The Incredible Ausangate Trek in the Andes
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days is one of Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude adventures, taking you deep into the breathtaking Vilcanota Mountain Range near Cusco. This guided hiking tour combines dramatic glaciers, turquoise alpine lakes, colorful mountain landscapes, natural hot springs, and authentic Andean culture into an unforgettable experience.
As you hike around the majestic Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in southern Peru, you will cross scenic mountain passes, encounter llamas and alpacas, and visit the famous Rainbow Mountain, with some remote Quechua communities that have preserved their traditions for generations. Far from the crowded tourist routes, this trek offers incredible panoramic views, exceptional photography opportunities, and a genuine connection with nature.
Designed for experienced hikers seeking a challenging yet rewarding journey, the Ausangate Trek 5 Days is the perfect choice for travelers looking to explore one of Peru's most pristine trekking destinations with the support of professional local guides, quality camping equipment, and carefully planned itineraries.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
WHY CHOOSE THE AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS?
Unlike more crowded routes, the Ausangate Trek offers peaceful trails, breathtaking panoramic views, natural hot springs, incredible stargazing, and a true connection with nature. Guided by experienced local professionals, you'll enjoy a safe, well-organized adventure with quality camping equipment, delicious meals, and personalized service.
- Discover Peru's Most Spectacular Mountain Scenery: Hike through the breathtaking Vilcanota Mountain Range, surrounded by towering glaciers, turquoise alpine lakes, colorful valleys, waterfalls, and the majestic Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in southern Peru.
- Experience Authentic Andean Culture: Visit remote Quechua communities where local families continue to preserve centuries-old traditions. Meet local shepherds, observe traditional farming practices, and gain insight into one of Peru's most authentic cultural experiences.
- Escape the Crowds: Unlike the more popular routes to Machu Picchu, the Ausangate Trek offers peaceful trails and untouched landscapes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature while enjoying incredible panoramic views.
- Challenge Yourself on a World-Class Trek: Cross high mountain passes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), hike through diverse ecosystems, and enjoy one of Peru's most rewarding high-altitude adventures. This trek is perfect for experienced hikers seeking an unforgettable challenge.
- Incredible photography: Every angle offers a postcard-worthy shot, making it a dream destination for photographers.
- Travel with Experienced Local Guides:Our professional guides, experienced cooks, and dedicated support team ensure a safe, comfortable, and memorable journey.
- Small Group - Big Adventures: Joining a group will make your trek one of the best experience, meet new people, enjoy the magystic mountains, share travel experience.
Highlights: Ausangate Mountain and Lakes
Hiking distance: 67km/41.6miles
Considerations: Acclimatation is required
Season: April through November
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day01
Cusco - Upis - Arapa Pass - Yanacocha
Embark on the best hike around Apu Ausangate. A remote hike in the Andes mountains. -
Day02
Yanacocha - Condor Pass - Anantapata - Warmisay Pass - Surine
Hike through imposing glacial lakes and herds of alpacas -
Day03
Surine - Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Qocha
Discover the beautiful Rainbow Mountain, vibrant natural colors, and surrounding area -
Day04
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani Pass - Sorapata - Pachispata
Trek through towering snowy peaks, crystal lakes and Andean communities -
Day05
Pachispata - Pacchanta - Tinki - Cusco
Visit the Ausangate 7 Lakes and soak in the Hot Springs
Cusco - Upis - Arapa Pass - Yanacocha
Walking Distance: 8km / 4.9 miles
Starting Elevation: 3,920 meters / 12,860 feet
Highest Elevation: 4,850 meters / 15,952 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,580meters / 15,026 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Lunch and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Adventure: Absolutely, completely satisfactory
Embark in the 5-day Ausagate Trek , our departure from Cusco is early in the morning ( 5:30am ) for a long three hours ride in private van to the small village of Tinqui (3800 masl./ 12 464 feet). We pass through beautiful countryside and several traditional villages including Urcos, Cattca and Ocangate. After a short rest in Tinqui we will continue driving to Rodeana 3,900m / 12,795ft.
