Discover the majesty of the Ausangate Route and the astonishing Rainbow Mountain on this thrilling 5-day journey! Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Peruvian Andes as you explore ancient trails, imposing glaciers, and snow-capped peaks.
Day after day, you'll witness the magnificence of Ausangate, the most sacred mountain in the region, as you traverse scenic valleys and cross high plateaus in a unique trekking experience.
The culmination of this adventure awaits you at Rainbow Mountain, a geological phenomenon that unfolds a breathtaking chromatic spectacle. Admire the palette of vibrant hues while delving into the cultural and scenic richness of this region.
With expert guides leading you through ancient paths and cozy campsites under the starry sky, the 5-day Ausangate Route and Rainbow Mountain offer an unforgettable opportunity to connect with the nature, history, and essence of the Peruvian Andes. Embark on this unique journey full of adventures and unforgettable discoveries!
The journey along the Ausangate Route and the visit to Rainbow Mountain mark a unique experience that sets this trek apart from the traditional hike around Ausangate, standing out as a must-visit destination in the Cusco region. This itinerary not only provides the opportunity to marvel at the imposing beauty of Rainbow Mountain but also allows immersion into the lives of alpaca breeders and the chance to engage with shepherds in picturesque landscapes.
Furthermore, the route presents significant challenges with elevated passes reaching altitudes of up to 5,000 meters, adding an element of adventure and achievement to the experience. From natural majesty to cultural encounters, this hike stands as a complete and enriching adventure in the Ausangate region.
Total Distance: 62.5 km on foot Average
Walking Time per Day: 6 hours on foot
Route Difficulty: Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 5200 meters above sea level
Accommodation: Tent camping
We will embark on our exciting journey from your hotel at 4:30 in the morning, using our exclusive private transportation to depart the city and head towards the picturesque village of Pacchanta. The estimated travel time is 3 hours, and upon arrival, our dedicated team of muleteers, accompanied by their reliable horses, will be waiting to coordinate the logistics of our equipment for the next 5 days of trekking.
The initial stretch of our trek is serene, covering a total of 5 kilometers to reach the Upis camp, situated at an elevation of 4,438 meters above sea level. This trail is classified as easy, as the terrain is mostly flat. Throughout the journey, we will be treated to breathtaking views of the majestic Ausangate.
After approximately 3 hours of trekking, we will reach our camp, where our tents will be set up and ready. The rest of the afternoon is dedicated to acclimatization, providing valuable free time. It is in this beautiful setting that we will spend the night, preparing ourselves for the wonders that await in the coming days.
Distance: 6 km
Walking Time: 3 hours
Route Level: Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 4550 meters above sea level
Accommodation: Tents
Campsite: Upis 4438 meters above sea level
A fascinating trek of 15.2 kilometers awaits us, predominantly uphill. We will depart from Upis early after enjoying a nutritious breakfast, embarking on an ascent that will last approximately 2 hours to reach Arapa Pass, situated at 4,838 meters above sea level. From this vantage point, a breathtaking side view of the majestic Ausangate will unfold before us. We will continue our ascent, exploring a cluster of lakes, with the impressive Pucacocha Lake standing out for its expansive size and history reflected in its reddish hues. Here, in this mountainous environment, we will indulge in lunch amidst the sacred mountains of Cusco.
In the afternoon, we will press on with our trek to conquer the challenging Apacheta Pass, reaching an elevation of 4,917 meters. This achievement will demand tenacity, but the reward will be a spectacular panoramic view. Subsequently, we will descend for approximately 2 hours until we reach Ananatapata, where our camp awaits. The rest of the afternoon will provide an opportunity to relax and savor a hot tea, followed by an exquisite dinner prepared by our skilled chef.
Distance: 15.2 km
Walking Time: 7 hours
Route Level: Moderate to Difficult
Maximum Altitude: 4917 meters above sea level
Accommodation: Tents
Campsite: Ananta 4700 meters above sea level
This day will demand the greatest physical effort as we rise early with the firm intention of conquering the Warmisaya Pass, located at 4,960 meters above sea level. From the summit, we will witness a panoramic view that encompasses part of the Rainbow Mountains. However, our goal does not end here. We aim to reach the Rainbow Mountains at 5034 meters above sea level, taking advantage of the tranquility of the location to capture exclusive photographs before the commercial expeditions arrive. Depending on weather conditions, we may witness the sunrise and the radiant display of colors under the sunlight. The trek will commence promptly at 5:00 in the morning.
