Ausangate Trek 6D/5N

Ausangate Trek 6 days. It is located in the Andes, in the southern part of the city of Cusco, in a section called the Vilcanota mountain range, which corresponds to the Cusco region in Peru. Its main peak is 6,372 meters above sea level, with large spaces of green/blue light. Ausangate Trek 6 days

In the Inca mythology of this mountain and nearby lakes, among which Sibinacocha, the masculine energy that fertilizes Mother Earth, Pachamama, is born. After a long speech, the waters are lost in the unknown lands of the Amazon. They return in the form of rain and snow to fill the lakes and glaciers every night. Converted into the river of stars or Wilkamayu, known in the West as the Milky Way. Ausangate trek 6 days. The Chillca community, consisting of shepherds of llamas and alpacas, is the guardians of these natural landscapes and virgin forests, where you can walk through the mountains overnight in comfortable cabins and inns, among which is Machuracay Tambo. It is a path called “Inca Trail of the Apu Ausangate”.

Overview

The Ausangate Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights is one of Peru’s most extraordinary trekking adventures, offering a complete exploration of the breathtaking landscapes surrounding the sacred Ausangate Mountain. This extended itinerary allows trekkers to fully immerse themselves in the remote beauty of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, crossing high mountain passes, visiting pristine glacial lakes, encountering traditional Andean communities, and enjoying some of the most spectacular scenery in South America.

Unlike shorter versions of the trek, the 6-day itinerary provides a more relaxed pace, allowing hikers to acclimatize better, enjoy longer stops at scenic viewpoints, and experience hidden corners of the Ausangate region that many visitors never see. The route combines adventure, culture, and nature in an unforgettable high-altitude journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

GROUP SIZE: The group size depends on you; we are flexible with dates. This tour is generally for organized groups, as few people take this type of trip. The recommended period for this excursion is from April to December, the sunny season in the Peruvian Andes.

*Difficulty level depends very much on your fitness and acclimatization

Useful Information

Overview Day to Day

Itinerary

Day 1.- CUSCO - TINKI - UPIS

We left early from Cusco, traveled by private bus to the small village of Tinqui. We will see the impressive mountain range of Vilcanota, passing by several traditional Andean villages, and have time to take some photos. Upon arrival, we met our muleteer and organized our backpacks for the walk. Our Ausangate Trek 6 days starts through the farming communities and offers a breathtaking view of the mountains. We walk for about 3 hours to reach the scene of lunch. Then we continued for another 2 hours or so to get to the hot springs in Upis and camp overnight.

Day 2.- UPIS – PUCACOCHA

After a great breakfast, we are ready to leave our camp and start our trek. Climb the big step of Arapa (4850 mts). From this point we can see the contrast of the landscape: desert dry hills near the glaciers of Mount Ausangate, while below in the valley is a bright green vegetation. If we’re lucky, we might even see a condor in the sky! Let’s enjoy the breathtaking views of the mountains covered with snow. Ausangate and PucaCocha. This area also boasts three beautiful lakes with tones of reds, greens, and turquoises (Pukacocha, Hatun Pukacocha, and Qomercocha). Our second camp is near a glacier.

Day 3.- PUCA QOCHA – HUCHUYPHINAYA

Early morning after breakfast, we will begin our ascent, approximately 2-3 hours to pass Apuchata (4,900 mts). From here, we descend for an hour and a half to the lunch, Ausangateqocha, where a delicious lunch awaits us. During the break, we enjoyed the scenery. After lunch, we have our second ascent for two hours on the third step of Palomani (5,100 m). Then we descend to the small community of Huchuyphinaya, spend the night.

Day 4.- HUCHUYPHINAYA – JAMPA

After a delicious breakfast, we start the Andean trek. Today we ascend to the highest point of our trek: Jampa (5,150 mts). The silence of this remote wilderness area is inspiring. From here, we have an excellent view of Mount Jampa. After the pass, we descend for 2 hours through an area of llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas to reach Pampacancha (4,050 mts). From here, we follow a trail of approximately three hours that takes us to our campsite in Jampa (4,300 m) and spend the night.

Day 5.- JAMPA – PACCHANTA

After our walk and acclimatization on Day 4, we’re ready for another adventure! Early breakfast, and then we started our walk of about 1 hour to reach the base of the glacier, and then to the top of the mountain! After enjoying the spectacular views of the Vilcanota mountain range, we descend again to take a delicious lunch. In the afternoon, we descend to the Qomercocha lagoon before reaching Pacchanta after approximately a 05-hour hike. Pacchanta is a small community with attractive hot springs where we can enjoy a relaxing bath. Camped and spent the night here.

