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Ausangate, raibow montain
Live a unique experience in Ausangate, explore the breathtaking landscapes, turquoise lagoons and snow-capped mountains. This hike combines the imposing beauty of Ausangate, the highest peak in Cusco, with the fascinating Rainbow Mountain, a place that captivates all who visit it.
This trek is perfect for those seeking adventure and connection with nature, this five-day tour takes you through remote routes, Andean communities full of traditions and dreamlike scenery. Each day is an opportunity to discover the local culture and the grandeur of the landscapes that surround this trail.
Includes an expert guide, delicious food and campsites designed for your comfort on this journey.
Highlights
Day 1: Cusco - Tinke - Pukarumi - Upis Camp
Our expedition begins with a 5:00 a.m. pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco. In our private transportation, we’ll embark on a three-hour journey through mountain landscapes to the village of Pukarumi, nestled in the heart of the Ausangate mountains. Upon arrival in Pukarumi, you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet our expedition team, including skilled cooks and porters who will support us throughout the trek.
We’ll begin our hike heading northeast toward Ausangate Mountain, gradually ascending through scenic landscapes, passing traditional farmlands, local livestock, and getting a glimpse into the lifestyle of Andean communities. After about two hours of trekking, we’ll reach the Ausangate viewpoint, where you’ll have a panoramic view of the mountain ranges surrounding Ausangate. We’ll pause here for a well-deserved break and enjoy lunch prepared by our high-altitude chef.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue for another two hours to Upis Camp, located at 4,600 meters (15,092 feet) above sea level. The sacred mountains offer stunning views, and upon arrival, a warm tea awaits us. At the end of the day, we’ll enjoy a hearty dinner in our dining tents and spend the night under the starry sky in our cozy camping tents.
Day 2: Upis Camp - Arapa Pass - Abra Pukaqocha - Anantapata Camp
Our second day of trekking begins with a warm cup of coca tea or coffee served at your tent. After a nutritious and energizing breakfast, we’ll depart from Upis Camp for a two-hour hike to the Arapa Pass, located at 4,800 meters (15,748 feet). We’ll take a brief break here to enjoy the breathtaking views of glaciers and mountains surrounding us.
From Arapa Pass, we’ll gradually descend over gentle terrain toward Yanaqocha (also known as Black Lake), with our guide sharing insights into the traditions and experiences of the high Andean communities. You’ll have time to admire and photograph the dark waters framed by towering mountains. Continuing on, we’ll reach Hatun Pukaqocha, where you can observe the effects of glacial retreat. We’ll pause here to enjoy lunch.
After lunch, we’ll continue our ascent to Abra Pukaqocha, situated at an altitude of 4,870 meters (15,978 feet). This moderate-to-challenging uphill journey takes approximately an hour and a half, demanding both physical and mental endurance. However, the effort is well worth it, as the summit offers a stunning panoramic view of the glaciers and surrounding valleys.
Finally, we’ll descend to Anantapata Camp, where our tents will be ready for a well-deserved rest after a demanding day. Later, we’ll gather for a hearty dinner and a restful night in the mountains of Ananta.
Day 3: Anantapata Camp - Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Lake
We start early from our camp, accompanied by our guide and the soft light of dawn illuminating the trail. We’ll hike along winding paths surrounded by hills in emerald green, gradually ascending over two hours to reach the Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 feet). From here, you’ll have spectacular views of the Surimani Valley and a first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain. We then descend to Surinaqocha Lake (4,800 m / 15,748 feet).
Passing the lake, we’ll take on a gradual but challenging climb up to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), standing at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Along the way, we’ll encounter llamas, vicuñas, and alpacas in their Andean habitat. Upon reaching Rainbow Mountain, our guide will share geological and cultural insights into the formation of this extraordinary site. You’ll have the opportunity to take in and photograph the vibrant hues of red, pink, green, yellow, and turquoise that naturally stripe the mountainside.
After spending about an hour exploring, taking photos, and enjoying the views, we’ll descend along the same path back to Ananta Camp to continue our circuit, stopping for lunch midway. After lunch, we’ll embark on a hike to Ausangate Lake Camp, located at 4,700 m (15,420 feet). This camp offers breathtaking scenery, with a turquoise lake and hanging glaciers on the mountain. Our trekking team will welcome us with a warm drink upon arrival. In the evening, our cooks will prepare a delicious dinner, and we’ll rest up for the following day.
Day 4: Ausangate Lagoon Camp - Abra Palomani - Soraqocho Camp
We’ll start the day with coca tea or coffee brought to your tent, followed by an energizing breakfast, preparing us for the challenges ahead. Our trek begins with a climb to Abra Palomani (5,200 m / 17,060 feet), the highest point on the Ausangate route. This section of the trek is both physically and mentally demanding, allowing us to witness up close the glacier retreats and unique geological formations of the high Andean mountains.
