Ausangate Trek 4D/3N

4 days

Group

5,200 m.s.n.m.

Challenging

Challenge yourself on one of Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude trekking adventures with the Ausangate Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights. This unforgettable expedition takes you around the majestic Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region, passing through remote Andean villages, pristine glacial lakes, colorful valleys and breathtaking mountain passes.

Far from the traditional tourist routes, this trek offers an authentic immersion into the natural beauty and living culture of the Peruvian Andes. Along the journey, encounter herds of alpacas and vicuñas, relax in natural hot springs, and admire some of the most impressive alpine scenery in South America.

Ideal for experienced hikers, the Ausangate Trek combines adventure, cultural encounters and extraordinary landscapes while following ancient trails used for centuries by local Quechua communities.

Trek Highlights

Experience one of the most scenic trekking circuits in Peru:

  • Ausangate Mountain.
  • Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
  • Upis Valley.
  • Pucacocha Lakes.
  • Ananta Valley.
  • High-Andean mountain passes.
  • Glacial lakes.
  • Natural hot springs.
  • Alpacas, llamas and vicuñas.
  • Traditional Quechua communities.
  • Incredible stargazing opportunities.

Itinerary

Your adventure begins early in the morning with pickup from your hotel in Cusco.

Travel by private transportation through the southern Andes to the traditional village of Tinki, where breakfast is served before continuing to the starting point of the trek.

Begin hiking through picturesque valleys surrounded by grazing alpacas and snow-capped peaks until reaching the campsite at Upis, located at the foot of the impressive Ausangate Glacier.

After lunch, enjoy time to explore the surrounding landscapes or relax in the nearby natural hot springs before dinner.

Overnight: Upis Camp

After breakfast, begin a gradual ascent toward Arapa Pass, one of the trek’s highest points, offering magnificent panoramic views of Ausangate and the surrounding glaciers.

Continue descending through colorful valleys, passing turquoise glacial lakes and herds of alpacas before arriving at the beautiful campsite of Pucacocha.

Enjoy dinner beneath one of the clearest night skies in the Andes.

Overnight: Pucacocha Camp

Today’s hike crosses another spectacular high mountain pass surrounded by dramatic peaks and vibrant mineral-colored valleys.

Throughout the day, enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers, waterfalls and remote Andean landscapes rarely visited by conventional tourism.

Arrive at Ananta Camp, where you’ll have time to rest before dinner while enjoying unforgettable views of the surrounding mountains.

Overnight: Ananta Camp

Wake up early to begin the ascent toward the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) before most visitors arrive.

Spend time admiring the extraordinary natural colors of this geological wonder while enjoying spectacular views of Ausangate Mountain.

After visiting Rainbow Mountain, descend to the transportation point where breakfast or lunch (depending on the operator’s schedule) is provided before returning by tourist transportation to Cusco.

Arrival is expected during the late afternoon.

Included

  • Hotel pickup in Cusco.
  • Round-trip private transportation.
  • Professional bilingual trekking guide.
  • Entrance fees to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain (when specified).
  • Camping equipment (shared tents).
  • Sleeping mat.
  • Cook and support staff.
  • Pack horses for camping equipment.
  • Duffel bag for personal belongings.
  • All meals during the trek (3 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 3 dinners).
  • Boiled drinking water during the trek.
  • First aid kit.
  • Emergency oxygen.
  • Return transportation to Cusco.

Not Included

  • Sleeping bag.
  • Trekking poles (unless specified).
  • Horse for personal riding.
  • Personal riding porter.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Snacks and personal beverages.
  • Tips for guides, cooks and horsemen.
  • Personal expenses.

Recommendations

To successfully complete the Ausangate Trek, we recommend:

  • Spend at least two or three days acclimatizing in Cusco before beginning the trek.
  • Be in good physical condition due to the high altitude and demanding hiking distances.
  • Stay well hydrated throughout the expedition.
  • Pack light while bringing warm clothing suitable for freezing nighttime temperatures.
  • Follow your guide's instructions regarding altitude and weather conditions.
  • Protect yourself from intense UV radiation using sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.

Important Information

  • The Ausangate Trek reaches elevations of approximately 5,200 meters above sea level, making it one of the highest trekking routes in Peru.
  • Daily hiking distances range between 10 and 16 kilometers, depending on the itinerary and campsite locations.
  • Nighttime temperatures frequently fall below 0°C, especially during the dry season between May and September.
  • Weather conditions can change rapidly; proper mountain clothing is essential.
  • A good level of physical fitness and previous hiking experience are strongly recommended.
  • The itinerary may vary slightly depending on weather conditions, trail accessibility and campsite availability.

Packing list

  • Original passport.
  • Comfortable trekking boots.
  • Sleeping bag suitable for low temperatures.
  • Trekking poles.
  • Warm thermal clothing.
  • Waterproof jacket and pants.
  • Gloves.
  • Wool hat.
  • Sun hat or cap.
  • Sunglasses.
  • Sunscreen.
  • Reusable water bottle.
  • Personal medication.
  • Headlamp with extra batteries.
  • Camera or smartphone.
  • Snacks.
  • Cash for personal expenses and tips.

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