Private
Starting from 2 people
5 Days
The Ausangate Trek Tour 5 Days / 4 Nights is one of the most impressive trekking experiences in Cusco and throughout the Vilcanota mountain range. This route circles the majestic Ausangate snow-capped peak (6,384 m), considered one of the most sacred apus of the Andes, and crosses high-mountain landscapes dominated by imposing glaciers, intensely colored lakes, and vast high Andean plains. Far from crowded routes, this hike offers an authentic connection with nature and with the Andean communities that keep their ancestral traditions alive.
During the journey, you will walk across passes over 5,000 meters in altitude, observe unique mineral formations, and enjoy unmatched panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range. The environment combines snow-covered mountains, turquoise lakes, and diverse high Andean wildlife, making this route one of the most complete and scenic trekking experiences in Peru.
The Ausangate Trek Tour is a trekking adventure that integrates challenging hikes, the ascent to rainbow mountain (Vinicunca) and a visit to the impressive Red Valley, as well as a circuit of crystal-clear lakes and the option to relax in natural hot springs at the end of the journey. This experience combines nature, living culture, and unforgettable landscapes, offering an organized and safe expedition for those seeking an authentic challenge in the Peruvian Andes.
You will depart from Cusco at 5:00 a. m. heading toward the community of Pacchanta, where you will enjoy a typical breakfast with views of the Ausangate snow-capped peak; beginning of the hike toward Upis crossing high Andean plains, lunch along the route, ascent to Arapa Pass (4,800 m) with panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range, and descent to Yanacocha to set up the first camp beside beautiful lakes.
After breakfast, you will hike among intensely colored lakes and glacial landscapes, ascent to Pucacocha Pass (4,900 m) with privileged views of the Ausangate snow-capped peak, pause for lunch in the high mountains, and descent to Anantapata, where the camp will be set up and you will enjoy afternoon tea and a hot dinner.
The day begins very early to ascend rainbow mountain (Vinicunca, 5,036 m), route alongside Kayrawiri Lake and guided explanation of the geological phenomenon; time for photographs and visit to the impressive Red Valley, lunch along the route, and hike to Ausangate Lake to camp in front of a majestic landscape of mountains and crystal-clear waters.
After breakfast, you will ascend to Palomani Pass (5,100 m), the highest point of the circuit, with spectacular views of the Ausangate snow-capped peak (6,384 m); descent across high Andean plains where it is possible to observe alpacas and vicuñas, arrival at the camp in Jampa, afternoon tea, and dinner.
The day begins with the ascent to Ccampa Pass (5,050 m) to enjoy the final panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range, descent along the 7 Lakes circuit, you will arrive at Pacchanta for a traditional lunch and the option to relax in the hot springs; finally, return by private transport to Cusco, arriving at approximately 7:00 p. m.
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights tour begins very early, at 5:00 a.m., with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. You will begin an approximately 4-hour journey south to the Andean community of Pacchanta (4,400 m), the starting point for the Ausangate trekking. Along the way, you will enjoy high-Andean landscapes, herds of alpacas, and traditional villages that preserve their living culture.
Upon arriving in Pacchanta, you will enjoy a typical breakfast with privileged views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain, the highest mountain in Cusco. Here we will organize the luggage (maximum 5 kg per person, transported by horses in waterproof bags), preparing you for the beginning of this unforgettable Ausangate hike.
We will begin the hike toward Upis (4,400 m), crossing extensive plains surrounded by snow-capped mountains. During the first section of the Ausangate Trek, you will enjoy incredible views of glacial formations and lagoons. Upon arrival in Upis, you will enjoy a delicious lunch in the midst of the natural surroundings.
In the afternoon, you will ascend to the Arapa Pass (4,800 m), one of the highest points of the day, from where we will obtain spectacular panoramic views of the snow-capped peaks and part of the Vilcanota mountain range. Then we will descend to Yanacocha (4,500 m), where we will set up our first campsite near beautiful lagoons.
The weather in this area can change rapidly, with wind or light rain in the afternoon. We will close the day with hot tea and a comforting dinner under the most star-filled sky.
After breakfast, you will begin one of the most impressive stages of the tour. This day is characterized by its incredible landscapes, where you will hike among intensely colored lagoons and snow-capped mountains, enjoying an authentic trekking experience in the Peruvian Andes.
You will then ascend to Pucacocha Pass (4,900 m), one of the highest and most panoramic points of the route. From this natural viewpoint, you will have privileged views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain and its imposing glaciers. Here we will take a break to rest and have lunch, ideal for regaining energy to continue the hike.
In the afternoon, we will descend to Anantapata (4,500 m), crossing wide Andean landscapes typical of the Ausangate trekking in Cusco. We will arrive at the campsite at approximately 3:00 p.m., where our team will prepare everything so you can rest comfortably. Later, you will enjoy traditional afternoon tea and a hot dinner to end the day.
This day will begin very early and is one of the most anticipated days of the Ausangate Trek tour. We will start the ascent to the famous rainbow mountain (5,036 m), also known as Vinicunca, on a spectacular hike surrounded by high-Andean landscapes.
During the journey, we will pass by Kayrawiri Lagoon and observe the impressive mineral contrasts that characterize this area of the Andes. The reddish, ochre, green, and yellow tones create a unique natural setting that makes rainbow mountain in Peru one of the most impressive trekking destinations in Cusco.
Upon arriving at Vinicunca (5,036 m), our guide will explain the geological process that gave rise to this natural phenomenon. You will have enough time to rest, take photographs, and enjoy panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range.
We will then visit the Red Valley, a surprising and less crowded landscape, ideal for appreciating mountain formations dyed in intense reddish tones. This hike perfectly complements the experience, offering different and less crowded perspectives.
