The Ausangate region offers some of the most breathtaking and remote trekking experiences in Peru — and the best part is, no special permits are required to hike these trails. At Nomad in Peru, we offer a variety of trekking routes through this majestic region, each of which can be done as a standalone adventure or combined with a visit to Machu Picchu.

These treks range from moderate to strenuous, featuring high-altitude mountain passes, pristine glacial lakes, and remote wilderness camping. It’s a true off-the-beaten-path experience, ideal for adventurous travelers seeking something extraordinary in the Cusco and Machu Picchu region.

We can tailor any of our Ausangate treks to fit your needs — whether you want to shorten or extend your adventure. Some routes can even be combined with the popular Rainbow Mountain Trek. Just reach out to us, and we’ll help you choose the option that best suits your fitness level and travel goals.

At Nomad in Peru, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service and unforgettable adventure experiences. Unlike many other operators, we don’t charge hidden fees or offer basic packages with expensive “upgrades” — our treks come with top-quality service already included. That means no surprise meal costs, no booking fees, and everything you need for an amazing journey.

About the Ausangate Trek

The Ausangate Trek is a spectacular multi-day hiking route through the high Andes of Peru. Usually completed in 4 to 6 days, this challenging trail takes you through stunning Andean landscapes, remote villages, glacial lakes, and breathtaking vistas of Ausangate Mountain, one of the most sacred peaks in Inca mythology.

Far less crowded than the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek is perfect for travelers seeking solitude, authenticity, and unspoiled nature. Along the way, you’ll encounter herds of alpacas and llamas, and — if you’re lucky — chinchillas, wild vicuñas, and even soaring condors.

Expect to see turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and incredible highland terrain every day of your hike. For the ultimate adventure, our 7-Day/6-Night Ausangate & Machu Picchu Package combines the best of both worlds: a 5-day trek through the Andes followed by a cultural tour of Chinchero, Moray, and the Salineras of Maras on Day 6, and finally, a visit to the iconic Machu Picchu on Day 7 — one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

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ITINERARY

DAY 1: CUSCO – TINQUI VILLAGE – UPIS 

We begin the day with an early transfer from your hotel in Cusco, departing at 6:00 AM. The drive takes approximately 3 hours along a newly paved highway, passing through the Urcos Pass at 4,000 meters (13,123 ft), en route to the village of Tinqui — located on the high plains (“altiplano”) east of Cusco.

At Tinqui, we’ll make a short stop to use restrooms and pick up last-minute snacks before continuing for another 25-minute drive to the starting point of our trek. Here, we’ll meet our muleteers and pack horses, who will accompany us on the journey.

From this point, we begin our hike along a wide, gradually ascending trail leading toward the northwestern face of the majestic Ausangate Mountain. After approximately 3 hours of trekking, we arrive at our first campsite: Upis (4,435 m / 14,107 ft).

Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a freshly prepared lunch, followed by some time to rest or explore. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to take a short 1-hour hike to a beautiful nearby lagoon, or simply relax in the natural hot springs located near the camp.

We end the day with a delicious dinner under the stars, surrounded by the stunning Andean landscape.

Max Elevation:  4400m (14,435 ft)

Hiking time: 3 to 4 hours

Meals: lunch & dinner

Accommodations: camping facilities

 

Day 2: UPIS – ARAPA PASS – AUSANGATE PASS – AUSANGATECOCHA

After an early breakfast, we begin our trek at 7:00 AM, ascending gradually for about 2 hours to reach the Arapa Pass at 4,800 m (15,748 ft). From the summit, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Maria Huamantilla Mountain, with the impressive Ausangate Mountain rising majestically behind it.

From the pass, the trail continues along an arid, highland slope for approximately 30 minutes, followed by a steep descent of about 1 hour into a stunning valley filled with deep blue glacial lakes and cascading waterfalls. We’ll pause here to enjoy a scenic picnic lunch beside one of the lakes.

In the afternoon, we begin a gentle 2.5-hour ascent toward our second high pass of the day: the Ausangate Pass (4,700 m / 15,419 ft). From this vantage point, you’ll have breathtaking views of Ausangate Mountain and the beautiful Ausangatecocha Lake, a brilliant turquoise body of water formed by glacial melt.

We then descend for about 30 minutes to our campsite by the shores of Ausangatecocha Lake (4,300 m / 14,107 ft), nestled at the base of one of Ausangate’s glaciers.

Happy hour is served around 4:00 PM, followed by a hearty dinner at 6:00 PM, all while surrounded by the awe-inspiring Andean scenery.

