A True High-Altitude Adventure in the Peruvian Andes
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most spectacular and remote hiking adventure in the Andes of Peru. It goes around the sacred Ausangate Mountain which is the highest peak in Cusco region with 6,384 m (20,0944 ft). T his Ausangate trek 5 Days takes travelers through dramatic mountain landscapes, turquoise lakes, colorful mountains, and picturesque Quechua communities.
Unlike the more crowded routes to Machu Picchu, the Ausangate Trek offers a raw and authentic wilderness experience, where hikers encounter vast open valleys, herds of alpacas and llamas, and some of the most striking scenery in the Andes.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Recommendations
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
Why Hike The Ausangate Trek 5 Days?
Starting from traditional Andean settlements in the Cusco highlands, the route gradually climbs into rugged terrain dominated by the immense presence of Ausangate, the tallest peak in southern Peru. The trail winds through remote grazing lands where alpaca herds roam freely and the pace of life remains deeply connected to the rhythms of the mountains.
Throughout the trek, travelers experience the raw beauty of the Vilcanota Range, crossing sweeping valleys carved by ancient glaciers and passing shimmering high-altitude lagoons that reflect the surrounding peaks. The scenery is especially dramatic in the early morning and late afternoon, when the mountains glow with intense shades of red, gold, and violet.
AUSANGATE TREK 5-DAY HIGHLIGHTS
- Extreme Andean scenery: The trek circles the highest peak in Cusco region.
- Remote and uncrowded trails: Less visited, Ausangate is ideal for solitude and pristine nature.
- Sacred Andean mountain: Mount Ausangate is an Apu, or sacred mountain spirit, by local Andean communities.
- Rainbow Mountain: Explore the iconic Rainbow Mountain before the crwods arrive.
- Unique wildlife and culture: The trail passes remote villages where local Quechua communities raise alpacas and llamas.
- Hot Springs: Soak at the hot spring in Pacchanta and relax after the hike in the mountains.
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day01
Cusco - Tinki - Upis village
-
Day02
Upis Village - Arapa Pass - Ausangate Pass - Anantapata
-
Day03
Anantapata - Warmisaya Pass - Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Qocha
-
Day04
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani Pass - Qampa Pampa - Pachispata
-
Day05
Pachispata - Pacchanta - Tinki - Cusco
Be amazed with the stunning and powerful Ausangate Mountain
Hike through herds of alpcas and beautiful glacial lakes
Discover the most spectacular Rainbow Mountain in the Andes of Peru
Challenging the highest point on the Ausangate Trek, get closer to Apu Ausangate
Hike through the Ausangate 7 Lakes and soak in the natural thermal baths
5-DAY AUSANGATE TREK ITINERARY
Cusco - Tinqui - Upis
Walking Distance: 8km / 4.9 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,100 meters / 13,451 feet
Highest Elevation: 4,420 meters / 14,501 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,420meters / 14,501 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Lunch, Dinner (Snack and afternoon tea)
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Our adventure in Ausangate Trek 5 Days begins in Cusco. Pick up from your hotel is at 5:00 am from your hotel, this schedule can be reconfirmed a nigth before the trek. We then drive in our private van to Tinki, where we stop for about 20 minutes, in this town you will have the oppurnity to buy snacks you may need along the trek. Afterward, we continue driving to the trailhead, located at 4,100 meters (13,451 ft). Here our team will organize the equipment and prepare everything before starting the hike.
Today our hike covers 8-9km (5,5 miles) along a picturesque trail. Along the way you'll see alpacas and local farms, and as you approach the campsite, the Ausangate mountain will stand majestically in front of you. The hike takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to reach Upis camp 4,400 meters (14,435 ft) above sea level. Upon arrival, you will enjoy the traditional Andean lunch with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, you'll have option to hike to Upis lake and relax in the nearby hot springs. We will have dinner and spend our first night at the camp.