At Abra Palomani, we’ll pause to rest and take in the spectacular mountain peaks and views of local communities below. From here, we’ll begin a gradual descent, taking in views of the Ausangate glacier, the base for climbing the glacier, and colorful mountains. Our descent leads us to the small community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,650 m / 15,256 feet), where we’ll enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
After lunch, we’ll continue through stunning wetlands, small lakes, and highland meadows dotted with grazing llamas and alpacas. We’ll hike for another hour and a half to reach our camp at Soraqocho, where our trekking team will welcome us with hot drinks. In the evening, we’ll enjoy a mountain-cooked dinner prepared by our high-altitude chef before resting for the night among the peaks.
Day 5: Soraqocho Camp - Abra Khampa - Pacchanta - Cusco
On the final day of our incredible Ausangate trek, we’ll begin early with a hearty breakfast to energize us for the last leg of the hike. After breakfast, we’ll depart from Soraqocho Camp and head towards Abra Khampa (5,070 m / 16,633 feet), where we’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the Ausangate glacier and herds of wild vicuñas on the surrounding mountains. The trail to the pass is physically challenging, offering a chance to push your limits in the Andean mountains.
From the pass, we’ll begin a gradual descent, crossing high mountain valleys, rugged landscapes, glaciers, and herds of alpacas and llamas. The path will lead us to Pacchanta, a small village at the base of the majestic Ausangate, where we’ll have the chance to relax in natural hot springs, soothing and rejuvenating our muscles after several days on the Ausangate trail.
After a restful break and a delicious lunch, we’ll bid farewell to our trekking team, cooks, and porters, then board our private transport for the return journey to Cusco.
Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 5 days / 4 nights Trek includes:
Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 5 days / 4 nights Trek does not include:
When planning your Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek for 5 days and 4 nights, it's crucial to carefully select what you'll bring due to the high altitude, cold weather, and rugged terrain. Here are some essential items you should include in your packing list:
Essential Items:
What to Carry in Your Daily Backpack:
What to Pack in Your Duffle Bag:
We will provide a duffle bag to store items you don’t need during your daily trek. The pack horses will transport this bag, but make sure it weighs no more than 8 kg, including the sleeping bag and inflatable mattress.
How Many Days Should You Acclimate Before the Trek?
It is crucial to be well-acclimated to the altitude before undertaking a trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 days before the trek begins to help you acclimate and avoid potential altitude sickness issues during the trek. If you have already been in another high-altitude area in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending a full day in Cusco to rest, recover from your journey, and enjoy the sights.
Travel to Cusco
Cusco's airport currently only operates domestic flights. All international passengers arriving by air must disembark in Lima and go through customs. It is important to note that due to Cusco's high altitude, flights may experience delays or cancellations. Additionally, any changes in weather can halt air traffic. If you prefer a land alternative, buses are a viable option, although the journey can be long, especially from Lima. Buses from Lima can take approximately 20 hours to arrive.
Pickup
Ausangate Adventure can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it is located in Cusco's Historic Center. During the briefing, your guide will coordinate the meeting time, but please be aware that waiting time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to local traffic. Cusco has narrow, cobblestone streets, which can make access to some hotels and Airbnbs difficult. Some locations may be in areas with no vehicular access or on steep inclines, complicating luggage transport. It is advisable to book accommodation with easy access to facilitate transport.
Luggage Storage
You can safely leave any additional luggage in Cusco, either at your hotel or with us at Ausangate Adventure while you are on your trek. We will store your luggage in the morning before your trek begins and return it to you once you return to Cusco. It is important to ensure that your bags are clearly labeled for easy identification.
Altitude Sickness
Altitude sickness occurs when there is less oxygen available in the air at high altitudes, such as in Ausangate. It can affect travelers regardless of age, gender, or physical condition. Common symptoms include headache, loss of appetite, dizziness, and difficulty sleeping. While it may disappear in a short time for some, for others it can persist for several days if not properly managed. We recommend following these suggestions to reduce the likelihood and severity of altitude sickness:
Climate
The climate in the Ausangate region is extremely variable. It can start favorably but change quickly. Nights are usually cold, with average temperatures around -10°C, while daytime temperatures range from 18°C to 25°C. Cold winds are constant, and rain or snow can be expected at any time. Despite these unpredictable conditions, the 4-day trek to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain in the Cusco Andes will be an unforgettable experience. It is essential to be prepared with appropriate clothing and gear for various weather conditions and to maintain a positive attitude and adaptability to changes. The beauty of the landscape and the sense of achievement at the end of the trek will make every challenge worthwhile.
First Aid
Each Ausangate Adventure guide is trained in first aid. They will carry a first aid kit for basic medical situations and oxygen during the trek. They will take good care of you. If something unexpected happens and you feel you can no longer continue the trek, they will determine the safest, quickest way to get you off the trail and to a clinic in Cusco.
Food
All meals and snacks will be provided throughout the trek, up to the last lunch on the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek. We understand you may be interested in the quality of our food. While each meal is prepared by a chef in a small tent on a portable stove, our clients are satisfied with the excellence of our dishes. Each chef is professionally trained to prepare the best breakfasts, lunches, dinners, and snacks. At the end of each day’s trek, a delicious dinner awaits you, cooked in the heart of the Andes, which will surely exceed your expectations about trekking food.
