Discover the Ausangate Region and imposing mountains
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most spectacular high-altitude routes in the Peruvian Andes. It circles Ausangate mountain, the tallest peak in the Cusco region at 6,384 m (20,945 ft), and sits far from the crowds of the Salkantay Trek.
Over 7 days ausangate trek, you’ll cross high mountain passes above 5,000 m, camp beside turquoise glacial lakes, and walk through remote Quechua herding communities where alpacas and llamas still graze the highlands. The route also includes three of the Andes most striking landscapes: Ausangate 7 Lakes, the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), with its mineral-striped slopes, and the Red Valley, a dramatic landscape of deep red earth and rock.
Our longer 7-day itinerary lets you reach them at a gentler pace than the common one-day trips, which gives you more time to acclimatize and fewer people on the trail.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Packing List
- Faqs
- Pricing
- Enquire Now
Why Choose the Ausangate Trek 7 Days in Peru?
If you want the Andes at their wildest, without the permits, queues, and crowded campsites of the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek is the answer. Here’s why it stands out.
- Fewer crowds, more wilderness: Ausangate sees a fraction of the visitors that Machu Picchu routes do. For most of the circuit you’ll share the trail with alpacas, llamas, and the occasional herder rather than long lines of trekkers.
- Rainbow Mountain without the rush: Most visitors see Vinicunca on a one-day trip, arriving at the same time as everyone else. On this 7-day trek, you reach it on foot as part of a longer journey, with better acclimatization and a much quieter experience.
- Remarkable variety in one trek: In a single route you’ll see turquoise glacial lakes, hanging glaciers, snow-capped peaks, red-earth valleys, and mineral-striped mountains. Few treks in Peru pack this much contrast into one circuit.
- Time to acclimatize: Seven days lets you climb gradually rather than rushing to high passes. A slower pace improves comfort, safety, and your chances of enjoying the highest sections instead of just enduring them.
- Living Quechua culture: The route passes through remote highland communities where traditional herding life continues much as it has for generations. It’s a cultural experience as much as a scenic one.
- A guided, fully supported experience: With an experienced local guide, cook, and pack animals carrying the heavy gear, you can focus on the trail instead of logistics.
Ausangate 7 Days Trek Highlights
Highlights: Singrenacocha, 7 Lakes, Ausangate Mountain, Rainbow Mountain, Red ValleyHike Distance: 71 km / 44 mi
Consideration: Acclimatization is essential
Season: April to November
Itinerary at a Glance
- Day01
Cusco - Tinke - Singrenacocha
Introducing Ausangate, the most Sacred Mountain in the Andes of Peru. -
Day02
Singrenacocha - Armaccocha
Be amazed with the stunning alpine lakes. -
Day03
Armaccocha - Pacchanta
Trek through herds of alpacas and soak in the thermal baths. -
Day04
Pacchanta - Ausangate 7 Lakes - Qampa Pass - Sorapata
Discover the 7 Lakes and trek through snowy peaks. -
Day05
Sorapata - Palomani Pass - Ausangate Qocha
Appreciate the highest glacier; Ausangate in Cusco. -
Day06
Ausangate Qocha - Puca Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya - Suriniqocha
Enjoy a dramatic view of lakes and snowy peaks. -
Day07
Suriniqocha - Rainbow Mountain - Red Valley - Cusco
Visit the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley before the crowds
DETAILED 7-DAY AUSANGATE ITINERARY
Cusco - Tinke - Singrenacocha
Highlight of the day: Get used to the altitude, hike gently in front of Ausangate Mountain, and be impressed with the Andes Mountain landscapes.
Campsite Elevation: 4,400meters / 14,435 feet
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
Adventure: Hiking in the high Andes Mountain
The tour will start with the pick up from your hotel located in Cusco, we then drive for three hours in our private transportation to the town of Yanacancha 4,100masl. / 13,451ft. here we will start our hike, our chef will prepare the breakfast while you repack your items.
We'll meet with our team as the horsemen and his assistant, you will enjoy your light breakfats in the high Andes mountains, surrounding by herds of alpacas. From here we will begin the hike on a path used by locals, this will take about two hours hiking to reach the most beautiful lake in the area, Singrenacocha whit the mountains in the brackground create stunning landscapes.
Our camp sits next to this lake, at 4,400m / 14,435 ft. Here you will enjoy our lunch and rest during the afternoon, you guide will intruduce our hiking team, also have the option to walk around the lake. We will camp here for the night.
Singrenacocha - Armaccocha
Highlight of the day: Walk around the Singrenacocha, enjoy the stunning views and feel the peaceful area.
