Ausangate Trek + Rainbow Mountain 6 Days

Lace up your hiking boots and embark on a captivating 6-day trek through the Andes, where the Ausangate Mountain and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain await your discovery.

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the Andes with the Ausangate Trek + Rainbow Mountain 6 Days. This immersive trek showcases the region’s breathtaking landscapes, including the majestic Ausangate Mountain and the vibrant Rainbow Mountain. Led by experienced guides, you’ll explore picturesque terrains, interact with local Quechua communities, and savor delicious meals. Get ready to be captivated by the serene glacial lakes and awe-inspiring peaks that dot the expansive Andean sky. What lies in store for you on this unforgettable adventure?

Key Points

  • A 6-day trekking adventure through the Andes, including a visit to the iconic Rainbow Mountain.
  • The trek is priced from $776 per person and can accommodate up to 15 participants.
  • The itinerary highlights include overnight stays at scenic glacial lakes and a visit to the natural hot springs in Pacchanta.
  • The trek includes professional guides, camping equipment, transportation, and support staff to ensure a comfortable and memorable experience.
  • Participants can enjoy diverse geological formations, snow-capped peaks, and opportunities to interact with local Quechua communities.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Trek Overview

The Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain tour is a 6-day adventure that takes trekkers on a captivating journey through the Andes.

Priced from $776 per person, the trek accommodates up to 15 participants and offers tours in Spanish and English.

Travelers can take advantage of the flexible booking policy, which allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The package also includes transportation, professional guides, camping equipment, and support staff to ensure a seamless and safe experience.

This trek promises to immerse adventurers in stunning natural landscapes, from lagoons to mountains, including the iconic Rainbow Mountain.

Itinerary Highlights

The itinerary for the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain 6-day adventure starts with a breakfast at Upis on Day 1, followed by an overnight stay at the Wayna Ausangate Cocha Lagoon.

On Day 2, hikers reach the Abra Arapa and camp at Hatun Pucacocha. The trek continues to Anantapata on Day 3, descending to Surinecocha for camping.

Hikers reach Abra Arapa and camp at Hatun Pucacocha on Day 2, then trek continues to Anantapata on Day 3, descending to Surinecocha for camping.

Day 4 includes a visit to the iconic Rainbow Mountain, with an overnight at Ausangate Cocha. The group ascends to Abra Palomani on Day 5, camping at Sorapata.

The final day involves a hike to Abra Jampa and a relaxing visit to the Pacchanta hot springs before returning to Cusco.

Scenery and Landscapes

Incredible natural landscapes, lagoons, and mountains await adventurers on the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain expedition. Majestic Ausangate Mountain, standing tall at 20,945 feet, dominates the scenery. Tranquil glacial lakes, such as Hatun Pucacocha and Surinecocha, offer mirrored reflections of the surrounding peaks. The highlight is undoubtedly the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, where striations of mineral deposits create a colorful display. Explore this natural wonder through a scenic hike and be amazed by the diverse geological formations.

| Landscape | Elevation | Key Features |

| — | — | — |

| Ausangate Mountain | 20,945 ft | Majestic peak |

| Hatun Pucacocha | – | Glacial lake |

| Rainbow Mountain | – | Vibrant colors |

Daily Activities

Although each day of the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain expedition has its own unique challenges and discoveries, adventurers can look forward to a diverse range of activities throughout the 6-day journey.

Highlights include:

  • Hiking through picturesque landscapes, including glacial lakes, snow-capped peaks, and the iconic Rainbow Mountain.

  • Exploring the night sky and learning about the constellations visible from the remote campsites.

  • Relaxing in the natural hot springs at Pacchanta, a perfect way to soothe tired muscles after long days of trekking.

  • Interacting with local Quechua communities and learning about their traditional way of life.

  • Enjoying delicious, locally-sourced meals prepared by the expedition’s experienced culinary team.

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Dining and Cuisine

As an integral part of the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain expedition, the culinary experience delights participants with a range of wholesome, locally-sourced meals. The menu features a variety of Peruvian and international dishes, catering to diverse dietary needs. Breakfasts typically include a selection of breads, eggs, fruits, and hot beverages, while lunches and dinners showcase traditional Andean ingredients like quinoa, potatoes, and alpaca. The camp kitchen staff ensures each meal is freshly prepared and nutritious, providing the necessary fuel for the day’s activities.

| Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner |

| — | — | — |

| Breads, eggs, fruits, hot drinks | Quinoa dishes, potatoes, salads | Traditional Andean stews, alpaca |

| Energizing local ingredients | Hearty and satisfying meals | Warm, comforting dishes |

| Freshly prepared in the camp | Tailored to dietary requirements | Shared in the communal dining tent |

Included Services and Gear

To ensure a seamless and well-equipped trek, the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain package includes a comprehensive range of services and gear.

Travelers can rely on:

  • Professional guides fluent in English and Spanish, who’ll lead the way and share their expertise.

  • Camping equipment, including tents, inflatable mats, a dining tent, and kitchen gear, for a comfortable outdoor experience.

  • Muleteers and mules to transport food, equipment, and personal luggage (up to 7 kg per person).

  • A first-aid kit and oxygen supply for peace of mind.

  • Convenient transportation from Cusco to the starting point and back.

Additional Options and Considerations

Travelers can enhance their Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain experience by opting for additional gear rentals.

For $30, they can rent a high-quality sleeping bag to stay warm during chilly nights. Trekking poles are also available for $20, providing extra stability and support on the challenging terrain.

While tips and extra expenses aren’t included in the package, they’re essential to recognize the hard work of local guides, muleteers, and support staff.

Meeting Point and Directions

The meeting point for the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain tour is conveniently located and easy to find. The instructions are:

  • The meeting point is the tourist office in central Cusco, which is open daily and easily accessible.

  • Arrive at the office 15 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth start to the adventure.

  • Look for the tour guide holding a sign with the tour name or your booking details to identify the correct group.

  • The guide will provide all necessary information and equipment before departing for the trailhead.

  • Transportation is provided from the meeting point to the starting point of the trek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for This Trek?

The trek has no minimum age requirement, though it’s recommended for travelers aged 12 and up. Children under 12 may participate with parental discretion, as the trek involves moderate physical activity.

Do I Need Any Special Hiking Permits or Permissions?

No special hiking permits or permissions are required for this trek. The tour operator handles all the necessary paperwork and permits to ensure a smooth and hassle-free trekking experience.

Can I Book This Trek for a Private Group?

Yes, travelers can book the trek as a private group. The tour operator offers this option and can customize the itinerary to suit the group’s preferences. Private group bookings provide a more personalized trekking experience.

What Type of Weather Should I Expect During the Trek?

The weather during the trek can vary considerably. Expect cool to cold temperatures, especially at higher elevations. Hikers should be prepared for potential rain, snow, and strong winds. Checking the forecast before the trek and packing appropriate gear is recommended.

Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Gear?

Yes, the trek includes the services of muleteers and mules to transport food, equipment, and personal luggage (up to 7 kg per person). This allows trekkers to hike without carrying heavy loads.

The Sum Up

This 6-day Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain adventure offers a remarkable opportunity to explore the stunning Peruvian Andes. Travelers will encounter breathtaking landscapes, interact with local communities, and enjoy delicious meals – all while trekking under the expansive Andean sky. With professional guides, camping equipment, and support from muleteers, this immersive experience is priced from $776 per person, making it an accessible way to discover the natural wonders of this remarkable region.

You can check availability for your dates here: