Ausangate Trek 4 days

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4 days DURATION

Private / small group GROUP SIZE

16,732 feet (5,100 m) MAX. ALTITUDE

Moderate to Challenging DIFFICULTY

Ausangate Trek 4 days

Discover the Ausangate Trek 4 days, a breathtaking high-alpine journey past soaring glaciated peaks, vibrant turquoise lakes, and traditional Quechua farming communities that preserve centuries-old Andean traditions. Across four unforgettable days on the trail, you will trek through remote alpine valleys where herds of llamas and alpacas graze freely under towering mountain walls.

This adventure offers an authentic cultural connection, allowing you to meet local Quechua-speaking families and learn about their traditional way of life in the high Andes. At Casa Cóndor Ausangate, we believe that the most meaningful travel experiences stem from genuine human connections with local people and their lands.

Trek alongside our local expert guides to explore Cusco’s highest peak (Mount Ausangate) and the vibrant mineral ridges of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) all packed into one unforgettable mountain expedition.

Itinerary

Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain 4 days full itinerary

Your adventure begins at 5:00 am with a private hotel pickup in Cusco. We will travel by private transport for approximately three hours through scenic mountain valleys to the high-Andean community of Upis. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your local trekking team, including your expert guide, private chef, and horsemen (arrieros), before hitting the trail into the majestic Ausangate region.

After roughly three hours of steady hiking through alpine landscapes, we reach our campsite at Upis, where our trail chef greets you with a freshly prepared, hot lunch. In the afternoon, you can choose to relax at camp or embark on an optional 2-hour round-trip side hike to the stunning turquoise waters of Upis Lake (Upis Cocha). Upon returning to camp, unwind with our cozy afternoon tea service followed by a warm, delicious dinner.

You will spend the night wilderness camping at the base of Mount Ausangate, resting up under a starry sky for the high pass crossing tomorrow.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Camps
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 4.97 mi / 8 km
Highest elevation: 14,698 ft / 4,480 m
Camp elevation: 14,435 ft / 4,400 m

Your morning begins with a warm cup of coca tea or freshly brewed coffee brought directly to your tent by our trail team, followed by a hot, energy-boosting breakfast. We set out on a steady 2.5-hour climb up to Arapa Pass (15,748 ft / 4,800 m). From this high-alpine viewpoint, you will be rewarded with sweeping panoramic vistas of the snow-capped Vilcanota mountain range and rugged peaks.

From Arapa Pass, we begin a gentle 1.5-hour descent toward the striking glacial waters of Yanaqocha (Black Lake) and Pukaqocha (Red Lakes). After exploring these high-altitude lakes, we pause along the trail to enjoy a freshly prepared hot lunch cooked by our private trail chef.

In the afternoon, we continue our trek toward our camp at Hatun Pukaqocha (14,764 ft / 4,500 m). Upon arrival, you will have plenty of time to relax, stretch your legs, and explore the turquoise lake shores before unwinding with hot drinks, dinner, and a night of wilderness camping under a crisp, starry mountain sky.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Camps
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 6.21 mi / 10 km
Highest elevation: 15,748 ft / 4,800 m
Camp elevation: 14,764 ft / 4,500 m

Your morning begins with a warm cup of coca tea or freshly brewed coffee brought to your tent, followed by a hearty, energy-boosting breakfast. Leaving camp, we embark on a steady 2-hour uphill climb toward Pukaqocha Pass (15,978 ft / 4,870 m). As we ascend, you will be treated to extraordinary panoramic vistas of surrounding glaciers, vast high-Andean valleys, and vivid turquoise lakes dotting the landscape below.

After taking in the breathtaking views at the pass, we descend for approximately 1.5 hours into the Anantapata valley (15,584 ft / 4,750 m) for a freshly prepared, hot trailside lunch.

