The Ausangate Trek is an exciting 5-day journey through the majestic Andes in Peru. It offers a unique combination of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. Starting from Cusco, the trek will take you to stunning unbeaten trails, lakes, high mountain passes, and traditional Andean communities. With impressive views and challenging altitudes reaching a maximum altitude of 5130 meters above sea level / 16831 feet. Minimum altitude: 4600 meters above sea level / 15093 feet. , this hike is best suited for those who are physically fit and acclimatized. Plan your adventure, pack the essentials, and get ready to embark on this unforgettable hike in the heart of Peru.
Embark on an extraordinary adventure with Ausangate Trek and the tour of the Rainbow Mountain also known as Vinicunca, an exciting 5-day trip through the impressive Andes of Peru. This hike offers a unique combination of stunning natural beauty, stunning mountain views, and a deep immersion into the rich cultural heritage of the Ausangate region.
Experience the magic of this remote and fascinating landscape as you hike through pristine valleys, pass picturesque Andean communities, and marvel at turquoise lakes and glacial peaks.
The Ausangate Trek is an exciting expedition that attracts thrill seekers and nature enthusiasts from all over the world. This walk, which lasts five days, is a true test of endurance and determination. Prepare to navigate challenging terrain, conquer high mountain passes, and immerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Peruvian Andes. Every step of the way, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views,
Ausangate trek 5 days to Rainbow Mountain
We start at 5:00 a.m. (pick-up at your hotel) and leave the City of Cusco via bus. Heading to the “Cusco-Puerto Maldonado Highway” towards Tinki (3,800 m/12.464 ft.).
On the way, we will stop at Urcos, where we can visit a beautiful lake with the same name. Then we will pass to CATTCA, a farming community. Here, we’ll appreciate several spectacular views of the region and finally pass through Ocongate.
After our 3-hour drive, we finally arrive at “Tinki”. We begin with a light to moderate climb crossing “The Puna” (high dry area with little vegetation) and arrive at our lunch area (3-hour hike). While enjoying your lunch you’ll have a wonderful view of the Ausangate Peak (6, 372 m/20,900 ft.).
After lunch, we continue hiking for an hour and a half to get to our campsite called “Upis” (Elev. 4,400 m). Here you’ll have a fabulous view of all the snowy peaks in the area. We’ll camp and dine right in front of the Ausangate Mountain.
DETAILS:
After an appetizing breakfast served by our chef, we ascend hiking for two hours to reach “La Arapa Pass” (4,850 m/15,908 ft.). Then descending to reach our lunch area. We’ll view Falcons, Vizcachas or Andean squirrels and three beautiful lakes with shades of red, green and turquoise (“Pukacocha”, “Hatun Pukacocha” and “Qomerqocha”). Let’s not forget the spectacular landscape of the snow-capped peaks.
After lunch, we continue a slow steady climb (2 hours) taking us to the footstep of the “Abra de Apuchata” (4,900 m). Where we will finally descend to our camp in” Ausangate Cocha” (4,440 m).
DETAILS:
Early morning climb, after breakfast, to the third mountain pass called “Abra de Palomani” (5,200 m). This is the highest part of the trek, which descends down for (2 hours) to an area commonly grazed by Llamas, Alpacas and Vizcachas – “Pampacancha” (4,050 m).
From here, we’ll ascend towards our camp in “Q’ampa” (4,300 m/14,104 ft.). In this 3 hour climb we will have an opportunity to see llamas, alpacas, and maybe even pumas. We’ll reach our campsite and have dinner.
DETAILS:
Our hike in the morning is uphill (2 hours) until reaching the “Q’ampa Mountain Pass” (5,000 m/16,400 ft.), where you’ll find Andean deer roaming. From here, we descend towards “Qomerqocha Lake” to finally reach Pacchanta (4,100 m) (5-hour total hike).
Pacchanta is a small community with an attractive hot spring where you can enjoy a soothing swim. We’ll camp at Pacchanta.
DETAILS:
We depart from “Pacchanta” hiking towards Tinki (3 hours). Once we arrive at Tinki, we will board the private transport that will take us back to the City of Cusco, arriving at night.
DETAILS:
The Most Important Things Items for 5 days Ausangate
As a Professional Direct Local Tour operator, we provide you with a duffle bag at your briefing and INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 pounds including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress, and extra clothing.
Permits are needed for your chosen start date. Tour prices are based on the number of people in a group. Prices are valid from March 2022 through January 2023. All prices quoted are $USD
Important: Price includes up to 7 kilos of your personal belongings to be carried by the mules (NO need of extra Porter hire!).
Discounts:
is probably one of the most beautiful and complete trails that Cusco has, there is 55 km in total that you can do in 4 or 5 days, along this hike you can see turquoise lagoons, glaciers, llamas, alpacas running, chinchillas, and the imposing snowy Ausangate with an altitude of 6385 meters above sea level.
It is one of the best experiences to connect with nature and its enigma.
The perfect combination is to do this trekking with the famous mountain of 7 colors where you will spend 5, 6, and 7 incredible days.