Upis -Arapa Pass -Ausangate Pass - Anantapata
Walking Distance: 15 km / 9.2 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,420 meters / 14,501 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,600 meters / 15,091 feet
Maximum Altitude: 4,980 meters / 16,338 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Our hiking team will wake you up around 5:00 a.m. with a hot cup of coca tea to boost your day. After an energetic breakfast, we begin our hike toward the first mountain pass of the Ausangate trek. The ascent is gradual and takes approximately two hours. We reach Arapa pass 4,860 meters (15,944 ft) above sea level, from here you will enjoy spectacular vistas of the Vilcanota Andean Range, the largest mountain range in the Cusco region. After a short rest, we descend for two hours to Hatun Pocaqocha, where our team will set up lunch. Along the way you will observe stunning lakes and wildlife such as birds and vicuñas. Enjoy our Andean lunch with breathtaking view of Apu Ausangate.
In the afternoon, our guide will lead you to the next mountain pass Condor pass 4,980 meters (16,338 ft). The ascent takes about one hour and includes some steep sections. Once you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with incredible panoramic views, with Apu Ausangate Mountain standing derectly in front of you. From the pass, admire the turquoise lakes at the base of the mountains and abserve how meltwater from the massive glacier creates these stunning lagoons. On the other side you will be impressed by the striking red mountains and green valleys. We then hike for aproximately 1.20 hours to reach Anantapata camp. If you still have extra energy, there is an optional hike to Surineqocha Lake which will make your next day easier.
Anantapata - Warmisaya pass- Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Q’ocha
Walking Distance: 18km / 11.1 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,600 meters / 15,091 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,600 meters / 15,091feet
Maximum Altitude: 5,036 meters / 16,522feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Today we will visit the iconic Rainbow Mountain. Wake up will be at 4:00am and get breakfast at 4:30 am. The first 1.30 hours of hike will be gragual ascent to the viewpoint of the Rainbow Mountain. Once you arrive here, you will be amazed by the stunning views and not many people yet. Your guide will explain you the natural colors formation, the history and why it is very famous. You will take the time to enjoy it before the large groups arrive.
After, we walk down to our lunch spot, where our team prepare great lunch. Enjoy and get a deserved rest. In the afternoon we will hike to Ausangate Qocha, it takes around 3 hours to get there.
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani Pass- Qampa Pampa - Pachispata
Walking Distance: 16km / 9,8 miles
Starting Elevation: 4400 meters / 14,435 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4480 / 14,698 feet
Maximum Altitude: 5200 meters / 17,060 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
After breakfast, we begin our hike toward Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 16,060 ft), the highest point of the Ausangate Trek. Following a steady ascent of several hours, we reach this spectacular mountain pass, where you will be as close as possible to Ausangate Mountain, the sacred Apu of the region. At the summit, your professional guide will perform a traditional Pachamama ceremony to give thanks to Mother Earth for this unforgettable adventure.
From Palomani Pass, we descend into a scenic valley, enjoying views of a beautiful lagoon and massive glaciers along the trail. We continue hiking to our lunch spot, where you can rest and recharge. In the afternoon, the trek continues toward the final mountain pass, Qampa Pass (5,080 m / 16,660 ft). Along the way, admire breathtaking views of the snow-capped Tres Picos and Puca Punta peaks. The trail then leads through the wide green plains of Pampa Jutunpata and up the Q’ampa River Valley. From Qampa Pass, we descend for about one hour to reach our campsite at Pachaspata (4,580 m / 14,698 ft).
Pachispata - Pacchanta - Cusco
Walking Distance: 8km/ 4.8miles
Starting Elevation: 4480 meters / 14,698 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Breakfast
Adventure: Absolutely
On the final day of the Ausangate Trek, we wake up around 6:00 a.m. and enjoy breakfast before starting our last hike. This scenic 3-hour trek takes us past stunning turquoise lakes, rolling landscapes, and traditional Andean villages as we make our way to Pacchanta Village. Upon arrival, you will have time to explore this authentic high-Andean community and relax in the natural Pacchanta hot springs, famous for their therapeutic waters and views of Ausangate Mountain. After this well-deserved rest, we board our private van back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:00 p.m.
Itinerary notes - Ausangate trek (Ausangate Circuit) - 5 days
The times cited in this itinerary are approximate. Walking times depend on the group and the guide can change lunch spots and campsites, depending on the progress of the group. Each guide has their own preferred route and it might not correspond exactly to the route described here. The Ausangate region is very high, plus you are close to a snow covered massif. Temperatures are cold, and can fall well below freezing in the nights. You should travel well prepared for cold temperatures. Hire/or carry sleeping bags for temperatures less than freezing (minus 15 celsius or more). This region has limited tourist infrastructure and this tour makes use of local facilities. Visitors should be aware that things change, or may not go to plan. This is all part of the adventure, and visitors to Peru are encouraged to have an open mind and be open to the differences in the way things are done in another culture.