Following lunch and a well-deserved rest, we tackle the second major climb of the day: a 2-hour ascent up to Warmisaya Pass (16,355 ft / 4,985 m). We pause at the summit ridge to admire the towering mountain backdrop before embarking on a gentle 1-hour descent to Surinaqocha Lake, where our trail crew will have camp set up and waiting for you under the starlit mountain sky.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
Accommodation: Camps
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 6.2 mi / 10 km
Highest elevation: 16,354 ft / 4,985 m
Camp elevation: 15,748 ft / 4,800 m

Your final day begins early with a hot, energizing breakfast before setting out toward the world-famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Guided by your expert local leader, you will hike up to the summit ridge and panoramic viewpoints at 16,732 feet (5,100 m), arriving early to marvel at the vibrant mineral stripes and surrounding Andean peaks in tranquil solitude before the daily tourist crowds arrive. After soaking in the views, you can choose an optional side hike into the dramatic, deep-red landscapes of the Red Valley.

Following your visit to Vinicunca, we begin our descent through mountain trails, passing high-alpine pastures dotted with grazing herds of llamas and alpacas. At the end of the trail, our team serves a celebratory farewell lunch, where you will say goodbye to your local guide, cook, and horsemen. Finally, board our private transport for the comfortable drive back to Cusco, where we drop you off directly at your hotel, completing an unforgettable high-alpine adventure through the Mount Ausangate range.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch.
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 4.04 mi / 6.5 km
Rainbow Mountain altitude: 16,732 ft / 5,100 m
Minimum elevation: 15,190 ft / 4,630 m
Highest elevation: 16,732 ft / 5,100 m

What’s Included / Not Included

Included

Pre-departure Briefing: You’ll have an orientation meeting with your guide the evening before the tour. The meeting, depending on the itinerary, is in your hotel.
Private Transport: Private door-to-door transportation from your Cusco hotel to trailhead and return.
Guide (fluent in English, Spanish, and native Quechua).
Private mountain chef & all meals: Freshly cooked, high-energy gourmet mountain meals prepared daily by your personal trekking chef (accommodating vegetarian, vegan, and special dietary needs).
Camping gear: Professional 4-season high-altitude tents (2 persons per 3-person tent), insulated sleeping mats, and a dining tent with tables and chairs.
Sleeping setup: Insulated foam sleeping mats and comfortable foam mattresses for a warm night’s rest.
Private bathroom tent: Private toilet tent set up exclusively for your group at every campsite.
Pack animals & porters: Horsemen (arrieros) and pack horses to carry all collective camping gear and up to 7 kg / 15 lb of your personal duffel bag luggage.
Emergency satellite communication: Modern satellite devices for continuous high-altitude emergency coverage and real-time communication.
Safety equipment & emergency horse: Backup riding horse (horse support) available on high-altitude passes, complete first-aid kit, pulse oximeter, and emergency medical oxygen tanks.
Permits & fees: All community entry tickets for the Ausangate Circuit, 7 Lakes, Pacchanta Hot Springs, and Rainbow Mountain.

Not Included

Personal trekking gear: Sleeping bags (rated to 14°F / -10°C recommended) and trekking poles (both available for rent upon request).
Emergency horse: Backup riding horse (horse support) on high-altitude passes (available for rent upon request).

Travel Info

Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain Travel Information

What should you bring?

Sturdy waterproof hiking boots: Broken-in leather or synthetic boots with ankle support and vibram-style traction soles. (Do not bring brand-new, unbroken-in boots).
Waterproof & windproof shell jacket: Gore-Tex or equivalent breathable waterproof jacket with a hood.
Waterproof rain pants or hardshell pants: Essential for sudden mountain showers and high-pass wind protection.
Heavy down/insulated jacket: 700+ fill power down or heavy synthetic jacket for freezing camp nights (temperatures drop below 20°F / -7°C).
Thermal base layers (2–3 sets): Merino wool or synthetic long-sleeve tops and bottoms (avoid cotton).
Trekking tops & T-Shirts (3–4): Quick-dry, moisture-wicking synthetic or merino wool shirts.
Trekking pants (2 pairs): Lightweight, stretch-woven hiking trousers.
Warm fleece or mid-layer jacket: For layering during morning hikes.
Thermal fleece beanie & neck gaiter/buff: For cold pass crossings and chilly camp evenings.
Heavy windproof / waterproof gloves: Plus a light pair of inner liner gloves.
Broad-brim sun hat / cap: Crucial for intense UV exposure at 14,000+ ft.
Hiking socks (4–5 pairs): Heavyweight merino wool trekking socks.
Daypack (20L to 30L): For your daily essentials (water, extra layers, camera, sunscreen, raincoat) with an integrated rain cover.
Adjustable trekking poles: Strongly recommended with rubber tips to reduce joint impact on steep scree descents.
Headlamp: High-lumen headlamp with extra batteries or USB charging cable for camp at night.
Hydration system (2L–3L total capacity): Insulated water bottles (Hydro Flask / Nalgene) or a hydration bladder with an insulated tube cover to prevent freezing.
High-capacity power bank: 20,000 mAh+ power bank (batteries drain much faster in freezing high-altitude temperatures).
Swimsuit, quick-dry towel & sandals: For relaxing in the natural thermal hot springs of Pacchanta.

