Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 3 Days

The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Hike is one of the most popular routes in southern Peru, and for good reason. This short hike will take you from Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, one of the most stunning natural wonders in the world.

The starting point for this adventure is the community of Pacchanta, a place full of culture and Andean experiences of Peru. Here you can meet local people and learn about their customs and traditions. During the journey, you will be amazed by the most impressive natural landscapes of Ausangate, surrounded by mountain flora and fauna. Along the way, you can enjoy spectacular views of the snowy peaks of Ausangate, one of the most sacred and mystical places in the Andes. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to see crystal clear lagoons, waterfalls, and glaciers in all their splendor.

Once you reach Rainbow Mountain, you will be amazed by the beauty and vibrant colors of this wonderful natural formation. Rainbow Mountain is a sandstone peak that has formed over millions of years, creating a beautiful variety of colors ranging from red, orange, yellow, green, and blue. It is a magical place where you can feel the energy of nature and connect with the universe.

Summary of the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain

The Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain itinerary is a 3-day trek that takes you through the stunning Andean landscapes of Peru. On the first day, you will drive to Pacchanta, have breakfast, and explore the Pacchanta community before starting the hike towards the Upis campsite. On day two, you will hike to the Apacheta Pass, admire the Pucacocha Lakes, and descend to the Ananta camp. Finally, on day three, you will start early to reach Rainbow Mountain, descend, and return to Cusco for lunch.

Caracteístic

Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco, Pacchanta (4334 m), Upis (4438 m)

To kick off the exciting trek to Rainbow Mountain, we'll pick up participants from their hotels at 4:30 a.m. and head south of the city of Cusco in a private vehicle. During this 3.5-hour journey, we'll traverse picturesque and colorful small villages, ultimately reaching the community of Pacchanta, nestled at the base of the majestic Ausangate snow-capped peak.

Upon arrival in Pacchanta, we'll enjoy a delightful breakfast with our team, who will accompany us in the days ahead. Here, we'll learn about the community's textile artistry, including alpaca fiber dyeing, and don their traditional attire. Additionally, our talented chefs will treat our taste buds to a lunch feast.

Post-lunch, we'll embark on a 3-hour hike to the Upis campsite, situated at 4438 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of Mount Ausangate. Later, unwind in the rejuvenating Upis hot springs and savor a dinner prepared by our experienced chef at 6:30 p.m.

Distance: 6 km
Walking Time: 3 hours on foot
Route Difficulty: Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 4550 meters above sea level
Accommodation: Tent camping
Campsite: Upis 4438 meters above sea level

The Ausangate culture on the Rainbow Mountain trek

Day 2: Upis, Paso Arapa (4738 m), Mirador Apacheta (4917 m), Ananta (4700 m)

Today marks the most challenging day of the exhilarating Rainbow Mountain trek as you tackle a journey of over 15.2 kilometers, conquering two high-altitude points: Paso Arapa at 4738 meters above sea level and Mirador Apacheta at 4917 meters above sea level.

The day begins early, awakening at 5:00 a.m. with a comforting coca tea in your tent, followed by an energizing breakfast at 5:30 a.m. Begin your uphill ascent to Paso Arapa, an area with sparse vegetation but awe-inspiring views of Ausangate. From this point, descend to the beautiful Laguna Pucacocha, a valley populated by alpacas and wild birds. After exploring the Pucacocha valley, face the most challenging and rewarding ascent to Paso Apacheta, at 4917 meters above sea level, where you'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views.

Subsequently, descend to the Ananta Camp at 4700 meters above sea level for a well-deserved lunch. The afternoon provides free time to immerse yourself in the local life and culture, exploring this valley inhabited by alpaca breeders—a chance to experience and learn about the wonders and cultural richness of this fascinating environment.

Distance: 15.2 km
Walking Time: 7 hours on foot
Route Difficulty: Moderate
Maximum Altitude: 4917 meters above sea level
Accommodation: Tent camping
Campsite: Ananta 4700 meters above sea level

View of Pucacocha lagoon on the Rainbow Mountain trek

Day 3: Ananta, Paso Warmisaya (4960 m), Rainbow Mountain (5034 m), Cusco

Today marks the final day of the unforgettable Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek. Although it's the conclusion, it's also a highly anticipated day as you explore one of the most popular and tourist-frequented destinations in recent years: "Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley."

To ensure you're among the first to reach Rainbow Mountain, we'll start the day with breakfast at 5:00 a.m., followed by an ascent to Paso Warmisaya (4,960 m). From this vantage point, the majesty of Rainbow Mountain or the Seven Colored Mountain unfolds on the horizon.

The goal is to arrive at Rainbow Mountain before 8 a.m., avoiding the crowds from commercial tours arriving from Cusco. Once at the viewpoint, you'll have the opportunity to capture exceptional photos without the overwhelming presence of visitors. After 9:00 a.m., this location tends to get crowded, with over 3,000 tourists visiting daily. At this point, you'll head towards the impressive Red Valley, another fantastic site to explore.

