Ausangate Trek 5 Days – High-Altitude Adventure Hike in Peru
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days is a challenging high-altitude hike in the Andes Mountains of Peru, including Rainbow Mountain and the Ausangate 7 Lakes, covering approximately 68 km (42.2 miles). It is one of the most spectacular remote adventures in Cusco.
This unforgettable trek circles the sacred Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Vilcanota Mountain Range near Cusco, leading hikers through dramatic Andean landscapes filled with glaciers, turquoise lagoons, colorful valleys, and remote Quechua communities. Along the route, trekkers witness herds of alpacas and vicuñas grazing across vast highland plains while crossing breathtaking mountain passes above 5,000 meters.
The journey includes a visit to the world-famous Rainbow Mountain, where vibrant mineral layers create one of the most extraordinary natural sights in the Andes. For adventure travelers seeking an authentic and less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek 5 Days offers a truly unforgettable experience.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
WHY HIKE THE AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS IN PERU?
Challenge yourself on Peru's most spectacular high-altitude trek, crossing glaciers, turquoise lakes, Rainbow Mountain, and remote Andean villages beneath the majestic Ausangate Mountain
- Dramatic Mountain Scenery: Without a doubt Ausangate Mountain offers some of the most wonderful scenery in the entire Cusco area. It reveals dramatic valleys and picturesque villages shaped by the forces of nature.
- High Altitude Experience: Trekking at this high altitude where the air is thin and the winds are cold, offers a rewarding challenge for any adventurous traveler. With three high passes over 5,000 m (16,400 ft) making it ideal for those seeking a true high-altitude trekking adventure in Peru.
- Apu Ausangate Mountain: On a clear day, the majestic Nevado Ausangate, standing at 6,384 m. (20,944 feet) dominates the southern skyline of Cusco. As we approach this sacred peak, it becomes clear why the Incas revered it so deeply, and it becomes clear why the local communities hold this spectacular mountain in such high regard.
- Visit Rainbow Mountain: Reach the world-famous Rainbow Mountain from the scenic Ausangate Circuit, enjoying incredible views and a quieter experience than the traditional day tour.
- Small Group Tour & Big Adventures: Vidal Expeditions leads small group tours with big adventures, allowing for a more personalized adventure, flexible pace, greater safety, and individual attention from your expert local guide.
Highlights of the Ausangate Trek
Highlights: Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain and LakesHiking distance: 68 km (42.2 miles)
Considerations: Acclimatization is essential
Season: April through November
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day01
Cusco - Tinki - Upis village
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Day02
Upis Village - Arapa Pass - Ausangate Pass - Anantapata
Reconnect with the energy of the mountains by hiking in a remote area, and what a way to stand in front of Apu Ausangate, the most powerful mountain in Cusco. -
Day03
Anantapata - Warmisaya Pass - Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Qocha
Walk across dramatic landscape, reach the panoramic Warmisaya Pass. Discover the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain and camp near to Ausangate glacier -
Day04
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani Pass - Qampa Pampa - Pachispata
Reach the highest pass on the trek, Palomani Pass 5,200 m., learn the local culture and tradition by exploring some local communities. -
Day05
Pachispata - Pacchanta - Tinki - Cusco
End your trek by exploring the outstanding Seven Lakes and soaking in the medicinal thermal baths of Pacchanta.
Our adventure for this Ausangate Trek 5 Days will start with a briefing the night before the departure date, where you will meet with your trekking guide at your hotel or in our office. Here he will provide you with the specific details about the tour, and also provide you with the duffle bag, which you can keep to fill with your personal items.
Day by Day Itinerary
Cusco - Tinqui - Upis
Campsite Elevation: 4,400 meters / 14,435 feet
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Highlight Immerse yourself in the stunning Andes Mountains
Ausangate Trek adventure begins departing Cusco early in the morning at 5:30 a.m. for a long three-hour ride in a private van to the small village of Tinke (3,800 masl./12 464 feet). We pass through beautiful countryside and several traditional villages, including Urcos, Cattca, and Ocangate.