After concluding our visit to the Rainbow Mountains, we will retrace our steps along the same path until we reach the Ananta camp, where our talented chefs will await us with a comforting lunch. In the afternoon, we will continue the trek for 2 hours until we reach our camp at Ausangate Lagoon, situated at 4,645 meters above sea level.
Distance: 12.7 km
Walking Time: 6.5 hours
Route Level: Moderate to Difficult
Maximum Altitude: 5034 meters above sea level
Accommodation: Tents
Campsite: Ausangate Lagoon 4645 meters above sea level
This day will maintain the same intensity as the previous ones. We will start the day by leaving the camp around 7 in the morning, with the aim of undertaking a final ascent to 5,200 meters above sea level, reaching the highest point of the entire trek: Palomani Pass. Over the course of the 5 days of this expedition, and from this privileged point where we are closest to the Ausangate snow-capped peak, the ascent will take approximately 2 hours. From the summit, we will enjoy a distant view of other lakes in the area.
Subsequently, we will continue our journey downhill for an additional 3 hours until we reach the lunch and campsite at Huchuy Phinaya, located at 4,600 meters above sea level. From this location, the three distant peaks of the camp come into view, offering an impressive perspective.
Distance: 11.6 km
Walking Time: 6 hours
Route Level: Moderate to Difficult
Maximum Altitude: 5200 meters above sea level
Accommodation: Tents
Campsite: Huchuy Phinaya 4600 meters above sea level
On the last day, despite feeling the accumulated fatigue from the previous days, the intensity will persist as we depart from our camp at 6 in the morning. We will embark on an ascent of nearly 2 hours to reach the final pass, Jampa Pass, located at an altitude of 5,052 meters above sea level. From this elevated point, the three peaks and the majestic Nevado Mariposa will be clearly visible. Our descent from here, which includes a visit to the 7 Ausangate lagoons, will imbue our expedition with a memorable character.
Upon completing the descent, we will finally arrive in Pacchanta, where our skilled chefs will await us with our last lunch. If you wish, you can take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the thermal baths of the area, providing a well-deserved rest for your muscles after the 5 days of the journey. These thermal springs are medicinal, as they contain sulfur.
To conclude on a high note, we will head to our vehicle to begin the return to Cusco, with an expected arrival in the city around 6 in the evening.
Distance: 17 km
Walking Time: 7 hours
Route Level: Moderate to Difficult
Maximum Altitude: 5052 meters above sea level
Briefing: A meeting held jointly with our guide and clients who will undertake the expedition. This meeting will take place one or two days before departure.
Professional Guide: An accredited professional by MINCETUR, experienced in mountain trekking, knowledgeable about Ausangate experiences, trained in first aid, and rescue in emergency situations.
Private Transportation: All transfers are private, providing comfort for clients. The transportation is equipped with a first aid kit, heating, and a professional driver experienced in group transfers.
Camp Logistics: We have a top-notch team with kitchen tents, dining area, bathroom facilities, client tents, sleeping bags, mattresses, and blankets.
Horses: Used for transporting camp logistics and client belongings.
Arriero Team: Experts in horse handling, trained in customer service, first aid, and possessing good knowledge of camp logistics transportation.
Cooking Team: Professionals in preparing Andean and local cuisine, with inputs from the region and the orient. In case of groups of 8 or more people, there will be an assistant cook.
Duffle Bag: Access to a travel bag for the transportation of personal luggage, limited to 7 kilograms per client. This luggage will be transported by horses.
Meals: We include full catering during the expedition, consisting of breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks.
Toiletries: Group items such as soap, hand sanitizer, and towels.
Emergency and First Aid Logistics: First aid kit with essential medications for general situations, medical oxygen, rescue equipment for necessary situations.
Entrance Tickets: All tickets during the expedition.
Note: Our camping equipment is guaranteed and washed after each trip.
Jampa Climbing 5500 m: This service has a cost of USD 60.00 per person. To be added to the expedition cost.
Additional Horse: In case you encounter difficulties or are not prepared for the expedition pace, you can hire this service. It costs USD 20.00 per day as needed.
Personal Tent: If you need to have your own personal tent, you can hire it for a cost of $5.00 per night. A total cost of $20.00 for 4 nights.
Reservations are made in advance with a 30% payment of the total cost. The remaining balance is paid in cash in Cusco during the informational briefing.
Travel packages and programs include transaction fees for the 30% reservation payments.
Tour rescheduling is allowed with proper notice, except for Machu Picchu tours. Passenger no-shows will result in the total loss of the service. Cancellation or withdrawal from the service will not be eligible for a refund.
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