After lunch, we will return to Anantapata and continue the journey to Ausangate Lagoon (4,650 m). There we will set up our campsite in front of one of the most impressive settings of the Ausangate trekking, surrounded by mountains and crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, we will enjoy traditional tea and later a hot dinner to conclude the day.
After a delicious breakfast, we will begin one of the most challenging days of the Ausangate Trek tour. On this day, we will reach the highest point of the entire route: Palomani Pass (5,100 m), the highest pass of the Ausangate Trek circuit.
From the summit, you will enjoy a privileged view of the imposing Ausangate snow-capped mountain (6,384 m), the highest mountain in the Cusco region and one of the most revered apus of the Andes. The views of glaciers and snow-covered peaks make this stretch one of the most memorable moments of the Ausangate trekking in Cusco.
We will then begin the descent toward Finaya Pampa, crossing wide high-Andean plains. In this area, it is common to see alpacas and llamas grazing freely; with some luck, we may also spot vicuñas and even Andean condors soaring over the landscape, further enriching the hiking experience in the Peruvian Andes.
Finally, we will arrive at the Jampa campsite (4,700 m), where we will rest after a demanding yet extraordinarily rewarding hike. Our team will set up the tents while you enjoy the natural surroundings. In the afternoon, we will share traditional hot tea and later a nutritious dinner to regain energy.
On our final day of the tour, we will begin with the ascent to Ccampa Pass (5,050 m), from where you will have the last panoramic views of the imposing Andean snow-capped peaks and glaciers. This point offers us a final perspective of the majesty of the Vilcanota mountain range before beginning the descent.
We will continue to the community of Pacchanta (4,400 m), where we will enjoy a traditional lunch. Optionally, we may relax in its medicinal hot springs, ideal for soothing muscles and resting after several days of hiking among mountains and turquoise lagoons.
Finally, we will return to Cusco by private transportation (approximately 4 hours), arriving around 7:00 p.m., closing this unique experience of trekking in Cusco Peru.
This final day combines spectacular landscapes, contact with nature, and relaxation, ending on a high note an unforgettable journey through the Vilcanota mountain range.
During this incredible trekking experience around the Ausangate snow-capped mountain and rainbow mountain, everything is carefully organized so you can enjoy the adventure without worrying about logistics. These are the services included in the tour:
Although the tour covers most of the services necessary for the adventure, there are some additional expenses you should consider:
To complete the Ausangate Trek Tour safely and comfortably, it is essential to bring practical, durable luggage suitable for high-mountain conditions. This route exceeds 5,100 m.a.s.l., with below-freezing temperatures at night, constant wind, and sudden weather changes. Prioritize the essentials and remember that only 5 kg per person transported by pack horses is allowed.
Below, we answer the most common questions about the Ausangate Trek Tour in Cusco, Peru, including key information so you can plan your trip with complete comfort and without worries.
The Ausangate Trek Tour takes place in the Vilcanota mountain range, Cusco region – Peru, southeast of the city of Cusco. The starting point is the Andean community of Pacchanta (14,436 ft), located approximately 4 hours by transportation from Cusco (10,990 ft). The circuit surrounds the Ausangate snow-capped mountain (20,945 ft), considered the most sacred apu in the region.
The maximum altitude of the route is reached at Palomani Pass (16,732 ft), located in the Vilcanota mountain range, Cusco region. Other high points include:
It is a high-altitude trek that exceeds 16,400 feet.
The best season to do the Ausangate Trek Tour in Cusco, Peru is during the dry season (April to October).
June, July, and August are the coldest months, but with clearer landscapes.
Yes. It is recommended to stay at least 2 or 3 days in Cusco (10,990 ft) before starting the trek toward Pacchanta and the Vilcanota mountain range. This helps reduce the risk of altitude sickness, as the circuit exceeds 16,400 feet.
The Ausangate Trek in Cusco has a moderate to high difficulty level due to:
Good physical condition and previous mountain hiking experience are recommended.
Yes. On the third day of the trek, you hike up to rainbow mountain – Vinicunca (16,522 ft), located in the Cusco region within the Vilcanota mountain range. The Red Valley is also visited, a less crowded landscape with impressive reddish tones.
The Palccoyo rainbow mountain is located at approximately 16,076 ft, also in the Cusco region within the Vilcanota mountain range. However, Palccoyo is not included in this Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights Tour, as the itinerary includes a visit to Vinicunca (16,522 ft).
The circuit of the 7 Ausangate Lakes is located near the community of Pacchanta, Ocongate district, Cusco region, at altitudes ranging between 14,108 and 15,420 ft. These lakes stand out for their turquoise and emerald tones, fed by the melting ice of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain.
The weather in the Vilcanota mountain range, Cusco – Peru, is cold and variable:
Conditions can change quickly at high altitude.
During the Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights Tour, you sleep in high-altitude camps located at:
The tents are designed to withstand intense cold and wind.
Yes, on the last day you arrive at the community of Pacchanta (14,436 ft), Ocongate district, Cusco, where there is the option to enter its medicinal hot springs. Entrance is not included and is paid directly on site.
The transfer from the city of Cusco (10,990 ft) to the community of Pacchanta (14,436 ft) takes approximately 4 hours by private transportation, crossing the Ocongate district in the Cusco region, Peru.
Do not hesitate to give us a call. We are an expert team and we are happy to talk to you.
4 Days
From
4 Days
From
4 Days
From
4 Days
From
4 Days
From
5 Days
From
3 Days
From
At Peru Jungle Trips, we work every day to exceed our travelers’ expectations. The reviews on TripAdvisor reflect the commitment, dedication, and quality we bring to every journey through Peru. Thanks to our clients’ trust, we continue creating unique experiences surrounded by nature and Andean culture.
