Ausangate Trek 4 Days to Rainbow Mountain

Our adventure commences bright and early as we depart from your hotel in Cusco City at 5:30 am. Your experienced Trek Leader will be there to greet you and lead the way. After a scenic 3-hour drive, we will reach the Upis Village, situated at an impressive elevation of 14,108 feet. Upon our arrival, we will meet our skilled muleteers and prepare our backpacks for the exciting journey ahead. Our trek begins with a gentle uphill trail, which we will follow for approximately 3 hours until we reach our lunch spot and campsite. This section of the trail will lead us through a picturesque highland valley, where we will encounter herds of llamas and alpacas, providing us with a fantastic opportunity to capture stunning photographs. Once we arrive at the campsite, nestled close to the Upis hot springs at an elevation of 15,256 feet, we will enjoy a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, you will have the choice to indulge in a rejuvenating soak in the thermal pools, available for a cost of 10 PEN. Alternatively, you can take a leisurely stroll around the area, capturing the breathtaking sunset over the summit of Ausangate. Throughout the day, both lunch and dinner will be provided, ensuring you have nourishment and sustenance.

Walking Time: 3 – 4 hours approx…
Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles.
Lowest point: 14,108 feet.
Highest point: 15,256 feet.
Physical rating: Moderate.

Prepare for a captivating hike to our second campsite, surrounded by breathtaking lakes, majestic glaciers, and towering peaks. As the sun rises, you will be gently awakened in your tent with a steaming cup of hot coca tea. Take your time to gather your belongings and get organized before savoring a nutritious breakfast. With your energy replenished, we will begin our ascent along a winding path towards the first pass, Arapa, reaching an impressive altitude of 15,748 feet. From this vantage point, you will be mesmerized by the awe-inspiring vistas of the Andean landscape stretching in every direction.

Following the pass, we will continue our trek, descending for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes until we reach a remarkable lunch spot situated beside the glacial lake of Yana Qocha. Here, you will be captivated by the backdrop of the snow-clad Ausangate mountain, creating a truly awe-inspiring setting.

After indulging in a satisfying lunch, our journey continues for approximately 2 hours through a highland plain, leading us to our second campsite, Puka Qocha, nestled close to Ausangate Mountain and its glacier lakes. Here, you will witness the powerful collision of the ice formations with the lakes. As night falls, the sky will reveal its splendor, offering a clear view for capturing breathtaking photos of the Milky Way. Throughout our adventure, all meals will be provided, ensuring your sustenance and satisfaction.

Walking Time: 6 – 7 hours
Distance: 12 km / 7.45 miles.
Lowest point: 14,108 feet.
Highest point: 15,748 feet.
Physical rating: Demanding.

Prepare for an incredibly picturesque day of hiking, featuring two magnificent summits towering at 16,404 feet, and the opportunity to stay in close proximity to Rainbow Mountain. After enjoying a nourishing breakfast, we will be energized and ready to tackle today’s hike.

Our journey begins as we ascend a steep switchback trail, leading us to the second pass situated at an impressive altitude of 16,404 feet. From this vantage point, a breathtaking panorama unfolds before us, showcasing snow-capped mountains stretching in various directions, as well as vibrant highland valleys adorned with striking red hills. Descending into the valley, we will then embark on an uphill trek to reach our lunch spot, known as Ananta, nestled at 15,092 feet. Here, we will be surrounded by a highland valley offering awe-inspiring views in every direction.

After a satisfying lunch, our trek continues with a 2-hour uphill climb, leading us to the next pass known as Warmisaya, standing at 16,404 feet. From this remarkable viewpoint, we will catch glimpses of the renowned Rainbow Mountain in the distance, while still being treated to breathtaking vistas. The final section of our hike involves a 30-minute descent, guiding us to the third campsite located at Qomer Qocha, resting at an elevation of 15,354 feet. Throughout the day, all meals will be provided, ensuring you have sustenance and nourishment for the journey.

Hiking Time: 7-8 hours.
Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6.83 miles.
Lowest point: 15,092 feet.
Highest point: 16,404 feet.
Physical rating: Demanding.

Prepare for a remarkable day as we embark on a trail that offers breathtaking views of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley. Our journey begins with a 1-hour and 30-minute hike from our campsite, leading us to our first destination, Rainbow Mountain. Once we arrive, we will have Plenty of time to fully immerse ourselves in the beauty of this extraordinary place. After taking in the splendor of Rainbow Mountain, we will continue our trek towards the Red Valley, a captivating and unmissable location. This valley boasts stunning vistas that showcase pale reddish valleys, mountains, and hills, transporting you to a different world. Upon reaching the viewpoint, we will have plenty of time to soak in the awe-inspiring scenery.

As our adventure draws to a close, we will descend for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, reaching the end of the trail. Here, we will bid farewell to our muleteers and cook, expressing our gratitude for their assistance throughout the journey. Finally, we will board our transportation back to Cusco City, reflecting on the unforgettable experiences and picturesque landscapes we encountered along the way.

Walking time: 3-4 hours.
Distance: 6 km / 3.72 miles.
Lowest point: 14,764 feet.
Highest point: 16,503 feet.
Physical rating: Moderate to Demanding.