4 days Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain

Activity Level : challenging

Overview

The Ausangate Trek offers a memorable experience across the Vilcanota Mountain Range, following a trail that will take you from the unique Rainbow Mountain to the hot springs in Pacchanta. All of this along 4 days of adventure, summiting high altitude mountain passes and exploring hidden glacier fed lakes nestled between the Apus.

What to Expect

  • Long days trekking (5-8 hours).
  • Altitudes over 5100 m (16732 ft).
  • Camping next to high lakes or Apu Ausangate.
  • Cultural encounters with local Quechua peoples.
  • Wildlife featuring: alpacas and vicuñas, car acara falcons and car acara falcons.
  • Hot Springs in Pacchanta.

Main Challenges

  • Altitude: over 5000 m.
  • Physically demanding: steep climbs, long uphill segments, trail conditions (rocky trails, loose gravel and depending on the season mud or snow).
  • Weather & exposure: very cold at night, extreme sun radiation during the daytime.

Highlights

  • Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
  • Apu Ausangate.
  • Ausangate Lake and more glacier fed lakes.
  • Hot springs in Pacchanta.
  • Wildlife & local culture.

Who Is This Trek For?

This trek requires prior acclimatization, good physical condition and experience in previous mountain hikes is an asset. If you are into discovering the backcountry, the wilderness and aren’t discouraged by the discomfort of the high altitude, this experience is for you. One, that combines stunning landscapes, unique ecosystems and a close encounter with the local cultures.

Looking for something less adventurous, check our Machu Picchu Tours.

Day 1 Cusco – Pitumarca – Q’esuyuno – Kayrawiry

Welcome to the first day of the 4 days Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain!

This adventure will start before sunrise, picking you up from your Hotel in Cusco. Our driver will take us on a 2 hours scenic drive to Pitumarca. This ride across the south valley offers extraordinary views of canyons, farming terraces and the rugged mountains characteristic to the Andes.

After our stop in Pitumarca, for last minute supplies shopping and breakfast, we will continue to Q’esuyuno for 1 more hour. Once at Q’esuyuno, we will meet our expedition team. The team is composed by the horsemen, the chef and the cooks. We will hand our duffel bags to the horsemen and make sure we have the essentials for our first day of hiking.

From Q’esuyuno we will start our trek heading to Kayrawiry, expecting to arrive by lunch time. Our team will be waiting for us with a hearty lunch to refuel and prepare for the afternoon quest.

First summit: Vinicunca.

After our meal we will join back the trek, this time our goal will be the Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca. This trek itself is a highlight, following a stream to the summit, the mountains will start to show layering in red, amber and turquoise tones. Once at the top of Vinicunca, we will admire and capture this unique landscape, recently discovered after the retreat of the glacier.

Our journey will continue with the descent back to Kayrawiri. Our team will be waiting for us with the tents ready, hot beverages and appetizers to welcome us. After setting in our tents, we will be called for a nourishing dinner.

Key Statistics for the First Day of the Ausangate Trek:

  • Highest Altitude: Rainbow Mountain 5000 m (16404 ft).
  • Lowest Altitude: Q’esuyuno 4326 m (14189 ft).
  • Level of Difficulty: Moderate.
  • Distance Covered: 14 km (8.7 mi).

Day 2 Kayrawiri – Q’esuyuno – Ausangate Lake

The second day will arrive with the promise of being the most scenic of the whole trek. Also. The one with the highest altitude. Our guide will wake you up with a hot beverage served to your tent.

Condor Pass, highest point of the adventure.

After an early breakfast, we will depart from Kayrawiri. The first segment of the day will take us back to Q’esuyuno, from where we will join a 2 hours steep climb to the Condor Pass. A challenging stretch that will reward you with some of the most breathtaking views: intense blue lakes and the towering Apu Ausangate.

Afterwards, we will start to descend to our lunch spot. Following a hearty lunch to recharge our energy, we will trek for another 3 hours to the Ausangate Lake. Our team will be ready to welcome us at the lake, with hot beverages and appetizers before our tasty dinner.

Statistics for the Second Day of the Ausangate Trek:

  • Level of Difficulty: This day’s trek is challenging.
  • Distance Covered: 12 km (7.5 mi).
  • Highest Altitude: 5100 m (16732 ft): Condor Pass.