After appreciating the natural beauty, you'll begin the descent to the community of Chillihuani, where your private transportation will be waiting to take you back to the city of Cusco. Before embarking on the 3.5-hour journey to Cusco, enjoy your last meal and bid farewell to the adventure team, including muleteers and the chef, who have contributed to making this experience an unforgettable adventure.

Distance: 9.1 km
Walking Time: 4 hours on foot
Route Difficulty: Moderate-Difficult
Maximum Altitude: 5034 meters above sea level
Arrival in Cusco: Approximately at 4:00 p.m.

The great Rainbow Mountain in Peru seen on the Ausangate trek

The hike to vinicunca includes

Fully personalized online advice (Meet, Zoom) for planning the expedition.
Previous information for the details of the trek (group)
Professional guide accredited by MINCETUR, with experience.
Private transport during the expedition.
Logistics of group camp and client.
Transport horses for camp and client logistics.
Team of muleteers for handling horses.
Cook and helper equipment for food preparation.
Complete feeding during the expedition.
Group toiletries.
Emergency logistics and first aid.
Entrance tickets during the expedition.

This tour does not include

Transport outside the expedition.
The last supper of the expedition.
Costs of personal expenses.
Tickets to the hot springs of Pacchanta.
Trekking sticks.

Additional services that you can hire:

Additional horse: If you have problems or are not prepared for the pace of the expedition, you can hire this service. It has a cost of USD 20.00 for day that you require.
Personal Tent: If you need to have your own personal tent, you can hire it for a cost of $5.00 for night. A total cost of $20.00 for 4 nights.

Recommendations for the trip to Rainbow Mountain

Travel recommendations for the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain hike:

Make sure to have suitable clothing for extreme cold, especially during the night.
Take advantage of the stop in Tinke to buy anything necessary for the hike.
Keep your body hydrated and make sure to bring enough water and/or filtering systems to obtain potable water from natural sources.
Take the time to enjoy the Andean landscapes and local flora and fauna.
Respect and learn about the local culture in the community of Pacchanta and the alpaca breeding villages in Ananta.
Make sure to bring enough sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the strong sun during the day.
Prepare your body for the altitude of over 4,500 meters above sea level, consider taking medication and/or doing breathing exercises to help with acclimatization.
Listen to your guide and follow safety instructions at all times.
Keep the route and campsites clean, respect the environment, and carry your trash until you find a suitable place to dispose of it.
Make sure to bring enough cash for tips and additional expenses.

These recommendations will help you fully enjoy this impressive adventure in the Peruvian Andes.

Hiking Price for Ausangate Rainbow Mountain 2024

Reservation Policies

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.

Payment Methods

Paypal (credit or debit card payments)
Bank Transfer.

Transaction Fees

Travel packages and programs include transaction fees for the 30% reservation payments.

Changes and Cancellation Policies

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.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain Trek

What is the best time of year to do this trek?

The best time to do the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to November. During these months, the weather is more stable and dry, making conditions safer and more pleasant for hiking.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek is considered to be of high difficulty. The trek involves ascending and descending several mountain passes and walking at high altitudes. Therefore, it is recommended that hikers be in good physical shape and have prior experience with high-altitude trekking.

What kind of clothing and equipment is needed for the trek?

To do the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek, it is important to bring appropriate clothing for the cold high-altitude climate. Hiking boots, warm clothing, a hat, gloves, sunscreen, sunglasses, a comfortable and sturdy backpack are recommended.

What is the accommodation like during the trek?

During the trek, hikers camp in base camps near the lakes and glaciers of Ausangate. The camps are equipped with tents and thermal sleeping mats, and cooking equipment is also provided to prepare meals.

Is prior experience with high-altitude trekking necessary?

While prior experience with high-altitude trekking is not necessary, it is recommended that hikers be in good physical shape and have experience with multi-day trekking. It is also recommended to acclimate well before starting the trek to allow the body to adapt to the altitude.

Is it safe to do the trek?

Safety is a major concern for any mountain adventure, and the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek is no exception. Fortunately, this trek is considered safe as long as necessary precautions are taken. It is important to follow the instructions of your tour guide and ensure that they are properly trained and certified. It is also important to bring appropriate equipment and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Additionally, it is recommended to acclimate well before starting the trek as altitude can affect your health if you are not used to it.

Can a guide be hired to do the trek?

Yes, it is highly recommended to hire a guide to do the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek. Guides are familiar with the area, the routes, and weather conditions, and can provide a safer and more enjoyable experience for hikers.

How do you get to the starting point of the trek?

The starting point of the trek is about a three-hour drive from the city of Cusco in Peru. Transport services can be hired to reach the starting point, or a car can be rented to get there independently.

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