The Ausangate Trek is a captivating 5-day adventure that takes hikers through Peru’s stunning Cusco region. Trekkers will experience majestic mountains, glaciers, and vibrant lagoons while crossing the Palomani Pass and exploring Qampa Pampa and Tinki. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable camping, and delectable local cuisine, this challenging yet rewarding trek is ideal for those with moderate fitness seeking an unforgettable journey through nature. But what makes this trek truly special? Let’s dive in and find out.
Key Points

- The Ausangate Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure through Peru’s Cusco region, featuring breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and lagoons.
- The trek highlights include Palomani Pass, Qampa Pampa, Pacchanta, and Tinki, showcasing visually stunning landscapes and natural wonders.
- Camping equipment and meals are provided, with horses transporting the gear to ensure a comfortable outdoor experience.
- The trek requires a moderate fitness level and is not suitable for travelers with certain medical conditions, such as back problems or pregnancy.
- The trek offers a personalized experience with a maximum group size of 10 participants and knowledgeable guides to lead the way.
Overview of the Ausangate Trek

The Ausangate Trek is a 5-day hiking adventure that takes travelers through the stunning landscapes of Peru’s Cusco region. Rated 100% by previous participants, this trek offers breathtaking views of mountains, glaciers, and lagoons.
Highlights include hikes across the Palomani Pass, Qampa Pampa, Pacchanta, and Tinki. Travelers will enjoy a private tour experience with engaging commentary from knowledgeable guides.
The trek includes camping equipment, meals, and transportation of luggage by horses. While a moderate fitness level is required, the trek isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.
Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Cusco
Highlights of the Trek
Highlights of the trek include hikes through visually stunning landscapes.
Trekkers will pass over Palomani Pass, offering breathtaking views of the Ausangate massif. The trail then leads to Qampa Pampa, a high-altitude plain home to herds of grazing alpacas.
Trekkers will be awestruck by the breathtaking views of the Ausangate massif from Palomani Pass, followed by the high-altitude Qampa Pampa dotted with grazing alpacas.
Continuing on, hikers will reach the village of Pacchanta, where natural hot springs provide a chance to relax. The final day’s hike takes trekkers through the scenic Tinki valley.
Throughout the journey, travelers will be captivated by the dramatic mountain vistas, pristine glacial lakes, and diverse Andean wildlife.
The private tour experience and knowledgeable guide enhance the overall adventure.
Camping Equipment and Meals

The tour provider supplies all the necessary camping equipment for the trek, ensuring a comfortable outdoor experience.
Travelers will be provided with spacious tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads. Meals are also included, with 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners served throughout the 5-day journey.
The meals feature a mix of local Peruvian cuisine and Western-style dishes, catering to various dietary needs. Hearty and nutritious, the meals will fuel hikers as they navigate the stunning landscapes of the Ausangate region.
Horses are also available to transport the camping equipment, allowing travelers to focus on the trekking experience.
Meeting and Pickup Details

The tour begins with an early pickup time of 5:00 am from travelers’ accommodations in Cusco.
The night before the trek, the tour company holds a briefing to discuss the pickup details. This gives travelers a chance to ask any last-minute questions.
The group size is capped at 10 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.
A small group size of up to 10 participants ensures a more personalized Ausangate trekking experience.
This early start allows the trekkers to make the most of the day’s activities before setting up camp in the evening.
The pickup process is efficient, getting the group on the road and ready to embark on the 5-day Ausangate adventure.
Physical Requirements and Suitability

A moderate fitness level is required for the Ausangate Trek. The trek involves long and strenuous hikes through mountain terrain, so participants should be able to walk for several hours a day.
The trek isn’t suitable for travelers with back problems, pregnant women, or individuals with heart conditions or other serious medical issues. These limitations are in place for the safety and comfort of all trekkers.
Those unsure of their fitness level should consult a medical professional before booking the tour. The trek offers a challenging yet rewarding experience for those physically prepared for the demands of the trail.
Love being outdoors? Check out these other hiking spots we've covered in Cusco
Booking Flexibility and Payment Options