Day 3 Ausangate Lake – Qampa

The third morning of our adventure will start, as usual, with a hot beverage served to your tent and a hearty breakfast to fuel up for the day.

Another day, another Pass.

We will start the day with an exciting ascent to Abra Campo Pass, along 3 hours of stunning scenery in the Andes. Once we reach the pass, we will admire panoramic views of valleys in between the Apus. On our way to Abra Campo Pass we will spot wildlife, specially vizcachas, llamas and alpacas (the national animal of Peru).

Qampa Campsite.

After capturing these unforgettable moments, we will begin a gradual 1.5-hour descent to our lunch spot, nestled in a picturesque area perfect for a relaxing break. Post-lunch, we will embark on another 2.5-hour hike, concluding our day at our campsite in Qampa. This spot, chosen for its beauty and tranquility, is perfect to unwind and reminisce about the day’s adventures.

The second segment of the day will take us to our lunch spot. After 1.5 hours descending, we will reach a picturesque area, where our expedition team will be ready to spoil us with another tasty meal.

After recharging energies with our meal, we will continue for 2.5 hours hiking to Qampa. There, our third campsite will be ready and waiting for us. Upon arrival, we will be greeted with hot beverages and appetizers before a well-deserved dinner.

Statistics for the Third Day of the Ausangate Trek:

  • Level of Difficulty: Challenging.
  • Distance Covered: 15 km (about 9.3 mi).
  • Highest Altitude: 5000 m (16404 ft): Abra Campo Pass.

Day 4 Qampa – Pacchanta – Cusco

Welcome to the final day of our Ausangate Trek.

After 3 days on the backcountry legs will be soaring, but our bodies will be already adapted to the challenging altitude. Gear up and prepare for some more stunning landscapes on our way to Pacchanta.

Once we had enjoyed our hearty breakfast, we will join the trek to the base of the Ausangate glacier. It will take us about 1 hour getting there. We will use the stop there to capture some pictures of this unique views of the Vilcanota Range. Following this stop, we will continue descending to our lunch spot. There, a delicious lunch will be waiting for us.

Qomer Lake & Pacchanta Hot Springs.

The afternoon will take us to our 2 last visits, along some of the most beautiful scenery of the whole trek. The first one will be after a descent to Qomer Lake. There we will stop to take in the beauty of this glacier fed lake. Continuing, the next stretch will take us descending for 5 hours to Pacchanta. This little community is famous for its hot springs, where we will take a plunge and relax after such a journey.

Finally, our driver will take us back to Cusco. Wrapping up an adventure of a lifetime.

Statistics for the Fourth Day of the Ausangate Trek:

  • Level of Difficulty: moderately challenging.
  • Distance Covered: The day includes a total hike of approximately 7 km (about 4.3 mi).

Included

  • Transportation
  • Experienced Guides
  • Porters and Horsemen
  • Accommodation
  • Meals
  • Camping Equipment
  • First Aid and Emergency Equipment
  • Entrance Fees
  • Environmental Responsibility

Excludes

  • Sleeping Bags.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Personal Trekking Gear.
  • Meals in Cities.
  • Tips for Guides and Staff.
  • Additional Snacks and Drinks.
  • Extra Activities or Side Trips.
  • Transportation Outside of Trek Itinerary.
  • Extra Nights of Accommodation.
  • Emergency Evacuation and Medical Costs.

Backpack

A comfortable, fitting backpack with a good support system. A 30-40 liter capacity should be sufficient for your daily essentials.

Sleeping Bag

Suitable for temperatures down to at least 0°C (32°F). It’s possible to rent them from many trekking companies if you don’t want to bring your own.

Trekking Poles

Helpful for navigating the steep and uneven terrain. They reduce the impact on your knees and improve balance.

Footwear

Good quality, well-fitting hiking boots with ankle support. Make sure they are worn-in to prevent blisters.

Clothing

  • Layering is key.
  • Base layers: Moisture-wicking fabric is best.
  • Insulating layers: Fleece or down jacket for cold evenings.
  • Outer layer: Waterproof and windproof jacket.
  • Trekking pants and shorts.
  • Moisture-wicking underwear.

Hat and Gloves

A brimmed hat for sun protection and a warm hat for cold evenings, along with a pair of gloves.

