Ausangate Hike:

The Apu Ausangate Hike is a sacred mountain, one of the most important in the Cusco region for Andean tradition.

Table of Contents

Sacred Mountain (Apu)

In Andean cosmology, Ausangate is one of the most powerful Apus (sacred mountain spirits).
It is believed to be a protector of the surrounding communities, providing water and fertility to the land.
Local Quechua people still perform offerings (called pagos a la tierra or “payments to the earth”) to honor the mountain and Pachamama (Mother Earth).

Pre-Columbian Era

The mountain and surrounding valleys were used by the Inca and pre-Inca societies for herding alpacas and llamas.
The glaciers were seen as sources of life, feeding rivers that supported agriculture in the high Andes.

Qoyllur Rit’i Festival

One of the most important Andean pilgrimages, the Qoyllur Rit’i (Quechua for “Snow Star”) festival, is linked to Ausangate.
Takes place annually before Corpus Christi, near Sinakara Valley at the base of the mountain.
Pilgrims from all over the Andes gather, mixing Catholic traditions with indigenous Andean rituals.
Once, pilgrims climbed onto the glacier to cut out blocks of ice, believed to have healing powers. Due to climate change and safety concerns, this practice has mostly stopped.

Modern Role

Today, Ausangate Hike remains a site of spiritual devotion and cultural continuity, as well as a draw for trekkers and climbers.
The mountain is also central to discussions about climate change, since its glaciers are retreating rapidly, threatening local water supplies.

Ausangate Hike Overview

Location: Part of the Vilcanota mountain range, ~100 km southeast of Cusco, Peru.
Height: 6,384 m (20,945 ft), the fifth-highest peak in Peru.
Cultural Significance: Sacred in Andean cosmology. Still a pilgrimage site for the Qoyllur Rit’i festival, where thousands gather each year.
Trek: Known for the Ausangate Circuit (4–6 days, high-altitude trek) and side trips to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Landscape: Glaciers, turquoise lakes, red-and-green mineral mountains, alpaca herds, and remote Quechua-speaking communities.
Difficulty: Challenging. Multiple passes above 5,000 m, thin air, and freezing nights. Not technical climbing, but serious altitude trekking.
Why Go: It’s less crowded than the Inca Trail, offers raw Andean wilderness, and gives a real connection to traditional highland life.

Ausangate Hike Highlights

Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca): Often included as a side trek
Glaciers & Lakes: Turquoise alpine lakes like Ausangatecocha
Remote Villages: Traditional Andean communities with alpaca herders
Wildlife: Llamas, alpacas, vizcachas, and condors
Scenery: Snow-capped peaks, red valleys, colorful mineral-rich mountains

Typical Itinerary Ausangate Hike (5 Days)

Day 1: Cusco → Tinqui → Upis (hot springs camp)
Day 2: Upis → Arapa Pass → Ausangatecocha (camp by the lake)
Day 3: Ausangatecocha → Palomani Pass (highest point ~5,200 m) → Huchuy Phinaya
Day 4: Huchuy Phinaya → Jampa Pass → Pacchanta (hot springs)
Day 5: Pacchanta → Tinqui → Return to Cusco

(Many treks can be shortened or extended depending on pace and inclusion of Rainbow Mountain.)

Practical Info

Best Season: Dry season (May–Sept). Clear skies, cold nights.
Guided vs. Independent: Most go with a guide due to remoteness and altitude; independent trekking possible for experienced hikers.
Permits: No Inca Trail–style permit needed, but entry fees apply.
Accommodation: Camping (supported treks bring horses/mules, cooks, gear).
Altitude: Serious risk of altitude sickness; acclimatize in Cusco for 2–3 days.

What You’ll Need for the Ausangate Hike.

Warm layers (nights below freezing)
Sleeping bag (rated at least -10°C)
Trekking poles
High-calorie snacks
Water purification system
Diamox or similar (consult doctor for altitude medication)