TREK AUSANGATE + RAINBOW MOUNTAINS 4 DAYS / 3 NIGHTS
This trek offers some of the most wonderful scenery in the Andean region of the Cusco area, with many glaciers and high alpine lakes. It’s also one of the most challenging in the region with three high passes over 5,000 metres/ 16000 feet. The Ausangate mountain dominates Cusco’s southern skyline, in the route to Ausangate round trip trek we pass local villages where the people dress in their typical attire and We can appreciate the Andean camels.
Our trek of 4 days Ausangate trek really allows you to see a part of Peru few ever visit, this unforgettable trail is perfect for people who love to get away from it all.
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Paqchanta – Upis
Early morning at 05:30 we leave the city of Cusco in a private transport, and drive 3hrs. along the Cusco – Puerto Maldonado highway on the way we pass through Urcos, Cattca, Ocongate, after an approximated 3 hours drive, we arrive in Tinki, (3800m/12464ft). then We continue 1 hr. to Paqchanta where We can enjoy of the hot springs the lunch place, we meet our wranglers and horses here. After the lunch We start our trek initiating a slight climb that crosses through puna (dry, high area with little vegetation) From here we already have beautiful views of the sacred Ausangate peak (6372m/20900ft).We hike 4 hrs. to reach our campsite in Upis at 4400m/14432ft. From this point, we may appreciate fabulous views of all the snow peaks in the area.
Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass – Pucaqocha
After breakfast, our hike begin ascending for 2 1/2 hours to reach the Arapa pass (4850m/15908ft). We then descend 1 hrs. to our lunch place, crossing an area of vizcachas or Andean rodents. This area also boasts three beautiful lakes with tones of reds, greens, and turquoises (Pukacocha, HatunPukacocha, and Qomerqocha) and spectacular views of the surrounding snow peaks. After lunch, we continue on a long and slow ascent that will take us, after about 2 hours to our next camp site Pucaqocha laggon (4350m/14500ft).
Day 3: Pucaqocha – Anantapata
After breakfast, our hike begin ascending for two hours to reach the Anantapata mountain pass (4900m/16072 ft). We then descend 1 hr. to Alqatarwi community our lunch place, After lunch, we continue on a long and slow ascent that will take us, after about two hours, to our campsite at Anantapáta (4440m/14563ft).
Day 4: Anantapata – Rainbow mountain – Cusco
We hike 2 hrs. to reach the Huarmi saya mountain pass (4680m/15560ft). We will be able to enjoy the view of numerous mountains around as well as of the Ausangate glacier, andean camels in their natural environment. The trek lasts for about 1 more hours until we get to the stunning landscape of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountains). Here we will have about one hour to relax and take amazing pictures of this natural wonder, We continue to visit the red valley mountains, We then hike 2 hrs.to Quesiuno place for the lunch in the afternoon We return to Cusco arriving at approximately 17:00
INCLUDED
- Private transportation to head of trail
- Professional, English-speaking guide
- and camp staff
- Meals 3B, 3L, 3D.
- (Vegetarian option available)
- Double-occupancy tents and camping equipment
(includes dining tent,kitchen tent, and latrine tent)
- Horses to carry personal gear and equipment.
- Return bus to Cusco including transfer to your hotel
DOES NOT INCLUDED
- Tips, and extra spends
- Sleeping bag
WHAT PASANGER MUST BRING
- Original passport
- Sleeping bag
- Bottle water
- Insect repelent
- Sun block
- Sun glasses
- Hat
- Basic clothes change
Useful Information
- Starting Altitude: 3700m / 10980ft.
- Highest Altitude: 5150m / 16,3445ft
- Walking Distance: 28 km / 17.5 miles
- Longest Day: Day 4, approximately 9 km/6.5 miles
- Coldest Night: Day 1 around 0º celsius
- Overall Difficulty: Moderate
- Highlight: Hiking alongside the amazing Andean landcapes Ausangate mountain, lagoons glaciers full nature and culture.
- Duration: 4 days/ 3 nights
- Trek Permits: Not, required for the trek.
- Departure Dates: any day with 2 people.
Acclimatisation: Minimum 2 days at altitude recommended