Ausangate Trek Packing List

Essential packing list for The Ausangate Trek Peru.

   

• Toothbrush & Toothpaste: Bring your personal toothbrush and toothpaste to maintain oral hygiene during the trek.
• Small towel: A small to medium sized hiking towel can come in great use. Life Ventures or Discovery provide good, quick-drying trekking towels
• Waterproof Ziplock Bags: These come in handy for storing important / valuable items like your money, a passport and electrical equipment.
• Wet Wipes: Wet wipes are essential for staying clean when showers are unavailable. Use them to freshen up after the hike.
• Sunscreen: Sunscreen is crucial at high altitude where UV exposure is stronger. Apply regularly to protect your skin from sunburn during long hiking days on the Ausangate Trek.
• Hand Sanitizer; Hand sanitizer helps maintain hygiene when water is limited. Use it before meals and after using facilities to prevent illness and stay healthy during your Ausangate Tour.
• Toilet Paper: Toilet paper is essential as it is not always provided along the Ausangate hike. Carry enough for personal use and store it in a waterproof bag.
• Blister Plasters: The dreaded blisters! We recommend taking complete blister plasters.

 

• Beanie: A warm beanie keeps your head insulated during cold mornings and nights.
• Cap or hat: A cap or hat protects your face from sun exposure during long hikes.
• Pair of Gloves: A pair of gloves keeps hands warm and protected from cold wind.
• Sneakers or Sandals: Sneakers or sandals help your feet relax comfortably at camp after hiking.
• Hiking socks:Hiking socks reduce friction, prevent blisters, and keep feet dry and comfortable.
• Rain Poncho: A rain poncho protects you and your gear from unexpected rain showers.
• Extra Cash: Extra cash is useful for tips, emergencies, and small purchases along route.

 

When you book your Ausangate trek with Vidal Expeditions, most logistics and essential equipment are fully organized for you. This allows you to focus on enjoying the experience while we handle permits, meals, camping gear, and support along the trail.

 

Included in Your Ausangate Trek Experience

• Official Ausangate Entrance: We include the entrance fee to Ausangate park.
• All camping fees: Vidal Expeditions includes all camping fees during your Ausangate Trek.
• Professional Tour Guide: Experienced local guide provides safety, support, and detailed insights throughout the trek.
• Transportation: All transfers are included, from Cusco to the trailhead and return after your Ausangate visit.
• Camping Equipment: High-quality tents, sleeping mats, and dining equipment are provided for comfort during the trek.
• Horses & Support Team: Horses will carry camping gear, food, and part of your personal belongings, allowing you to hike with a lighter backpack.
• Meals & Snacks: Freshly prepared meals, snacks, and hot drinks are included to keep your energy levels high.
• Water: We will support your hike providing water from the first lunsh until the last lunch.
• Cook & Kitchen Equipment: A professional trekking chef prepares nutritious meals even in remote mountain locations.
• Pre-Trek Briefing: A full briefing is provided before your hike with itinerary details, packing tips, and important information.
• Safety Equipment: Guides carry first aid kits and emergency oxygen for your safety at high altitude.

 

What You Need to Bring

While we provide most of the equipment, you will need to bring personal items such as clothing, toiletries, a daypack, and any additional gear listed in this packing guide.

 

Common Packing Mistakes on Ausangate Trek

Packing correctly for Ausangate Trek can make the difference between an enjoyable trek and an uncomfortable experience. Avoid these common mistakes to stay comfortable, safe, and fully prepared during your hike to Machu Picchu.

 

• Overpacking: Bringing too many items will make your backpack heavy and difficult to carry. Remember that horses have weight limits, so pack only essentials and keep your load light.
 
• Wearing New or Wrong Shoes: Hiking with new or improper footwear can cause blisters and discomfort. Always use well-broken-in hiking boots with good support and grip for uneven terrain.
 
• Not Bringing Rain Gear: Weather in the Andes is unpredictable. Without a waterproof jacket or poncho, you risk getting wet, cold, and uncomfortable during the trek.
 
• Ignoring Layering: Temperatures change drastically from day to night. Not packing proper layers can leave you too cold in the morning and too hot during the day.
 
• Underestimating the Sun: High altitude means stronger UV exposure. Forgetting sunscreen, sunglasses, or a hat can lead to sunburn and dehydration.
 
• Not Packing Enough Water or Snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is essential. Bring a reusable water bottle and snacks to maintain energy levels during long hiking days.
 
• Forgetting Personal Essentials: Items like toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a small first aid kit are often overlooked but very important on the trail.

 

Frequently Asked Questions Ausangate Hike

How cold does it get on the Ausangate Trek?

Temperatures can drop well below freezing at night, reaching -10°C to -15°C. Pack thermal base layers, a fleece jacket, and a sleeping bag rated for at least -15°C.

 

What type of sleeping bag do I need for Ausangate?

A four-season sleeping bag rated for -15°C is essential, as nights at high altitude can be extremely cold, especially near the mountain passes.

 

Do I need trekking poles for the Ausangate Trek?

Yes, trekking poles are highly recommended for steep ascents, high-altitude passes, and rocky descents, helping reduce knee strain and improve stability on the trail.

 

What clothing should I bring for the Ausangate Trek?

Bring moisture-wicking base layers, fleece mid-layers, a waterproof outer shell, warm hat, gloves, buff, and thermal socks to handle unpredictable Andean weather conditions..

 

Should I bring a rain jacket for Ausangate?

Absolutely. Weather in the Andes changes rapidly. A lightweight, waterproof rain jacket and rain cover for your backpack are must-have items on the trail.

 

Can I rent gear for the Ausangate Trek in Cusco?

Yes, most trekking gear including sleeping bags, trekking poles, and thermal clothing can be rented affordably in Cusco before starting your Ausangate adventure.

 

How heavy should my backpack be for Ausangate?

Keep your daypack between 8–12 kg. Horses or mules are typically available to carry heavier gear, allowing you to hike more comfortably at high altitude.

 

Do I need sunscreen for the Ausangate Trek?

es, UV radiation is extremely strong at high altitude. Pack SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV-protective sunglasses, and a wide-brim hat to protect against sunburn.

 

Is a first aid kit necessary for the Ausangate Trek?

Yes, always carry a basic first aid kit including blister plasters, pain relievers, altitude sickness tablets, rehydration salts, and any personal prescription medications..

 

Is there bathrooms along the route on Ausangate Trek?

Bathroom facilities on the Ausangate Trek are very basic and limited. However, Vidal Expeditions teams will carry portable toilets for your trek, it will be set up in each lunch spots and camp.

"Pack smart, pack light and pack right"