Though the Ausangate Trek may require a moderate fitness level, the tour operator offers flexible booking options to accommodate travelers.
Firstly, they provide free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts, allowing for last-minute changes.
Secondly, they offer a "Reserve Now and Pay Later" option, which gives travelers the flexibility to secure their spot without paying the full amount upfront.
Lastly, the tour is priced at a reasonable $680.00 per person, making it accessible to a wider range of budgets.
These booking policies ensure a seamless and stress-free planning process for the Ausangate Trek.
Pricing Information

Priced at $680.00 per person, the Ausangate Trek offers a competitive rate for the 5-day adventure.
The tour includes camping equipment, meals, a sleeping bag, and horse transport for equipment. Plus, the entry fee and gratuities are covered in the cost.
With a maximum group size of 10 travelers, the private tour experience ensures personalized attention from the guide.
The tour’s flexible booking policy, which allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, further enhances the value proposition.
Traveler Reviews and Recommendations

With over 60 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, the Ausangate Trek has earned a reputation for exceeding travelers’ expectations.
Reviewers consistently praise the trek’s stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and seamless organization. The trek’s Badge of Excellence further solidifies its quality.
The trek’s stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and seamless organization consistently earn praise, further solidified by its Badge of Excellence.
Notable highlights from traveler reviews include:
-
"The views of the snow-capped Ausangate mountain were breathtaking."
-
"Our guide’s engaging commentary brought the history and culture of the region to life."
-
"The private tour experience allowed us to immerse ourselves in the environment without crowds."
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Possible to See the Ausangate Mountain up Close?
Yes, the Ausangate Trek allows travelers to get up close views of the majestic Ausangate mountain. The 5-day hike takes hikers through stunning landscapes, including glaciers and lagoons, providing ample opportunities to admire this iconic Peruvian peak.
How Difficult Is the Palomani Pass Crossing?
The Palomani Pass crossing is moderately challenging, requiring a good level of fitness and proper acclimatization. Hikers will need to ascend and descend steep terrain at high altitudes, but the trail is well-maintained and the views along the way are stunning.
Can I Request Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meals?
The tour provider offers a variety of meal options, including vegetarian and special dietary requirements. Travelers should notify the provider of any dietary needs when booking the trek so they can accommodate them during the journey.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Trek?
The trek doesn’t have any specific age restrictions, but it’s recommended for travelers with a moderate fitness level. Children and older adults should consult with the tour provider to ensure the trek is suitable for their abilities.
Can I Store My Luggage During the Trek?
The tour operator provides storage for travelers’ luggage during the trek. Participants can leave any unneeded items at the tour’s starting point and retrieve them upon their return. This service is included in the tour package.
The Sum Up
The Ausangate Trek offers an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable camping, and delicious local cuisine, this 5-day hike provides a challenging yet rewarding experience for those seeking an adventure in nature. Travelers with moderate fitness levels can expect breathtaking vistas, including majestic mountains and vibrant lagoons, making it a must-do for anyone exploring the Cusco region.
More VIP Experiences in Cusco
- Cusco: Ayahuasca Retreat+5 Ancestral Techniques,5 Days (VIP)
- Cusco: Ayahuasca Retreat, 5 Days (Vip Package)
- Wachuma (San Pedro) and Ayahuasca Retreat 4D – Private VIP
- Cusco:Ayahuasca Retreat+5 Ancestral Techniques, 3 Days (VIP)
- Cusco:2d Ayahuasca Retreat+5 Ancestral Techniques-Vip Packag
- Wachuma Retreat + Ayahuasca+5 Ancestral Techniques, 2D (VIP)
More Tours in Cusco
- Peru & Bolivia Tour Package: 13 Days
- Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
More Tour Reviews in Cusco
Still browsing? Here are more Cusco experiences we've covered recently
- Cusco: 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Full Day
- Peru & Bolivia Tour Package: 13 Days
- South 12 Days: Ica-Arequipa-Puno-Cusco 4 Star Hotel.
- Andean Inca Marriage 6 Days – Shared
- Peru and Bolivia 16 Days 15 Nights
- Andean Inca Wedding 6 Days Basic
- Extraordinary Perú 13D | Huacachina,Uros,Machu Picchu |
- From Cusco: 4 Days Trekking to Choquequirao
- Adventure 13D in Peru and Bolivia – Machu Picchu |Hotel☆☆☆☆|
- Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Tour 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
- From Cusco | Manu Jungle Excursion 7D/6N | Wonders of Manu
