Ausangate Trek – 4 Days
Overview
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most scenic high-altitude hikes in Peru. This 4-day adventure takes you through the stunning Vilcanota Mountain Range, passing glaciers, turquoise lagoons, Andean villages, and colorful mountain landscapes, including the famous Rainbow Mountain.
Perfect for experienced trekkers who seek solitude, nature, and raw beauty, this route offers majestic views of Ausangate Mountain (6,385 m), sacred in Andean mythology. Includes professional guides, horses, meals, and camping equipment. A physically demanding but unforgettable experience.
Itinerary
This 4-day trek takes you to one of the most remote and magical places in the Andes. You will cross snowy passes, bathe in hot springs, see herds of alpacas, and camp in incredible locations far from crowds.
Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Upis
- 5:00 AM: Pick-up from your hotel and drive to the village of Tinki (approx. 3 hours).
- Breakfast in Tinki, then start the hike toward Upis (4,400 m).
- Walk through Andean villages with views of Ausangate peak.
- Afternoon: Arrive at Upis campsite and enjoy nearby hot springs (optional).
- Dinner and overnight at the camp.
Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass – Pucacocha
- Early breakfast. Begin a gradual ascent to Arapa Pass (4,850 m).
- Incredible views of snowy mountains and colorful valleys.
- Descend to the valley and camp near Lake Pucacocha (4,300 m).
- Free afternoon to rest or explore the lake area. Dinner and overnight at camp.
Day 3: Pucacocha – Rainbow Mountain – Ananta
- Breakfast and early departure toward the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint (Vinicunca – 5,100 m).
- Enjoy the spectacular views and take photos before the crowds arrive.
- Descend through Red Valley to Ananta campsite (4,650 m).
- Final dinner in camp and overnight under the stars.
Day 4: Ananta – Chillca – Cusco
- Last breakfast in camp and short downhill hike to the village of Chillca.
- Board private transport back to Cusco (approx. 3.5 hours).
- Arrival: Expected around 5:00 PM at your hotel in Cusco.
Included
- Briefing the day before the trek
- Pick-up and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco
- Private transportation to/from trailhead
- Professional bilingual guide
- 3 nights camping (tents + sleeping mattresses)
- All meals during the trek (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
- Cook and muleteers to carry equipment and food
- Emergency horse and first aid kit with oxygen
- Entrance to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain
Not Included
- Sleeping bag (available for rent)
- Personal snacks, alcoholic drinks
- Tips for guide, cook, and horsemen
- Travel insurance
What you need to Know?
- Arrive in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek
- Be in good physical condition – this is a high-altitude trek
- Use proper trekking boots and warm layered clothing
- Bring sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, and walking sticks
- Carry your own water bottle and headlamp
- Pack light – max 7 kg carried by mule
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. The Ausangate trek reaches altitudes over 5,000 meters and requires good acclimatization and physical fitness.
No. Pack horses carry the camping equipment and 7 kg of your personal belongings. You only carry a small daypack.
Yes. Upis campsite has hot springs nearby. Entrance is optional and paid directly (approx. 10 soles).
No. This is a remote area without mobile or internet signal. Enjoy being offline!
Delicious local dishes prepared by a trekking chef, including vegetarian options. All food is freshly cooked.
Yes. If you only want to visit Rainbow Mountain, there are one-day tour options available separately.
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