There is the beginning of our hike, the first three hours on the trail are wonderful prelude to the magnificent scenery of the Cordillera Vilcanota, where we get to the lunch spot in Upis 4,424m / 14,501ft with great views of Ausangate. In the ofternoon, we continue our hike to reach the first pass Arapa 4,850 m (15,952 ft) enjoy the breathtaking views and Ausangate Mountain. After we descend dow to our campground. We will camp here for the night.
Yanacocha - Condor Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya - Surinicocha
Walking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,580meters / 15,026 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,720 meters / 15,485 feet
Maximum Altitude: 4,960 meters / 16,272 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
After the delicious breakfast, we will be heading to the second pass of our expedition, During a few hours of trek, we will cross the Condor pass (4,960 metres/ 16,272 feet). This is a great spot to enjoy the stunning landscapes down in the valley, have a look how the glaciar water milt and create turqouise lakes. From here, we continue down the valley, passing some herds of Alpacas, take a moment to capture cutes photos. Afterwards we continue hiking to Anantapata 4,570m/14,993ft. where we enjoy the lunch.
Later, after having enjoyed the lunch and rested, we continue our hike ascending to the next pass, Warmisaya 4,980 me, 16,338 ft. From here, you will have the best view of the Rainbow Mountain in the distance. Then, we descend for 20 minutes down to our campsite.
Surinicocha - Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Q’ocha
Walking Distance: 16km / 9.9 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,720 meters / 15,485 fee
Campsite Elevation: 4,700 meters / 15,419feet
Maximum Altitude: 5,036 meters / 16,522feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
Our team will wake you up super early this day with a hot Coca tea in order to see the sunrise once we arrive to the Rainbow Mountain, after an energetic breakfast we heading up to the Rainbow Mountain 5,036 m (16,522 ft) before the crowd arrive. Here you will be amazed by the natural colors of the iconic place, you can relax and enjoy the moment capturing incredible photos while is empty, you guide will explain you about the colors and you'll explore each site of the incredible mountain. After you have explored each site we will return the same way until our last campiste to have the lunch where we can recharge our energy and rest for a little, then we coninue our hike to Ausangate Qocha 4,400m/14435ft. Where will be our next campsite.
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani Pass- Sorapata - Pachispata
Walking Distance: 16km / 9,8 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,700 meters / 15,419feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,680 / 15,354 feet
Maximum Altitude: 5,200 meters / 17,060 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
After our breakfast we begin hiking up to the highest pass in this trek, with a previous hike of couple hours, we'll reach the Palomani 5200m / 16,060ft. This is the pass where you'll be as close as possible to the Ausangate Mountain, here your tour guide will do some ceremony to say thanks mother earth (Pachamama) for these extraordinary adventure. From the pass we follow the trail into the valley while you are descending you can appreciate a nice lagoon and the glacier at your left side. Then we hike towards our lunch spot. After a little rest and with the energy recharged, we continue our hike to the last pass Qampa 5080m /16,660ft. During the afternoon hike we can look the views of the snowcapped Tres Picos and Puca Punta. We will continue through the broad green valley of Pampa Jutunpata and up the Rio Q'ampa valley, once we reach the pass we only have an hour going down to our next campsite Pachaspata, 4580m/14,698ft
Pachispata - Pacchanta - Cusco
Walking Distance: 8km/ 4.8miles
Starting Elevation: 4,680 / 15,354 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Breakfast
Adventure: Absolutely
The last day of this trip we wake up about 6am enjoy the breakfast, then, we begin with our hike. It's 3 hours trek between turquoise lakes and picturesque villages on the way to Pacchanta where we will have time to explore this traditional Andean village and enjoy the relaxing hot spring before taking our private van back to Cusco, arriving at about 18.00.
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.
We are transparent and provide the specific details of what is included and excluded in our Ausangate Trek 5 Days. 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.
WE INCLUDE
Our Team 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, 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.
Entrance Fees to Ausangate park
Once we receive your details and the deposit for your tour, we purchase all the necessary tickets for your trek it will be for a specific date and will be in your name.
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 at Rainbow Mountain Guide office 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 of Rainbow Mountain Guide 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.
WE 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.
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 5 DAYS PACKING LIST
At RMG 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?Essential 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.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) 5-DAY AUSANGATE TREK
How difficult is the Ausangate Trek 5 Days?