We use fresh ingredients purchased from the Cusco market and transported by pack horses led by our muleteers. These ingredients are then prepared by our chefs to ensure that each dish is fresh, healthy, and delicious.
Dietary Needs
Do you have special dietary requirements? Don’t worry; we are prepared to accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and those with food allergies.
Water
Ausangate Adventure will ensure that water is available at every meal. The water will be boiled, purified, and cooled before serving to our clients, ensuring it is safe to drink. However, for the first morning of the trek, you should provide your own water due to the preparation process. It is recommended to start the trek with 2-3 liters of water, so make sure you have a suitable bottle or camelback to carry it.
Environmental Impact
At Ausangate Adventure, we use biodegradable soap and ensure that all our trash is brought back to Cusco. Our muleteers are trained to keep the trails clean and collect waste. Additionally, we are committed to environmental preservation and conservation by managing waste responsibly. We adopt practices that minimize our environmental impact.
Protests and Strikes
Protests and strikes are common in Peru and may affect our travel plans. Roads may be blocked, and trains may be halted. However, we will do our best to keep your original itinerary, even if it means departing a night early. In some cases, trips may be canceled. If there are any changes, our operations team will contact you. Your safety is our top priority, and we will take the best measures to protect you in any unforeseen situation.
Lost Items
Please take special care of your belongings and ensure you collect everything when leaving our vehicles, campsites, or restaurants. You are responsible for your personal items during the trek.
Trek in Shared Service.
Price: 500 USD per person.
This shared or group service means that you will be taking the tour with other people. This standard service is conducted with a group of 10 to 16 people, with available departures. So, if you are just one or two people, don't worry, you can join one of our groups.
Trek in Private Service.
This private and exclusive service with daily departures is a way to take this trip where the service is much more personalized. Prices vary according to the number of travelers: one, two, three, four, or more travelers. Please, if you want private service, request information at info@ausangateadventure.com or through our WhatsApp at +51 914201334.
How is the Trek from Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain?
The trek from Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain is a high-altitude hiking route that traverses the Vilcanota mountain range in Peru. It is a challenging hike, crossing high mountain passes, glacier lakes, and isolated Andean communities.
What is the duration of the Ausangate trek?
The duration of the Ausangate trek varies from 3, 4, 5, or more days, depending on the chosen route and hiking pace. Generally, most hikers complete the trek in about 3 to 5 days. Be mindful of the weather conditions and altitude when preparing for this high-altitude hiking experience in the Vilcanota range, Peru.
When is the best time to undertake the Ausangate trek?
The most favorable time to undertake the Ausangate trek is during the dry season, which runs from March to December. During this period, you will experience more stable and dry weather, making it easier to hike through the mountains. Conditions are generally safer and more pleasant for hikers, with less chance of rain and better visibility of the stunning landscapes of the Vilcanota range.
What is the altitude of the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek?
The trek from Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) takes place at high altitudes, starting around 4,200 meters above sea level and reaching its highest point at Rainbow Mountain, 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Due to these heights, it is crucial to be well acclimated to fully enjoy the experience without major altitude-related difficulties.
Is it safe to do the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek?
Safety on the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek depends on several factors, including physical preparation and experience in high-altitude trekking. Although it is generally safe, it is a challenging trek that requires caution and respect for the natural environment. It is essential to follow the recommendations of expert guides, bring the appropriate gear, and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions. The Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek can be a physically, mentally, and safely rewarding experience for those willing to tackle the challenge.
Is it necessary to have a guide for the Ausangate trek?
It is advisable to have an experienced guide for the Ausangate trek, especially if you are not familiar with the area or if this is your first time hiking at high altitudes. A guide will provide not only route and terrain guidance but also expert advice on safety and first aid. Additionally, a guide can enhance your experience by providing information about the history, culture, and local flora and fauna.
How do i get to the start of the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek?
The trek typically starts in the village of Tinke, which is about a 3-hour drive from Cusco. You can reach Tinke by bus or private vehicle from Cusco. Generally, your tour operator will arrange the transportation for you.
How difficult is the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek?
The trek from Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain is known to be challenging due to its mountainous terrain and high altitude. Hikers need to be in good physical condition and have experience in high-altitude trekking to successfully complete this route.
How can i prepare for the Ausangate to Lake Sibinaqocha trek?
Prepare for the trek from Ausangate to Lake Sibinaqocha with these steps: 1) Acclimate to the altitude in Cusco. 2) Improve your physical fitness with cardiovascular and strength training exercises. 3) Acquire the appropriate gear: warm clothing, hiking boots, a backpack, and camping equipment. 4) Stay well-hydrated and bring energy foods. 5) Train at similar altitudes if possible. 6) Consult with a healthcare professional before the trip. 7) Research the route and weather conditions. 8) Consider hiring an experienced guide for safety and navigation. 9) Pack a basic first aid kit. 10) Be mentally prepared to enjoy the stunning natural and cultural beauty.
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