6-Day Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek + Machu Picchu

Your 6-day Ausangate Rainbow Mountain adventure begins early with a private pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 5:00 a.m. We will travel by private transportation through the scenic Andean countryside toward Tinki, the gateway to the Ausangate region. After approximately two hours, we will make a short stop to stretch our legs and explore this traditional Andean community, where you may see local residents wearing their distinctive traditional clothing.

We then continue for approximately one more hour along a rugged mountain road until reaching Upispampa, our trekking starting point. Here, we will enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast before meeting our professional horsemen and organizing the trekking equipment.

From Upispampa, we begin our hike through a remote and spectacular Andean landscape, passing small communities, open valleys, and several natural streams. The trail features gentle ascents and descents and gradually leads us toward Upis, with magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the imposing Ausangate Mountain.

After approximately 3 hours of hiking, we arrive at our first campsite, where our team will have prepared your comfortable camping tent. You will have time to settle in and enjoy a freshly prepared lunch prepared by our professional trekking chef.

In the afternoon, you may choose to take an optional hike to Upis Lake, a beautiful turquoise high-altitude lagoon located beneath the impressive Ausangate massif. The round-trip hike takes approximately 2 hours. The first section is relatively gentle, followed by a gradual ascent toward the lake. The effort is well rewarded with spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and glacial landscapes.

After returning to camp, relax inside your tent and enjoy a warm cup of tea while taking in the extraordinary views of Ausangate Mountain. As evening arrives, our chef will prepare a delicious dinner. If weather conditions are favorable, step outside after dinner to admire the incredible Andean night sky, filled with countless stars—a memorable way to end your first day on the Ausangate Trek.

• Departure from Cusco: 5:00 a.m.
• Elevation Gain: 330 m / 1,082 ft
• Elevation Loss: 56 m / 183 ft
• Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.9 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 3 hours
• Trailhead Elevation: 4,179 m / 13,710 ft
• Highest Elevation: 4,432 m / 14,540 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 4,432 m / 14,540 ft
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Accommodation: Comfortable Camping Tent
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We begin the day early with a 5:00 a.m. wake-up call, followed by a warm cup of coca tea served at your tent. After packing our personal belongings and enjoying a nutritious breakfast, we prepare for one of the most spectacular and challenging days of the Ausangate Trek.

We start hiking uphill toward the impressive Arapa Pass, reaching approximately 4,958 m / 16,267 ft. The ascent is demanding, but the panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and high-altitude landscapes make the effort worthwhile. After crossing the pass, we descend gradually toward the beautiful Puca Cocha Lake, where we will stop for a well-deserved and freshly prepared lunch.

After lunch, we continue our journey with another challenging ascent toward Puca Cocha Pass, located at approximately 5,000 m / 16,404 ft. From this high point, you will enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding Andean mountains, glacial formations, and remote valleys.

We then begin a long descent toward Ananta, our second campsite. Along the route, we will encounter pristine mountain scenery, streams, small lagoons, grazing alpacas and llamas, and local Andean herders. Your professional guide will accompany you throughout the day, sharing information about the region, its natural environment, and the traditional way of life of the local communities.

After approximately 8–9 hours of trekking, we arrive at our campsite in Ananta. Our team will have your comfortable camping tent prepared for you, allowing you to rest and recover after this demanding day. In the evening, enjoy a nourishing dinner and the peaceful atmosphere of the high Andes before getting a good night’s rest.

• Wake-Up Call: 5:00 a.m.
• Elevation Gain: 884 m / 2,900 ft
• Elevation Loss: 567 m / 1,860 ft
• Walking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 8–9 hours
• Starting Elevation: 4,400 m / 14,430 ft
• Highest Elevation: 5,000 m / 16,404 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 4,700 m / 15,400 ft
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Accommodation: Comfortable Camping Tent
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We start another spectacular day with an early 4:00 a.m. wake-up call, followed by a warm cup of coca tea served at your tent. After a nutritious breakfast, we pack our belongings and begin our trek toward the impressive Surini Pass, reaching approximately 5,051 m / 16,575 ft.