AUSANGATE TREK INCLUSION
We are transparent and provide the specific details of what is included and excluded in our Ausangate Trek. We know this is very important so that you know what exactly to bring and you don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your Ausangate Trek 5 Days.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Travel Company Provides
Pre-departure briefing
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your trekking guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Ausangate trek departure. During this briefing, you will receive important details of the trek. After this time, you will receive your duffle bag for your extra luggage, which will be carried by the horses while you are hiking
Professional Adventure Guide
All our tour guides have a great reputation in customer service, they have also studied English in a private language institute. Through to their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for trekking and proud to have been born in the land of the Incas, we ensure our guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore the Andes.
Accommodations
We include accommodations 4 nights along the Ausangate trek, with a suitable camping equipment to make sure your trek is an experience of the life time. Our tents are Mountain gear or Doite pro Aconcagua for 4 people, which will be shared only for 2 people to ensure you comfort and enough place for your luggage. The same way we include Inflatable mattress for your comfort. There will also be a spacious dining tent for you to enjoy each meal along this tour.
Transportations
Private Transport
We included all the transportations during your tour, we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the beginning of the trail, the bus returning from Ausangate to Cusco will drop off you at your hotel.
Horses
We include horses to transport all the duffle bags and equipment during this tour also will be a horse man. We know safety is first is for that we include a emergency horse in case someone feels tired or get altitude sickness.
Equipment
Personal Duffle bag
We included a personal duffle bag for your 5 days Ausangate trek. You will get this duffle bag during your pre-departure briefing the night before of your trek. This bag will be carried by horses during the trek. You will find it in your tent every afternoon you arrive to the campsite. It can be filled with your personal items, sleeping bag and mattress but the maximum allowable weight is 7kg/17lb. The duffle bag must be returned to our office no later than one day after your trek.
Toilet Tents
During our trek to Ausangate we bring our own portable toilet tent because we know how important is to protect our environment and we are trained to don’t leave no traces along the route.
Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides are very well trained in First aid. They received training courses every 6 months how to assist to someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained how to supply a balloon oxygen in the case if someone requires it.
Meals
Meals
We know food is such an important part of any vacation and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial… We include 4 breakfast, 5 lunch and 4 dinner. And of course, we cater to all dietary restrictions Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten free and others just let us know. Our chefs are well-trained to prepare the best food ever you’ve had with local and organic ingredients.
Water
We will provide you water from the first lunch to the last breakfast. This water will be filtered, boiled and cooled by our Chef. You must bring your own water container, bottle or camelback that can hold water for hiking for a few hours. We recommend a capacity of 2 liters.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
Sleeping bag
Every trekker along the Ausangate trek needs a proper sleeping bag which has to be for -20°C / 2° F. We recommend you bring your own, but if you don’t want to bring your own or you don’t have one, you can rent a sleeping bag from us.
Entrance Fees to Ausangate park and camp fees
Hiking along the Ausangate Trek 5 Days, you need to pay the entrance fee to the park and campsite fees, in total is ; S/120 soles.
Walking Sticks
Hiking with trekking poles has its benefits, protect your knees while you are hiking downhill, especially on the remote area which are many up and downhill, trekking poles help you during the ascent, increased stability, if you don’t have a pair of trekking poles you can rent them from our office.
First Breakfast
We do not provide breakfast on the day of your departure. However, most hotel offers breakfast during your stay there. In case your hotel does not provide breakfast, we will stop at a restaurant near to Ocongate where you will be available to purchase a breakfast.
Travel Insurance
Tips for our team
We recommend to buy a travel insurance before to leave your country in case something happen along your visit to Peru.
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is usual on any excursion to Ausangate, although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team hard work.
AUSANGATE TREK RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 5 DAYS PACKING LIST
We focus to make your trip an unforgettable experience and we want to provide all details which you need to know before to leave your country and start your life experience in Peru.
What you need to pack?
Important Items
- Passport
- Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelback is encouraged - but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
- Trekking poles
For your duffel
Horses will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us these two items weigh 3 kg.
