Ausangate Mountain is a majestic peak in the Peruvian Andes, reaching an impressive altitude of 6,384 meters (20,944 feet). Revered as a sacred mountain by local communities, Ausangate offers one of the most spectacular and challenging treks in Peru. The route takes you through breathtaking landscapes of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and traditional Andean villages.
Along the way, you’ll walk past herds of llamas and alpacas in remote Quechua communities, and camp near natural hot springs and vibrant lakes inhabited by a variety of bird species, including the Andean goose and the mighty Andean condor. You’ll witness the stunning Ausangate Lake and the towering snow-capped peak of the mountain itself.
Nearby lies the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), renowned for its vibrant, multi-colored slopes created by centuries of mineral deposits. Its striking colors and surreal beauty have made it one of Peru’s most iconic trekking destinations.
Together, Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain offer a truly unforgettable journey through the heart of Peru’s high-altitude wilderness a unique combination of cultural richness and natural wonder.
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ITINERARY
Day 1: CUSCO – TINQUI – UPIS
Your adventure begins early, with your guide meeting you in Cusco at 6:00 AM. From there, we’ll take private transportation to the trailhead, where our team of muleteers will be waiting with the horses that will carry our gear throughout the trek.
Once everything is organized and ready, we’ll begin our hike with a gentle 3-hour ascent toward our first campsite in Upis, where your tents will be set up and waiting. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a delicious lunch and have some time to rest.
In the afternoon, you’ll have two optional activities: relax in the nearby natural hot springs, perfect for easing into the journey, or take a short 1-hour hike to the Upis Cocha Lagoon, a beautiful spot for photos and panoramic views of the majestic Ausangate Mountain.
After soaking in the scenery, we’ll return to camp where hot drinks will be waiting. Later, we’ll gather for a warm and hearty dinner under the stars, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Andes.
Distance: 9.65km/ 6 miles
Elevation: 4200m/ 13,779ft
Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
Accommodations: camping
DAY 2: UPIS – ARAPA PASS – PUCACCOCHA
After an early breakfast, we begin our second day of trekking with a steady 2-hour ascent to the first mountain pass of the journey — Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). From the top, we’ll take a well-deserved break to rest and enjoy some snacks while taking in the high-altitude views.
We then continue for approximately 2.5 hours along a trail that gently ascends and descends through rolling terrain. Along the way, you’ll pass herds of llamas and alpacas, and may even spot native Andean bird species in their natural habitat.
After stopping for a scenic lunch surrounded by the Andes, we resume our trek with another 2.5-hour hike to our campsite at Puca Cocha (“Red Lake”), one of the most picturesque campsites on the route.
Nestled beside a serene lake and facing the majestic Ausangate Mountain, bordered by an immense glacier, this site offers an unforgettable setting. We’ll end the day with a warm dinner, enjoying the peace and beauty of the mountains and lagoons under the evening sky.
Distance: 10km/ 6.21mls
Elevation: 4300m/ 14,100ft
Hiking time: 7 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
Accommodations: camping
DAY 3: PUCACCOCHA – PUCA PASS – ANANTAPATA – WARMISAYA – SURINECOCHA (Sunset hike to Rainbow Mountain)
We start the day early with a warm cup of coca tea, preparing for what is undoubtedly one of the most scenic days of the entire trek. You’ll enjoy breathtaking views of towering Andean peaks and the deep, colorful valleys below.
After a hearty breakfast, we begin a steep 2-hour ascent to Puca Pass (4,990 m / 16,371 ft). Along the way, we’ll be treated to panoramic views of glacial turquoise lakes and the imposing Ausangate Glacier. Upon reaching the summit, we’ll find ourselves face-to-face with the majestic Ausangate Mountain, with the Chillca Valley sprawling out below — often dotted with herds of grazing alpacas. From this vantage point, we’ll also catch our first glimpse of the famous Rainbow Mountain range, with its vividly colored layers.
After soaking in the views and capturing some unforgettable photos, we descend gradually for 1 hour to a scenic rest stop at Anantapata (4,400 m / 14,435 ft), surrounded by rolling green hills and snow-capped summits — the perfect spot for a light snack.
We then continue with a 1.5-hour gradual ascent to the Warmisaya Pass, reaching 4,990 m / 16,371 ft once again. From the top, the views are spectacular, offering a sweeping look over the surrounding highlands.
