2-Day Rainbow Mountain & 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour

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2 Days DURATION

Private / small group GROUP SIZE

5,020 m / 16,470 ft MAX. ALTITUDE

Moderate DIFFICULTY

2-Day Rainbow Mountain and 7 Lakes of Ausangate Tour from Cusco

Discover two of Peru’s most spectacular natural wonders on an unforgettable 2-day, 1-night Rainbow Mountain and 7 Lakes of Ausangate tour from Cusco. This unique Andean adventure combines the breathtaking colors of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), the dramatic landscapes of Red Valley, and the spectacular turquoise glacial lakes of the Ausangate region.

Unlike traditional one-day Rainbow Mountain tours, this experience allows you to explore the heart of the Vilcanota Mountain Range at a more relaxed pace while staying overnight at Casa Cóndor Ausangate, our family-run mountain lodge in Pukarumi, at the foot of the sacred Ausangate Mountain.

Hosted by a local Quechua family, you will enjoy authentic Andean hospitality, comfortable accommodation, traditional local cuisine, and the peaceful atmosphere of the high Andes. On the second day, continue your journey to discover the famous 7 Lakes of Ausangate, surrounded by towering snow-capped mountains, colorful landscapes, and breathtaking natural scenery.

Your adventure concludes in Pacchanta, where you can relax in its natural hot springs before returning to Cusco.

Overview

Quick Trip Overview

Duration: 2 Days / 1 Night
Pick-up Location: Direct hotel pickup in Cusco, Peru
Maximum Altitude: 5,020 m / 16,470 ft (Rainbow Mountain Viewpoint)
Lodging Basecamp: Casa Cóndor Ausangate Lodge (Pukarumi Community)
Cusco Return: Day 2 around 5:00 pm – 6:00 pm.
Ideal For: U.S. travelers seeking high-altitude photography, authentic indigenous culture, and a comfortable alternative to day-tour burnout.

Itinerary

Detailed Day-by-Day Itinerary

Our adventure begins very early in the morning with the pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. In a private tourist vehicle, we will travel south through the Andes, crossing beautiful rural landscapes, small traditional villages, and valleys surrounded by mountains.
On the way, we will pass through Cusipata, where we will have breakfast. Afterwards, we will go to Llacto, the starting point for our adventure to the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
We will start our trip in Llacto, where we will explore the high Andean landscapes. This will give us the chance to see llamas and alpacas and meet people from the area. We will slowly climb to the Vinicunca viewpoint, where we can enjoy the view, take photos, and learn about the geology. Then we visit the Red Valley for its reddish-toned mountains and its almost surreal landscape.
After finishing our hike, we will return to Llacto, where we will take our means of transportation and continue passing through Urcos and Tinki until we reach Casa Cóndor Ausangate, our accommodation in the community of Pukarumi.
Upon your arrival, you can relax, have a hot drink, and share a moment of tranquillity with our local family.

After having breakfast at Casa Cóndor Ausangate, we will begin one of the most beautiful experiences in the region, the famous visit to the 7 Lakes of Ausangate.
We will head to the lagoon circuit, where we will discover stunning mountain landscapes, waters of different shades, and spectacular views of the majestic Ausangate snow-capped peak. On the hike, we will have time to enjoy the natural surroundings, take photos, and learn a bit more about the importance of these mountains to the Andean communities.
At the end of the tour, we will descend to Pacchanta and have lunch, an Andean community known for its natural hot springs. There you can relax in its hot spring pools, surrounded by a unique landscape of mountains and snow-capped peaks.

After this moment of rest, we will resume our journey passing through Tinki and Ocongate, enjoying the Andean rural landscapes until we reach the city of Cusco at approximately 6:00 pm.

What’s Included / What’s Not Included

Included:

Private transport from Cusco to Rainbow Mountain.
1 night of comfortable Ausangate trek accommodation at Casa Cóndor Ausangate Lodge.
Home-cooked meals: Breakfast at lodge, trail lunch, and traditional dinner.
Round-trip local transport to the 7 Lakes trailhead and Pacchanta.
Transport from Pacchanta back to Cusco.
Emergency oxygen bottle and high-altitude first-aid kit at the lodge and on the trail.
High-speed Starlink Wi-Fi access at the lodge.
On-site host support and local coordination.