After a short rest in Tinke, we will continue driving to Rodeana (4,100 m/13,451 ft). There is the beginning of our hike; the first three hours on the trail are a wonderful prelude to the magnificent scenery of the Cordillera Vilcanota.
We get to Upis (4,400 m/14,435 ft) and enjoy delicious lunch with great views of Ausangate. Here you will have the option to enjoy the hot springs, which offer fantastic views of Ausangate at the end of the valley. We will camp here for the night.
Upis - Arapa Pass - Ausangate Pass - Anantapata
Campsite Elevation: 4,620 meters / 15,157 feet
Accommodation: Camping
Highlight: Apu Ausangate and Turquoise lakes
After a delicious breakfast, the second day of the Ausangate Trek begins as we head toward the first pass of our expedition. After several hours of trekking, we reach Arapa Pass (4,850 meters/15908 feet) where panoramic views reward our efforts.
From here, we descend into a serene valley, passing the emerald-green lake of Puqa Q'ocha, continuing onward we reach the turquoise lake of Hatun Poqacocha. Here, surrounded by silence and towering mountains we pause for lunch and take time to absorb the raw beauty of the Andes.
In the afternoon, the trail leads us up to the next Ausangate Pass (4,990 meters or 16,371 feet). Here, you can feel the immense presence of Apu Ausangate that dominates the highland. For local communities, this mountain is not just a peak but a living spirit, an Andean deity believed to protect the land and its people. Standing here, it is easy to understand why Ausangate has been revered since Inca times.
At the base of the mountain, glacial lakes rest quietly fed by the eternal ice above. We continue our hike toward Anantapata (4,620 m / 15,157 ft) We will camp for the night.
Anantapata - Warmisaya pass- Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Q’ocha
Campsite Elevation: 4,580 meters / 15,026 feet
Accommodation: Camping
Highlight: Stunning Rainbow Mountain and South face of Ausangate.
Our team will wake you up super early this day with a hot cup of Coca in order to see the sunrise once we arrive at Rainbow Mountain. After an energetic breakfast, we begin our early hike to the next pass, Warmisaya, at 5,020 m (16,469 ft).
From the top, the first view of Rainbow Mountain emerges, its striped slopes glowing softly in the morning light. We then hike for two hours across the high-altitude plateau until we reach Rainbow Mountain itself 5,036 m / 16,522 ft. Arriving before the crowds, the mountain reveals its natural colors in perfect stillness, offering a rare and unforgettable experience.
You have the chance to rest, breathe deeply, and fully absorb the beauty of this sacred place while capturing incredible photos. Your guide will explain the geological and the cultural meaning behind the mountain's vibrant colors, allowing you to explore each viewpoint.
After exploring Rainbow Mountain, we return along the same trail until our last camp where a well-deserved lunch awaits. With renewed energy we continue our hike to Ausangate Qocha, 4,650 m/15,255 ft. Upon arrival, the peaceful glacial lake welcomes us for the night, where we set up camp surrounded by towering peaks and the quiet spirit of the high Andes.
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani Pass- Sorapata
Campsite Elevation: 4,580 / 15,026 feet
Accommodation: Camping
Highlight: Highest Pass and Ausangate Mountain.
The most challenging day! We set out toward the highest and most meaningful point of the Ausangate Trek, Palomani Pass.
The trail climbs steadily for several hours until we reach Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the trek and the place where we come closest to the immense Ausangate Mountain. Standing here, surrounded by ice and sky, the power of the Andes is undeniable.
Your guide will lead a traditional Andean ceremony, offering gratitude to Pachamama (Mother Earth) for safe passage and the extraordinary experiences shared on this sacred land.
From the pass, we begin our descent into a wide glacial valley. As we walk downhill, a beautiful lagoon and towering glacier appear to our left, silent witnesses to the passage of time. Following the trail deeper into the valley, we continue on to our lunch spot, where we rest and spend the last night in Sorapata camp.
