Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 6D/5N.
Dificulty
Hard
Duration
6 Days / 5 Nights
Group Size
02 - 15 People
Max Altitude
4,650 msnm
Description
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the captivating landscapes of Ausangate Mountain and the famous Rainbow Mountain. This route will not only allow you to admire the majesty of the Andes, but also to deeply connect with nature and with yourself.
Our experienced bestreks guides will not only accompany you on this adventure, but will share with you their passion and knowledge about the region, giving you a deeper understanding of each place you explore. Leave routine behind and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Andes. Throughout the Ausangate trek and Rainbow Mountain, you will find moments of reflection and wonder, surrounded by imposing mountains, green valleys, crystal-clear lagoons and vibrant landscapes that seem straight out of a dream.
Each step will bring you closer to the hidden wonders of this region, where the immensity of the Andes and its changing hues will captivate you. Share stories, discover the rich Andean culture and experience the magic of these remote places.
At bestreks, we are committed to responsible tourism. We respect the environment, support local communities, and follow sustainable trekking practices to preserve these pristine landscapes. By choosing us, you contribute to the conservation of this sacred land and the improvement of the quality of life of those who inhabit it.
The Ausangate trek is an unparalleled experience. It is an opportunity to explore the Andes in an authentic and transformative way. Every trail you walk, every view you see, leaves an indelible mark on your soul. Return from this expedition with a heart full of memories and the certainty of having experienced something extraordinary.
Day 1: Cusco | Ocongate – Tinke - Upis Camp - Huayna Ausangate Lagoon
The first day of the Ausangate Trek begins in Cusco. We will pick you up early in the morning at 5:00 a.m. from your accommodation. We will travel in our private vehicle to the town of Ocongate (3,500 m / 11,482 ft), a 2-hour journey where you will enjoy scenic villages and beautiful lagoons along the Vilcanota Valley from the window.
Then, we will drive for another hour to 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 hike. Here, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet the team of cooks and muleteers who will accompany us on this adventure.
Our first day of trekking begins in a vast plain with direct views of the immense Ausangate Glacier (6,372 m / 20,905 ft). Along the way, we will encounter local people dressed in traditional, colorful clothing, as well as herds of llamas and alpacas.
We will reach the Upis hot springs (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) to enjoy our first spectacular lunch, prepared by our talented chef. Our camp will also be set up here, right in front of the Ausangate Mountain.
In the afternoon, we will hike for two hours round trip to Huayna Ausangate Lagoon. The trail is flat for about 40 minutes, followed by a gradual uphill section for the last 20 minutes. Here, we will enjoy a breathtaking sunset, illuminating the surrounding glaciers with golden light.
At night, we will have a hearty dinner and spend our first night in the mountains, under a spectacular starry sky that you will remember for a lifetime.
Day 1 Summary:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Total 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.
- Overnight Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,435 ft.
Day 2: Upis | Arapa Pass - Yanacocha - Hatun Pukacocha
We will wake up early at 5:00 a.m. with a cup of coca tea brought to your tent. After enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will start our trek, hiking for about 2.5 hours through a beautiful Andean valley toward Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). The majestic Ausangate Glacier will accompany us throughout the journey.
From the top of the pass, the landscape becomes even more breathtaking, and if we are lucky, we might witness the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world. Our guide will also share insights into the local flora and fauna as we hike.
Next, we will descend to the crystal-clear Yanacocha Lagoon (“Black Lagoon”) and continue on the trail for another hour until we reach Hatun Pukacocha (4,500 m / 14,763 ft), where we will appreciate the stunning landscape and the shimmering waters of the lake beneath the snow-capped peaks.
Later, we will explore the surrounding lagoons and relax with a warm herbal tea. At night, a nutritious dinner will be waiting for us before heading to our camp for a well-deserved rest.
Day 2 Summary:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Total 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.
- Overnight Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,763 ft.
Day 3: Pukacocha | Puka Pass - Ananta - Ananta Pass - Surinicocha
Another day filled with natural wonders awaits us! We will start with a nutritious breakfast to regain energy before beginning a 2-hour ascent. Along the way, you will witness a fascinating contrast: rugged, desert-like mountains suddenly give way to lush green valleys and towering glaciers.
After taking in these breathtaking views, we will descend for about 1.5 hours to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,585 ft), where we will enjoy a delicious lunch in the middle of a dramatic landscape.