Campsite Elevation: 4,530 meters / 14,862 feet
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Feel the energy of Ausangate mountain
After the delicious breakfast prepared by our Andean chef, we begin our hike ascending gradually to the first pass Singrena Pass 4,780 meters, from here you will enjoy breathtaking vistas of the turquoise lake, stunning glaciers and all Vilcanota mountain range. Accompanied by our experienced guide, we will hike along scenic mountain trails surrounded by towering peaks, rolling hills, and impressive views of the Andes.
Along the way, we will discover the beautiful Armaccocha area, where the striking colors of the high-altitude lakes contrast with the rugged mountain terrain. We will take time to appreciate the scenery, capture photographs, and learn about the natural environment and local Andean traditions.
As we continue toward our next campsite, you will experience the tranquility of this less-traveled region, far from the crowds of more popular trekking routes. Upon arrival, we will settle into camp, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, and rest beneath the spectacular Andean sky in preparation for the following day's adventure.
Armaccocha - Pacchanta
Highlight of the day: Hike through herds of alpacas, explore Pacchanta town and relax in the hot spring.
Campsite Elevation: 4,300 meters / 14,107feet
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
After breakfast at our campsite near Armaccocha, we will continue our journey descending through the spectacular valley toward Pacchanta village. Along the trail, we will enjoy panoramic views of rolling Andean hills, and pristine mountain lakes while experiencing the peaceful atmosphere of this remote part of Peru.
As we descend toward Pacchanta, we will pass through traditional Andean landscapes where local communities maintain their ancestral customs and llamas and alpacas graze across the high-altitude pastures. Our guide will share insights into local life and the cultural significance of the surrounding mountains.
Upon arriving in Pacchanta, you will have the opportunity to relax in its natural hot springs, enjoying soothing thermal waters with beautiful views of Ausangate Mountain. After a rewarding day of hiking, we will settle into our campsite, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner, and rest for the next stage of our adventure.
Pacchanta - Ausangate 7 Lakes - Qampa Pass - Sorapata
Highlight of the day: Explore the spectacular Ausangate Seven Lakes, cross the challenging Qampa Pass, and admire breathtaking views of snowcapped Andean peaks.
Campsite Elevation: 4,580 m / 15,026 ft
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
We will start early with breakfast in Pacchanta before setting out to explore the famous Ausangate Seven Lakes, a collection of beautiful high-altitude lagoons surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Each lake offers unique shades of turquoise, blue, and green, reflecting the incredible beauty of the Vilcanota mountain range. Hike to Pachispata where our team wait for us with the lunch.
After enjoying the lunch and taking photographs, we will continue our trek toward Qampa Pass 5,040 meters (16,540 ft), ascending through rugged Andean terrain with spectacular views of glaciers, rocky slopes, and towering snow-covered peaks. Reaching the pass will be a rewarding moment, offering an unforgettable perspective of the remote Ausangate region.
From Qampa Pass, we will descend along mountain trails toward Sorapata, passing through impressive high-Andean landscapes surrounded by snowy peaks and walk through herds of alpacas. Upon arrival at our campsite, we will enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and rest after this demanding day of adventure.
Sorapata - Palomani Pass - Ausangate Qocha
Highlight of the day: Cross the spectacular Palomani Pass, one of the highest points of the Ausangate Trek, and enjoy breathtaking views of glaciers and snowcapped Andean peaks.
Campsite Elevation: 4,550 m / 14,927 ft
Adventure: Absolutely
This day we will reach the highest pass on this trek;Palomani (5,200 m/17,060 ft). Our team will wake us up with a hot coca or coffee cup, enjoy our breakfast and start our hike. It will take two hours to arrive to the base of Palomani pass, explore the Chocolate lake and start ascending towards Palomani, the ascent takes around an hour.
Enjoy the spectacular scenery surrounding by colorful mountains, snow-capped peaks and breathtaking vistas. From here, we take the path down into the valley after leaving the pass. An attractive lagoon and the glacier may be seen on your left as you descend until Ausangateqocha. Then we hike to where we would have lunch. This spot also is our next camp.
Ausangate Qocha - Puca Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya - Suriniqocha
Highlight of the day: Cross the scenic Puca Pass, capture incredible photos of Puqacocha from above, and enjoy spectacular mountain views on the way to Suriniqocha.
Adventure: Absolutely
We will continue our adventure through the spectacular green valley. We will ascend toward Puca Pass 4,980 meters (16,338 ft), where we can admire sweeping views of rugged mountain peaks, glaciers, and the vast lakes in the base of Ausangate.
From the pass, we will descend toward Anantapata, following mountain trails through remote valleys and open high-altitude terrain. Along the way, our guide will share insights into the region's natural environment and traditional Andean way of life.
We will then continue toward Warmisaya pass 5,000 m (16,404 ft), enjoying impressive views of the surrounding mountains and colorful landscapes. As we make our way to Suriniqocha 4,820 m (15,813 ft), we will see in the distance the Rainbow Mountain scenery that makes this region one of the most memorable areas of the Ausangate Trek.
