The Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain is one of the most spectacular trekking routes in Cusco, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers. This three-day journey begins in Pacchanta, an Andean community where you can immerse yourself in local traditions and admire the majestic snow-capped peaks of Ausangate, the highest sacred mountain in the region. Throughout the trek, you will traverse remote valleys, turquoise lagoons, impressive glaciers, and high-altitude passes, surrounded by unique wildlife, including vicuñas, vizcachas, and condors.
The highlight of this trekking adventure is reaching Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder renowned for its intense mineral colors that have formed over millions of years. From the summit, at over 5,000 meters (16,404 ft) above sea level, you will enjoy unparalleled panoramic views of the Andean landscapes. Beyond its breathtaking beauty, Rainbow Mountain holds deep spiritual significance for local communities, who consider it a site of mystical energy and connection with Pachamama (Mother Earth).
If you're looking for a unique experience in the Peruvian Andes, the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek (3 Days) is the perfect opportunity to explore breathtaking landscapes and connect with ancient Andean culture. Embark on this unforgettable adventure!
The Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain is a unique adventure that combines breathtaking landscapes, high-altitude mountain passes, and the incredible Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain. Over the course of three days, you will hike through glaciers, turquoise lagoons, and remote valleys inhabited by Andean communities that still preserve their ancient traditions.
Distance: 6 km | Hiking time: 3 hours | Maximum altitude: 4,550 m
The adventure begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in Cusco at 4:30 a.m. From there, we will travel in a private vehicle towards Pacchanta, a traditional Andean village located at the foot of Ausangate Mountain. The 3.5-hour drive will take us through picturesque Andean landscapes and traditional villages.
Upon arrival in Pacchanta, we will enjoy a nutritious breakfast and meet local families who raise alpacas and practice Andean textile weaving. After breakfast, we begin our trek towards Upis (4,438 m), walking through stunning landscapes with panoramic views of Ausangate Glacier.
In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to relax in the hot springs of Upis, surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery. The day will end with a hot dinner and an overnight stay at the Upis campsite.
Distance: 15.2 km | Hiking time: 7 hours | Maximum altitude: 4,917 m
The second day is the most challenging and rewarding part of the trek, covering over 15 km and crossing two high-altitude mountain passes:
Arapa Pass (4,738 m) – Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Ausangate region and its glaciers.
Apacheta Pass (4,917 m) – A stunning viewpoint with spectacular vistas of the Andean valleys and high-altitude lagoons.
We start the day with a warm coca tea at sunrise, followed by a nutritious breakfast. Our trek will take us past Pucacocha Lagoon, a beautiful valley surrounded by alpacas and Andean birds. Then, we ascend the challenging Apacheta Pass, where we will be rewarded with some of the most incredible views of the trek.
In the afternoon, we descend towards Ananta campsite (4,700 m), where we will enjoy lunch and rest. This peaceful valley is inhabited by Andean alpaca herders, allowing us to learn more about their customs and traditions.
Distance: 9.1 km | Hiking time: 4 hours | Maximum altitude: 5,034 m
The most anticipated day of the trek begins with an early ascent to Warmisaya Pass (4,960 m), where we will get our first glimpse of the spectacular Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain.
To avoid the crowds, we start our hike before sunrise and reach Rainbow Mountain before 8:00 a.m.. This gives us the best views and photo opportunities before the large tour groups arrive.
After enjoying this breathtaking natural wonder, we explore Red Valley, an off-the-beaten-path destination known for its stunning red-hued landscapes. Finally, we descend towards Chillihuani, where our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, arriving around 4:00 p.m..
To ensure you have the best experience on the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek, we offer a comprehensive and safe service that guarantees comfort, efficient logistics, and an unforgettable journey through the Peruvian Andes.
Before the expedition begins, we provide a detailed briefing session, where our team will share essential information about the trek, necessary equipment, and recommendations for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Throughout the trek, you will be accompanied by a certified guide with extensive high-altitude trekking experience.
We provide safe and private transport from Cusco to the starting point of the trek and back at the end of the expedition.
We handle all camping infrastructure, allowing you to enjoy the trek without worries.
To ensure a lighter trek, we provide pack horses to carry camping gear and personal luggage.
Our local muleteer team plays a vital role in trek logistics. They are highly skilled in handling horses in high-altitude terrain and are part of Andean communities, bringing ancestral knowledge to the expedition.
We ensure nutritious and delicious meals throughout the trek, prepared by a professional chef and kitchen assistant using fresh ingredients.
To maintain cleanliness during the trek, we provide essential hygiene supplies for group use.
Your safety is our priority. Our team is prepared to respond to any emergency during the trek.
All necessary entry tickets and permits are included in the tour, ensuring a hassle-free experience.
Our service is designed to provide a safe, well-organized, and stress-free trek, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain.
Ready for this adventure? Book now and prepare for an unforgettable trekking experience in the Peruvian Andes!
If you want more comfort during your trek, we offer additional services that you can request based on your needs:
Additional horse for riding – If you need support during the hike, you can rent a horse.
Cost: $20.00 USD per day.
Personal tent – If you prefer a private tent for more privacy, you can request one.
Cost: $5.00 USD per night (total $20.00 USD for 4 nights).
Sleeping bag – If you don’t have a sleeping bag suitable for cold weather, you can rent one from us.
Cost: $10.00 USD for the entire expedition.
Additional services must be requested in advance as they are subject to availability.
If you have any questions or wish to customize your experience on the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain, feel free to contact us. We’ll be happy to assist you. Get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the Andes!
Travel recommendations for the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain hike:
These recommendations will help you fully enjoy this impressive adventure in the Peruvian Andes.
The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek is available year-round, but we recommend doing it between April and September, when the weather is more stable and the views are clearer.
Departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 people.
Prices do not include VAT (18%).
Contact us to receive a personalized quote based on group size and season.
To confirm dates and receive a personalized proposal, contact us.
Book in advance to secure your spot on this unforgettable expedition through the Peruvian Andes.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
To fully enjoy the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek, it is essential to have the right gear. Below is a detailed packing list of the essential items you should bring to ensure a safe and comfortable experience in the Andes.
To ensure a safe and well-organized experience, we have established the following policies and conditions. We recommend reading them carefully before making your reservation.
If a passenger decides to interrupt the trek, they will be responsible for any additional expenses incurred, such as food, transportation, or accommodation.
No refunds will be issued in the following cases:
Booking Confirmation: The tour reservation is confirmed with a 30% deposit of the total cost.
If you need to cancel your reservation, the following conditions apply:
Important: In case of cancellation, administrative and banking fees are non-refundable.
If you need to change the date of your tour (valid only for private tours), the following conditions apply:
Date changes are subject to availability.
If you need more information about the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek – 3 Days, feel free to contact us:
We recommend reviewing these policies before booking to avoid any issues. We are here to help you plan your adventure in the Andes!