Ausangate Trek 4 days
Cusco - Upis - Qayna Ausangate - Arapa Pass - Pucacocha - Puka Pass - Surineqocha - Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca - Cusco
Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain
The Ausangate Trek 4 Days offers a genuine taste of Andean life. Along the trail, you’ll encounter remote communities where locals still speak Quechua, the language of the Incas, and preserve their ancestral traditions. You’ll also witness breathtaking landscapes filled with hundreds of alpacas and llamas, colorful lakes, and snow-capped peaks.
If you’re looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure in Peru, away from the crowds, the Ausangate Trek is the perfect choice. This journey combines nature, culture, and spirituality in one of the most stunning regions of the Andes.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Upis Community – Upis Campsite – Wayna Ausangate
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m. for a scenic 3-hour drive to the town of Upis, located in the heart of the highlands with panoramic views of the Andes.
At Upis, you’ll meet your trekking team — including cooks and horsemen — before starting the hike towards the northeast face of the majestic Ausangate Mountain. The trail winds through farmlands and traditional stone houses, offering insight into Andean rural life.
After about 3 hours, we’ll reach Upis Campsite for lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to hike a 2-hour round trip to Wayna Ausangate Lake, a serene turquoise lagoon at the foot of the glacier.
Return for happy hour (tea time), followed by a hearty dinner. Tonight, you’ll sleep under the watchful presence of the sacred Ausangate peaks.
Day 2: Upis Campsite – Arapa Pass – Yanacocha – Hatun Pukaqocha
Wake up in your tent with a warm coca tea or coffee, followed by a nourishing breakfast to prepare for the day’s journey.
We’ll begin with a 2.5-hour ascent through a high Andean valley towards Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), accompanied by spectacular views of Ausangate’s glaciers. From the top, admire the immensity of the mountain range and, with luck, the flight of the majestic Andean condor.
Descending, we’ll pass the crystalline Yanacocha (Black Lagoon) before continuing another hour to Hatun Pukaqocha Lagoon, a breathtaking turquoise lake where we’ll enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, explore nearby lagoons, relax with herbal tea, and share stories with your group before dinner at Hatun Pukaqocha Campsite (4,500 m / 14,764 ft).
Day 3: Hatun Pukaqocha – Puka Pass – Anantapata – Warmisaya – Surineqocha (Sunset at Rainbow Mountain)
After breakfast, we ascend for 2 hours to Puka Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft), surrounded by glaciers, green valleys, and turquoise lakes. From here, enjoy a direct view of Ausangate’s imposing peak and the beginning of the Rainbow Mountain range.
We then descend 1.5 hours to Anantapata (4,750 m) for lunch before tackling a 2-hour hike to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft). The panoramic views from here are breathtaking, with endless mountain ranges stretching to the horizon.
Finally, descend 1 hour to Surineqocha Lagoon, where our campsite awaits. Witness a magical sunset over Rainbow Mountain, followed by dinner under the stars.
Day 4: Surineqocha – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Llactoc – Cusco
We’ll start early with breakfast at 4:00 a.m., then hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca, 5,200 m / 17,060 ft) to admire its vibrant stripes at sunrise, before the crowds arrive. Your guide will explain the geological origins of the colors and the cultural importance of this sacred site.
After exploring and taking photos, continue to the Red Valley, a hidden gem of deep crimson landscapes and unparalleled serenity. The 45-minute walk to the viewpoint offers some of the best panoramas of the Andes.
Finally, descend for about 2 hours through traditional villages and herds of llamas before enjoying a final lunch. Our private transport will then take you back to your hotel in Cusco, marking the end of your Ausangate Trek adventure.
What's Included?
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Entrance for the Ausangate Trek
Entrance for the Rainbow Mountain
Pre–departure Briefing
At Russell Experience Peru, we want you to feel 100% ready before your adventure. That’s why we provide a full briefing at 6:00 p.m. the day before departure at our office in Cusco.
👉 Can’t make it in person? No worries! Just contact us via WhatsApp at +51 946 033 024 and we’ll arrange a virtual briefing. Please reach out at least 48 hours in advance so we can schedule a personalized session with your guide.
Experienced Guides
All our trips are led by certified bilingual guides (English & Spanish), licensed by the Peruvian government and graduates of recognized tourism schools. With Russell Experience Peru, you are in the hands of passionate local experts who will share the culture, history, and secrets of the Andes with you.
Medical Kit
Your well-being is our priority. Our guides are trained in first aid and CPR and carry a complete medical kit to assist with altitude sickness, scrapes, or other common situations. In case of emergencies, we can arrange immediate evacuation and transfer to a medical center.
24/7 Customer Service
Direct assistance via WhatsApp & local phone line any time of the day.
On the trail, our guides carry a satellite phone to stay connected even in remote areas.
Meals Included
4 Breakfasts
4 Lunches
3 Dinners
Our professional trekking chefs prepare meals with fresh, local ingredients so you can recharge and enjoy authentic flavors during the hike.
Transport
Day 1: Pick-up from your accommodation in Cusco and private transfer to Upis, the starting point of the trek.
Day 4: After completing the trek, private transport back to your hotel in Cusco.
Sleeping Bag: Available to rent for US$ 10.00 per person
Walking Sticks: Available to rent for US$ 10.00 per person
Dinner on Day 4
Personal Hiking Gear & Clothes
Travel Insurance
Tips for our staff (optional but appreciated)
Why Choose Russell Experience Peru?
Local guides with deep knowledge of Inca culture
Comfortable private transport from Cusco to Machu Picchu
Customizable itineraries to suit your interests and pace
Authentic experiences with attention to every detail
What should I pack for the Ausangate Trek 4 Days?
Essential
Clothing
Recommended
Equipment
FAQs about the Ausangate Trek 4 Days
Is the Ausangate Trek 4 days worth it?
Absolutely! The Ausangate Trek 4 Days is one of the most authentic Andean experiences in Peru. You’ll see snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, alpaca herds, and even the world-famous Rainbow Mountain. It’s less crowded than the Inca Trail, making it a perfect off-the-beaten-path adventure.
How difficult is the Ausangate Trek 4 Days?
This trek is considered challenging due to high altitude (up to 5,200 m / 17,060 ft) and long walking days. Good physical condition and previous hiking experience are recommended. Don’t worry—our guides at Russell Experience Peru will support you every step of the way.
What is the best time of year to do the Ausangate Trek?
The best time is during the dry season (May – September). Clear skies, stunning views, and little rain make the experience unforgettable. The rainy season (November – March) is not recommended due to slippery trails and reduced visibility.
Do I need a special permit for the Ausangate Trek?
No special permit is required, unlike the Inca Trail. However, there are entrance fees for the Ausangate region and Rainbow Mountain, which are included in our tours with Russell Experience Peru.
Will I suffer from altitude sickness?
The trek reaches very high altitudes. We recommend at least 2–3 days in Cusco before starting, to acclimatize. Our guides carry a medical kit and oxygen for emergencies, and will monitor your health throughout the trek.
Can beginners do the Ausangate Trek?
Yes, but only if you are physically fit and prepared for challenging hikes. If it’s your first high-altitude trek, we suggest trying an easier route first, like the Lares Trek or Salkantay Trek, before tackling Ausangate.
Is the Ausangate Trek guided?
Yes, all our treks are led by licensed local guides with first aid training. With Russell Experience Peru, you’ll hike safely while learning about the Andean culture, wildlife, and traditions.
Strict cancellation
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be modified for any reason. If you cancel or request a modification, no refund will be given.