AUSANGATE TREK PREPARATION
without any doubt, the best recommendation is to do physical exercises before doing this trekking running ravines, going up and down hills if you have it in your country or running at least 10 km per day, and thus be prepared to not have problems, and for people who suffer from the heart is not recommendable to do it because this trail is the highest in Cusco.
To be able to acclimatize is good to be in Cusco for 1 day or 2 days, and also the other option is to start your plans from Arequipa, Puno, and then come more acclimatized to Cusco and be better adapted to the altitude.
BEST TIME TO HIKE AUSANGATE TREK
the best time for hiking is between the months of April to September, with very sunny days and perfect for taking good pictures and seeing the mountains more clearly in all their glory these months are the high season, and the months of October to March are the months of the rainy season and there are companies that still offer this trail and is not recommended because during the day is cloudy with rain and the road is slippery.
I CAN DO THIS TRIAL ON MY OWN.
the answer is of course, yes, having good camping and trekking equipment and a GPS, with maps where they can help you in the right direction where to go, camp, etc.
The Ausangate trail is not well marked and unfortunately, you can get lost when it is cloudy.
The best option is to book with a company expert in this trekking and also to have a better experience as GO TREKS PERU has the best professionals.
In general, this trekking is to be able to learn and know more about the Inca culture.
WEATHER ON AUSANGATE TRAIL
The weather in the Andes is very unpredictable because of the geography that we have, in the Ausangate trek trail during the day are sunny days so you will need to use sunscreen, and during the night can reach temperatures below 0 degrees.
in general, is to have Good trekking equipment to not have problems with the cold and heat and it is always necessary to have enough water to drink, the recommendation is to have 2 liters per person to avoid dehydration.
CHOOSING AUSANGATE TREK
The Ausangate trail is divided into two well-marked categories: short (2-4 days) and long (5-7 days) with colorful mountains. If you have time, we recommend that you choose a 5-7 day route. This option is the most complete because on this trail you will be able to visit beautiful lagoons the snow-capped Ausangate and the incredible mountain of colors.
Short Ausangate Trek (2-4days)
Also known as small Ausangate Treks, these shorter trails are intended to offer hikers a sort of “best of” sample of the Ausangate region in a shorter period of time. These routes usually focus on Lake Puca Cocha, the Ausangate glacier, and the Arco Iris mountain is somewhat complete.
Full Ausangate Trek (5-7 days)
The longer treks will take you through mountains and places that are rarely seen by hikers, a complete circuit so you can appreciate some of the high peaks from multiple angles and take amazing pictures. During the day you will see breathtaking views of glaciers and during the night, the milky way at its best from 4,000 meters to 5,200 meters.
INCREDIBLE VIEWS EVERY DAY?
For people who love to take pictures, this amazing trail will give you incredible gifts of turquoise lagoons, snow-capped mountains, llamas, alpacas, and the popular colorful mountain
WHERE TO LEAVE THE LUGGAGE DURING THE TREK?
Different hotels have a place to leave your luggage when you go out for a day trip, the other option is to leave it at the GO TREKS PERU office and when you come back you can pick it up without any problem.
HOW HARD IS AUSANGATE TREK?
The main reason Ausangate is considered difficult is that the entire hike is at a high altitude. This route is probably not suitable for novice hikers. It is considered one of the most difficult, however, if you have done other treks before you should have no problem.
RENTING TREKKING AND CAMPING GEAR FOR AUSANGATE TREK IN CUSCO
there are many places to rent in Cusco, the best option is to rent around the square and the best known for quality and price is the famous speedy Gonzales that is on Procuradores Street.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Put your smartphone on airplane mode. no phone signal and to save battery life.
Drink enough water, it is very important to hydrate yourself as we will be walking at 4000 masl and during this trek, there are streams where you can recharge water and important to have purifying tablets is important when walking at high altitude.
Be very attentive to the weather. Conditions can change for hours at high altitudes in the Andes. Always have warm layers and waterproof layers on hand. This is especially important when climbing and traversing high passes.
Carry a first aid kit, an equipment repair kit, and a blister treatment kit in your backpack, but we have them too.
Carry a good amount of your favorite sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses, and wear a buffalo to protect your head and neck and help block the wind.
This hike is not recommended for children because they may have trouble walking, but if your child enjoys hiking at high altitudes, you can do it.
The higher altitude also means colder, near-freezing temperatures, so be prepared. If you decide to hike for several days, be sure to bring very warm clothing.
The best time to visit Rainbow Mountain will be in the morning or early afternoon, just after sunrise or before sunset.
Do not go to Rainbow Mountain in the afternoon during the rainy season because of the lighting. Due to the high concentration of minerals. There is a high probability of being affected by lighting.
Medication (Imodium AD or something for your stomach) because some people get an upset stomach on the trek. Also, Ibuprofen or
Salkantay Inca Trail and Classic Inca Trail or Ausangate trail
A comparison of 3 iconic trails
Explore the differences between the Salkantay Inca Trail and the Classic Inca Trail, or Ausangate Trail, each of which offers a different trekking experience.
