Set out on a captivating 2-day trekking adventure to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain. Starting from just $415 per person, this private tour offers an immersive experience amidst the stunning Cusquenian Andes. Hike to impressive altitudes, explore ancient Inca sites, and indulge in delicious meals – all while marveling at the region’s breathtaking landscapes. With professional guides and necessary gear provided, this exhilarating journey promises to leave you in awe of Peru’s natural beauty. But what makes this trek truly remarkable goes beyond the impressive itinerary…

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Key Points

A 2-day private group trekking experience starting from $415 per person, including hotel pickup in Cusco and round-trip transportation.
Explore the breathtaking Cusquenian Andes, featuring the largest tropical glacier in Peru, Ausangate, and the stunning Rainbow Mountain.
Hike to the ancient Inca, Colonial, and Republican bridges, and reach the summits of Quesiuno (4,326m) and Winicunca Pass (5,020m).
Enjoy professional bilingual guidance, meals, camping equipment, and first aid support throughout the trek.
Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance with no upfront payment required.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trek Overview and Pricing

The trek to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain is offered as a 2-day package, with prices starting from $415.00 per person.

This private group experience includes hotel pickup in Cusco, private round-trip transportation, and a professional bilingual guide.

Travelers can conveniently reserve their spot with no upfront payment and enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour covers highlights like Ausangate, Peru’s largest tropical glacier, and an excursion through the Cusquenian Andes, an important site for global warming and glacier melting studies.

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Trek Details and Highlights

This 2-day trek offers an immersive experience, taking adventurers through Peru’s breathtaking Cusquenian Andes.

The journey showcases Ausangate, the largest tropical glacier in Peru, and the renowned Rainbow Mountain. Hikers will be led by knowledgeable, bilingual guides on a private group excursion.

Key highlights include exploring ancient Inca, Colonial, and Republican bridges, ascending to Quesiuno (4,326m), and witnessing the Ausangate glacier up close.

On day two, the trek reaches Winicunca Pass (5,020m) for stunning panoramic views of the Montaña de Colores and Winicunca mountain range before descending with vistas of glacier peaks, lakes, and mountains.

Itinerary Day 1

Pickup in Cusco begins the trek, with participants gathered between 4:30 to 5:00 am.

The journey travels to Checacupe, approximately 2 hours away, where ancient Inca, Colonial, and Republican bridges are visited.

Trekkers then hike to Quesiuno at 4,326 meters. Lunch is enjoyed at the Ausangate viewpoint of Pucacocha.

The afternoon’s hike continues to the Anata camp at 4,885 meters, taking around 3.5 hours.

As the day winds down, participants can enjoy afternoon tea near the Ausangate glacier.

Itinerary Day 2

Early the following morning, participants embark on a hike to the Winicunca Pass, situated at an impressive elevation of 5,020 meters.

The journey offers breathtaking views of the Montaña de Colores and the Winicunca mountain range. The descent provides a scenic panorama of glacier peaks, serene lakes, and majestic mountains.

Transportation is provided for lunch and the return trip to Cusco, concluding the two-day trekking adventure.

Key highlights of Day 2:

Hike to the stunning Winicunca Pass (5,020 masl)
Witness the multicolored Montaña de Colores and Winicunca mountain range
Descend with panoramic views of glaciers, lakes, and mountains

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Inclusions and Additional Information

The tour package includes hotel pickup in Cusco, private round-trip transportation, and a professional bilingual guide.

Meals, including 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, are also provided.

Entrance fees, emergency horse, camping tents, cooking equipment, a first aid kit, and oxygen are all included. Special diets are available upon request.

However, food and beverages not mentioned, sleeping bags (available for rent), and hiking poles (available for rent) are excluded.

Optional items like horse rides and tips for staff are also not included in the base price.

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Ausangate Glacier and Global Warming

Ausangate, Peru’s largest tropical glacier, is an important site for global warming and glacier melting studies. Trekkers on this 2-day excursion can witness the effects of climate change firsthand.

Here are three key reasons why:

The glacier has been retreating at an alarming rate, exposing ancient landscapes and highlighting the urgency of addressing environmental issues.
Melting glaciers impact water sources that local communities depend on, disrupting ecosystems and livelihoods.
Studying Ausangate provides valuable data to better understand the global implications of glacier loss and inform policymakers on mitigation strategies.

Exploring the Cusquenian Andes

As travelers begin their trek through the Cusquenian Andes, they’ll be greeted by a landscape that showcases the region’s rich cultural heritage and geological wonders.

The excursion includes visits to ancient Inca, Colonial, and Republican bridges, offering a glimpse into the area’s diverse history.

Trekkers will hike through stunning mountain scenery, ascending to the Quesiuno viewpoint at 4,326 meters. Along the way, they’ll enjoy lunch at the Ausangate viewpoint, taking in the majestic glacier.

Trekkers will ascend to the Quesiuno viewpoint at 4,326 meters, enjoying lunch with a stunning glacier vista along the way.

The journey continues to the Anata camp, situated at 4,885 meters, where they’ll witness the awe-inspiring Ausangate glacier up close.

Private Group Experience

Though the Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain trek is open to individual travelers, this particular offering is a private group experience.

The benefits of a private group include:

Personalized attention from the guide to address each participant’s needs and interests.
Flexibility to adjust the pace and itinerary to the group’s preferences.
A more intimate and exclusive atmosphere, fostering camaraderie and opportunities for deeper cultural exchange.

This private group trek promises an enriching and customized journey through the stunning Cusquenian Andes, with Ausangate’s glaciers and Rainbow Mountain’s vibrant colors as the breathtaking backdrops.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Private Experience?

The private group experience does not have a minimum group size. The trek can be booked for individuals or groups, allowing flexibility to explore Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain at your own pace.

Are There Any Age or Fitness Level Restrictions for Participants?

There are no age or fitness level restrictions for this trek. The private group experience is suitable for all skill levels, though a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended to fully enjoy the hike to the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain viewpoints.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?

Participants can bring their own food and snacks on the trek. However, the tour includes meals, so bringing extra provisions is generally unnecessary. Guests should check with the tour operator about any restrictions or recommendations regarding personal food items.

Is There an Option to Extend the Trek Beyond 2 Days?

Yes, the trek can be extended beyond 2 days. The tour operator offers longer itineraries that allow hikers to explore the Ausangate region more extensively. Guests can inquire about 3-day or 4-day trek options at the time of booking.

Can I Leave My Luggage in Cusco During the Trek?

Yes, you can leave your luggage in Cusco during the trek. The tour provider offers hotel pickup and drop-off services, allowing you to leave any extra belongings at your Cusco accommodations while you enjoy the 2-day excursion.

The Sum Up

This 2-day private trek to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain offers an unparalleled opportunity to take in the breathtaking landscapes of the Cusquenian Andes. With professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and all necessary gear provided, adventurers can explore ancient Inca sites, witness the grandeur of Ausangate Glacier, and revel in the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, creating unforgettable memories in one of the world’s most stunning natural wonders.