Sorapata - Qampa Pass - Ausangate 7 Lakes - Pacchanta - Cusco
Drive Time: 4 hours
Highlight: Ausangate 7 Lakes and Hot springs of Pacchanta
On the last day of this Ausangate Trek, we wake up about 5 a.m., enjoy breakfast, and then begin our hike.
With renewed energy, we climb toward the final pass of the trek, Qampa Pass (5,020 m / 16,480 ft). Along the way, sweeping views open up toward the snowcapped peaks of Tres Picos and Puca Punta, creating a dramatic Andean backdrop for our hike.
Crossing the final pass, we descend to one of the highlights of this 5-day trek, the Ausangate 7 Lakes, you will be amazed with the different crystal and blue turquoise lakes, while your guide explaning you the important of those for Andean people.
It's a 3-hour trek between turquoise lakes and picturesque villages on the way to Pacchanta, where we will have time to enjoy our final lunch, and enjoy the relaxing hot springs before taking our private van back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6.00 p.m.
Itinerary notes - Ausangate trek (Ausangate Circuit) - 5 days
The times cited in this itinerary are approximate. Walking times depend on the group, and the guide can change lunch spots and campsites depending on the progress of the group.
The Ausangate region is very high, plus you are close to a snow-covered massif. Temperatures are cold and can fall well below freezing at night. You should travel well prepared for cold temperatures. Hire or carry sleeping bags for temperatures less than freezing (minus 15 degrees Celsius or more).
This region has limited tourist infrastructure, and this tour makes use of local facilities. Visitors should be aware that things may change or not go according to plan. This is all part of the adventure, and visitors to Peru are encouraged to have an open mind and be open to the differences in the way things are done in another culture.
At Vidal Expeditions, we are transparent and provide specific details of what is included and excluded in the Classic Ausangate Trek. We know this is very important so that you know exactly what to bring and don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your trek.
WE INCLUDE
Vidal Expeditions Team Provide
- Pre-departure briefing
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your trekking guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Ausangate trek departure. During this briefing, you will receive important details about the trek. After this time, you will receive your duffle bag for your extra luggage, which will be carried by the horses while you are hiking.
- Professional Adventure Guide
All our tour guides have a great reputation for customer service. Through their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for trekking, and pride in having been born in the land of the Incas, we ensure our guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore the Andes.
- Entrance Fees to Ausangate park
Once we receive your details and the deposit for your tour, we will purchase all the necessary tickets for your trek. They will be for a specific date and will be in your name.
- Accommodations
At Vidal Expeditions, we include accommodations for four nights during the Ausangate Trek 5 Days, with suitable camping equipment to make sure your trek is an experience of a lifetime. Our tents are Mountain Gear or Doite pro Aconcagua tents designed for four people, but they are shared by only 2 people to ensure your comfort and provide enough space for your luggage. We include inflatable mattresses as well. There will also be a spacious dining tent for you to enjoy each meal on this tour.
Transportations
- Private Transport
We include all transportation during your tour. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the beginning of the trail, and our return transportation from Ausangate to Cusco will drop you off at your hotel.
- Horses
We include horses to transport all the duffle bags and equipment during this tour, and there will also be a horseman. At Vidal Expeditions, we know safety comes first, so we include an emergency horse in case someone feels tired or gets altitude sickness.
Equipment
- Personal Duffle bag
We include a personal duffle bag for your 5-day Ausangate trek. You will get this duffle bag at Vidal Expeditions office during your pre-departure briefing the night before your trek. This bag will be carried by horses during the trek. You will find it in your tent every afternoon when you arrive at the campsite. It can be filled with your personal items, sleeping bag, and mattress, but the maximum allowable weight is 7 kg (17 lb). The duffle bag must be returned to our office no later than one day after your trek.
- Toilet Tents
During our trek to Ausangate, we bring our own portable toilet tent because we know how important it is to protect our environment, and we are trained to leave no traces along the route.
- Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides at Vidal Expeditions are very well trained in first aid. They received first-aid training courses every six months on how to assist someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained on how to administer supplemental oxygen if someone requires it.
Meals
- Meals
At Vidal Expeditions, we know food is such an important part of any vacation, and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial. We include 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. And of course, we also cater to a variety of dietary requirements. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements can be accommodated, just let us know in advance. Our chefs are well-trained to prepare the best food you've ever had with local and organic ingredients.
- Water
Vidal Expeditions will provide you with water from the first lunch to the last breakfast. This water will be filtered, boiled, and cooled by our chef. You must bring your own water container, bottle, or camelbak that can hold water for hiking for a few hours. We recommend a capacity of 2 liters.
NOT INCLUDED
- Sleeping bag
Every trekker on the Ausangate Trek 5 Days needs a suitable sleeping bag rated to at least -10°C or 14°F. We recommend you bring your own, but if you don’t want to bring your own or don’t have one, you can rent a sleeping bag from us.
- Walking Sticks
Hiking with trekking poles has its benefits. They protect your knees while you are hiking downhill, especially in remote areas where there are many ups and downs. Trekking poles also help you during the ascent with increased stability. If you don’t have a pair of trekking poles, you can rent them from our office.
- First Breakfast
We do not provide breakfast on the day of your departure. However, most hotels offer breakfast during your stay. In case your hotel does not provide breakfast, we will stop at a restaurant near Ocongate where you will be able to purchase breakfast.
- Travel Insurance
- Tips for our team
We recommend buying travel insurance before leaving your country in case something happens during your visit to Peru.
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is usual on any excursion to Ausangate, and although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team's hard work.
At Vidal Expeditions, we focus on making your trip an unforgettable experience, and we want to provide all the details you need to know before leaving your country and starting your life experience in Peru.
AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS PACKING LIST
Essential Items to Pack
- Passport
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: A hydration reservoir such as a Camelbak is recommended, with a capacity of at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
- Trekking poles
FOR YOUR DUFFEL:
Horses will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air mat (if you bring or rent one). From our perspective, these two items weigh 3 kg.
- 3-4 wicking t-shirts
- 3-4 hiking pants
- 3-4 sets of undergarments.
- 1 Fleece jacket
- 1 Warm down jacket: temperatures can drop significantly at night
- 1 Rain jacket and pants
- 1 sun hat
- 1 wool hat
- Bathers / swimsuit for the hot spring
- Small towel
- Headlamp: essential
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable shoes for camp or flip flops
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
Battery Charger: There is no place to charge your divices during the trek!
Large plastic bags: to help organize your belongings and separate clean clothes from dirty ones.
Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least
INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS:
A daypack can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. If it is larger, try to make it as light as possible. Water: We supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning's water only, as we won't have time to filter water until your first lunch.
- Sun hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Camera
- Music (iPhone)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
- Earplugs
- Some snacks (Chocolate, fruits, energy bars, etc.)
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Face moisturizer
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Small towel
- Toothbrush and paste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc.
FAQs for the Ausangate Trek build trust, clarify high-altitude risks, manage expectations, and address specific packing/logistics crucial for this challenging 5-day tour.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs) 5-DAY AUSANGATE TREK
At Vidal Expeditions, we try to make the booking system as easy as possible for you. Once you decide to do this trek, we will send you a booking form where you need to complete all the required details that are important to book your tickets. We need a previous deposit of 50% per person. As soon as you pay it, we immediately book a spot for this tour. Once we are done with it, we will send you your invoice and a confirmation form that all the booking processes have been satisfactorily set up.
Yes, our work policy is to be in contact with our customers as long as necessary to inform them of all the details and changes that could occur after they have confirmed the reservation. Please check your email constantly, and if you have any issues, let us know so we can solve them as soon as possible.
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days is without a doubt one of the best high-altitude treks in the world. It offers some of the best landscapes, combining snowy peaks, remote Andean communities, Rainbow Mountain, stunning glacial lakes, wildlife, and thermal baths. Perfect hike for those seeking adventure and a challenging trip in remote areas.