Day 6.- PACCHANTA – TINKI – CUSCO.

In the morning, after breakfast, we left Pacchanta and started walking back to the village of Tinqui; Our hike takes about two hours. Once Tinqui, we have lunch, and have time to visit the village and talk to people. Then we board our transportation that will take us back to Cusco… and finish our Ausangate Trek in 6 days.

Includes

WHAT IS INCLUDED

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

More Information

WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE.

OPTIONAL ITEMS TO TAKE:

Price & Add-ons -2026

Group: U$: 650
Private: U$: 750

Group versus Private Treks: What’s the difference?

Rentals

Map (Ausangate Trek 6D/5N)

Ausangate Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights – FAQs

1. What is the Ausangate Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights?

The Ausangate Trek 6 Days / 5 Nights is an extended trekking adventure that circles the magnificent Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region. This itinerary offers more time to explore glacial lakes, mountain passes, traditional Andean communities, and spectacular alpine landscapes.

2. How difficult is the trek?

This trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude, long hiking days, and rugged mountain terrain. A good level of physical fitness is highly recommended.

3. What is the highest altitude reached?

The trek crosses several mountain passes, with the highest point typically reaching approximately 5,200 m (17,060 ft) above sea level.

4. Do I need trekking experience?

Previous trekking experience is recommended but not mandatory. Participants should be comfortable hiking for several consecutive days at high elevations.

5. How many kilometers are covered during the trek?

The total trekking distance is approximately 65–75 km (40–47 miles), depending on the exact itinerary and campsite locations.

6. Why choose the 6-day trek instead of the 5-day version?

The 6-day itinerary offers a slower pace, better acclimatization, more time for photography, additional scenic stops, and a deeper exploration of the Ausangate region.

7. Do I need to acclimatize before the trek?

Yes. Spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco before the trek is strongly recommended to help your body adapt to the altitude.

8. What is the best time to hike the Ausangate Trek?

The best trekking season is from April to October, when weather conditions are generally dry and mountain views are at their best.

9. Can the trek be done during the rainy season?

Yes, but trekking conditions become more challenging due to rain, muddy trails, colder temperatures, and reduced visibility.

10. What type of accommodation is provided?

Accommodation is provided in high-quality camping tents at designated campsites throughout the trek.

11. How cold does it get at night?

Nighttime temperatures can fall below freezing, especially during the dry season months of June, July, and August. Temperatures may drop to -10°C (14°F) or lower.

12. Are meals included?

Most guided tours include breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and hot drinks prepared by a professional trekking chef.

13. Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements can usually be accommodated when requested in advance.

14. Is drinking water available?

Water is collected from natural mountain sources and treated by the trekking staff. Travelers should bring a reusable water bottle or hydration system.

15. Is altitude sickness a concern?

Yes. Because much of the trek takes place above 4,000 m (13,123 ft), altitude sickness is a possibility. Proper acclimatization, hydration, and a gradual pace are essential.

16. Are horses included?

Pack horses are typically included to transport camping equipment and group gear. Personal riding horses may be available for rent at an additional cost.

17. Will I see wildlife?

Yes. The Ausangate region is home to alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, Andean foxes, and a variety of native bird species, including the majestic Andean condor.

18. Are there hot springs along the route?

Many itineraries include a visit to the natural hot springs of Pacchanta Hot Springs, where trekkers can relax after several days of hiking.

19. Is there phone signal or internet access?

Phone coverage is very limited, and internet access is generally unavailable along most of the trekking route. This makes the trek an excellent opportunity to disconnect and enjoy nature.

20. What should I pack for the trek?

Essential items include:

21. Is travel insurance recommended?

Yes. Comprehensive travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and trip interruptions is highly recommended.

22. Can children participate?

Due to the altitude and physical demands, the trek is generally recommended for older teenagers and adults who are in good physical condition.

23. What makes the Ausangate Trek special?

The Ausangate Trek offers some of the most spectacular mountain scenery in Peru. Massive glaciers, colorful lagoons, remote wilderness, authentic Andean culture, abundant wildlife, and minimal crowds create a truly unique trekking experience.

24. Is the Ausangate Trek worth it?

Absolutely. For travelers seeking a genuine high-altitude adventure away from crowded tourist routes, the Ausangate Trek is one of the most rewarding and unforgettable trekking experiences in the Peruvian Andes. It combines breathtaking landscapes, cultural immersion, and a deep connection with nature in one extraordinary journey.