A 30-minute descent brings us to Surinecocha , our campsite for the night, beautifully nestled beside the water and surrounded by dramatic peaks. Here we’ll have lunch and rest before setting off on an unforgettable side hike.
In the late afternoon, we embark on a 1.5-hour hike to Rainbow Mountain, timed perfectly to witness the sunset over the mesmerizing Rainbow Valley a truly magical experience. After enjoying this natural wonder, we return to camp with a 45-minute downhill walk, where we’ll relax with a warm “happy hour” of tea and snacks, followed by a well-earned dinner under the stars.
Distance: 9km/5.59mls
Elevation: 4600m/15,091ft – 5000m/16,400ft
Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours
Meals: breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks
Accommodations: camping
DAY 4: SURINECOCHA – RAINBOW MOUNTAINS (sunrise hike) – CAYRAWIRY– CUSCO
We begin the day very early with breakfast at 5:00 AM, followed by a 1.5-hour uphill hike to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), one of the most iconic natural wonders of the Peruvian Andes. This striking, multicolored formation is famous for its vibrant mineral-rich layers, created by centuries of sedimentary deposits and geological activity.
Arriving early means we’ll be among the first groups on the mountain, giving us the rare opportunity to enjoy this spectacular site in peace, before the crowds. Your guide will lead you to the best panoramic viewpoints for unforgettable photos and explain the fascinating geology and cultural significance of this sacred site.
Rainbow Mountain is considered one of the most visually stunning places in South America, and there are only a few similar formations in the world — making this a truly unique experience.
After taking in the sunrise and soaking up the incredible landscape, we begin our 2-hour descent toward Cayrawiry, a peaceful Andean community surrounded by dramatic scenery and rolling hills. This marks the end of our amazing trek.
Here, our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, with arrival expected in the afternoon ending the journey with memories that will last a lifetime.
Distance: 9km/5.592mls
Elevation: 4600m/15,091ft – 5000m/16.404ft
Hiking time: 3-4 hours
Accommodations: camping
Meals: breakfast, lunch, and snacks
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
- Included.Pre-Trek briefing the night before the trek
.Private transportation to start of the trek
.Professional guide, fluent in English
.Meals as indicated in the itinerary
.8 kgs personal luggage allowance to put on the horses
.Personal duffel bags for your extra luggage to put on the horses
.Spacious tents ; sleeping mats ; dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent
.Horses to carry the group’s equipment (food, tents, tables, etc.)
.Emergency horse to ride if you are tired or ill
.Emergency oxygen bottle and first aid kit
.Snacks for every single day.
.Wáter every day. We filter, boil, and cool down to refill your bottle.
.Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain.
.Entrance fee to Ausangate trek
NOT INCLUDED ON THE TRAIL
- .Breakfast on the 1st day.Dinner on the 4th day
.Sleeping Bag –$20 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
.Air Mattress –$20 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
.Walking Poles –$15 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
.Personal tent -$30 USD – (Tent for solo trekkers)
.Tips for the crew, guide, cook and porters of Nomad In Peru
HOW TO BOOK THE TOUR?
The Ausangate Trek: 4 Days service is available only by group service (from 2 persons). Then, we need minimum 2 persons to open this service for you.
.Our price: 580.00 USD per person
.Reservation price: USD $ 200 per person
.Balance ( cusco): US$ 350.00 (commonly paid in cusco after the briefing).
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Please read carefully the following information; it will help with your questions about our services and the Ausangate trek + Rainbow Mountain 4 Days
ARRIVAL TO CUSCO
You will be welcomed at Cusco airport and we drive you to your hotel, please send us the information about flight details at least 14 days prior to your trek or tour. Look out for our representative holding an Nomad In Peru logo at the arrival terminal. It can be done on any date that is best suited to you!
THE BRIEFING
We use to visit at your hotel 6 pm or if you prefer during the day, please you could send us an email with details to get your briefing time Will be ready any time for our clients.
CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?
Of course! During the Ausangate Trek + Rainbow Mountain 4 Days, your main luggage can be store at our office or at your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. Please pack only what you will need for the 4 days trek!
HOW TO BOOK THE AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 4 DAYS?
STEP ONE: To book your Ausangate and Machupicchu Trek, please complete our booking form by clicking on the “BOOK NOW” button on our homepage or simply click here to access the form.
