The Ausangate Trek 6 Days with Wonders of Peru Expeditions is the most spectacular high-altitude circuit trek in the Cusco region. Over six days, you circle the sacred Ausangate massif (6,372 m / 20,905 ft), trek to Rainbow Mountain at 5,200 m, soak in natural hot springs at Upis and Pacchanta, and camp beside turquoise glacial lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks.
The Ausangate circuit follows one of the least-traveled multi-day routes in Peru. While the Inca Trail and Salkantay Trek draw large numbers of trekkers, the Ausangate region remains quiet and uncrowded throughout the season. Certified bilingual guides lead small groups of no more than eight while horsemen carry your main gear, so you hike with only a daypack.
What sets our Ausangate Trek apart is a more complete experience. Your itinerary includes a summit trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) on Day 3 — approaching on foot from the circuit rather than by bus like most day-trip visitors. You also visit two natural hot springs (Upis on Day 1 and Pacchanta on Day 5), cross three high passes above 4,800 m, and camp beside colorful glacial lagoons that few travelers ever see.
Safety is built into every detail. Our guides carry first aid kits with emergency oxygen, a satellite phone for remote communication, and an emergency horse accompanies the group throughout the trek. All entrance fees, permits, and hot springs access are included in the price.
Each day brings a dramatically different landscape. You hike through high-altitude puna grasslands where herds of llamas, alpacas, and wild vicuñas graze alongside the trail. The circuit passes glacial lakes in shades of turquoise, black, and red — each colored by different mineral deposits. Three high passes offer 360-degree panoramas of the Vilcanota Range, one of the highest mountain chains in Peru.
The cultural dimension of the Ausangate Trek is equally rewarding. You pass through remote Quechua-speaking communities where families still practice traditional weaving and herding. At Huchuy Phinaya, one of the most isolated villages in the region, your guide facilitates a respectful cultural exchange. On Day 5, an optional Andean ceremony honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth) adds a spiritual dimension to the journey.
This trek is ideal for experienced hikers seeking a genuine wilderness adventure with dramatic mountain scenery, rich Andean culture, and the iconic Rainbow Mountain experience — all without the crowds found on more popular routes.
6 Days
8
English, Spanish
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most challenging organized treks in Peru, reaching 5,200 m (17,060 ft) at Rainbow Mountain. Thorough preparation is essential for a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are key tips to help you get ready.
Begin training at least six to eight weeks before departure. Focus on cardio endurance through hiking, running, cycling, or swimming. Incorporate leg strength exercises for ascending and descending steep mountain passes. Aim for at least four to five hikes at progressively higher elevations to simulate trail conditions. This trek is significantly more demanding than the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek.
Plan to arrive in Cusco at least two to three full days before the trek begins. Cusco sits at 3,400 m / 11,152 ft, and your body needs time to adjust before going higher. During this time, stay well hydrated, eat light meals, avoid alcohol, and take it easy. Coca tea is a traditional Andean remedy that many trekkers find helpful. Proper acclimatization is critical for this trek given the extreme altitudes involved.
Your main luggage stays at your hotel in Cusco. For the trek you pack a duffel bag (7 kg / 15 lbs maximum) carried by horses, plus a daypack you carry yourself. Essential items include very warm layers for sub-zero nights, a waterproof rain jacket, sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, headlamp, water bottle, swimsuit for the hot springs, and personal toiletries. A detailed packing list is provided after booking.
Our chef prepares all meals on the trail using fresh ingredients. We accommodate vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-specific diets with advance notice. Meals include breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea with snacks, and dinner. Bring your own trail snacks if you prefer extra energy food during the hike.
Weather at these altitudes is extreme and unpredictable. Daytime temperatures can be warm in direct sun but drop rapidly in shade and at altitude. Night temperatures at the highest camps regularly fall below freezing, sometimes reaching -10 C or colder. Dress in moisture-wicking layers you can add or remove throughout the day. A high-quality waterproof jacket and warm down jacket are essential.
Our guides carry first aid kits with emergency oxygen and have training in high-altitude safety protocols. A satellite phone provides emergency communication in areas with no cell signal. An emergency horse accompanies the group throughout the trek. Travel insurance covering high-altitude trekking above 5,000 m is strongly recommended. If you take any prescription medication, bring enough for the entire trip plus extra days as a precaution.
Total 1 review
My wife and I went on this trek over the summer and while challenging, it was a truly amazing experience. Highly recommend for anyone who wants a true adventure.
As a local tour operator, we provide you with a duffel bag during your briefing and include the services of horsemen to carry up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of your gear. This allowance covers your sleeping bag, mattress, and any extra clothing you may need. All bags will be weighed prior to acceptance. From the 7 kg allowance, allocate 2 kg for your sleeping bag and 1 kg for your sleeping pad, leaving approximately 4 kg for personal belongings.
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40 L for hiking during the day. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag carried by horsemen.
