Ausangate Trek 3 Days

The Ausangate Trek is a captivating 3-day adventure into the rugged Vilcanota Mountain Range near Cusco. Trekkers can expect to cross high passes, explore stunning glacial lakes, and even visit the iconic Rainbow Mountain during this limited-group journey. With professional guides, quality gear, and dedicated support staff, adventurers can fully enjoy the Andean landscapes while ensuring their safety and comfort. For those seeking an unforgettable trekking experience amidst some of Peru’s most breathtaking scenery, the Ausangate Trek is an opportunity not to be missed.

Key Points

• The Ausangate Trek is a 3-day adventure through the Vilcanota Mountain Range, covering a distance of approximately 30 km.
• The trek begins at Upis near Cusco and includes highlights such as crossing the Paso de Arapa pass at 5,000m and visiting four lakes on Day 1.
• On Day 2, the trek climbs the Puca Cocha pass, descends to Ananta, and hikes over the Warmisaya pass to reach the Surinacocha lagoon.
• The final day of the trek includes a visit to the rainbow mountain before returning to Cusco.
• The trek is accompanied by a professional bilingual guide, and includes transportation, camping gear, and support staff, such as a cook and horseman.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trek Overview and Details

The Ausangate Trek is a 3-day adventure that takes trekkers through the stunning Vilcanota Mountain Range.

Priced from $572 per person, this trek is limited to 9 participants and available in English and Spanish.

Trekkers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they can reserve their spot without paying today.

The trek covers high mountain passes, alpine lakes, and the famous Rainbow Mountain, offering breathtaking Andean scenery.

Inclusions feature private transportation, camping equipment, meals, and an expert bilingual guide, making this an all-inclusive high-altitude experience.

Trek Route and Highlights

After an early departure from Cusco, the Ausangate Trek passes through Ocongate and Tinque before reaching the starting point of Upis.

On the first day, the trek crosses the high Paso de Arapa at 5,000m, then hikes past four lakes in the Andean scenery.

The second day features a climb to Puca Cocha pass for views of Ausangate, a descent to Ananta, and a hike over the Warmisaya pass to see the Red Valley and seven-colored mountain, ending at the Surinacocha lagoon.

The final day includes a visit to the stunning rainbow mountain before returning to Cusco.

Inclusions

The Ausangate Trek package includes private transport from the hotel to Upis and back from the rainbow mountain.

Plus, the package covers entrance fees to Ausangate park, Red Valley, and rainbow mountain.

Travelers will be accompanied by a professional bilingual guide fluent in Spanish and English or French.

The trek offers high-quality camping equipment, including:

1. Professional tents, mattresses, eating tent, and bathroom tent.

2. A cook, cooking equipment, horseman, and mules for participants and camping gear.

3. An emergency horse, first-aid kit, oxygen bottle, and extra fleece blankets.

Sleeping bag rental is available for an additional $20.

Trekking Experience and Environment

Trekking along the Ausangate circuit allows adventurers to witness the grandeur of the Vilcanota Mountain Range.

Hikers will be awestruck by the imposing presence of Ausangate peak, the second-highest mountain in the Cusco region.

The trek also offers the chance to admire the tranquil beauty of Surinacocha lagoon, where the serene waters reflect the surrounding peaks and valleys.

On top of that, the trek features a hike past four mesmerizing lakes and the renowned rainbow mountain, providing a truly captivating and unforgettable trekking experience amidst the Andean landscapes.

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Restrictions

Although the Ausangate trek offers an unforgettable adventure, it may not be suitable for everyone.

The trek isn’t recommended for:

1. Pregnant women, as the high-altitude and strenuous nature of the hike can be risky.

2. Individuals with a history of altitude sickness, as the trek reaches elevations over 5,000 meters.

3. People over the age of 70 or 95, as the physical demands may be too challenging for some older trekkers.

Prospective participants should carefully consider their physical abilities and health conditions before embarking on this challenging but rewarding Andean adventure.

What to Expect on the Trek

As participants embark on the Ausangate trek, they’ll encounter a diverse range of landscapes and terrain. The first day challenges them to cross the 5,000m Paso de Arapa, rewarding them with stunning vistas of four serene lakes.

Day two features the dramatic Puca Cocha pass and Ausangate’s majestic peak, followed by a descent into the otherworldly Red Valley and Surinacocha lagoon.

On the final day, trekkers enjoy a relaxed hike to Surina mountain before an early visit to the iconic rainbow mountain. Throughout, they’ll marvel at the grandeur of the Vilcanota Range and Andean scenery.

Preparing for the Ausangate Trek

To ensure a safe and comfortable Ausangate trek, travelers must properly prepare. This starts with packing the right gear – warm layers, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, and a good backpack.

Staying hydrated and acclimatizing to the high altitude are also crucial. Trekkers should drink plenty of water, eat nutritious meals, and take time to rest and acclimate before the trek.

Staying hydrated and acclimatizing to the high altitude are crucial. Trekkers should drink water, eat well, and rest before the trek.

Finally, being in good physical shape is recommended, as the Ausangate trek involves several long, strenuous days of hiking.

With the right preparation, adventurers can fully enjoy the stunning Andean scenery.

Booking and Additional Information

To book the Ausangate trek, travelers can reserve their spot directly through the tour operator’s website or by contacting their sales team. The trek offers a range of inclusions, from private transportation to high-quality camping equipment and a professional bilingual guide. Certain restrictions apply, such as not being suitable for pregnant women, individuals with altitude sickness, or people over 95 or 70 years old. Additional details on the booking process and trek specifications are provided in the table below:

| Detail | Information |

| — | — |

| Duration | 3 days |

| Price | From $572.00 per person |

| Languages | English, Spanish |

| Group Size | Limited to 9 participants |

| Cancellation Policy | Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance |

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Pet on the Trek?

Sorry, pets are not allowed on this trek. For the safety and comfort of all participants, only service animals are permitted. The trek takes place in a remote, high-altitude environment that’s not suitable for pets.

Is There an Option to Carry My Own Luggage?

Yes, participants can carry their own luggage on the trek. However, the trek provides mules to carry up to 7kg per person, so travelers don’t have to carry their full packs.

Can I Add Extra Activities During the Trek?

Yes, you can add extra activities during the trek, such as photography tours or cultural visits, though these may incur additional costs. The tour operator can provide more details on customizing your itinerary.

Will There Be Internet Access During the Trek?

There’s no internet access during the trek. You’ll be trekking through remote Andean landscapes, so the focus is on enjoying nature and disconnecting from technology. Bring a power bank if you need to charge your devices.

How Much Spending Money Should I Bring?

Spending money is recommended for optional gear rental, tips, and any extra snacks or drinks. Plan to bring around $50-$100 per person, depending on your personal preferences and needs during the 3-day trek.

The Sum Up

The Ausangate Trek offers an unforgettable 3-day adventure through the stunning Vilcanota Mountain Range. With professional guides, quality gear, and limited group sizes, trekkers can enjoy the breathtaking Andean landscapes while ensuring their safety and comfort. Whether crossing high passes, exploring serene lakes, or witnessing the iconic rainbow mountain, this trek promises an intimate and thrilling experience for all who embark on it.

You can check availability for your dates here: