severe medical restrictions, consult your doctor before participating in the trek. The information you provide will help us ensure a safer and more comfortable experience.
✓ WATER SUPPLY
- Starting after the first lunch, we will provide boiled water for the remainder of the trek. You must bring a refillable water bottle to use throughout the hike.
- To minimize environmental impact, we strongly encourage the use of reusable canteens instead of plastic bottles.
- If needed, bottled water is available for purchase on Days 1, 2, and 4 of the trek. You may also bring water purification tablets or a filter, though past trekkers who opted for these methods often experienced stomach issues. We recommend using the boiled water we provide.
✓ LOST ITEMS
- Please keep track of your belongings at all times and ensure you collect all personal items before leaving transportation, campsites, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your belongings during the tour.
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most impressive and least crowded hikes in Peru. Throughout the journey, you will be surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains, colorful lagoons, and rich Andean wildlife, including alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. The route offers spectacular views of Apu Ausangate (6,384 m), which is considered sacred in Andean cosmovision.
Absolutely! The Ausangate Trek is one of the most breathtaking and challenging routes in Peru, and many travelers consider it one of the best trekking experiences in South America. Ausangate is a sacred mountain rising over 6,300 meters above sea level, and the trek around it offers stunning views of mountainous landscapes, glaciers, and vibrant-colored lagoons.
Additionally, the route passes through rural communities that preserve ancestral traditions, giving you the opportunity to connect with local culture. Although it is a demanding trek due to the altitude and terrain, the breathtaking landscapes along the way make the effort worthwhile. If you enjoy challenges and nature in its purest form, this is an unforgettable experience.
Hiking for 6 to 7 hours per day is quite common, with variations depending on your pace and terrain conditions. The most challenging days are usually the second and third, mainly due to the altitude and steep ascents. However, the effort is rewarded with incredible views.
It is very important to be well-prepared, not only in terms of equipment and physical fitness but also for altitude acclimatization, which is crucial for enjoying the trek without problems.
The Ausangate Trek is safe if you take precautions and prepare properly. Most tourists who do the trek enjoy it without serious incidents, but it is important to be aware of risks associated with high altitude and changing terrain conditions. If you follow safety recommendations, this trek is an amazing experience.
Since the Ausangate Trek is a relatively uncrowded route, weather conditions are the most important factor when choosing the best time to go.
-
Dry season (May to October): This is undoubtedly the best time to do the Ausangate Trek, as there is minimal rainfall, making the trail safer and more comfortable. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and cold nights, allowing you to enjoy clear views of the mountains and lagoons. Additionally, the trails will be less slippery, and the terrain is easier to navigate.
-
Rainy season (December to February): While it is not impossible to do the trek during the rainy season, the trail becomes more challenging due to wet and muddy conditions.
The most common way to reach Cusco is by flying internationally to Lima (Peru’s capital) and then taking a domestic flight to Cusco.
- Fly from your home country to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima. Lima is Peru’s main hub for international flights.
- From Lima, take a domestic flight to Cusco, which takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. Airlines such as LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air operate on this route.
If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco, which takes between 20 and 24 hours. However, flying is highly recommended for convenience and time-saving.
If you’re coming from nearby countries like Chile, Argentina, Colombia, or Ecuador, you may find direct flights to Cusco from some major cities, though they are not as frequent as flights to Lima.
-
At least 2-3 days in Cusco: If you arrive directly in Cusco, it is recommended to spend at least 2 or 3 days in the city before starting the trek. During this time, you can rest, take it easy, and allow your body to adjust to the altitude. Take advantage of this period to explore the city with light activities, avoiding strenuous physical efforts during the first few days.
-
If coming from another high-altitude location: If you have already been in other high-altitude areas of Peru (such as Arequipa, Puno, or the Sacred Valley), the acclimatization process may be quicker. In this case, one day of rest in Cusco might be enough before starting the trek.
Shoes with ankle support are highly recommended, especially for those who are not used to long hikes or uneven terrain. The steep inclines and rocky paths require stability, and good ankle support helps prevent sprains or injuries. High-cut hiking boots are ideal for this trek.
Trekking poles are highly useful for hikers, as they reduce stress on the knees.
- Less strain on joints: Mountainous terrain with steep ascents and descents puts a lot of pressure on the knees. Trekking poles help distribute the effort, reducing strain on your legs and absorbing impact on your joints.
- Increased stability: The Ausangate Trek has uneven, rocky, and steep paths. Trekking poles provide extra balance, making it easier to navigate the trail.
- Easier ascents and descents: When climbing uphill, poles allow you to push with your arms, reducing leg fatigue. On descents, they help control speed and prevent slips or falls.
Any luggage not needed for the trek should be left in Cusco. Most hotels in Cusco are used to storing luggage for travelers.
If you don’t have a place to store your belongings, you can leave them at our office until the end of your trek. We will ensure that your luggage is stored safely, so you don’t have to worry!
We offer a variety of local superfoods and traditional Peruvian dishes, including rice, chicken, beef, salads, potatoes, vegetables, and fresh fruit, all prepared by our local chef.
We also provide excellent vegetarian options and accommodate specific dietary requests with proper preparation and communication.
Send Us a Message