Ausangate Trek 5D/4N
5 days
Group
5,200 m.s.n.m.
Challenging
Embark on the ultimate high-altitude adventure with the Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights, a spectacular journey around the sacred Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region. This immersive trekking experience follows ancient Andean trails through remote valleys, glacial lakes, colorful mountain landscapes and traditional Quechua communities, offering one of the most rewarding hiking adventures in Peru.
Surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks, turquoise lagoons and vast alpine meadows, you’ll witness breathtaking scenery far from the crowds while discovering the spiritual significance of Ausangate, revered for centuries as one of the most sacred mountains of the Inca world.
The extended five-day itinerary provides a more relaxed pace than the shorter version, allowing additional time to appreciate the extraordinary beauty, wildlife and cultural heritage of the Peruvian Andes before concluding with an unforgettable visit to Rainbow Mountain.
Trek Highlights
Explore some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in South America:
- Ausangate Mountain.
- Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
- Upis Valley.
- Pucacocha Lakes.
- Ausangate Qocha.
- Pacchanta Hot Springs.
- Arapa Pass.
- Apacheta Pass.
- Palomani Pass.
- High-Andean glaciers.
- Traditional Quechua communities.
- Alpacas, llamas and vicuñas.
- Exceptional stargazing opportunities.
Itinerary
Your expedition begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
Travel through the southern Andes toward the traditional village of Tinki, where breakfast is served before continuing to the trailhead.
Begin hiking through beautiful valleys surrounded by alpacas, llamas and spectacular views of the Ausangate Glacier.
Arrive at Upis Camp, where lunch is provided. During the afternoon, you may relax at the nearby natural hot springs or explore the surrounding landscapes before dinner.
Overnight: Upis Camp
After breakfast, begin the ascent toward Arapa Pass, one of the highest points of the trek, offering magnificent panoramic views of glaciers, colorful mountains and remote Andean valleys.
Descend through pristine landscapes filled with crystal-clear lagoons and grazing alpacas before arriving at Pucacocha Camp.
Enjoy dinner beneath an extraordinary sky filled with stars.
Overnight: Pucacocha Camp
Today’s route crosses the spectacular Apacheta Pass, surrounded by dramatic snow-capped peaks and colorful mineral-rich mountains.
Along the way, admire several glacial lakes and impressive rock formations while your guide explains the geological and cultural significance of the region.
Arrive at the peaceful campsite near Ausangate Qocha, where you’ll spend the night surrounded by breathtaking alpine scenery.
Overnight: Ausangate Qocha Camp
Today’s hike includes crossing the impressive Palomani Pass, the highest point of the expedition.
From the summit, enjoy unforgettable panoramic views of Ausangate Mountain, surrounding glaciers and endless Andean valleys.
Descend toward the traditional community of Pacchanta, famous for its natural hot springs.
After arriving at camp, relax in the thermal waters before enjoying your final dinner in the mountains.
Overnight: Pacchanta Camp
Depart early in the morning toward the trail leading to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Arrive before the larger tourist groups, allowing ample time to admire the vibrant mineral-colored slopes and photograph one of Peru’s most iconic natural attractions.
Following the visit, descend to the transportation point where breakfast or lunch is served (depending on the operator’s logistics).
Return to Cusco by private transportation, arriving in the late afternoon.
Included
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Round-trip private transportation.
- Professional bilingual trekking guide.
- Entrance fees to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain (when included).
- Camping equipment (shared tents).
- Sleeping mat.
- Duffel bag for personal belongings.
- Pack horses for camping equipment.
- Cook and support staff.
- All meals during the trek (4 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners).
- Boiled and filtered drinking water throughout 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 assistant.
- Travel insurance.
- Snacks and alcoholic beverages.
- Tips for guides, cooks and horsemen.
- Personal expenses.
Recommendations
To successfully complete the Ausangate Trek, we recommend:
- Acclimatize in Cusco for at least two or three days before departure.
- Be in good physical condition due to the demanding altitude and hiking distances.
- Dress in layers to adapt to rapidly changing mountain weather.
- Drink plenty of water throughout the trek.
- Protect yourself from intense ultraviolet radiation with sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat.
- Follow your guide's recommendations regarding altitude, pacing and safety.
Important Information
- The Ausangate Trek reaches elevations of approximately 5,200 meters above sea level, with several mountain passes exceeding 5,000 meters.
- Daily hiking distances generally range between 10 and 15 kilometers, depending on campsite locations and route conditions.
- Nighttime temperatures frequently drop below 0°C, particularly during the dry season from May to September.
- Previous trekking experience and a good level of physical fitness are highly recommended.
- The itinerary may vary slightly depending on weather conditions, trail accessibility and campsite availability.
- Visiting Rainbow Mountain at the end of the trek allows hikers to experience this famous destination from a less crowded and more scenic approach than the standard day tour.
Packing list
- Original passport.
- Comfortable trekking boots.
- Sleeping bag suitable for temperatures below 0°C.
- Trekking poles.
- Thermal clothing.
- Waterproof jacket and pants.
- Warm gloves.
- Wool hat.
- Sun hat or cap.
- Sunglasses.
- Sunscreen.
- Headlamp with spare batteries.
- Reusable water bottle.
- Personal medication.
- Camera or smartphone.
- Snacks.
- Cash for personal expenses and tips.
- Trips Managed by Local Experts
- Easy, Fast, Risk-Free Bookings
- Personalized Small Group Tour
- Great Value for Money
- Unique, Customized Itineraries
- Best Local Certified Guides.
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- Inquire Now
- +51 999 999 999
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- Superior Service
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- Delicious and nutritious meals
- Sustainable Travel
- Years of Professional Inca Trail Experience
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