Recommendations for the Ausangate Trek

Prioritize high-altitude acclimatization: We strongly recommend spending at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to your trek. This allows your body to adapt gradually to the elevation. Avoid heavy physical exertion during your first few days.

Pack the right cold-weather layers: Bring high-quality thermal base layers, a heavy down jacket, a waterproof and windproof rain shell, warm gloves, a fleece beanie, and versatile clothing layers. Nighttime temperatures drop well below freezing on the mountain.

Invest in proper footwear: Wear sturdy, waterproof trekking boots that are well broken-in with ankle support. Bring a second pair of lightweight shoes or sandals to relax in around camp.

Bring a sub-zero sleeping bag: Choose a sleeping bag rated for below-freezing conditions—ideally with a comfort rating down to 5°F (-15°C). Always confirm with your tour operator if sleeping bags and insulated sleeping pads are included in your trek package.

Protect yourself from intense sun: Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 50+), wear high-SPF lip balm, and use UV-400 polarized sunglasses. High-altitude UV radiation in the Andes is extreme, even on overcast or cloudy days.

Keep electronics warm & bring power banks: Sub-zero temperatures drain camera and phone batteries quickly. Keep your devices inside warm jacket pockets or inside your sleeping bag at night, and pack a high-capacity portable power bank.

Stay hydrated & fueled: Drink water consistently throughout the hike to fight off dehydration and altitude symptoms. Carry personal energy snacks (such as energy bars, nuts, or dried fruit) for demanding pass ascents.

Monitor altitude sickness & health: The Ausangate Trek stays almost entirely above 13,000 feet (4,000 m). Familiarize yourself with the symptoms of Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS) and notify your guide immediately if you feel unwell. Consult a travel medicine professional beforehand regarding preventive altitude medications (like acetazolamide/Diamox).

Train your physical endurance: Prepare ahead of time with regular cardio exercises, leg-strengthening workouts, and day hikes carrying a loaded pack. This route demands hours of sustained walking over high-pass ascents and steep descents.

Pace yourself & listen to your guide: Hike at a slow, steady pace, rest whenever needed, and follow your lead guide’s safety recommendations. If you experience severe or worsening symptoms, inform your trekking crew right away and do not continue ascending without a proper health evaluation.

Private & small group.

At Casa Cóndor Ausangate, we intentionally keep our group sizes small, capped between 2 and 8 travelers. Unlike large commercial tour operators that rush past the scenery, our small-group format ensures personalized attention, a comfortable pace, and a genuine connection with nature and indigenous Quechua culture. Whether you are traveling as a couple, a family, or a group of friends, you will have the space to soak in the mountain views without feeling pushed along.

Duffel Bag

During your pre-trek orientation session in Cusco, we will provide you with a durable canvas duffel bag. Our pack horses and local horsemen (arrieros) will transport these duffel bags between campsites each day. Weight exactly 15 lbs (7 kg) per traveler. During the day, you will only carry a lightweight daypack containing your drinking water, rain gear, warm layers, sun protection, camera, snacks, passport, and daily medications.

Hotel Pickup

We provide door-to-door transportation pickup within Cusco city limits on Day 1. Your guide or driver will confirm your exact pickup window during the pre-trek orientation session (pickup times may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on morning traffic conditions). Historic Cusco features narrow, cobblestone streets, long staircases, and steep pedestrian alleyways where vehicles cannot drive. To ensure a smooth morning checkout and avoid carrying heavy luggage up steep hills, we strongly recommend booking an accessible hotel in or near the Historic Center with direct vehicle access.