You will need to provide the following personal information exactly as it appears on your passport:
.Full name
.Gender
.Passport number
.Date of birth (DD/MM/YYYY)
.Nationality
Important: We require a copy of each participant’s passport at the time of booking.
STEP TWO: We require a deposit of $200 USD per person to secure your permit for the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain.
WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?
The customer agrees to make an initial payment equivalent to the indicated percentage of the total cost in order to secure the service date. The remaining balance must be paid one or two days before the start of the service in Cusco.
To avoid the high credit card fees often applied in Peru, we recommend paying the remaining balance in cash, either in US dollars or Peruvian soles. There are numerous ATMs available throughout Cusco for your convenience. Alternatively, you may complete the payment using the same method as your initial deposit.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 4 DYAS?
The weather is very unpredictable and it’s difficult to foresee. But you will have many different seasons as you pass through the numerous microclimates and will depend on the altitude. With the Ausangate Trek, we highly recommend you bring some very warm clothes and good rain gear in your day backpack. It can be very cold at the high altitudes of this trek.
WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 4 DYAS?
In general if you exercise regularly and spend 3 days in Cusco, or in the Sacred Valley for acclimatization to the altitude, you may be just fine.
We offer the Cusco City Tour and Sacred Valley tours that you can book while you are acclimatizing.
DUFFEL BAG AND SMALL BACKPACK
The evening before you start your Ausangate trek , you will be given a duffle bag to pack your clothes for the next four days. Your weight allowance is up to 8kg/15lbs. By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 8 kilograms (15lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters and animals.
IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?
Yes the Ausangate Trek is considered moderately to challenging. You should be physically prepared and in good health before starting the hike.
We recommend having a moderate level of fitness and engaging in regular exercise prior to the trek. It’s also important to spend 2 to 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley beforehand to properly acclimatize to the altitude. This preparation will help ensure that you enjoy the experience safely, comfortably, and to the fullest.
WHAT ABOUT TOILETS ON THE AUSANGATE TREK?
This has been highly appreciated by most of our clients, especially by our trekkers, who want a private, clean and sanitary toilet! NOMAD IN PERU toilet facilities have an individual tent and a camping toilet with a seat.
WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 4 DYAS?
If you’re unable to complete the trek due to health reasons, Nomad In Peru will assist you to the nearest town for medical help and transportation. We always carry oxygen for altitude-related issues.
Please note that no refunds are provided in such cases. Most trekkers who leave the trail early are taken to Cusco.
WHAT TYPE OF WILDLIFE CAN BE ENCOUNTERED ALONG THE TREK ?
The Ausangate trek + Rainbow Mountain has a variety of ecosystems in the Peruvian Andes, from high-altitude puna grasslands to lush valleys. This diverse environment supports a wide range of wildlife such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and if you are very lucky you can see the condor along the trek.
TIPPING
If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip though not compulsory is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek.
PACKING LIST
WHAT SHOULD YOU TAKE WITH YOU FOR THE AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 4 DYAS?
.Original Passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
.Comfortable daypack (the smaller, the better)
.Water storage: 2-3 litre reusalbe bottles
.Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
.Sleeping bag (can be rented from Nomad In Per)
.Headlamp: essential
.Toilet paper
WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFEL BAG FOR THE AUSANGATE TREK + RAINBOW MOUNTAIN 4 DYAS?
As a Professional Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and Include an extra pack horse who will carry up to 8 kgs or 16 pounds including your 2 kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing. By Peruvian law, a duffel bag must not weigh more than 8 kilograms (16lbs). This limit is set to protect the health of the porters or horses. your personal gear.
.2 t-shirts
.2 hiking pants at least
.4 sets of undergarments
.3 sets of hiking socks
.Bathing suit for the thermal waters
.Fleece/ Thermals
.Warm clothes, down jacket
.Gloves
.Comfortable shoes for camp
.Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger.
.Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
.Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us.
.Wet wipes
.Toothbrush and paste
.Personal medications
.First aid kit: band aids, etc.
WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK
On the trail you should carry a day pack with your .
.Water: we will provide you with cold boiled water at every meal time
.Sun hat
.Sunscreen
.Headlamp: essential
.Wool hat
.Rain gear
.Fleece
.Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
.Rain plastic poncho
.Camera
.Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
.Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips
