Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain 3D/2N
Dificulty
Moderate
Duration
3 Days / 2 Nigths
Group Size
02 - 15 People
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
If you dream of exploring the most impressive places in Cusco, get ready to challenge yourself and conquer the majestic Andes Mountains. You won’t be alone on this adventure: our expert guides and support team will be with you every step of the way, making sure you enjoy this unforgettable tour to the fullest.
From Cusco, we will travel towards Upis, the starting point of our trek. We will cross the Abra Arapa and reach Hatun Pucacocha, a stunning lagoon with crystal-clear waters surrounded by snow-capped peaks. As we advance, we will cross imposing passes, wetlands full of life and grazing landscapes where alpacas roam freely. All along the way, the Apu Ausangate and the Rainbow Mountain will rise before us, revealing their majesty.
Finally, we will experience the magic of Vinicunca, the famous Mountain of Colors, one of the most amazing natural wonders in the world. Before heading back, we will marvel at the panoramic views from the Mirador del Valle Rojo and explore the ecosystems of Andahuaylillas and Huacarpay, known for their diversity of birds.
This will be an epic expedition, full of unforgettable landscapes and moments that will remain etched in your memory forever!
Day 1: Cusco | Upis - Arapa Pass - Hatun Pucacocha
Your exciting adventure begins early at 4:00 a.m. We will pick you up from your hotel and take you in our private transport to Upis, a small village nestled in the Andes, where we will start our hike. Here, you will enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared by our talented chef while admiring the breathtaking scenery. This meal will give you the perfect energy boost to begin your trek with strength and enthusiasm.
After a brief rest, we will begin a three-hour ascent to our lunch spot. During this first stage, the majestic Apu Ausangate will start to reveal itself on the horizon—an incredible sight worth capturing with your camera. Upon arrival, you will be greeted with a warm herbal tea before enjoying a nourishing meal. You will then have time to relax and recharge before continuing your journey.
In the afternoon, we will face a two-hour climb to Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where you will be rewarded with unforgettable panoramic views. Afterward, we will descend for three and a half hours towards the stunning Hatun Pucacocha lagoon, our campsite for the night. Along the way, we will pass the mystical Yanacocha lagoon, all while the Ausangate mountain stands impressively before us.
Upon reaching the campsite, you can enjoy a comforting hot chocolate or coffee while the sun paints the Andean sky with golden hues. Soon after, a delicious dinner will be ready for you. With the cold night and the immensity of the mountains as your companions, you will settle into your tent and drift into a deep sleep under a starry sky.
- MEALS: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
- ACCOMMODATION: Camping.
- TOTAL WALKING DISTANCE: 17 km / 10.56 miles.
- TOTAL HIKING TIME: 9 hours.
- DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Moderate to challenging.
- MINIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,250 m / 13,943 ft.
- MAXIMUM ALTITUDE: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft.
- CAMPSITE ELEVATION: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft.
Day 2: Hatun Pucacocha | Puka Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya Pass - Surinecocha
Starting the day with a hot coca tea is the perfect way to sync with the energy of the Andes. This ancient practice has been used since the Inca times to help with altitude acclimatization and provides a natural energy boost. A nutritious breakfast will give you the strength needed for the day’s adventure.
After breakfast, we embark on a two-hour ascent to Puka Pass (4,870 m / 15,977 ft). As you hike, you’ll be surrounded by glaciers and deep green valleys, with the imposing Apu Ausangate accompanying you. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to take stunning pictures of the turquoise lagoons dotting the landscape.
Once at Puka Pass, you’ll be face-to-face with the sacred Apu Ausangate, experiencing its deep connection with the Andean people. From here, you’ll also get a preview of the Rainbow Mountain range, with its colorful stripes that will take your breath away.
After soaking in the views and taking some incredible pictures, we begin a gradual descent to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), where a delicious lunch will be waiting.
After recharging, we begin a two-hour ascent to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,354 ft). The feeling of being surrounded by mountains will be exhilarating, making you feel like a bird soaring through the Andes. The vast panoramic view will be spectacular, allowing you to see the entire horizon.
Finally, we descend for one hour to Surinecocha lagoon (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), our campsite for the night. This is an ideal spot to watch the sunset, especially with the Rainbow Mountain as a backdrop. The peace and tranquility of this place will provide a deep sense of connection with nature. After a long and rewarding day, you will enjoy a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest under the stars, surrounded by 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 / 16,354 ft.
- CAMPSITE ELEVATION: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft.
Day 3: Surinecocha | Rainbow Mountain - Red Valley Viewpoint - Cusco
The third day of the Ausangate Trek is a true highlight, filled with natural and cultural wonders.
