+51 984 751 486 perutravelcompany@gmail.com Cuesta Santa Ana N° 701 and siete cuartones Nº 245

Price

From$345

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Length

3 Days, 2 Nights

Group

Min 6, Max 12

Trip Style

Trekking Tours

Grading

Tour Details

Embark on a breathtaking journey through the heart of the oriental Andes with our Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek, a 3-day adventure starting from Cusco. Ausangate, standing majestic at 6,333 meters above sea level, is revered as an Apu (sacred mountain) by the local communities. Our carefully crafted route, partially paved for accessibility, begins at Tinki. This trek demands good physical condition due to the altitude, varying temperatures, and the duration of the journey.

As a trusted agency, we offer the reliability of expert local guides and a commitment to quality service. Immerse yourself in the stunning Andean landscapes and the rich culture of the Quechua villages, where traditional practices of communal agriculture and herding of llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas thrive. Join us for an unforgettable exploration of Peru’s majestic southern Andes.

Inclusions

Ausangate Trek Briefing at Hotel
Professional Bilingual guides
Collection from hotel
Bus round trip
2 breakfast, 2 Lunches, 2 Dinners
2 nights Camping
Foam sleeping mattresses note (if you want hire a comfortable air mattresses it also can be hired from us)
Cook horseman mules (carry up to 5 kg per person mules or porters (they just carry cooking stuff and camping equipment)
Doble occupancy tents
First Aid kit
Vegetarian Option or special diet-Free available

Excludes

First Breakfast, last lunch and dinner
Entries to ausangate 45 soles
Mineral water (boiled water provided with food but you can buy it along the way)
Sleeping bag (you can hire from us US$15)
Walking poles (you can hire from us US$10)
Travel and health insurance. (Bring copies with you please) PERU TRAVEL COMPANY highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation / interruption insurance to protect your travel investment. Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance

Recommended to carry

Hiking water proof boots (with ankle protectors)
Trekking poles metal tips are not allowed on the trail
Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
Warm jacket
Sun hat and gloves
T-shirts / shirts
Comfortable hiking zip off trousers
Rain pants
Bathing suit (for hot springs in pacchanta)
Sun protection cream (factor 35 recommended) sun is strong
Insect Repellent (for mosquitos) 15% of deet at least
Water bottle
Toilet paper and wet wipes
Personal medication
Camera and films
Torch with spare batteries (flashlight) we recommend headlights
Emergency money at least (200- 300) extra soles. (USD$ 120)
Short pants, Plaster and bandages
Walking poles (with rubber tips) they can also be hired from us (they can be used on the Inca Trail if they have rubber tips)

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Upis – Yana Qocha

Pick-up from your hotel at 5:30 am for a 3.5-hour scenic drive to Upis. This drive offers glimpses into the rural landscapes and vibrant communities that make the Andes so unique. Keep an eye out for traditional Quechua villages and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing alongside the road.

Start hiking from Upis (4,350m) around 9:00 am. The trek begins in the shadow of Ausangate Mountain, considered a sacred apu (spirit) by the local Quechua people. This area is steeped in Inca mythology and is a place of worship and reverence.

After meeting our muleteers and horses, embark on a 2.5-hour uphill hike to Pamparapa (4,600m) for lunch. The trek up offers stunning views of Ausangate, the highest peak in the Cusco region, renowned for its perpetual snow-capped vistas and its significance in Andean culture.

Post-lunch, continue over the Arapa pass (4,800m) and descend to our campsite at Yana Qocha (4,650m), arriving in the late afternoon. This area is dotted with vibrant turquoise lagoons that reflect the mountain’s grandeur, a breathtaking end to the day.

Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours, 12 km
Altitude Range: 4,350m to 4,800m

Day 2Yana Qocha – Puca Cocha – Qomer Qocha

After breakfast amidst a breathtaking sunrise, begin your day surrounded by the majestic calm of the Andes. This region is rich with flora and fauna, including rare bird species and wild vicuñas.

Tackle an undulating trail with stunning lagoon views at the foot of Ausangate. Each lagoon along the way holds local legends, often associated with Incan gods and spirits.

Ascend to the 5,000m pass, then descend to Ananta (4,650m) for lunch. This high-altitude terrain is a testament to the Inca’s remarkable engineering skills, as they once traversed these routes for ceremonial purposes and herding.

The afternoon’s hike includes another ascent to Warmisaya (5,000m) before descending to the camp at Qomer Qocha (4,680m). This area is a perfect spot to reflect on the day’s journey with a view of the starlit sky, far from any light pollution.

Meals: All included
Hiking Time: 8-9 hours, 12 km
Altitude Range: 4,600m to 5,000m

Day 3Qomer Cocha – Rainbow Mountain – Quesiuno – Cusco

Rise early at 3:45 am for the trek to Rainbow Mountain, a striking geological wonder that has recently gained fame for its unique mineralogical composition that creates vivid colorations.

Reach Ananta pass first, then ascend to the Rainbow Mountain for sunrise views. Witnessing the sunrise here is a magical experience as the changing light transforms the mountain into a myriad of colors—truly a photographer’s and nature lover’s dream.

After the Rainbow Mountain, you have the option to visit the Red Valley. This lesser-known gem offers a stunning contrast with its deep red hues, providing an even richer tapestry of color against the lush green surroundings.

Hike down to Quesiuno (1 hour) to conclude the trek. This final descent offers time for reflection on the spiritual and cultural significance of the landscapes you’ve traversed.

Drive back to Cusco, arriving around 5 pm.

Meals: Breakfast
Hiking Time: ~6 hours, 13 km
Walking Distance: 13 km

Photos

Gallery

FAQs

1.How difficult is the trek and what is the highest altitude reached?

This trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude and steep terrain. The highest altitude reached is 5,000m at the Warmisaya pass on Day 2. Participants should be prepared for high-altitude hiking and be in good physical condition.

2.What kind of wildlife can be expected along the trek?

The trek offers opportunities to spot various wildlife, including rare bird species and wild vicuñas. Additionally, you may encounter llamas and alpacas grazing in the Andean landscapes. It’s a unique chance to immerse yourself in the natural biodiversity of the region.

3.What type of accommodation is provided during the trek?

Accommodation during the trek is camping in tents. The campsites are set up in scenic locations along the route, providing stunning views of the Andean landscapes and vibrant turquoise lagoons.

4.Are vegetarian/vegan dietary options available during the trek?

Yes, vegetarian/vegan dietary options are available. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions or preferences in advance, and we will accommodate your needs.

5.What is the best time of year to embark on this trek?

The best time to embark on this trek is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. During this time, you can expect clear skies and stable weather conditions, ideal for hiking and enjoying the stunning vistas of the Andes and Rainbow Mountain.

1 Review

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Mark D.

Solo Traveller

Embarking on the Ausangate Trek was a transformative experience that immersed me in the beauty and spirituality of the Andes. The journey began with a picturesque drive to Upis, where we commenced our trek amidst the towering peaks of Ausangate.

The trek itself was challenging but incredibly rewarding, with each day offering new landscapes and adventures. From traversing mountain passes to marveling at the vibrant lagoons of Yana Qocha, every moment was filled with wonder and awe.

The highlight of the trek was undoubtedly witnessing the sunrise at Rainbow Mountain. The kaleidoscope of colors illuminated by the morning light was a sight I’ll never forget.

March 4, 2022

Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek 3 Days