If you dream of walking among towering mountains, endless skies, and landscapes that defy imagination, this journey is designed for you. Nevado Ausangate, the sacred mountain of the Andes, welcomes you with its majesty, surrounded by turquoise lagoons, vast grasslands where alpacas graze, and Andean communities that have preserved their ancestral way of life. Here, every step is an immersion into nature in its purest form, far from the crowds of conventional tourist routes.
The highlight of this expedition is Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), a natural wonder where reddish, ochre, and golden hues paint the landscape in perfect harmony. Witnessing its beauty firsthand is an experience that surpasses any photograph.
But this journey is more than just a trek; it is a life-changing adventure. Yes, the hike is demanding, with altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters, but each challenge comes with an unparalleled reward: starlit nights beside glaciers, the whisper of the wind through the mountains, and the connection with fellow adventurers who share your passion for exploration. At these heights, time seems to stand still, and the mountains invite you to discover a world where vastness and serenity merge in perfect balance.
This journey is not just a destination; it’s a story you will carry with you forever. Are you ready to live it?
The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Tour is a four-day expedition through some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. During the trek, travelers will explore valleys, turquoise lagoons, high mountain passes, and glaciers, culminating in a visit to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the spectacular Red Valley.
The adventure begins in Cusco, with a scenic drive to the Pacchanta community, where travelers will enjoy a traditional breakfast and participate in a local artisan workshop. Along the route, the majestic north face of Nevado Ausangate (6,384 m.a.s.l.) can be observed, considered one of the most sacred mountains in the Andes.
The journey includes challenging yet rewarding ascents over high-altitude passes, such as Paso Arapa (4,800 m) and Paso Apacheta (4,985 m), as well as the exploration of crystal-clear lagoons like Pucacocha and Surinecocha. Along the way, travelers may spot vicuñas, alpacas, llamas, and condors, while experiencing authentic interactions with local Andean communities.
On the final day, participants will arrive at Rainbow Mountain, where they will have time to explore and capture stunning photographs before heading to the Red Valley viewpoint, a surreal landscape with striking red hues. The tour concludes with a scenic descent to meet the private transport back to Cusco.
This tour is ideal for adventure seekers looking for a unique experience in the Andes, combining high-altitude landscapes, cultural immersion, and physical challenge, all supported by a team of expert guides, cooks, and muleteers.
For the best experience, proper acclimatization in Cusco is highly recommended, along with appropriate gear for cold temperatures and high-altitude trekking.
Our adventure begins early, departing from Cusco at 4:00 a.m. towards Pacchanta, an Andean community known for its hot springs and breathtaking views of Ausangate Mountain. Upon arrival, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast and participate in a handicraft workshop, where we will learn about the ancient weaving techniques of the local artisans.
After breakfast, we will begin our trek through spectacular landscapes of highland meadows and alpacas grazing in the open fields. We will gradually ascend towards Upis, where we will set up our first camp. In the afternoon, those who wish can take an optional hike to Upis Lagoon, a stunning turquoise lake at the base of the Ausangate glacier. We will end the day with a warm dinner and rest under the starry Andean sky.
We will start the day with a hot breakfast while enjoying the first rays of sunlight illuminating the impressive Ausangate glacier. Then, we begin our trek through an Andean valley with breathtaking landscapes, accompanied by local wildlife, including llamas, alpacas, and, if lucky, vicuñas.
Our first major challenge is Arapa Pass (4,800 m.a.s.l.), where we will be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges. After a short break, we descend toward the Yanacocha and Pucacocha lagoons, where the crystal-clear waters reflect the towering peaks, creating a truly unique landscape. Here, we will enjoy a special lunch, featuring a trout ceviche cooking demonstration.
In the afternoon, there will be free time to explore the area, take photographs, and interact with local alpaca herders. We will conclude the day with dinner and an overnight stay at camp.
The third day begins with an exciting two-hour ascent to Apacheta Pass, where we will witness stunning views of glaciers and deep valleys, rich with high-altitude vegetation. Upon reaching the summit, we will stand face to face with the mighty Apu Ausangate, a sacred mountain revered by locals. This is a perfect spot to capture unforgettable photographs and take in the immensity of the Andean landscape.
We will then begin a gradual descent for about one and a half hours to our lunch stop in Ananta. After resting and enjoying a delicious meal, we will continue with a two-hour ascent to Huarmisaya Pass (4,985 m.a.s.l.), where the breathtaking vastness of the Andes unfolds before us.
Later, we descend for one hour until we reach the serene Surinecocha Lagoon, where we will set up our final campsite. In the evening, our muleteers will add a special touch with traditional Andean music and songs, creating a magical atmosphere under the starry sky.
We wake up early for the highlight of the tour: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). After a one-and-a-half-hour trek, we will arrive at this spectacular natural viewpoint, where our guide will explain the geological origins of its vibrant colors.