You will start your day with an early breakfast, preparing for one of the most breathtaking sights of the trek: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). In the early morning light, the mountain’s vivid colors—ranging from red and magenta to yellow and green—create a unique visual spectacle.
We will arrive before the crowds, giving you plenty of time to enjoy this natural wonder in peace. You’ll have the chance to take stunning photos, and your guide will explain how these unique colors were formed and the recent discovery of this incredible site. Although 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 exploring Rainbow Mountain, we continue towards Red Valley, a much less visited but equally spectacular area. The Martian-like landscape, with vibrant red rock formations, creates a one-of-a-kind experience. After a 45-minute hike, you’ll reach the Red Valley Viewpoint, where you can capture some of the best photos of this surreal landscape. The peace and tranquility here are unmatched.
After taking in the views, we descend for two hours through ancient Andean communities. These small villages still maintain their ancestral traditions, adding a cultural touch to the journey. Along the way, you’ll see herds of llamas grazing in the fields.
Following the hike, you will enjoy a delicious lunch in the heart of nature, surrounded by the energy of the mountains. After lunch, we take our private transport back to Cusco, where you can relax and reflect on this unforgettable experience.
- MEALS: Breakfast, lunch.
- TOTAL HIKING 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 the day before your trek at your hotel for a pre-hike orientation. The meeting will be at 6:00 p.m., and you will also receive a duffle bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings.
✓ PERMITS AND ENTRANCE FEES
- Entrance ticket for the Ausangate trek.
- Entrance ticket for Rainbow Mountain.
- Entrance ticket for the Red Valley viewpoint.
✓ FIELD STAFF
- Professional Guides;
Our trekking guides are carefully selected from accredited universities. They are fluent in English and have between three to ten years of experience leading different treks in the region. They are experts in handling groups under pressure and are highly trained in first aid and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities and bring their rich cultural heritage. Along with the rest of the field team, our guides will ensure your journey is a unique experience. - Chefs;
Our chefs are trained in local culinary schools and specialize in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian dishes, international styles, and vegetarian and vegan options. They have extensive knowledge of nutritional properties and focus on preparing meals quickly while maintaining high hygiene and food safety standards. - Horsemen and Pack Horses;
Our team of horsemen and their pack horses play a crucial role in the success of your trek. They are responsible for carrying all the camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessary loads along the route. The pack horses also carry the duffle bags with up to 7 kilos of personal belongings per participant, including sleeping bags. This allows you to hike with just a small backpack carrying your essentials, while our team transports your luggage from one camp to another, ensuring you fully enjoy the trek.
✓ DUFFLE BAG SERVICE (7 KG PER PARTICIPANT)
- During the briefing, you will receive a duffle bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings. Our team will transport these bags on pack horses throughout the trek, ensuring you have access to them at the campsites. This service allows you to hike comfortably with only your daypack.
✓ MEALS
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners.
- Breakfasts: Fruit salad, yogurt, oatmeal, hot chocolate, milk, coffee, tea, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, and butter.
- Lunches: Buffet style, including soup, 2-4 different main dishes, and hot beverages. Main courses include Peruvian classics such as Lomo Saltado (stir-fried beef with rice and fries) and Ají de Gallina (a creamy, mildly spicy chicken dish), among other options. Vegetarian and vegan meals are also available upon request.
- Dinners: Soups, chicken, pasta, vegetables.
- Wake-up tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will be woken up with a cup of hot coca tea. Our staff will bring it to your tent to keep you warm before starting the day.
- Tea Time (Happy Hour): Popcorn, crackers, coffee, hot chocolate, milk, and a variety of teas.
- Daily Snacks: Fresh and dried fruits, salty and sweet crackers, chocolates, and other treats.
- Water: We will provide boiled water from the first lunch until the lunch on the third day.
- Hygiene Products: We will provide a small towel and soap to clean your hands before each meal.
✓ PRIVATE CAMPING EQUIPMENT
- Tents:
We provide high-mountain, four-season tents that can withstand harsh winter conditions, including heavy rain and snow. - Sleeping Mats:
Our Therm-a-Rest inflatable sleeping mats ensure a warm and comfortable night’s sleep during the trek. - Dining Tent:
Our spacious dining tent, complete with chairs and a table, provides a comfortable space to enjoy meals regardless of the weather conditions. - Kitchen Tent:
Equipped with everything our chefs need to prepare your meals, including a gas stove and all necessary cooking utensils.
✓ TRANSPORTATION
- Day 1: You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel in private transport with your group to the trek’s starting point.