Once replenished, we will resume our hike with a 2-hour ascent to Warmisaya (4,985 m / 16,355 ft). From this incredible viewpoint, we will witness the stunning red mountain range that signals our proximity to the famous Rainbow Mountain.
To finish the day, we will descend for 45 minutes to Surinicocha (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where we will set up camp and prepare for another unforgettable night in the Andes.
Day 3 Summary:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Total Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles.
- Total Hiking Time: 6 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Minimum Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,763 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 4,985 m / 16,355 ft.
- Overnight Altitude: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft.
Day 4: Surinicocha | Rainbow Mountain - Quesiuno - Ausangate Cocha
We will start the day very early with a delicious breakfast, fueling up for an unforgettable adventure. Our trek begins with a 2-hour ascent to one of the most stunning natural wonders of the Andes, Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft).
We will arrive before the crowds, allowing us to witness the sunrise in this dreamlike landscape and take spectacular photos without disturbances. Our guide will also share the deep cultural and spiritual significance of this place in Andean cosmology.
After this special moment, we will descend to the Red Valley viewpoint (5,050 m / 16,568 ft), where we will take in an incredible panoramic view of a vast, red-hued valley stretching to the horizon.
Next, we will hike back down to Quesiuno (4,376 m / 14,357 ft), where a well-deserved lunch awaits in a breathtaking setting.
With our energy restored, we will continue on a 2.5-hour ascent through a beautiful green valley, where herds of llamas and alpacas graze in perfect harmony with nature.
By nightfall, we will arrive at our camp in Ausangate Cocha (4,500 m / 14,764 ft), where a hearty dinner will be served before we rest beneath a sky full of stars, surrounded by the magnificence of the Andes.
Day 4 Summary:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Total Distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles.
- Total Hiking Time: 7-8 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Minimum Altitude: 4,376 m / 14,357 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft.
- Overnight Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft.
Day 5: Ausangate Cocha | Palomani Pass - Huchuy Phinaya - Jampa - Sorapata
After several days of acclimatization, the moment we’ve all been waiting for has arrived! Today, we will reach the highest point of our trek. With determination and enthusiasm, we will start the day with a hearty breakfast, preparing ourselves to conquer Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the culminating point of our journey.
The ascent takes approximately two hours, leading us to the highest point of the Vilcanota mountain range. From here, we will witness one of the most breathtaking views of the entire trek, with a panoramic horizon of snow-capped peaks and endless valleys. We will take a well-deserved break to absorb the grandeur of this landscape before beginning our descent.
We will descend for about 1.5 hours to reach the community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), where we will enjoy a revitalizing lunch in a peaceful natural setting.
Our journey is not over yet! We will resume our hike with a gradual two-hour ascent through the Jampa valley, accompanied by the majestic glaciers of the Callangate range. Finally, we will arrive at our last campsite in Sorapata (4,650 m / 15,256 ft), where everything will be set up for us to relax and enjoy a comforting dinner. The night will embrace us with its silence and the magic of the mountains, offering a deep and restful sleep under a starry sky.
Day 5 Summary:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
- Accommodation: Camping.
- Total Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6.83 miles.
- Total Hiking Time: 6-7 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Challenging.
- Minimum Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 5,200 m / 17,060 ft.
- Overnight Altitude: 4,650 m / 15,256 ft.
Day 6: Sorapata | Jampa Pass - 7 Lagoons - Pacchanta Hot Springs - Tinki - Cusco
At dawn, we will wake up to a spectacular view of the snow-capped Tres Picos towering before us. We will enjoy our last breakfast in the heights, preparing for our final ascent—a 2.5-hour climb to Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft).
This vast green valley, home to Andean communities dedicated to agriculture and livestock, will offer us one last opportunity to capture the grandeur of the landscape with our cameras and hearts.
From here, we will begin a three-hour descent to Pacchanta (4,100 m / 13,451 ft). Along the way, we will marvel at a series of crystal-clear lagoons, considered sacred by the Andean people. We will take a moment at a special spot to perform a small gratitude ceremony for the mountains and Pachamama, thanking them for the incredible journey we have completed.
Upon arriving in Pacchanta, we will enjoy a well-deserved rest in its thermal waters—the perfect reward to relax our muscles after the adventure. We will also savor a final lunch with our team before bidding farewell to the staff that made this experience possible.
Finally, we will embark on our return journey to Cusco (approximately 2.5 hours), carrying unforgettable memories of six days filled with exploration, challenge, and deep connection with nature.