Definitely! This is an extraordinary trek in a remote area where nature has created stunning spots where snowy peaks combine with lakes, valleys, herds of alpacas, llamas, and colored mountains that are unique to the entire planet.
Yes, we pick up all our customers from their hotel or Airbnb in Cusco, the pickup time will be confirmed the night before during the meeting.
This trek is particularly challenging, especially for people who do not have experience hiking in the mountains. We recommend exercising several times per week to prepare for this trek. We also recommend spending a few days in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek, because part of the segments during trek are located over 4,500 m/14,763 ft.
No, because this trek is located in a remote place where there is no electricity. Some local villages located along the trek have solar panels, and your guide can talk with them in extreme cases to recharge your cellphone. We recommend that you bring an extra power bank for the days you are on the mountains.
The best time to hike around Ausangate Mountain is from May to October. This is the dry season in Cusco, and you will have more chance to see the fantastic views with rare rain. Even during the night, you could do stargazing because this is a remote area away from the city lights. From November to April is the rainy season in Cusco, and it can be cold as well.
The Ausangate Trek does not require any permits for now; you will pay the entrance fee at the checkpoint before going into the park.
No worries; our guides and team are professional, and they know what to do in case someone in the group gets sick during the trek. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit with some medications and oxygen tank, they are well trained to administer it when is necessary. there will also be an emergency horse to take you to the best place where you can recover.
The prices of Ausangate Trek depends on the tour operator, the route, what is included and the group size. At Vidal Expeditions we included everything and our groups are limited to 10 people.
- Ausangate Trek 5 Days: $540 USD
- Ausangate Trek 4 Days: $440 USD
- Ausangate Trek 3 Days: $340 USD
Yes. Trekking poles are always helpful to trekkers, especially if it is raining along the trek. Using walking sticks can help take the pressure off your knees while doing some portions of the trek. Plus, they will help you get up the mountain as well.
All hotels in Cusco have free storage where you can leave your luggage, they also store it if you change hotels after the trek. We also have storage available in the Vidal Expeditions office. Get more information from our office team.
Yes, some campsites along the Ausangate Trek have basic cabins that are used as bathrooms; however, the Vidal Expeditions team will take a portable toilet and tent for you to use along the way if needed.
Of course! You can join this Ausangate trek whenever we have a fixed group departing. To operate this tour, we need a minimum of two people.
The weather in Cusco and the Andes can be unpredictable, even if the forecast says it’s sunny, conditions can change quickly. It is impossible to predict exact conditions for every day of the trek. Historically, April through September is the dry season; November through February is the rainy season; and March and October are bridge months—a mixture of both. But the clouds have not followed these rules in the last few years. Prepare for sun and rain, no matter when you come. As far as temperatures go, that is consistent throughout the year. Mornings and evenings are always cold. Make sure to bring a fleece jacket for the mornings and a down jacket for the evenings.
The hike around Ausangate Mountain is considered one of the most challenging treks in the Andes due to its altitude. That is why we have a short walk on the first day (8 km), second day (about 17 km), a third day (about 16 km), a fourth day (about 12 km), and a last day (around 15 km). However, it can vary according to the hikers, and the guide could decide to hike a longer or shorter distance.
Yes, you can rent some hiking gear from us. During the meeting with your trekking guide, you should tell him what kind of hiking equipment you want to rent from us. We usually rent sleeping bags at -10°C. trekking poles, hiking backpacks
From: USD 540.00 per person
*Sleeping bag -10°C / 14°F for the entire trip: $25USD
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5 Days / 4 Nights AUSANGATE TREK
What's it like
Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights Map
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT AUSANGATE TREK OPERATOR?
At Vidal Expeditions we offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others during the Ausangate Trek.
SMALL GROUPS
Our Ausangate Treks groups are capped at 10 people. Because some experience are too powerful to share with crowds. Move at a meaningful peace, soak in the landscapes that stretch beyond imagination, connect with indigenous Andean culture, and feel the raw energy of the mountains beneath your feet.
DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE
Your adventure starts the moment you step outside your hotel, and ends right where it began. Pick up and drop off included. We handle all the logistics so you can focus entirely on enjoying your journey, not the details. exactly the way it should be.
AUSANGATE & CAMPING FEES INCLUDED
The Ausangate Trek winds through remote indigenous Andean communities, each with their own entry fees. (Entrance and Camping fees included).We cover them all upofront, built into the cost of your excursion. So you arrive with nothing to pay and nothing to worry about.
PORTABLE TOILET
The Ausangate wilderness is breathtaking beacuse it's been cared for. We bring our own private portable toilets, set up at every campsite and meal stop. Keeping the trail clean, the ecosystems intact, and your experience as comfortable as the mountains allow.
EXPERT GUIDES & LOCAL TEAM
Our guides aren't just experts, they're locals. Born and raised in the Andes, they carry deep knowledge of the mountains, the wildlife, and the traditions that have shaped this land for generations. Every guide is WFR-certified, so you're in experienced hands every step of the way.
BEST CAMPING EQUIPMENT
Rest easy knowing your gear is built for the mountains. Our four-season tents are shared by no more than two people of the same gender, giving you genuine privacy and comfort at altitude. Every piece of equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after each excursion, so everything you touch is fresh from the start.
Before you Go
Here is the essential information you need to know before starting the Ausangate 5-Day Trek. Where Nature Meets Spirit.
The landscapes of the Ausangate Trek are among the most dramatic in the Peruvian Andes. As the trail winds around the sacred Ausangate Mountain, hikers pass through glacial valleys, turquoise alpine lakes, and vast high-altitude plains where herds of alpacas and llamas roam freely.
Snow-covered peaks dominate the skyline while colorful mineral mountains create a surreal Andean scenery that changes throughout the trek.
- High Altitude Trek: Ausangate Trek 5-Day is considered one of the highest-altitude treks in the world, as several sections of the route reach elevations above 5,000 meter.
- Physical Demand: The trek involves steep ascents and descents over challenging terrain, so hikers should expect some physical strain.
- Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness can affect hikers on the Ausangate Trek 5 Day, so it is important to acclimatize properly in Cusco before starting the trek and minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
- Weather: Weather in the Ausangate area can be unpredictable, ranging from sunny to cold and rainy. The best time to trek is during the dry season (April to October), though temperatures can still drop significantly, especially at night.
- Camping Area: There are specific camping sites on this trek; However, campsites may be changed depending on the group, weather conditions, or other factors.
- Bathrooms: Facilities on the Ausangate Trek are mostly basic; however, Vidal Expeditions brings portable toilets, which can be set up at each meal and campsite.
- Ausangate Trek Experience: The Ausangate Trek offers an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s majestic Andes. Hike rugged terrain, cross high-altitude passes, and witness stunning glaciers, vibrant lakes, and traditional Andean villages.
The 5-Day Ausangate Trek is a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, adventure, and serenity, making it a must-do for trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
- Stunning Scenery
- Challenging Adventure
- Cultural Immersion
- Rainbow Mountain
- Spiritual Connection
- Less Crowded Route
All information meetings for Ausangate Trek 5-Day are held at our office or in your hotel at 5:00 p.m., the night before the tour begins. If you cannot attend, you must coordinate in previous days of the tour. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
Vidal Expeditions provides complimentary hotel pickup for all Ausangate Hike participants staying within Cusco city center. Our team will collect you directly from your accommodation, ensuring a stress-free start to your adventure.
Pickup Details:- Hotels: Direct pickup from your hotel lobby
- Airbnb/Private Rentals: Please provide your WhatsApp number and exact address during booking
- Pickup Time: Confirmed during your pre-departure briefing (typically 5:00 AM)
- Pickup Area: Cusco city center and nearby districts (Plaza de Armas, San Blas, Wanchaq, Santiago)
Our Ausangate 5-Day Trek group tours bring together travelers of diverse ages, backgrounds, and fitness levels. By joining a group trek, you accept that participants may have different pacing styles, some faster, others slower. Each trekker is free to walk at their own comfortable pace along the route, and our experienced guides support all participants throughout the journey.