Max Elevation: 4900m (14,435 ft)

Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Accommodations: camping facilities

Day 3: AUSANGATECOCHA – PALOMANI PASS – HUCHUY FINAYA – QAMPA VALLEY

After an energizing breakfast, we leave camp at 7:00 AM and begin a steep 2-hour ascent over glacial moraine to reach the highest point of the entire trek: the Palomani Pass, standing at an impressive 5,200 m (17,060 ft).

From the top, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, including countless snow-capped peaks that define this dramatic Andean landscape.

We then descend along a steep trail for about 2 hours into the Huchuy Finaya Valley, where we’ll stop for a quick lunch surrounded by highland scenery. From this vantage point, you’ll also enjoy views of “Las Dos Gemelas” the stunning Twin Peaks that rise side by side in the distance.

In the afternoon, we continue for approximately 2.5 hours along a varied and scenic trail that leads us to our campsite in the beautiful Qampa Valley, situated at 4,300 m (14,107 ft).

Max Elevation: 5,200 m/17,060 ft

Hiking time: 6 to 7 hours

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Accommodations: camping facilities

Day 4: QAMPA VALLEY – QAMPA PASS – PACCHANTA (HOT SPRENGS)

After breakfast, we break camp at 7:00 AM and begin a steady 2.5-hour ascent toward the Qampa Pass at 5,100 m (16,732 ft). From the summit, you’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views of The Three Peaks, the expansive Pacchanta Valley, and  with some luck  you may spot wild vicuñas, Andean deer, and perhaps even the majestic condor soaring overhead.

We then begin a gradual descent through the scenic Pacchanta Valley, hiking between the towering Ausangate Mountain and the Two Twin Peaks for about 2 hours before stopping for a well-deserved lunch in a peaceful highland setting.

In the afternoon, we continue descending along a rocky yet beautiful trail for another 2.5 hours until we reach our campsite in Pacchanta Valley (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). From here, you’ll have unobstructed views of Ausangate Mountain, especially stunning at sunset.

To top off the day, you’ll have the chance to soak in natural hot springs located right at the campsite — the perfect way to relax before enjoying a delicious dinner under the stars.

Max Elevation: 5,100 m/16,732 ft

Hiking time: 7 to 8 hours

Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner

Accommodations: camping facilities

Day 5: PACCHANTA – RETURN TO CUSCO

After breakfast, we begin our final day with a 2-hour walk along a gentle and varied trail. Along the way, we’ll enjoy our last views of the majestic Ausangate Mountain, as well as the surrounding landscapes dotted with potato fields, and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely in the highlands.

At the end of the hike, our transportation will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. On the way, we’ll make a short stop to enjoy a picnic lunch in a scenic spot near an archaeological site, offering a peaceful and culturally rich conclusion to our journey.

We then continue our 3-hour drive back to Cusco, arriving around 2:00 to 3:00 PM, with unforgettable memories of one of the most stunning treks in the Peruvian Andes.

Hiking time: 2 hours

Meals: Breakfast & lunch 

Accommodations: Hotel in Cusco (double occupancy)

Day 6: CHINCHERO – MORAY – MARAS SALT MINES – OLLANATAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES

After enjoying breakfast at our hotel, we begin the day with a private transfer to the picturesque village of Chinchero (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), located in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Chinchero is renowned for its stunning mountain views, traditional Andean weaving practices, well-preserved Inca ruins, and its beautiful colonial church built atop an Inca foundation — a striking blend of cultures and history.

Our journey continues to the fascinating archaeological site of Moray (3,450 m / 11,319 ft). This unique site features a series of circular agricultural terraces built by the Incas, believed to have been used for agricultural experimentation. Each terrace has its own microclimate, demonstrating the Incas’ advanced understanding of environmental science and crop cultivation.

After exploring Moray, we head to the Salt Mines of Maras (Salineras) — a truly unique site composed of thousands of evaporation ponds carved into the mountainside. Fed by a natural salt spring that dates back to Inca times, these ponds have been used for centuries to produce salt through solar evaporation. Once the water evaporates, the salt is harvested, processed with iodine, and distributed to local markets.

Following our visit to Salineras, we continue by private transport to the charming town of Ollantaytambo, where we board the train to Aguas Calientes — the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we check in to our comfortable hotel and have time to relax or freshen up before dinner.

.Meals: Breakfast in the hotel, Dinner in Aguas Calientes,

Accommodations: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (double occupancy)

Day 7: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – RETURN TO CUSCO

Today starts very early, with a wake-up call and breakfast around 5:00 AM, to ensure we catch one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu (2,400 m / 7,875 ft). The early arrival allows us to witness the magical sunrise over the citadel, one of the most unforgettable moments of the journey.

Upon arrival at the entrance, you’ll need to present your passport and entrance ticket. If you’re traveling with a student discount, your valid ISIC card must be shown — it is required for entry with a student ticket.

