Ausangate Trek 5 Days/4 Nights

Ausangate 5 Days Trek. It is an alternative and challenging hike around the majestic Ausangate mountain (6271 m.a.s.l) southeast of Cusco. Ausangate is one of the most important of the Inca period. For many centuries, the Andean peoples of Peru have maintained various ancestral elements. One area that has seen little change is the Andean community of Ausangate.

The trip will offer experiences that will never be forgotten, to gain insight into the depths of the Peruvian soul and to consider the people who live in the Andes in their natural life.

This Trek is an alternative to the classic Inca Trail. Here the trail is very quiet, you can see a few groups during the trek, Ausangate trek & Rainbow Mountain trek, it is a tour for the body and the spirit.
On this trail you can enjoy the traditions and customs of local people, exchange experiences, and most importantly enjoy your vacation, Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain, is a path that awaits you.

Overview

The Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights is one of the most spectacular and challenging high-altitude adventures in Peru. This remote trekking circuit takes you around the majestic Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m / 20,945 ft), the highest and most sacred peak in the Cusco region. Along the way, hikers experience breathtaking glaciers, turquoise alpine lakes, colorful valleys, natural hot springs, and authentic encounters with traditional Quechua communities.

Unlike more crowded routes such as the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek offers a true wilderness experience. The trail crosses multiple mountain passes above 5,000 meters, providing unparalleled views of the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota Range and some of the most pristine landscapes in the Peruvian Andes.

GROUP SIZE: Ausangate Excursion. Please note that this route is not very popular; it is a private trip. Because few people take this type of trip, we will be completely at your disposal. We are responsible for our groups and our programs: 5-day Ausangate Excursion.
Our company is responsible for sales and operations; this trip is very rarely shared with other travel agencies due to operating costs. The recommended period for this excursion is from April to December.

*Difficulty level depends very much on your fitness and acclimatization

Useful Information - Ausangate 5 Days Trek

Overview - Day by Day.

Itinerary (Ausangate 5 days Trek)

Day 1.- Cusco – Upis  – Yana Qocha

Star our Ausangate 5 day trek: Driving on the Cusco - Puerto Maldonado route, we will travel from Cusco and pass through the towns of Urcos, Ocongate and finally Tinqui. Here we start the walk passing through Quinsapucyu and Huarmisaya until we reach Upis, we will walk towards the Arapa Pass at approximately 4,958 meters / 16,266 feet above sea level.

We will camp for the night near the Pukacocha lagoon where we will enjoy some of the most fantastic views of the Ausangate mountain.

Day 2.- Yana Qocha - Ananta

After a good breakfast, we are ready to leave our camp and start our hiking. We will ascend through the pass of Arapa (4,850 m). From here we will enjoy the contrast between the dry road like the hills and the impressive snow-capped mountains. Ausangate and Pucacocha.

This area also has three beautiful lakes with shades of red, green, and turquoise, the best ones (Pucacocha, Hatun Pucacocha and Qomercocha). Our second camp is near the Ausangate glacier.

Day 3.- Ananta - Rainbow Mountain - Ausangate Qocha

We start our Ausangate 5 days trek.This day, you will be woken up with room service (a cup of hot cocoa tea). This will be one of the most beautiful days of the walk. We will see colorful mountains in the distance. Also, on today's trip we will pass through the town of Alcatauri.

The day begins with a 1 and a half hour ascent to reach the ananta Pass (4,930 m). In this pass we will see red mountains and we will also have the opportunity to see vicuñas, chinchillas and alpacas.

Enjoying it, we descend for an hour and a half until we reach the town of Alccatauri (4,400 m). Here we will observe the customs and traditional life of the local people, continuing about 30 minutes uphill, we will arrive at the lunch place in a rustic lodge. After a delicious lunch.

We will continue for 1 hour and a half, towards the Minasniyoq pass. Here we will have our first views of the Rainbow Mountains (5,020 m / 16,469 ft). In this step we will make a small offering to Pacha Mama (Mother Earth). Afterwards, we continue to our camp, which is next to the Surina Cocha lagoon (4800m).

Day 4.- Ausangate Qocha – Jampa.

Another great day to enjoy the amazing hill of colors next to the Ausangate mountain (6,384m/ 20,945 feet), the highest mountain in Cusco, here we can see lagoons, glaciers, after having breakfast we will start again with our walk, the trail will take us It will lead to the next pass called Palomani which is at 5,130m / 16,831ft, the highest pass on the entire trail. Ausangate 5 days trek.