A once-in-a-lifetime adventure that will remain forever in your heart!
Day 6 Summary:
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
- Total Hiking Distance: 13 km / 8.07 miles.
- Total Hiking Time: 7-8 hours.
- Difficulty Level: Moderate.
- Minimum Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft.
- Maximum Altitude: 5,070 m / 16,634 ft.
Incluye
✓ PRE-DEPARTURE INFORMATION MEETING:
- You will meet with your guide a day before the trek at your hotel for an orientation session. 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 to the Ausangate trek.
- Entrance to the Pacchanta hot springs.
- Rainbow Mountain ticket.
- Red Valley viewpoint ticket.
✓ FIELD STAFF:
- Professional Guides: Our trekking guides are specialized and selected from accredited universities. They are fluent in English and have three to ten years of experience in various treks in the region. They are experts in group management under pressure, first aid, and rescue techniques. Most of them come from different Andean communities and bring their cultural heritage with them. Along with the rest of the field team, our guides will make your trip a unique experience.
- Chefs: Trained in local culinary schools, our chefs are experts in modern Andean cuisine, traditional Peruvian food, international cuisine, and vegetarian/vegan options. They have in-depth knowledge of the nutritional properties of their meals and prepare food quickly while maintaining high hygiene and food safety standards.
- Horsemen and Horses: Our team of horsemen and their horses is essential to the success of the experience, as they are responsible for transporting all camping equipment, food supplies, and other necessary loads along the route. The horses also carry the duffle bags with up to 7 kilos of personal belongings per participant, including sleeping bags. This way, you can hike with just a small backpack carrying your essentials, while our team transports your luggage from camp to camp, allowing you to fully enjoy the trek.
✓ DUFFLE BAG SERVICE FOR THE TREK (7 KILOS):
- During the briefing session, you will be provided with a duffle bag that allows you to pack up to 7 kilos of personal belongings. Our team will transport these duffle bags on horses throughout the trek, ensuring you have access to them at the campsites. This service allows you to hike comfortably with only a daypack.
✓ MEALS:
- 6 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners.
- Breakfasts: Fruit salad, yogurt, oatmeal, chocolate, milk, coffee, tea, pancakes, scrambled eggs, bread, and butter.
- Lunches: Buffet-style, including soup, 2-4 different main courses, and hot beverages. Main courses include Peruvian classics such as lomo saltado (stir-fried beef with rice and fries) and ají de gallina (creamy and mildly spicy shredded chicken), among other options. Vegetarian and vegan options are available.
- Dinners: Soups, chicken, pasta, and vegetables.
- Wake-up Tea: Every morning at the campsite, you will be woken up with a hot cup of coca tea. Our staff will bring the tea to your tent to keep you warm before starting the day.
- Tea Time/Happy Hour: Popcorn, crackers, coffee, chocolate, milk, and a variety of teas.
- Daily Snacks for the Hike: Fresh and dried fruits, salty and sweet crackers (chocolates, other sweets).
- Water: We will provide boiled water from lunch on the first day until lunch on the sixth day.
- Hygiene Products: A small towel and soap will be provided to clean your hands before each meal.
✓ PRIVATE CAMPING EQUIPMENT:
- Tents: High-mountain 4-season tents that can withstand harsh winter weather, including heavy rain and snow.
- Sleeping Mats: Our inflatable Thermarest mats ensure a warm and comfortable night’s sleep on the trek.
- Dining Tent: Our spacious dining tent, equipped with chairs and a table, provides ample space to enjoy meals regardless of the outside weather.
- Kitchen Tent: Equipped with all necessary items for our chefs to prepare meals (gas stove and all cooking utensils).
✓ TRANSPORTATION:
- Day 1: You will be picked up from your hotel in the morning and travel by private transport with the group to the starting point of the trek.
- Day 6: Once the trek is completed, we will take you back to the doorstep of your hotel in Cusco.
- Pack Mules: During the trek, the pack mules will carry all camping equipment and your allowed luggage (7 kg / 15.4 lbs). The horsemen will handle your duffle bag and personal items.
✓ EMERGENCY EQUIPMENT AND REMOTE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE:
- Radios: Our radios have a 10 km range and 8 frequencies, allowing communication between our guides, cooks, and horsemen.
- First Aid Kit: Includes alcohol, hydrogen peroxide, iodine tincture, germicidal soap, cotton, gauze, bandages, medical adhesive tape, surgical gloves, and painkillers for muscle and stomach pain, as well as fever reducers. If you take prescribed medication, please bring your own.