Socks

Several pairs of wool or moisture-wicking socks to keep your feet dry and comfortable.

Personal Medication and First Aid Kit

Include any personal medication, plasters for blisters, painkillers, altitude sickness medication, and basic first aid items.

Hydration

Water bottles or a hydration bladder with at least a 2-liter capacity. Water purification tablets or a water filter as a backup.

Sun Protection

High SPF sunscreen, lip balm with sun protection, and sunglasses.

Insect Repellent

Especially important in the lower elevations and jungle areas.

Headlamp or Flashlight

With extra batteries.

Toiletries

Toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper, and other personal hygiene items. Biodegradable soap is recommended.

Snacks

Energy bars, trail mix, or your preferred snacks to keep your energy up between meals.

Camera

With extra batteries or a power bank.

Rain Gear

A good quality raincoat or poncho to protect against rain and wind.

Cash

For tipping, snacks, and souvenirs along the way.

Travel Documents

Passport, travel insurance details, and any other necessary documents.

Small Towel and/or Wet Wipes

For personal hygiene.

Warm Clothing for Nighttime

It can get quite cold in the evenings and at higher elevations.

FAQS

The best time for the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During these months, the weather is generally clearer, providing better conditions for hiking and clearer views of the mountains.

The Ausangate Trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude, steep climbs, and variable weather conditions. It’s suitable for those who are physically fit and have some prior trekking experience, especially at altitude.

While it’s possible to trek Ausangate without a guide, it is highly recommended to hire one. A guide can provide valuable insights into the local culture and environment, as well as ensuring safety and orientation on the trail.

The trek takes 4 days and 3 nights, covering a distance of about 70 km (43 mi).

Essential items include a sturdy backpack, a warm sleeping bag, appropriate clothing for cold and wet weather, hiking boots, a hat and sunglasses for sun protection, a headlamp, and personal hygiene items. Don’t forget your camera for the stunning views!

Yes, altitude sickness can be a concern as the trek reaches high altitudes (over 5,000 meters/16,400 feet). It’s important to acclimatize properly before the trek and consider carrying altitude sickness medication.

Client Cancellation:

To cancel, send a written notice to our e-mail. The initial deposit is not refundable. Check your insurance for potential coverage for cancellation reasons.

Cancellations more than 15 days before departure result in a 50% deposit forfeiture. For cancellations between 7 and 15 days before departure, if full payment has been made, 50% of the total cost will be refunded. No refunds are given for cancellations less than 48 hours before departure or for partial tour cancellations.

Alterations/Cancellations by Us:

In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as technical issues, adverse weather, strikes, government actions, or civil disturbances, we will try to provide alternative arrangements or equivalent trips, without offering refunds. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary, but we will aim to maintain the agreed services.

Significant changes will be communicated before your trip, with comparable alternative plans offered. Any additional costs from these changes are the client’s responsibility. We cannot compensate for expenses like international flights, visas, vaccinations, etc.

If we cancel a tour, a full refund will be provided.

All our trips are guided by Local Experienced, English-speaking guides familiar with the trail and Incan history.

For our Group Experiences we recommend 18 – 45 years old.

Families with kids or seniors can opt for a Private Trip Experience.

Yes, we can arrange customized trips in Peru.

We offer an extensive range of experiences in Cusco, like hikes or treks, Salkantay & Humantay, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail & Alternative Inca Trail, South Valley & Sacred Valley, Ausangate & Vilcanota Range experiences and recently we added E-biking to our brochure.

Contact us for tailored experiences, we can arrange the perfect plan for your Peru Vacation.

Yes, we count with all the legal permits and the experience to make your dream trip to Peru a reality.

Plus, all of our local guides have degrees in tourism and a minimum of 2 years’ experience. They all speak English and Spanish and many also speak Quechua, the native language of Peru.

Why choose our tour services

Small groups

Join a small group of like-minded travellers that, like you, are eager to safely and confidently experience all the things that make our world worth exploring.

Philosophy & values

We are experts in the field of making dreams come true! With a unique experience in all of Cusco, wherever you want to go, we can take you there

Locally based guides

At Hotel Andenes del Inca, we have experienced tour guides. And they are all locals, which means they know the area you are exploring like the back of their hand.

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