- Day 3: Once the trek is completed, we will drive you back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Pack Mules:During the trek, pack mules will carry all the camping equipment and your permitted luggage (7 kg / 15.4 lbs). The horsemen will take care of your duffle bag and personal items.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE
- Radios:
Our radios have a range of 10 km and 8 frequencies, allowing our guides, chefs, and horsemen to stay in communication. - First Aid Kit:
Includes alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, medical adhesive tape, surgical gloves, and pain relievers for muscle and stomach aches, as well as antipyretics. If you take prescription medications, you should bring your own. - Portable Oxygen Tank
✓ IMPORTANT
- Please note that only a medical professional can prescribe medications. Our guides DO NOT have the authority to prescribe treatment to clients. Any medication administered during the trek will be given only with your consent and at your own responsibility. If you have a prescription, we strongly recommend bringing your own medication.
No Incluye
× SLEEPING BAG
- If you don’t have your own, you can rent one from our company. Our sleeping bags are effective and durable, designed to protect you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-shaped and include a sleeping liner. The bags are cleaned after each trip.
(Rental available for $15 USD at Bestreks agency).
× TREKKING POLES
- With extra rubber tips included in our service, they are very useful for rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair from our company.
(Rental available for $15 USD at Bestreks agency).
× DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 3
× PERSONAL HIKING CLOTHING AND EQUIPMENT
× TRAVEL INSURANCE
- This is not a requirement, but we always recommend that our clients purchase it in case of flight disruptions or unexpected health issues. Please check if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies are void above (4,000 m / 13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Delays beyond administrative control (landscape, bad weather, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policy, political instability/strikes, etc.).
✓ TIPPING YOUR CREW
- Tipping is a standard practice in tourism and any trekking excursion. While we pay fair wages to all our team members, any extra contribution is always appreciated, especially given the hard work they do. Usually, group participants collect tips to distribute among the porters, chefs, and guides.
✓ Why tipping is important:
- Recognizes workers’ efforts.
- A way to thank them for good service and hospitality.
- Supports the local economy, especially in tourist destinations and communities.
- Encourages excellent service, motivating staff to continue providing outstanding support and hospitality.
- Strengthens the connection between hikers and the support team.
- Shows gratitude and appreciation for the hard work of porters, cooks, and guides, who work tirelessly 24/7 to ensure your trek is comfortable and memorable.
✓ ORIGINAL PASSPORT
- If you booked the service with your old passport and then renewed it, you likely have a new passport number. Please inform us so we can update this information.
✓ BACKPACK
- You’ll need a backpack to carry your gear, snacks, and water. Choose one that is comfortable to wear 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 hydration system. Choosing a water bottle that keeps water cold is essential.
✓ HIKING BOOTS
- Lightweight, comfortable, and well-broken-in. Make sure your shoes are not too tight or too loose. They should provide enough room for your toes to move freely.
✓ HEADLAMP
- A must-have for early morning or late-night visibility. It will not only illuminate your path in the dark but also keep your hands free for other tasks. When choosing a headlamp, consider brightness, weight, and comfort.
✓ POWER BANK/BATTERY CHARGER
- You should keep your phone on airplane mode and carry a power bank or external battery. We recommend one with at least 20,000 mAh.
✓ FOR YOUR DUFFEL BAG
- 1-2 moisture-wicking t-shirts
- 2-3 pairs of hiking pants
- 3 sets of underwear
- 3 pairs of hiking socks
- 1 fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants for unpredictable weather
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool cap for different temperatures
- Comfortable camping shoes and sturdy hiking boots
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves work well)
- Waterproof 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 to organize and protect items
- Sleeping bag (rated for at least -10°C for cold nights)
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen and facial moisturizer to protect your skin
- Wet wipes for quick clean-ups
- Toothbrush and toothpaste for oral hygiene
- Toilet paper for personal use
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
✓ INSIDE YOUR BACKPACK
- Water: Bring enough for the first day; refills will be provided afterward.
- Rain and fleece clothing: Stay prepared for weather changes.
- Camera or smartphone: Capture memories.
- Music: An iPhone or similar for entertainment.
- Hand sanitizer: Maintain hygiene.
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags: Manage waste responsibly.
- Extra money: For additional purchases and tips (recommended in soles).
- Earplugs: For a peaceful rest.
✓ NOTES
- Waterproofing: Protect your belongings from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Wear well-fitted and 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
- $420 USD.
- To book the Ausangate trek, an initial payment of $210 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
Additional items available for rent on this trip:
- Sleeping bag: $15.00 USD
- Trekking poles (pair): $15.00 USD
✓ PRICE GUARANTEE
- Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase, regardless of 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. Payment can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home currency for added convenience.
✓ AUSANGATE TREK RESERVATION
To reserve your spot on the Ausangate trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $210 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 services you select, or you can choose to pay the full tour amount in advance. If you decide to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour departure.
- Payment of the remaining balance: If you choose to pay only the deposit, the balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the start of the tour. You can pay the balance 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% fee.