- Portable Oxygen Tank.
✓ IMPORTANT: Please note that only a medical professional can issue a prescription. Our guides DO NOT have the authority to prescribe treatments to clients during the trek, and all medications will be administered under your consent and responsibility. If you have a prescription, we 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, protecting you from temperatures as low as -18°C (0°F). They are mummy-shaped and include a sleeping liner. The sleeping bags are cleaned after each trip.
(Rental available: $25 USD at the Bestreks agency).
× TREKKING POLES
- With extra rubber tips included in our service, these are very useful for rough terrain and for ascending and descending. You can rent a pair from our company.
(Rental available: $25 USD at the Bestreks agency).
× DINNER IN CUSCO ON DAY 6
× ENTRY TO THE UPIS HOT SPRINGS (DAY 1)
× 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 issues or unexpected health problems. Please check if your travel insurance policy has altitude restrictions, as some policies become void above (4,000 m / 13,123 ft).
× ADDITIONAL COSTS
- Delays beyond management’s control (such as weather conditions, itinerary modifications due to safety concerns, illness, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, etc.).
× TIPS FOR YOUR CREW
- Tipping is a standard practice in tourism and any excursion. While we pay fair wages to our entire team, an extra contribution is always appreciated, especially considering the hard work they do. Group participants typically collect their tips to distribute them among the porters, chefs, and guides.
× Why is tipping important?
- It acknowledges the worker’s effort.
- It is a way to show gratitude for the good service and care received.
- It supports the local economy in tourist destinations and communities.
- It encourages excellent service, motivating staff to continue providing exceptional support and hospitality.
- It creates positive relationships, fostering goodwill and strengthening the connection between hikers and the team that supports them.
- It recognizes hard work and is a meaningful way to thank porters, cooks, and guides who work tirelessly 24/7 to ensure that your trek is comfortable and memorable.
✓ Original Passport
- If you booked the service with your old passport and then renewed it, your passport number has likely changed. Please inform us so we can update this information.
✓ Backpack
- You will need a backpack to carry your gear, snacks, and water. It should be comfortable and have a capacity of at least 30-40 liters.
✓ Water Storage
- Bring between 1.5 and 2 liters of water. Consider using a Camelbak or a similar system. A bottle that keeps water cold will be useful.
✓ Hiking Boots
- Lightweight, comfortable, and well-broken-in. Make sure they are not too tight or too loose and allow your toes to move freely.
✓ Headlamp
- Essential for visibility early in the morning or late at night. It not only lights the path in the dark but also keeps your hands free. Consider brightness, weight, and comfort when choosing one.
✓ Power Bank / Battery Charger
- Keep your phone in airplane mode and use an external battery; a 20,000 mAh one is recommended.
✓ For Your Duffle Bag:
- 3-4 moisture-wicking T-shirts
- 3-4 pairs of hiking pants
- 5 sets of underwear
- 5 pairs of hiking socks
- 2 fleece jackets and 1 warm down jacket for cold nights
- 1 waterproof jacket and pants
- 1 sun hat and 1 wool cap for different temperatures
- Comfortable shoes for camping and sturdy hiking boots
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves work fine)
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Quick-drying towel
- Small bottle of soap
- Battery charger
- Large plastic bags for organizing and protecting items
- Sleeping bag (rated at least -10°C for cold nights)
- Toiletries
- Sunscreen and face moisturizer
- Wet wipes
- Toothbrush and toothpaste
- Toilet paper
- Swimsuit and towel (if you plan to enjoy the hot springs)
- Personal medications and a basic first aid kit
✓ Inside Your Backpack:
- Enough water for the first day (refills will be provided)
- Rain gear and warm clothing
- Camera or smartphone
- Music (phone or MP3 player)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bags
- Extra cash in Peruvian soles for additional purchases and tips
- Earplugs for a quiet rest
✓ Notes:
- Waterproofing: Protect your items from rain and moisture.
- Comfort: Wear well-fitted footwear to avoid blisters.
- Organization: Use compartments to keep essentials handy.
Following this list will help ensure a comfortable and memorable Ausangate trek.
✓ Price per Person:
- $700 USD – Adults
To book the Ausangate Trek, an initial deposit of $350 USD per person is required. The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco.