Here we will start to take a look at the massisa mountain and some other colorful hills that are still nearby, then, we will walk downhill to reach the valley part, where we will have lunch, in the late afternoon we will walk uphill for 2 more hours until the next campsite located at an elevation of 4,700m / 15,420ft. At night we will have tea time, later dinner. All meals included.

Day 5.- Jampa – Pacchanta – Cusco

Wake up hot coca tea in the morning to have another great day, after having breakfast we’ll hike up for 2 hours and 30 minutes to the last pass called Jhampa 5,060 m / 16,601 ft, where we’ll have amazing glacier peaks right infront of us.

We will then trek downhill to get our last scenic lunch spot. After lunch, we’ll trek for 2 more hours to get to the Pacchanta Town. We’ll have a chance to swim at hot springs, which is optional, and at this place we’ll say goodbye to our muleteers, we will eventually drive back to the hotel in Cusco for about 3 hours and 30 minutes—end of our Ausangate 5 days trek.

Includes

WHAT IS INCLUDED

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

More Information

WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE.

OPTIONAL ITEMS TO TAKE:

OPTIONAL SERVICES (NOT INCLUDED):

Price & Add-ons

Group: U$: 650
Private: U$: 850

Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?

Rentals

Map (Ausangate 5 Days Trek)

 Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights – FAQs

1. How difficult is the Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights?

The Ausangate Trek is considered a challenging high-altitude trek. The route includes several mountain passes above 5,000 m (16,400 ft), long hiking days, and changing weather conditions. Good physical fitness and previous trekking experience are highly recommended.

2. What is the maximum altitude reached during the trek?

The highest point of the trek is usually the Palomani Pass, reaching approximately 5,200 m (17,060 ft) above sea level.

3. Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?

Yes. We strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco before starting the trek. Proper acclimatization significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness and helps you enjoy the experience more comfortably.

4. What is the best time of year to hike the Ausangate Trek?

The best months are from April to October, during the dry season. From November to March, rainfall is more frequent, making trail conditions more challenging.

5. Is the Ausangate Trek harder than the Inca Trail?

Yes. The Ausangate Trek is generally more physically demanding than the Classic Inca Trail due to its higher elevations, longer distances, and more remote terrain.

6. Are permits required for the Ausangate Trek?

Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, no government permit is required. However, local community entrance fees apply and are included in most organized tours.

7. What type of accommodation is provided?

Accommodation is in fully equipped campsites throughout the trek. High-quality tents, sleeping arrangements, and dining tents are typically provided by tour operators.

8. Are there hotels along the route?

No. The Ausangate Trek is a remote mountain expedition with no hotels or lodges along most of the route. Camping is the standard accommodation.

9. What should I pack for the trek?

Essential items include:

10. How cold does it get at night?

Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing, especially between June and August. Temperatures may reach -10°C (14°F) or lower at higher camps.

11. Is altitude sickness common?

Because the trek remains above 4,000 m for much of the journey, some hikers may experience symptoms of altitude sickness. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual pace are essential.

12. Are emergency horses available?

Most guided treks include emergency horse support for unexpected situations. Additional riding horses can often be rented in advance.

13. What meals are provided during the trek?

Professional trekking chefs prepare fresh meals including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary requirements can usually be accommodated with advance notice.

14. Is drinking water available?

Water sources are available along the route, but all water must be filtered, purified, or boiled before drinking. Guided tours usually provide treated drinking water daily.

15. Can beginners do the Ausangate Trek?

While beginners with excellent fitness may complete the trek successfully, it is best suited for hikers with prior trekking experience and good physical conditioning.

16. Will I see wildlife during the trek?

Yes. The Ausangate region is home to alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, Andean geese, condors, and various native bird species.

17. Are there hot springs on the trek?

Yes. Many itineraries finish near the natural hot springs of Pacchanta Hot Springs, where trekkers can relax after the adventure.

18. Is there phone signal or internet access?

Phone coverage is very limited throughout most of the trek. Internet access is generally unavailable, allowing travelers to fully disconnect and enjoy the Andean wilderness.

19. How many kilometers are covered during the trek?

The complete circuit typically covers between 55 and 70 kilometers (34–43 miles), depending on the itinerary and campsite locations.

20. Why choose the Ausangate Trek?

The Ausangate Trek offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Peru. With towering glaciers, colorful valleys, pristine lakes, authentic Andean culture, and fewer crowds than other routes, it provides an unforgettable trekking experience for adventurous travelers seeking a deeper connection with nature and local traditions.