Enjoy our lunch, after it, you will have the option to hike towards the Rainbow Mountain and enjoy the sunset with vibrant colors that the nature creates in this region. We have dinner in our camp and spend the last night.
Suriniqocha - Rainbow Mountain - Red Valley - Cusco
Highlight of the day: Discover the famous Rainbow Mountain, admire the striking landscapes of the Red Valley, and celebrate the end of your Ausangate Trek adventure.
Adventure: Absolutely
We will begin our final day early with breakfast at our campsite near Suriniqocha before continuing toward the spectacular Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca. Along the way, we will hike through the magnificent landscapes of the Peruvian Andes, surrounded by rolling hills, grazing alpacas, and impressive snowcapped peaks.
Upon reaching Rainbow Mountain, you will have time to admire its remarkable mineral-colored stripes, capture photographs, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. Our guide will explain the geological formations that give this iconic destination its distinctive colors.
Next, we will explore the breathtaking Red Valley, famous for its deep reddish slopes and otherworldly scenery. We will walk through this extraordinary landscape, taking in its dramatic colors and peaceful atmosphere before beginning our return journey.
After completing our visit, we will descend toward the designated transport point, where our vehicle will be waiting to take us back to Cusco. We expect to arrive in the city around 12 to 1 pm, bringing our unforgettable seven-day adventure through the Ausangate region to an end.
Itinerary notes - Ausangate trek (Ausangate Circuit) - 7 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. Each guide has their own preferred route and it might not correspond exactly to the route described here. The Ausangate region is very high, plus you are close to a snow covered massif. Temperatures are cold, and can fall well below freezing in the nights. You should travel well prepared for cold temperatures. Hire/or carry sleeping bags for temperatures less than freezing (minus 15 celsius or more). This region has limited tourist infrastructure and this tour makes use of local facilities. Visitors should be aware that things change, or may not go 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.
WHAT WE INCLUDED IN AUSANGATE TREK 7 DAYS?
At Vidal Expeditions, we are transparent and provide specific details of what is included and excluded from our tours. 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.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Our Team Provides
Pre-departure meeting
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure meeting, where you will meet with your trekking guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Ausangate trek 7 Days 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 six nights of accommodations along the Ausangate trek. with suitable camping equipment to make sure your trek is an experience of a lifetime. Our tents are Mountain Gear or Doite pro Aconcagua for 4 people, which will be shared only with 2 people to ensure your comfort and enough space for your luggage. The same way we include inflatable mattresses for your comfort. There will also be a spacious dining tent for you to enjoy each meal on this tour.
Transportation
Private Transport
We include private transportation for the group during your tour. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the beginning of the trail, and the bus returning 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 7-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 Tent
During our Ausangate trek, 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 training courses every six months on how to assist someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained on how to supply balloon oxygen if someone requires it.
Satellite equipment
Stay connected in remote Andean regions with satellite communication equipment, providing an additional safety measure during emergencies and unexpected situations.
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 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 6 dinners. And of course, we cater to all dietary restrictions. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others—just let us know. 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 camelback that can hold water for hiking for a few hours. We recommend a capacity of 2 liters.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
Sleeping bag
Every trekker along the Ausangate trek needs a proper sleeping bag, which has to be for -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.
Last lunch and dinner
We do not provide last lunch and dinner However, we can stop in some restaurant on the way back to Cusco.
Travel Insurance
We recommend buying travel insurance before leaving your country in case something happens during your visit to Peru.
Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Entrance
We don't include the tickets to the Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley on the last day of this trek.
Tips for our team
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.
AUSANGATE TREK 7 DAYS PACKING LIST
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.
What you need to pack?
Important Items
- Passport
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: Water reservoir like Camelback is encouraged - but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
- Trekking poles
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.)
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
- 1 Warm, down jacket: gets very cold 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 plug in while trekking!
- Large plastic bags: to help organize and keep clean from dirty.
- Sleeping bag: Recommend down bags for -10C at least
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.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AUSANGATE TREK 7 DAYS
The Ausangate trek 7 Days is the ultimate high-altitude trek in the Andes of Peru. It takes travelers to remote areas where seem the time stop to preserve some of the most incredible landscapes, including the Ausangate Mountain, Ausangate 7 Lakes, Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley.
The best months are May to October, during the dry season in the Andes. Days are sunny with clear mountain views, while nights can be very cold.
Accommodation is usually in mountain tents with high-quality camping equipment. Some operators may offer basic lodges or huts in local communities.
Ausangate Trek 7 days starts near to Singrenacocha and ends in the Red Valley, while the 5-day trek is a loop around the Ausangate mountain. Check the map for a better undertanding.
The Ausangate Trek 7 Days is considered as challenging high-altitude trek in fact this reaches altitude of 5,200 meters. It is well recommended to do this trek as the last activity during your journey in Cusco.