What distinguishes each trail
Discover the unique features that make each trail special, catering to different hiking preferences and styles.
Classic Inca Trail: It is a 4-day adventure in which you will pass many archaeological centers and walk along an original Inca trail to Sungate and end at Machu Picchu, on a well-worn trail, for which you need to book 6 months in advance.
Salkantay trek: It is the second most popular trail in Cusco, for this, it crosses lagoons such as Humantay, tropical forests, thermal baths, and Machu Picchu, in general, this path is also well-trodden but at the same time a very good option
Ausangate trek: it is a less trodden trail than the previous ones, if you like few people and outdoor camping, this will be for you
Trail Trek Adventures: Revealing the Ausangate Experience and Beyond
Experience a trail hike or mountain tour is more than a physical and exhausting journey; is an exploration of stunning landscapes, ancient cultures, and personal resilience. Among the countless options available, the Day Ausangate Trek stands out as a unique and unforgettable experience for hiking lovers.
Choosing the route along the correct path
Selecting the right trail ride is crucial to a satisfying experience. Consider factors such as the level of difficulty, the duration, and the cultural importance of the chosen walk, and most importantly, the travel agency would have to know through the trip advisor or recommendation from some very prominent blogs such as National Geography or many others that there are for travelers. The Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek, located in the heart of the Cusco Andes, offers a perfect combination of challenge and impressive beauty through lagoons and snow-capped mountains.
Ausangate Rainbow Trek: A Unique Experience
Venturing on the Ausangate Rainbow Trek promises not only scenic landscapes, and lagoons but also encounters with traditional Andean communities and the fascinating Ausangate Rainbow Mountain.
Getting ready for the trip
What to pack for the hike
Packing essentials for high-altitude trekking involves strategic decisions. From the appropriate clothing to the necessary equipment, careful preparation guarantees a comfortable and safe trip, also having adequate acclimatization in Cusco for at least 1 to 2 days would be enough and another notable factor is the light food.
Physical preparation for walking at high altitude
Acclimating to high altitudes is crucial. Engage in regular physical activities to improve endurance and reduce the risk of altitude-related problems. Run about 9 km per day in your country and if you have some hills, go hiking for a couple of hours since this trail is the highest we have in Cusco
Our team and support
Importance of reliable trekking equipment
We have top-quality tents, matras, sleeping bags, hiking pools so all you have to do is enjoy this unique experience and with a team such as a cook and guides who know a lot about their work.
Aguas Calientes and its role in the trip
Aguas Calientes serves as the gateway to Machu Picchu, adding a cultural touch to the overall adventure.
After the Ausangate trail, you can go to Machu Picchu to personalize your tour and thus we can give you advice on the most prominent places in Cusco
Exploring the city of Cusco and beyond
Cultural importance of the city of Cusco
Before the hike begins, immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the UNESCO World Heritage city of Cusco. By taking the city tour you will be able to learn about a lot of history, archeology, gastronomy, and the lifestyle that the people of Cusco have.
Venturing off the beaten path
Explore less traveled trails for a more intimate connection with nature and culture, offering a unique perspective on the region and its people. Definitely, this is the Ausangate trail and the mountain of colors I should choose since the 4-day Classic Inca Trail and the Salkantay trail are very busy.
Nights on the Ausangate Inca Trail
Overnight stays in the remains of the Ausangate Inca Trail provide the opportunity to see the Milky Way on starry nights between May to August and also the Ausangate snow-capped mountain.
Reach maximum altitude
Challenges and rewards of high-altitude trekking
Hiking at high altitudes presents challenges, but the rewards, both in panoramic views and personal achievements, are incomparable. Strolling through crystal clear lagoons, fertile potato land to the mountain of Colors, In general, they will be unforgettable days
Machu Picchu and Rainbow Mountain
The charm of Machu Picchu
Combining the Ausangate hike with a visit to Machu Picchu provides a holistic experience that allows hikers to marvel at this ancient wonder.
There are 2 places that are highly recommended, which is why we have the Ausangate trek tour with a short Inca trail of 5 days, get in touch to customize your tour
Combining the Machu Picchu Trek with the Rainbow Mountain
Extend your adventure by combining the trek to Machu Picchu with a visit to the enchanting Rainbow Mountain, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
The Tranquility of the Sacred Valley
Escape the hustle and bustle by exploring the Sacred Valley, a place of tranquility and cultural significance. For that, book a tour of the Sagardo Valley of the Incas and spend a night in the city of Urubamba or Ollantaytambo, which are very quiet towns.
Logistics and tips for travelers
Departure from your hotel
Ensure a smooth start by arranging transportation from your hotel, allowing you to focus on the next adventure. or book with us and thus forget about all those aspects and thus have a better experience in Cusco and its surroundings
Handling personal items during the hike
Pack efficiently and manage your items wisely to ensure comfort during the hike, leaving you free to enjoy the journey.
In this regard, if you book the Ausangate with us one night before, you will have information about the trail, so the guide will tell you all the details.