After enjoying free time for photographs, we will continue towards the Red Valley viewpoint, a surreal landscape with deep red hues, reminiscent of a Martian terrain. After taking in these breathtaking views, we will begin our descent back to our transportation.
On our way back to Cusco, we will stop for a farewell lunch to reflect on the incredible experiences of the expedition.
For a more comfortable experience, we offer the following optional services:
Additional riding horse – Ideal for those who need support during the hike. Cost: $20.00 USD per day.
Personal tent – For those who prefer more privacy during the nights at camp. Cost: $5.00 USD per night (total $15.00 USD for 3 nights).
Sleeping bag – Designed for cold temperatures, available for rent. Cost: $15.00 USD for the entire expedition.
The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek is available year-round, but we recommend scheduling your journey between April and September, when the weather is more stable and the views are clearer.
Departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 people.
Book in advance to secure your place on this unforgettable expedition through the Peruvian Andes.
You should be ready to depart at 4:30 a.m. from Cusco. It is recommended to get a good night’s rest and have a light breakfast before the trip. Wear comfortable, layered clothing suitable for high-altitude hiking, as the weather can change quickly. Don’t forget to bring a daypack with water, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a waterproof jacket.
In Pacchanta, we will stop for breakfast at Huillca Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy local, energy-boosting foods. Afterward, we will participate in a handicraft workshop, led by local artisans, who will share their traditional alpaca and sheep wool weaving techniques.
The first day's hike lasts approximately three hours. We will gradually ascend along the north face of Ausangate Mountain, passing through highland meadows with grazing alpacas and traditional Andean villages with stone houses and thatched roofs.
After arriving at Upis Camp, you will have the option to take a two-hour optional hike to Upis Lagoon, a stunning glacial lake at the foot of Ausangate Mountain. Upon returning, you will enjoy a relaxing tea time, followed by a warm dinner at camp.
On the second day, we will hike to Arapa Pass (4,800 m.a.s.l.), where you will witness spectacular panoramic views of Ausangate and the surrounding valleys. From here, you may spot vicuñas and vizcachas, and observe how the vegetation changes with altitude.
During this part of the trek, we will explore the stunning Yanacocha and Pucacocha Lagoons, known for their crystal-clear waters with deep blue and turquoise hues. Here, we will stop for lunch with a lakeside view. Travelers will also have the chance to participate in a traditional trout ceviche cooking workshop, a popular regional dish.
After an intense day, we will set up camp at Surinecocha, where travelers can relax and enjoy a group dinner. At night, our muleteers will perform traditional Andean music and songs, creating a magical atmosphere under the starry sky.
The third day begins with a two-hour ascent to Apacheta Pass, offering breathtaking views of glaciers, deep valleys, and rock formations. We then descend to Surinecocha Lagoon Camp, a perfect spot to rest and capture stunning photographs.
The final day begins with an early breakfast, followed by a one-and-a-half-hour trek to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Here, our guide will explain the geological formation of its vibrant colors. You will have free time to take photographs before heading to the Red Valley viewpoint, a breathtaking Mars-like landscape.
After exploring Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, we will descend to meet our private transport. Along the way, we will stop for a farewell lunch before heading back to Cusco, with an estimated arrival between 4:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
The best time to complete this trek is between April and September, when the weather is drier and the mountain views are clearest. From October to March, there is a higher chance of rain and snow, which may make the trek more challenging.
No prior trekking experience is required, but you should be in good physical condition. The trek includes steep ascents and high-altitude trails. It is recommended to train with short hikes beforehand and acclimatize in Cusco for at least two days before the expedition.
The maximum luggage weight allowed for transport by horses is 7 kg per person. Your daypack should be light and only contain essentials such as water, snacks, sunscreen, and warm clothing.
We provide full meals, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Our meals are nutritious and made with local ingredients, with vegetarian options available. If you have dietary restrictions, please inform us in advance.
Yes, as long as you properly acclimate beforehand. We recommend drinking plenty of water, walking at a moderate pace, and consuming carbohydrate-rich foods. Our team carries an emergency first-aid kit and an oxygen tank in case of altitude sickness.
Yes, we offer rental services for sleeping bags and trekking poles. Additionally, you can rent an extra horse if you need additional support during the trek.
These frequently asked questions provide all the essential details for travelers considering the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Tour – 4 Days. For any further inquiries, feel free to contact us.
This packing list ensures comfort, safety, and preparedness for your high-altitude adventure in the Peruvian Andes.
To ensure a safe and well-organized experience, we have established the following policies and conditions. Please read them carefully before making a reservation.
If you need to cancel your reservation, the following conditions will apply:
If you need to reschedule your tour (only valid for private tours), the following conditions apply:
If you need more details about the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Tour – 4 Days, feel free to contact us:
We strongly recommend reviewing these policies before booking to avoid any inconvenience. We are here to help you plan your adventure in the Andes.
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