The Ausangate Trek is considered one of the most challenging treks in Peru due to its high altitude, long hiking distances, and steep mountain passes. It is best suited for hikers with good physical fitness and some previous trekking experience.
What is the best time to hike the Ausangate Trek 5 Days?
The best time to hike the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, from April to October. These months offer clearer skies, excellent mountain views, and better trail conditions, making them ideal for trekking.
How high is the 5-Day Ausangate Trek?
The trek reaches elevations of more than 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), with Palomani Pass standing at approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet), making it one of the highest trekking routes in Peru.
Do I need to acclimatize before the Ausangate Trek?
Yes. Spending at least two or three days in Cusco before beginning the trek is highly recommended to help your body adjust to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Can beginners do the Ausangate Trek 5 Days?
The Ausangate Trek is not recommended for complete beginners. Because of the demanding terrain and high elevations, participants should have good physical fitness and ideally some previous hiking experience. However, we have different option for the beginners such as the 2-Day Ausangate Trek Short Ausangate Trek
How many days do you need for the Ausangate Trek?
The most popular itinerary is the Ausangate Trek 5 Days, allowing hikers to fully explore the spectacular mountain scenery, glacial lakes, traditional villages, and scenic high-altitude passes at a comfortable pace.
Is the Ausangate Trek harder than the Inca Trail?
Yes. Most hikers consider the Ausangate Trek more physically demanding than the Classic Inca Trail because it reaches much higher elevations and involves longer hiking days, although the trails are generally less crowded.
Is Rainbow Mountain included in the Ausangate Trek 5 Days?
Yes, the Ausangate Trek 5 Days itineraries include a visit to Rainbow Mountain on the third day. However, inclusions vary by operator, so always check the itinerary before booking.
What should I pack for the Ausangate Trek?
You should bring waterproof hiking boots, warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, trekking poles, a refillable water bottle, headlamp, personal medications, and a sleeping bag suitable for freezing.
Do I need a permit for the Ausangate Trek?
No. Unlike the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek does not require a government-issued trekking permit, allowing you to book with greater flexibility throughout the year.
How much does the Ausangate Trek 5 Days cost?
The cost varies depending on the tour operator, group size, and included services. Prices generally range from budget group tours to premium private experiences with upgraded camping equipment and personalized service.
Is the Ausangate Trek worth it?
Absolutely. The Ausangate Trek is widely regarded as one of Peru's most spectacular hiking adventures, offering breathtaking glaciers, turquoise lakes, colorful mountain landscapes, authentic Andean culture, and peaceful trails far from the crowds.
Can I ride a horse if I get difficult the Ausangate Trek?
Yes, you can, you can let us know to include an emergency horse, or you can tell to your guide along the trek. This can vary of price according the location.
Is the hot springs included in the tour?
The hot springs are located at the beginning and at the end of the trek. However, the entrance fees are not included, it can very from 5 soles to 10 soles per person. The temperatures are from 25 to 35 degrees celsious.
What should I expect as far as weather?
The weather arund Ausangate area can vary, from cold mornings and evenings to hot but windy days. The dry season is from May to October, while the rainy season is from November to December. However, rain or snowy days can be any time along the Ausangate Trek.
From: USD 480.00 per person
USD 470.00: from 4 people to more
*Sleeping bag -10°C / 10°F for the entire trip: $20 USD
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru curated by Rainbow Mountain Tour. 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.
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Feel free to reach us via email at rainbowmountainguide@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 Map
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT TOUR OPERATOR?
As direct local tour operator, we offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others.
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Small groups: Along our excursion group size is a capped at 12 people. This guarantees that you will enjoy every step of our excursion
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Local Tour guides: Our team consists of 100% local tour guides, who have expert knowledge in our ancient culture, English speakers.
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Modern Private Transportation Travel in comfort and style with our modern, safe, and fully equipped private vehicles.
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Safety First: Our licenced guides and drivers are well trained in customer service. We always carry oxygen tank during our Rainbow Mountain excursions.
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No Hidden Cost: Our prices are set up clearly, and we dont have any hidden cost. Our tour guides always will explain what really is the tour.
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