An awe-inspiring adventure through the Andes, across sacred mountains and colorful lakes.
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most impressive multi-day hikes in Peru. Over 5 days you’ll pass glaciers, turquoise lakes, and the iconic Rainbow Mountain. Along the way you’ll encounter traditional Quechua communities, camp in unique locations, and relax in natural hot springs.
This trek is demanding, but it offers an unforgettable mix of nature, culture, and adventure — far from the tourist crowds.
Why book this tour?
✔️ Experience one of Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude treks, with passes above 5,000 m and breathtaking views of Ausangate, the sacred mountain of the Andes.
✔️ Discover turquoise lakes, colorful valleys, and alpaca herds in a remote region far from mass tourism.
✔️ Optional chance to visit the iconic Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), depending on route and weather conditions.
✔️ Relax in natural hot springs at Upis and Pacchanta.
✔️ Camp for four nights at stunning locations, supported by professional guides, cooks, and muleteers.
✔️ A sustainable and small-scale alternative to the Inca Trail, with respect for nature and local communities.
✔️ A challenging yet rewarding adventure for hikers who seek something truly unique.
Ready for an authentic Andes experience?
Book your Ausangate Trek today or contact us for more details — we’ll be happy to help you plan this mythical journey.
Overview
- Price: USD 640 per person
- Duration: 5 days / 4 nights
- Group size: max. 8–12 trekkers
- Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
- Languages: English & Spanish
Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui – Upis – Huayna Ausangate Lake
- Early pick-up in Cusco and drive to Tinqui, the starting point of the trek. Meet your guides, muleteers, and cooks.
- Begin the hike towards the hot springs of Upis (~4,400 m), where lunch will be served with panoramic views of Ausangate.
- Continue in the afternoon to Huayna Ausangate Lake. Dinner and overnight in camp.
Distance: 7–10 km / 4–6 hrs
Camp altitude: ~4,400 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass – Pucacocha – Ananta
- Ascend to the Arapa Pass (~4,950 m) with views of glaciers and highland lakes.
- Continue across the Pucacocha Pass (~5,000 m) before descending to Ananta camp.
Distance: 12 km / 6–8 hrs
Camp altitude: ~4,700 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3: Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Alqatari
- Early climb to the Surini Pass (~5,050 m), with sweeping views of Rainbow Mountain.
- Descend through colorful valleys to Alqatari, where you’ll camp overnight.
Distance: 15 km / 7–9 hrs
Camp altitude: ~4,200 m
Difficulty: Challenging to strenuous
Day 4: Ausangatecocha – Palomani Pass – Jampa / Pampacancha
- The highlight of the trek: cross the Palomani Pass (~5,200 m), the highest point of the route.
- Descend through alpine valleys populated with alpaca herds until you reach Jampa or Pampacancha camp.
Distance: 12 km / 6–8 hrs
Camp altitude: ~4,600–4,700 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Day 5: Jampa – Q’ampa Pass – Pacchanta (Hot Springs) – Cusco
- Final climb across the Q’ampa Pass (~5,070 m), followed by a descent to Pacchanta.
- Enjoy lunch and a well-deserved soak in the hot springs.
- Private transfer back to Cusco (arrival in the early evening).
Distance: 14–16 km / 6–7 hrs
End altitude: ~4,300 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Expert local knowledge — decades of experience in sustainable tourism in Cusco;