While the group may suggest route modifications, your guide has final authority on itinerary changes after consulting all participants. These decisions are based on safety, weather conditions, trail circumstances, and ensuring the best experience for everyone.
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days is considered challenging to difficult, primarily because of the extreme altitude, remote location and cold weather.
Difficulty Rating- High Altitude: Starts at 4,000m, highest peak 5,200m, consistently high
- Long Daily Hikes: Average hike 7 - 8 hours per day
- Weather: Ausangate Trek weather is typically cold and windy, even on sunny days temperatures remain chilly and can drop rapidly throughout the day. Average temperature range from 13º to 18º celsius during the day, and from: 8º to -6º celsius at night.
- Rugged Terrain: The trail crosses rocky terrain, paths, scree, glacial rivers, and snow patches. Uneven footing and slippery surfaces require good balance and sturdy footwear.
- Remote Location: The trek is in a less-traveled part of the Andes, far from villages and medical facilities. Limited infrastructure means you rely on porters, guides, and chefs.
- Total Elevation Gain: 3,500 – 4,000 m (11,500 – 13,100 ft) over the 5 days
Planning your Ausangate 5 Days Trek adventure? Follow these expert recommendations from our experienced guides to ensure you have the best possible experience on your 5-day trek in the Andes.
Best Advice- Acclimatize: Before heading to Ausangate, take 2 to 3 days to acclimate the altitude. Consider hiking Ausangate toward the end of your Peru trip after you have had time to acclimatize.
- Layer Your Clothing: Pack for extreme temperature swings. Bring thermal base layers, insulated jacket, waterproof shell, warm gloves, and hat.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink 3 – 4 liters of water daily. Altitude and exertion dehydrate you faster than you realize. Water alone isn't enough; bring electrolyte powder or tablets to prevent muscle cramping.
- Walk Slowly (Pole Pole): Maintain a steady, slow pace. The goal is to finish, not to race. Let your body adjust to the altitude.
- Use Packing List: Use the packing list for trekkers to make sure you have everything you need without going over the weight limit.
- Train Before You Go: Build cardiovascular endurance with hiking, running, or stair climbing. Start training 2-3 months before your trip.
- Choose a Reputable Tour Operator: Select an experienced company with good reviews, proper safety equipment, and knowledgeable guides. This trek is too remote for solo attempts.
- Contact Vidal Expeditions: Contact with Vidal Expeditions a few weeks before your trek to make sure everything is ready for your adventure in Ausangate.
For the 5-Day Ausangatre Trek, you only need a small daypack (20-30L). We will provide you with a duffel bag for your extra items (extra clothes, sleeping bag, etc.) that will be transported by our horses. Your extra luggage can be safely stored for FREE at:
- Hotel: Your Cusco hotel (most hotels offer free storage for guests) even if you are not staying at the same hotel after the trip.
- Vidal Expeditions Office: Our Vidal Expeditions office (free for all clients).
Why Travel with Vidal Expeditions
Trekking in the Ausangate area with Vidal Expeditions offers more authentic experiences while supporting local families. Our main goal is to support and involve local families in the tourism activity. Currently, we work with three indigenous families from Pacchanta, Upis, and Sorapata who are part of our trekking team and support each of our groups. Horse drivers, personal assistants, and chefs are from the Ausangate area. We guarantee that by hiking with us, your money helps support local families and improve their livelihoods.
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What Our Clients Say
We take great pride in taking care of our guests
Vidal Expeditions has received excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and Trustpilot about our authentic experience and top-notch service along the Ausangate Trek in Peru. Rated 5/5 based on 74 reviews. Thank you for trusting and choosing the best local tour operator in Cusco.