The ascent is challenging, but reaching the pass rewards us with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Andean landscapes. From this high point, you can admire the dramatic multicolored mountains and catch your first distant views of the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).

We then descend toward Circle Lake, surrounded by rugged peaks and pristine high-altitude scenery. From here, we continue along a relatively gentle section of the trail before gradually approaching Rainbow Mountain. We expect to reach Rainbow Mountain at approximately 8:00 a.m., when the early morning light beautifully enhances the mountain’s distinctive layers of red, orange, yellow, and green.

After taking time to appreciate this remarkable natural wonder and capture unforgettable photographs, we begin our descent toward Alqatari, hiking for approximately two more hours through remote Andean landscapes. Along the way, we may encounter small rural communities, local herders, llamas, and alpacas, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional life in the high Andes.

Upon arrival in Alqatari, we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch, followed by time to relax at our campsite. Our team will have your comfortable camping tent ready, providing a warm and peaceful place to rest after an exciting day on the trail. In the evening, we will enjoy dinner before settling in for the night surrounded by the spectacular Andean wilderness.

• Wake-Up Call: 4:00 a.m.
• Elevation Gain: 665 m / 2,181 ft
• Elevation Loss: 872 m / 2,860 ft
• Walking Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
• Hiking Time: Approximately 7 hours
• Highest Elevation: 5,051 m / 16,575 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 4,420 m / 14,500 ft
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Accommodation: Comfortable Camping Tent
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

After an early and nourishing breakfast, we set out for one of the most spectacular and challenging days of the Ausangate Trek. Our route takes us toward Palomani Pass, the highest point of the journey, reaching approximately 5,099 m / 16,729 ft. At this extraordinary altitude, you will be surrounded by immense Andean landscapes, dramatic valleys, deep canyons, and snow-capped peaks stretching across the horizon.

As we approach the summit, the majestic Ausangate Mountain rises before us. Revered by local communities as an important sacred mountain and protector of the region, Ausangate provides an unforgettable backdrop to this high-altitude adventure. On clear days, you may also have the opportunity to spot Andean condors soaring above the valleys.

After crossing Palomani Pass, we gradually descend through a spectacular landscape characterized by glacial peaks, crystal-clear streams, rivers, colorful lagoons, and rugged mountain valleys. Along the way, we may encounter alpacas, llamas, local herders, and, in the rocky areas, wild chinchillas resting among the stones.

We continue along a combination of ascents and descents until reaching Huchuy Phinaya, where we will stop for a freshly prepared and well-deserved lunch. After lunch, we continue trekking for approximately one more hour toward Surapampa, our campsite for the night.

Surapampa is located in a remote and scenic area surrounded by rocky formations, making it an excellent place to observe chinchillas and appreciate the peaceful atmosphere of the high Andes. Upon arrival, our trekking team will have your comfortable camping tent prepared, allowing you to relax and recover after this demanding day.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner while taking in the spectacular mountain scenery and, weather permitting, the clear Andean night sky.

• Elevation Gain: 785 m / 2,575 ft
• Elevation Loss: 693 m / 2,273 ft
• Walking Distance: 14 km / 8.7 miles
• Highest Point: 5,099 m / 16,729 ft
• Campsite Elevation: 4,591 m / 15,062 ft
• Hiking Time: Approximately 7–8 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Accommodation: Comfortable Camping Tent
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today marks the final trekking day of our Ausangate adventure, combining one last spectacular high-altitude pass with a relaxing visit to the natural hot springs of Pacchanta before continuing toward Machu Picchu.

After an early breakfast, we begin our final ascent toward the last mountain pass, reaching approximately 5,050 m / 16,568 ft. The climb takes around three hours and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and the spectacular Seven Lakes of Ausangate. This is a wonderful opportunity to appreciate the dramatic beauty of the high Andes and reflect on the incredible journey we have completed.