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY
Bestreks agency has the following cancellation policies: 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 be charged 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 costs incurred during your return, such as food, transportation, or accommodation, will be your responsibility.
- Uncontrollable events that make any part of the trip impossible, such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or hotel/flight overbookings. In any of these cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available) to make the trip possible. Any costs associated with these alternative arrangements will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ RECOMMENDATIONS
- We highly 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.
✓ PRICE PER PERSON
- $420 USD.
- To book the Ausangate trek, an initial payment of $210 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT
Additional items available for rent on this trip:
- Sleeping bag: $15.00 USD
- Trekking poles (pair): $15.00 USD
✓ PRICE GUARANTEE
- Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase, regardless of 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. Payment can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home currency for added convenience.
✓ AUSANGATE TREK RESERVATION
To reserve your spot on the Ausangate trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $210 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 services you select, or you can choose to pay the full tour amount in advance. If you decide to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance can be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour departure.
-
Payment of the remaining balance: If you choose to pay only the deposit, the balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the start of the tour. You can pay the balance 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% fee.
✓ CANCELLATION POLICY
Bestreks agency has the following cancellation policies: 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 be charged 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 costs incurred during your return, such as food, transportation, or accommodation, will be your responsibility.
-
Uncontrollable events that make any part of the trip impossible, such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or hotel/flight overbookings. In any of these cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available) to make the trip possible. Any costs associated with these alternative arrangements will be the traveler’s responsibility.
✓ RECOMMENDATIONS
- We highly 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.
It is one of the most impressive and least crowded treks in Peru. Along the way, you will be surrounded by majestic snow-capped mountains, colorful lagoons, and rich Andean fauna, including alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas. The route offers spectacular views of the Apu Ausangate (6,384 m), considered sacred in the Andean worldview.
Absolutely! The Ausangate trek is one of the most impressive 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 to more than 6,300 meters above sea level, and trekking around it offers you spectacular views of mountain landscapes, glaciers, vibrantly colored lagoons.
In addition, the route passes through rural communities that maintain ancestral traditions, giving you the opportunity to connect with the local culture. Although it is a demanding trek, due to the altitude and terrain, the landscapes experienced along the way make the effort worthwhile. If you like challenges and nature in its purest form, it is an unforgettable experience.
The hike is 6 to 7 hours a day is quite common, with variations depending on your pace and the conditions of the terrain. The hardest days are usually days 2 and 3, especially due to the altitude and steep climbs, but in the end the effort is worth it for the views.
It is very important to be well prepared, not only in terms of equipment and physical conditioning, but also for acclimatization to the altitude, which is essential to enjoy trekking without problems.
Ausangate trekking is safe if you take these factors into account and prepare yourself properly. Most tourists who do the trek enjoy it without any serious incidents, but it is important to be aware of the risks associated with altitude and changing terrain conditions. If you follow the safety tips, trekking is an amazing experience.
Exactly! As mentioned, the Ausangate trek is a relatively quiet route in terms of crowds, so the climate and weather conditions are the most important factors to consider when choosing the best time to do it.
• Dry season (May to October): This is undoubtedly the best time to do the Ausangate trek, as the chances of rain are minimal, making the trail safer and more comfortable. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and cold nights, which improves the experience and allows you to enjoy clear views of the mountains and lagoons. Also, the routes will not be as 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.
To get to Cusco, the most common way is to take an international flight to Lima (the capital of Peru) and then take a domestic flight to Cusco. First, take a flight from your home country to Jorge Chavez International Airport in Lima. Lima is the main hub for international air connections in Peru.
Once in Lima, you can take a domestic flight to Cusco. The flight from Lima to Cusco takes approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. There are several airlines that offer this route, such as LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air. If you prefer not to fly, you can take a bus from Lima to Cusco. This road trip can take between 20 and 24 hours. However, it is more advisable to fly for the convenience and time savings.
If you are coming from other nearby countries, such as Chile, Argentina, Colombia, or Ecuador, you might also find direct flights to Cusco from some of their main cities, although they are not always as frequent as flights to Lima.
Minimum 2-3 days in Cusco: If you arrive directly to Cusco, it is recommended to spend at least 2 or 3 days there before starting the trek. During this time, you can rest, take it easy, and allow your body to get used to the altitude. Take advantage of exploring the city in a light way, such as gentle walks through the center, to avoid intense physical efforts during those first days.
If you come from a higher area: If you have already been to other high areas of Peru (for example, Arequipa, Puno or the Sacred Valley), the acclimatization process may be a little faster. In this case, a day of rest in Cusco could be enough to adjust your body before starting the trek.
Shoes that provide ankle support are highly recommended, especially for those who are
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