✓ Additional Equipment:
You can rent the following items for this trek:
- Sleeping bag: $25.00 USD
- Trekking poles (pair): $25.00 USD
✓ Price Guarantee:
- Once your reservation is confirmed, we guarantee that the price will not increase under any circumstances. Please ensure you have read all the important tour information before booking.
✓ 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. Tour payments can be made with any credit or debit card, and you can also pay in your home currency for convenience.
✓ Ausangate Trek Reservation:
To secure your spot on the Ausangate Trek, we require a non-refundable deposit of $350 USD. This deposit guarantees your place 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 tour amount upfront.
- If you choose to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the tour departure.
✓ Remaining Balance Payment:
- If you opt to pay only the deposit, the remaining balance must be paid upon arrival in Cusco, one day before the trek begins. The balance can be paid in cash (USD or soles) or by card (with a 5% fee). You may also pay online through our website, with the same 5% fee.
✓ Cancellation Policy:
Bestreks has the following cancellation policies: Once a reservation is made, the space and permit cannot be canceled.
- If you cancel 2-3 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 expenses incurred for your return, such as food, transportation, or lodging, will be at your own cost.
- Events beyond our control, such as strikes, protests, flight cancellations, weather conditions, or hotel/flight overbooking, may affect the trip. In such cases, we will suggest alternative arrangements (if available). Any additional costs associated with these alternatives will be the responsibility of the traveler.
✓ Recommendations:
- We highly recommend that you fully understand our booking and cancellation policies before making any payment. This will ensure that your investment is protected and that you have a smooth booking experience for your Ausangate Trek adventure.
✓ Briefing Meeting
- All briefings are held the afternoon before your trip at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 6:00 p.m. Your guide will also provide you with your duffle bag. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes. If you cannot attend, you will need to coordinate another time via email or phone call.
✓ Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
- If you still have a pending balance, you must pay it one day before your trek/tour; otherwise, your trip reservation will not be confirmed. If possible, we highly appreciate cash payments (USD or Peruvian soles) at our office in Cusco or during the briefing. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw money in either currency.
You can also pay by credit/debit card or through IZIPAY, online or in person, but there is a 5% service fee charged by our payment gateways (Niubiz and IZIPAY).
✓ Client Pickup
- Please note that pickups are done within Cusco city. We recommend booking a hotel in the historic center with a convenient location. Our guide or staff will confirm the pickup time one day before the tour. Due to traffic conditions, the pickup time may vary by 30 to 45 minutes.
Cusco is an ancient city with many narrow, cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs are located in areas inaccessible by vehicles or on steep hills, making it difficult to transport luggage. We highly recommend choosing accommodation with easy access.
✓ Health
- If you have medical restrictions for any of the activities included in your reservation, please consult your doctor regarding the risks.
✓ Weather
- The weather is unpredictable. The dry season in Cusco usually lasts from April to October, but rain can still occur in June, and the sun may shine in December. No matter which month you are trekking, bring proper rain gear, including a waterproof jacket, pants, poncho, and gloves. Many people forget about gloves, but the cold and humidity can make hiking uncomfortable.
Also, be prepared for four seasons in one day. Andean trekking involves multiple microclimates, so layering is essential to adapt to temperature changes. A warm jacket is necessary for cold nights.
✓ Altitude Sickness (Soroche) & Stomach Issues
- For hikers arriving in Cusco from sea level, we recommend arriving two days before your trek.
✓ Common health issues in Cusco:
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Altitude sickness (Soroche) – Symptoms include headaches and nausea. Over-the-counter medications like Aspirin, Diamox, Sorojchi Pill, and Alti Vital help minimize symptoms. If symptoms persist, oxygen is the next step. We have the necessary equipment and trained staff to assist.
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Stomach issues – Due to slow digestion at high altitudes, we recommend drinking 3-4 liters of water per day to stay hydrated. Hot drinks like coca leaf tea are especially beneficial. Opt for soups, vegetables, and light carbohydrates rather than fried or heavy foods.
✓ Tips for acclimatization:
- Avoid alcohol and smoking
- Sleep at least 8 hours per night
- Avoid excessive exercise
- Keep warm with appropriate clothing
- Follow the rule: eat in moderation, drink plenty of fluids
✓ Medical Restrictions
- Clients must inform their travel agency of any medical conditions before the trip. Examples include allergies, special diets, medications being taken, and any health concerns. For severe medical restrictions, consult your doctor to ensure you are fit for the trek.
Providing us with this information in advance helps us prepare and ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.