High-Altitude Acclimatization

This trek takes place entirely at extreme elevations. You will hike consistently above 13,120 ft (4,000 m), cross mountain passes reaching up to 17,000 ft (5,200 m), and visit Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at approximately 16,522 ft (5,036 m). Pre-Trek Stay: Spend at least 2 to 3 full days in Cusco (11,152 ft / 3,400 m) or the Sacred Valley prior to your start date. Drink plenty of water, eat light meals, get ample rest, and limit alcohol consumption before setting out. If you experience headaches, nausea, dizziness, extreme fatigue, confusion, or shortness of breath, inform your guide immediately.

Preparation

This trek is rated challenging to advanced. While it does not require technical rock climbing, you should be comfortable hiking 6 to 8 hours per day over steep, uneven terrain at extreme high altitude while sleeping in freezing campsite conditions.

FAQs

FREQUENT ASKED QUESTION

How many days are recommended to acclimate before starting the trek?

We suggest spending at least 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to your trek. During this time, focus on resting, staying well-hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding excessive alcohol consumption. Gentle activities such as a Cusco City Tour or a Sacred Valley Day Tour are great ways to adapt to the high altitude without draining your energy before you hit the trail.

How cold is the Ausangate 4-day trek?

Yes, it does get cold in the winter months, June through August, especially before sunrise and after sunset when temperatures often drop to 2°C. It can be even colder at night, sometimes as low as -10°C. It is important to pack warm clothes to be comfortable during these colder hours. Daytime temperatures, however, are generally between 15°C and 20°C. During the rainy season the temperature is generally moderate, becoming cold only when it is snowing.

Best time for the Ausangate Trek (4 days) hike?

The best time to do the Ausangate Trek is in the dry season, from April to October. This is usually a time of clear skies so you can enjoy the bright, colorful landscapes. During the rainy season (December-March) the weather is cloudy with snow and mist, which can obscure the views and make the trail muddy and a bit more challenging to hike.

How hard is the Rainbow Mountain 4-day trek?

Average physical fitness is required for the moderate difficulty Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain 4 day trek. The trek takes you to altitudes of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) where the air is so thin it is hard to breathe. The trail has steep climbs, uneven terrain and stretches that are particularly demanding. While the distance is not great the high altitude, changing weather and rugged terrain make this trek more strenuous than typical hikes.

What happens if i get sick during the trek?

If you happen to not feel well during the trek, our team is always there to help. Depending on where you are, we’ll take you to the nearest town. Like, for example: On the first day you will be evacuated to the nearest town, Tinki, and then to Cusco. We will organize transportation to Cusco, and Alqatari village will be the closest evacuation point on the second and third days.

Will there be water on the hike?

We give water three times a day, after breakfast, lunch and dinner. Your bottles are filled with boiled and cooled water that has been filtered so it’s safe to drink. We suggest bringing a 2-liter water bottle. Please take note that there is no water supplied until lunch time on the first day, so bring 2 liters of water from Cusco for the first part of the trek.

Is there electricity on Ausangate Trek?

On our Ausangate hike of 4 days there is no electricity. But some local homes have solar panels provided by the Peruvian government, which produce small amounts of electricity.

Will my family members aged 65 Be able to do this trek?

We have had active, healthy 50- to 65-year-olds successfully complete the trek.” But at the high altitude of 5,040 meters it is important to consult a doctor beforehand to make sure they are fit enough for the challenge.

Is the 4 Day Ausangate Tour Dangerous?

The 4-day trek to Rainbow Mountain is relatively safe for the well-prepared traveler. The high altitude (up to 5,040 meters or 16,535 feet) can cause altitude sickness, so it’s important to spend a few days acclimatizing in Cusco before the hike. The trails are challenging but manageable with adequate fitness, equipment, and water.

Do i need extra money for the trek?

Yes, it is a good idea to bring cash for the 4-day Ausangate tour. On the first day local people sell handmade items and cash is the only payment accepted. Day 3 at Rainbow Mountain vendors sell drinks, snacks, and beer, which also require cash. At the end of the trek you can tip the horseman, cook and guide if you like but tipping is not necessary.