- 3-4 wicking t-shirts
- 3-4 hiking pants
- 3-4 sets of undergarments.
- 1 Fleece
- 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold at night
- 1 Rain jacket and pants
- 1 sun hat
- 1 wool hat
- Bathers / swimsuit for the hot spring
- Small towel
- Headlamp: essential
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable shoes for camp or flip flops
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
Battery Charger: There is no place to plug in while trekking!
Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least
Inside your daypacks:
Daypack can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. If it is larger try to bring it as lighter as possible. Water: we supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning of water only as we won't have time to filter water until your first lunch.
- Sun hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Camera
- Music (iPhone)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
- Earplugs
- Some snacks (Chocolate, fruits, energy bars, etc.)
Toiletries:
- Sunscreen
- Face moisturizer
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Small towel
- Toothbrush and paste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.
BEFORE YOU GO TO AUSANGATE TREK
How difficult is the Ausangate Trek 5 Days?
The Ausangate Trek is considered challenging due to high altitude, long hiking days, and multiple mountain passes over 5,000 meters. It is recommended for experienced hikers in good physical condition.
What is the highest point of the Ausangate Trek?
The highest point is Palomani Pass, located at 5,200 meters (16,060 ft) above sea level, making it one of the highest trekking passes in Peru.
Do I need prior trekking experience?
Yes, prior trekking experience is strongly recommended. While no technical climbing is required, the altitude and daily distances demand good endurance.
What is the best time of year to do the Ausangate Trek?
The best season is during the dry months from May to September, when weather conditions are more stable and views are clearer.
How cold does it get on the trek?
Nighttime temperatures can drop below –10°C (14°F), especially in June and July. Proper cold-weather gear is essential.
Is altitude sickness common on the Ausangate Trek?
Altitude sickness can occur due to the extreme elevation. We recommend spending at least 2–3 days acclimatizing in Cusco before starting the trek.
Are hot springs included in the trek?
Yes, the trek includes a visit to the Pacchanta hot springs, where you can relax at the end of the journey while enjoying views of Ausangate Mountain.
What type of accommodation is provided?
Accommodation is in high-quality camping tents, set up by our trekking team. All camping equipment and meals are provided.
Is the Ausangate Trek crowded?
No, the Ausangate Trek is known for being less crowded than the Inca Trail, offering a more remote and authentic Andean experience.
What wildlife can I see during the trek?
You may encounter alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, Andean birds, and, with luck, condors along the route.
AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAY PRICE
From: USD 480.00 per person
USD 460.00: from 4 people to more
*Sleeping bag -15°C / 5°F for the entire trip: $25USD
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Peru Solo Travel. Please take a moment to complete our short form, so one our friendly Adventure Consultants could provide you all the information for your trip of a lifetime in Peru.
Our Pledge | Your privacy is respected and protected. Peru Solo Travel will never share, sell, or make public any of your personal contact information to third parties.
Feel free to reach us via email at perusolotravel@gmail.com or by calling us directly at +51 951 359 694
Monday - Friday:
09:00 to 18:00 Hrs.
Saturday:
09:00 to 13:00 Hrs.
Prolongacion Av. Grau L-8, Santiago - Cusco
5 Days / 4 Nights
Ausangate Trek
Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights Map
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
We offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others.
-
Small groups: Along our excursion group size is a capped at 12 people. This guarantees that you will enjoy every step of our excursion
-
Local Tour guides: Our team consists of 100% local tour guides, who have expert knowledge in our ancient culture.
-
Best Camping Equipment: We have the state-of-the-art hiking and camping equipment for our excursion. The equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after every excursion.
-
Best Travel team: We focus to create the best experience during our excursions. Our team that consists of tour guides, cooks, porters, horse drivers are handpicked. We train our team to offer you the best service. We take care of our team by providing them with good equipment and paying them fairly.
-
Friendly Budget: We know friendly budget means affordable prices, good value, transparent costs, accessible options, and welcoming experiences without sacrificing quality or comfort overall.
Why Travel with us
Start a Conversation
Hi! Click one our members below to chat on WhatsApp ;)
Related Ausangate Treks
Alternative journeys you may be interested in
Here you have other options that will suit your needs from the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