Yes, you can join the existing group for this trek. We highly recommend contacting Vidal Expeditions office to see if we have a fixed groups during your travel date.
Our guides always carry oxygen tank and satellite equipment to communicate any amergency situation. All our groups include an emergency horse. It is well recommended to have a few days in Cusco to acclimatate the altitude and avoid any serious complications.
Well, both treks are pretty. What makes the Ausangate trek different from the Salkantay trek, the first one will take you to the most remote area in the Andes, surrounded by huge towering snow mountains where nature has created stunning landscapes that combine lakes, glaciers, green valleys, colored mountains, herds of alpacas, and wonderful local traditions. while Salkantay has so many crowded routes that go to Machu Picchu.
Ausangate Mountain is the highest mountain in Cusco region, at 6,384 meters (20,940 feet) above sea level, and it is the fifth highest mountain in Peru.
Yes, Ausangate Mountain is considered a deity that protects and creates life in the Andes due to the local traditions and energy that can be felt when you are at the bottom. Since the Inca time, people have venerated this mountain, offering different products to appreciate its life creation. Many tourists go there to worship and make some offerings.
Prices depend of the group size. Our base price is $760 USD for groups more than 4 people the price is $760 USD. Rentals may be extra.
Cold, dry and sunny in the day, with freezing nights, though it changes quickly at altitude.
- Daytime: Expect roughly 8 to 12°C at Pacchanta (about 4,300 m), and colder at the passes near 5,000 m. Sun and UV are strong even when it feels cold.
- Nights: Temperatures are around 0 to 2°C at lower camps and below freezing at higher ones such as Ausangate Qocha. One source warns that nights are very cold even in the best months, July and August.
- Dry season (May to October): This is the no-rainfall season, so skies are mostly clear and Ausangate’s peaks are visible. Mornings are usually the clearest.
- Late October to wet season: Late October shows a 15 to 55% daily chance of rain or snow, so expect afternoon clouds and showers. The wet season starts around November, and clouds often hide Ausangate’s peak.
Forecasts at altitude are rough, so check again a day or two before you leave and follow your guide’s advice. If a storm hits, your guide may change the route.
AUSANGATE TREK 7 DAYS PRICE
From: USD 760.00 per person
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7 Days / 6 Nights
AUSANGATE TREK
What's it like
Ausangate Trek 7 Days 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: What to Know About Ausangate Trek Tours
Here is the essential information that you need to consider for Ausangate 7 Day Trek.
The Ausangate 7 Days Trek, is our ultimate multi-day adveneture in the Ausangate area, offering remote Andean landscapes and spectacular mountain scenery. The trek goes through diverse tourist destinations such as the Rainbow Mountain, Ausangate 7 Lakes and Red Valley.
- High Altitude Trek: Ausangate Trek 7 Days is considered one of the highest treks in Peru, as it reaches to 5,200 meters at the highest point.
- Physical Demand: The trek involves steep ascents and descents over challenging terrain, so hikers should expect some physical strain.
- Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness in Ausangate Trek affects more hikers. It's important to acclimatize properly in Cusco before starting the trek to minimize the risk of altitude sickness.
- Weather: Ausangate Trek weather is typically cold and windy, even on sunny days temperatures remain chilly and drop rapidly throughout the day.Average temperature: day: 13º to 18º celcious, night: 8º to -6º celcious
- Camping Area: There are specific camping sites on this trek; however, according to the group, weather conditions, or other factors, it can be modified.
- 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 Ausangate Trek 7 day combines several highlights, from turquoise lakes, cultural immersion, hot spring, local traditions and remote destinations. Perfect for adventure and trekking enthusiasts lovers alike.
- Stunning Scenery
- Challenging Adventure
- Cultural Immersion
- Rainbow Mountain
- Spiritual Connection
- Less Crowded Route
All information meetings for Ausangate Trek 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 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 7 Days is considered challenging to difficult, primarily due to extreme altitude, remote location and cold weather.
Difficulty Rating- High Altitude: Starts at 4,200m, highest peak 5,200m, high
- Long Daily Hikes: Average hike 6 - 7 hours per day
- 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 7 days
Planning your Ausangate 7 Day Trek adventure? Follow these expert recommendations from our experienced guides to ensure you have the best possible experience on your 7-day trek in the Andes.
Best Advice- Acclimatize: Before heading to Ausangate, take 2 to 3 days to acclimate the altitude. Considering hiking Ausangate at the end of your Peru trip.
- 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: Make use of our 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: A few weeks get in contact with Vidal Expeditions to make sure everything is ready for your adventure to Ausangate.
You only need a small daypack (20-30L) for the 7-day trek. We will provide you with a duffel bag for your extra items (extra clothes, sleeping bag, etc.) that will 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).
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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.