Not Included:

Entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain and 7 Lakes circuit (~30–40 Soles total).
Entrance fee to Pacchanta Hot Springs (~10 Soles / $3 USD).
Personal expenses, extra drinks, and snacks.
Optional horse rentals (paid directly to local herders).
Travel insurance (strongly recommended).
Gratuities for local guides, drivers, and host families.

Travel Info

Packing List: What to Bring

High-altitude conditions demand proper gear layering:

Footwear & Apparel: Broken-in waterproof hiking boots, thermal base layers (wool or synthetic), mid-layer fleece or light down sweater, waterproof/windproof shell jacket (Gore-Tex), heavy down coat for cold mornings/evenings, light trekking pants, and thermal leggings.
Cold-Weather Accessories: Warm beanie (chullo), thermal gloves, neck gaiter (Buff), thick wool socks, and polarized sunglasses (essential against intense high-altitude UV light).
Gear & Essentials: 20L–30L daypack for hikes, main duffel/luggage (stays at the lodge/vehicle), trekking poles, reusable water bottle (2L capacity), power bank, high-SPF sunscreen (50+), and lip balm.
For Pacchanta Hot Springs: Swimsuit, small quick-dry towel, flip-flops, and wet bag.
Cash & Documents: Physical passport and cash in Peruvian Soles (S/) in small bills for entry fees, hot springs, horse rentals, and tips.

Essential Travel Information & FAQs

Mandatory Altitude Acclimatization:

This trip takes place entirely above 13,800 feet, peaking at 16,470 feet on Rainbow Mountain. You must spend at least 2 full days (48 hours) in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to departure to acclimate and prevent altitude sickness (soroche).

FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the 2-day Rainbow Mountain and 7 Lakes trek?

The physical terrain is rated as moderate. The trails are well-established, but the high elevation makes the hike feel more demanding than a trail of similar length at sea level. You don’t need technical mountaineering skills, but having a reasonable level of fitness and walking at a steady pace is recommended.

How high is the elevation on this 2-day tour?

You will reach maximum elevations of 16,503 feet (5,030 meters) at the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint and around 15,200 feet (4,630 meters) along the 7 Lakes circuit. Your overnight stay at Casa Cóndor Lodge sits at 13,100 feet (4,000 meters) in the community of Pukarumi/Pacchanta.

Do I need to acclimatize before booking this trek?

Yes, absolutely. We strongly advise spending at least 2 to 3 full days acclimatizing in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to starting the tour. Rest, stay well-hydrated, and avoid heavy meals or intense exertion during your first couple of days in high altitude.

What safety measures are in place for altitude sickness?

Your safety is our top priority. All our local guides carry emergency medical oxygen cylinders, first-aid kits, and pulse oximeters to check your oxygen levels throughout the hike. Because our lodge is at a lower elevation than the high passes, resting at night is much easier on your body.

Are the Pacchanta hot springs included in this tour?

Yes! At the end of Day 2, after finishing the 7 Lakes hike, you will stop at the natural Pacchanta Thermal Baths. The thermal pools sit directly outdoors with views of the Ausangate glaciers, ranging from 98°F to 104°F (36°C to 40°C), the ultimate way to soothe your muscles before returning to Cusco.

What should I pack for the 2-day tour with a lodge stay?

Pack light! Bring a 20–30 L daypack with thermal base layers, a fleece jacket, a heavy down coat for cold evenings, waterproof hiking boots, rain gear, windproof gloves, a thermal beanie, SPF 50+ sunscreen, UV sunglasses, a swimsuit, a small towel for the hot springs, and your personal medications.

Are meals and dietary restrictions accommodated?

Yes. All meals on the trail and at the lodge, including energizing breakfasts, hearty lunches, afternoon teas, and warm dinners, are freshly prepared by our high-mountain chef using local Andean ingredients. We easily cater to vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free diets upon request.

Can solo travelers book this 2-day tour?

Definitely. Solo travelers are welcome to join an open shared group departure (capped at a maximum of 8 hikers for a personalized feel) or request a private tour with single room occupancy at Casa Cóndor Lodge.

What is the best time of year to take this 2-day tour?

The dry season, from April through November, offers the best weather with clear blue skies, excellent mountain visibility, and dry trails. The peak months are June, July, and August. While December through March brings seasonal rain, the trail remains open, and the landscape turns incredibly lush and green.