From the main gate, it’s about a 15-minute walk to the iconic viewpoint in the South Zone, overlooking the agricultural terraces and offering the classic postcard view of Machu Picchu.

Here, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2.5 hours, where your expert guide will bring the site to life — sharing insights into Inca engineering, history, architecture, and the site’s rich flora and fauna. You’ll explore temples, ceremonial spaces, and hidden corners as the morning mist lifts from the ruins.

The tour typically concludes between 9:00 and 9:30 AM, after which you’ll have some free time to explore on your own or take photos. If you’ve pre-booked an additional hike — such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain — this is when you’ll begin that experience. Note: These hikes require a separate permit and are subject to availability, so be sure to book in advance.

Once you’ve finished exploring, either around 10:00 AM or later depending on your ticket, you’ll take the shuttle bus back to Aguas Calientes. There, you’ll have time to enjoy lunch at one of the many local restaurants — your guide will be happy to recommend a good spot.

In the afternoon, you’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving in the early evening with memories of a truly unforgettable adventure.

.Meals: Breakfast in the hotel

.Accommodations:  not included

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

  • Pre-Trek briefing the night before the trek

  • Professional guide, fluent in English

  • Private transportation

  • Private transport through the Sacred Valley (Chinchero, Moray & Salineras day 6) and on to Ollantaytambo and back to Cusco (day 7)

  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary

  • Dietary needs: able to cater to any dietary preference/need

  • 8 kgs personal luggage allowance to put on the horses

  • Personal duffel bags for your personal belongings

  • Spacious tents; sleeping mats; dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent

  • Horses to carry the group equipment (food, tents, tables, etc.)

  • 1 Emergency horse

  • Emergency Oxygen bottle and first aid kit

  • Dining tent with tables and stools

  • Chef and cooking equipment and kitchen tent

  • Portable toilet, toilet tent

  • Hot water every morning and evening for hand washing purposes

  • Boiled water to fill your water bottles every morning and afternoon

  • Entrance to the Ausangate Trail

  • Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu Archaeological Complex

  • Hotel (double room) in Cusco (Night 5)

  • Celebratory dinner in Cusco (Night 5)

  • Round trip train: Ollantaytambo to Machu Picchu and back

  • Round-trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu and back

  • Hotel (double room) and dinner in Aguas Calientes (Night 6)

NOT INCLUDED ON THE TRAIL

  • Hotel before/after trek

  • Lunch and dinner on the last day

  • Sleeping bags and walking poles (you can rent if from us)

  • Entrance to hot springs (25 soles)

  • Extra hikes within Machu Picchu: Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

  • Travel interruption & travel medical/evacuation insurance (required)

  • Tip for your guide(s) and trek staff are optional but highly encouraged if you enjoy your trek

HOW TO BOOK THE TOUR?

PRICE

“The Ausanagate and Machu Picchu trek: 7 Days is available on any date that suits you best, as long as we have a minimum of two hikers.” Then, we need minimum 2 persons to open this service for you.

.Our Price: 2 trekkers: 1600.00 USD per person

.Our Price: 3-5 trekkers: 1450.00 USD per person

.Our Price: 6-8 or more trekkers: 1400.00 USD per person

.Reservation price: USD $ 700 per person

.Balance ( cusco): commonly paid in cusco after the briefing.

IMPORTANT  INFO

Please read carefully the following information; it will help with your questions about our services and the Ausangate and Machu Picchu trek 7 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 & Machu Picchu Trek, 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 5 days trek!

HOW TO BOOK THE AUSANGATE AND MACHU PICCHU TREK?

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 $700.00 USD per person to secure your permit for the Ausangate and Machu PicchuTrek.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

The customer agrees to make an initial payment equivalent to the indicated percentage of the total agreed amount in order to secure the service date. The remaining balance must be paid one or two days prior to the start of the service in Cusco.

To avoid high credit card fees commonly charged in Peru, you have the option to pay the remaining balance in cash, either in US dollars or Peruvian soles. There are plenty of ATMs available in Cusco, or you may also complete the payment using the same method as the initial deposit.

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE AUSANGATE AND MACHU PICCHU TREK?

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.

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?

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?

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, and if they recover in time, they can continue to Aguas Calientes (at their own expense) and visit Machu Picchu as planned.

WHAT TYPE OF WILDLIFE CAN BE ENCOUNTERED ALONG THE TREK ?

The Ausangate trek 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 AND TREK?

 

  • .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?

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 — 2nd campsite temp around 3º Celsius.
  • .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.

TOILETRIES

  • .Hand sanitizer
  • .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: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then 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

Tour Booking

AUSANGATE TREK + MACHU PICCHU 7 DAYS


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