✓ Water
- Starting from the first lunch, we will provide boiled water until the end of the trek. Please bring a reusable water bottle, as you will carry and use it throughout the hike.
- We strongly recommend canteens instead of plastic bottles to help protect the environment. If you need to buy bottled water, you can do so on days 1, 2, and 4 of the trek. You may also bring your own water purification tablets or filters, but past experiences have shown that clients using these alternatives often suffered from stomach issues.
For this reason, we recommend using the boiled water provided by our team.
✓ Lost Items
- Please be mindful of where you place your belongings and make sure to collect everything when leaving our transportation, camps, or restaurants. You are solely responsible for your belongings during the tour.
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. The Ausangate Mountain is a sacred peak, rising over 6,300 meters above sea level, and the trek around it offers spectacular views of mountainous landscapes, glaciers, and vibrant-colored lagoons.
Additionally, the trek passes through remote Andean communities that have preserved their ancestral traditions, allowing you to connect with the local culture. While this is a demanding trek due to altitude and terrain, the breathtaking landscapes make it worth the effort. If you love challenges and pure nature, this is an unforgettable experience.
The daily trekking distance is usually 6 to 7 hours, depending on your pace and the terrain conditions. The most challenging days are typically Days 3 and 4, due to the altitude and steep ascents, but the incredible views make the effort worthwhile.
Here’s the breakdown of distances for the classic 5-day Ausangate trek:
- Day 1: 10 km / 6.21 miles
- Day 2: 11 km / 6.84 miles
- Day 3: 10 km / 6.21 miles
- Day 4: 17 km / 10.5 miles
- Day 5: 11 km / 6.21 miles
- Day 6: 13 km / 8.7 miles
The Ausangate Trek is safe if you take proper precautions and prepare well. Most travelers complete the trek without issues, but it’s important to be aware of the risks related to altitude and changing weather conditions. By following safety guidelines, the trek becomes an amazing experience.
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Dry Season (May to October):
This is the best time to do the Ausangate Trek because there is little to no rain, making the trail safer and more comfortable. During these months, the weather is more stable, with sunny days and cold nights, offering clear views of the mountains and lagoons. Additionally, the trails are less slippery and easier to walk on. -
Rainy Season (December to February):
While it is still possible to do the trek during this season, you must be prepared for muddy and slippery trails, making the hike more challenging.
The most common way to reach Cusco is by flying to Lima, Peru’s capital, and then taking a domestic flight to Cusco.
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International Flight to Lima:
- Fly from your home country to Jorge Chávez International Airport in Lima, Peru.
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Domestic Flight to Cusco:
- From Lima, take a 1 hour 20-minute flight to Cusco. Airlines like LATAM, Sky Airline, and Viva Air operate on this route.
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Alternative by Bus:
- You can take a bus from Lima to Cusco, which takes about 20 to 24 hours. However, flying is highly recommended for comfort and time efficiency.
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Direct International Flights:
- Some nearby countries (e.g., Chile, Argentina, Colombia, Ecuador) occasionally have direct flights to Cusco, but they are less frequent than those to Lima.
- At least 2-3 days in Cusco before starting the trek is highly recommended.
- During this time, take it easy, rest, and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
- Light activities like walking around Cusco’s historic center help with gradual acclimatization.
If you have already been at high altitudes (e.g., Arequipa, Puno, or the Sacred Valley), one rest day in Cusco might be enough before the trek.
Yes! Proper trekking boots with ankle support are highly recommended, especially for those not used to long hikes or rough terrain. The steep slopes and rocky paths require stability, and ankle support helps prevent injuries. High-cut hiking boots are ideal for this trek.
Trekking poles are not mandatory, but they are highly recommended because they:
✔ Reduce knee strain on steep ascents and descents.
✔ Provide extra stability on rocky and uneven terrain.
✔ Help with balance, especially in muddy or slippery conditions.
✔ Make climbing easier by allowing you to push with your arms instead of relying solely on your legs.
Any luggage that is not needed for the trek should be left in Cusco.
✔ All hotels in Cusco provide free luggage storage for trekkers.
✔ If you don’t have a hotel, you can store your luggage in our office until you return. We will ensure it is kept safe during your adventure.
We provide a variety of nutritious and delicious Peruvian superfoods and traditional dishes, such as:
✔ Rice, chicken, beef, salads, potatoes, fresh vegetables, and fruits.
✔ Vegetarian and special dietary options are available upon request with proper preparation and communication with our chef.
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