From the pass, we begin a gradual descent toward Pacchanta, a traditional Andean community famous for its natural hot springs. After reaching the village, we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch, prepared by our trekking team.

Following lunch, you will have the opportunity to relax in the natural thermal baths of Pacchanta, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. After several days of trekking at high altitude, soaking in the warm mineral-rich waters is the perfect way to relax and rejuvenate. You may also have time to purchase traditional handmade crafts from local artisans as a memorable souvenir of your journey.

After our time in Pacchanta, we will say goodbye to our horsemen and trekking support team before boarding our private transportation to Ollantaytambo. The scenic drive takes approximately 3 hours, passing through beautiful Andean valleys and traditional communities.

Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo). The train journey offers beautiful views of the changing landscape as we travel from the high Andes into the lush cloud forest.

Once we arrive in Aguas Calientes, our team will assist you with your transfer to the hotel, where you will spend the night. Enjoy a comfortable evening and prepare for the highlight of the journey tomorrow: your visit to Machu Picchu.

• Elevation Gain: 528 m / 1,732 ft
• Elevation Loss: 815 m / 2,673 ft
• Walking Distance: 17 km / 10.6 miles
• Highest Point: 5,050 m / 16,568 ft
• Hiking Time: Approximately 7–8 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Transportation: Private vehicle from Pacchanta to Ollantaytambo + train to Aguas Calientes
• Meals: Breakfast & Lunch
• Highlights: Final high-altitude pass, Ausangate Seven Lakes, Pacchanta Hot Springs, traditional Andean communities, scenic train journey, and overnight stay in Aguas Calientes

Our final day begins early, as we set out to experience one of the most extraordinary archaeological wonders in the world: Machu Picchu.

At approximately 4:30 a.m., we leave our hotel in Aguas Calientes and begin walking uphill toward the entrance of Machu Picchu. This early start allows us to arrive around the opening time of 6:00 a.m., giving us the opportunity to be among the first visitors of the day and enjoy the citadel during the peaceful early morning hours.

Upon entering Machu Picchu, we will begin exploring this remarkable Inca sanctuary, surrounded by spectacular mountains and lush cloud-forest scenery. Our professional guide will accompany you throughout the visit, explaining the history, architecture, symbolism, and significance of this extraordinary site. The Machu Picchu circuit and official entrance time will be according to availability at the time of booking, as entrance circuits and schedules are assigned by the Peruvian authorities.

During our visit, we will explore the main areas included in the assigned circuit and have time to appreciate the impressive Inca stonework, agricultural terraces, temples, plazas, and panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Don’t forget to take plenty of photographs and enjoy a moment to appreciate the incredible achievement of the Inca civilization.

After completing our visit, we will walk back down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes, following the ancient pedestrian route through the lush vegetation. Once back in town, you will have some free time to relax, have lunch, or explore Aguas Calientes before our scheduled train departure.

Later, we board the return train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo, enjoying the scenic journey through the spectacular Urubamba Valley. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, our private transportation will be waiting for us to continue the journey by road back to Cusco.

We expect to arrive in Cusco in the evening, marking the end of an unforgettable 6-day Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek to Machu Picchu, filled with high-altitude landscapes, sacred mountains, colorful lakes, traditional Andean culture, and one of the world’s most iconic archaeological treasures.

• Departure from Aguas Calientes: Start the hike at approximately 4:30 a.m. toward Machu Picchu, or choose the optional shuttle bus departing around 5:30 a.m. Bus tickets can be purchased directly in Aguas Calientes and are subject to availability and an additional cost.
• Machu Picchu Opening Time: From 6:00 a.m.
• Machu Picchu Entrance: According to availability and assigned circuit/time
• Machu Picchu Guided Visit: According to the official entrance schedule
• Return: Walking descent to Aguas Calientes
• Train: Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
• Transportation: Ollantaytambo – Cusco
• Meals: Breakfast
• Accommodation: None – tour concludes in Cusco