Ausangate Trek 4 days

AUSANGATE TREK 4 DAYS ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui– Upis

We look forward to providing you with a wonderful hiking adventure. We will begin our journey promptly at 06:00 am, and travel in a private van to the trailhead located at the base of the stunning Mountain Ausangate. Our hike will commence from Upispampa, and lead us through remote villages with scenic stream crossings until we reach the charming town of Upis. Once there, our private cabins will be ready for your overnight stay. Our talented chef will provide you with an appetizing lunch, and after that, you may want to explore Upis Lake, which takes about 2 hours to reach via hiking. At night, you can stargaze under the beautiful night sky and create memories to cherish for a lifetime.

• Hiking Distance: 7km/ 4,5 miles.
• Distance: 2-3 hours.
• Trailhead Elevation: 4,220 m/ 13,840 Ft.
• Difficulty: moderate.
• Campsite Elevation: 4,320 m/ 14,100 Ft.
• Accommodation: Cabins.

Day 2: Upis – Puca Cocha:

The day will begin with a refreshing wake-up call at 5am. We will bring a delicious coca tea or coffee to your tent to get your day off to a good start, followed by a hearty breakfast to fuel you for the next adventure.

Embark on a hiking trip up to Arapa Pass (4968 m), led by an experienced English-speaking guide who will give you explanations about the flora, fauna and breathtaking scenery around you. Keep an eye out for local farmers, alpacas and the famous snow-capped Ausangate Mountains to your left. With a little luck, you may even encounter magnificent animals such as condors, chinchillas and vicuñas.

As you progress, enjoy panoramic views of the colorful lakes and arrive at the Puca Cocha camp, nestled between the towering mountains and impressive hanging glaciers. You can even hear and witness the spectacular plunge of these glaciers into the nearby lagoons.

Your comfort is a priority, so tents will be set up inside the mountain huts for your comfort and relaxation. Around the camp, there are many scenic spots such as the Puca Cocha Lake, where you can observe many species of ducks, Andean geese and other birds. In the evening, relax and savor a delicious dinner prepared in our dining room, made from local materials such as rocks and mud.

• Hiking Distance: 10 km/ 6,21 mls
• Distance: 4-5 hours
• Difficulty: moderate/difficult
• Campsite Elevation: 4,500 m/ 14,760 Ft.
• Accommodation: Mountain Huts

Day 3: Puca Cocha – Ananta – Kayrawiri

Today’s itinerary takes us on a challenging yet picturesque trek through Puca Cocha pass (5051). Participants will witness breathtaking views of Mount Ausangate and colorful glacier lakes amidst the vibrant mountain ranges. The Red Mountain valley, an untouched panorama of vivid colors dotted with llamas grazing nearby, is a sight to behold. We will take a lunch break at our dining room and accommodation for the Rainbow Mountain 2-day tour.

After that, we will begin our ascent up to the Warmi Saya Pass (15,090ft-4500m-14,000feet), where from its summit, we can enjoy the magnificent view of Rainbow Mountain from afar. The trek then goes downhill to circle the lake and continues at a Peruvian flat to our campsite. Should the weather conditions permit, we might catch the stunning sunset over the Rainbow Mountain.

• Hiking Distance: 10 km/ 6,214 miles
• Distance: 6-7  hours
• Campsite Elevation: 4,900 m/ 16,076 Ft
• Difficulty: moderate/difficult
• Accommodation: Camping in huts

Day 4: Kayrawiri – Rainbow Mountain- Red Valley – Cusco

We are pleased to inform you that today’s itinerary begins promptly at 06:00 am. Our team will deliver coca tea to your tent to start your day off right before embarking on a 45-minute hike to Rainbow Mountain. Weather and individual trekking speed may affect the duration of our visit, but we typically spend around 30 minutes to 1 hour exploring and capturing photos of this breathtaking natural wonder. We will then proceed to the Red Valley, which is approximately a 30-minute journey from Rainbow Mountain. After our adventures at both locations, we will head to the bus station to catch our van. After a delicious final supper shared with the horseman and chef, we will bid them farewell and make our way back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 03:00 pm. Thank you for allowing us to guide you on this incredible journey.

• Hiking Distance: 1 km/ 0,621 miles
• Trailhead Elevation: 4,900 m/  16,076 Ft
• Difficulty: Easy
• hiking hour: -1 Hour

Inclusions

Included

• Proficient guide fluent in English, and in the case of larger groups, an additional assistant guide.
• A skilled cook and, for larger groups, an extra assistant cook.
• An adept horseman overseeing the mules and horses.
• Mules responsible for transporting group equipment and spacious duffel bags provided by the company, in addition to your personal belongings.
• All meals during the trek feature a blend of traditional Peruvian cuisine and contemporary fusion dishes, tailored to accommodate specific dietary requirements.
• Access to boiled water and a variety of snacks.
• Fees to access privately owned land.
• Comprehensive dining facilities, including a sizable dining tent, tables, stools, complete cutlery, and a dedicated kitchen tent.
• Comfortable overnight accommodations in tents, complete with Thermarest mattresses. For solo travelers, two-person tents are provided to afford ample room for personal gear, while double occupancy is accommodated in three-person tents.
• A well-equipped first aid kit, inclusive of oxygen.
• Inclusion of the entrance fee for Rainbow Mountain.
• Private transportation to and from your Cusco hotel.
• Allowance of up to 7 kilograms for your personal belongings.

Not Included

• Individual hiking equipment, such as backpacks, trekking poles, and bedrolls. It’s possible to hire these items from the company.
• Personal mount for riding. Extra horses can be rented based on individual and group requirements.
• Discretionary gratuities for the guide, driver, and chef (Please note that tipping is a customary practice in Latin America and is highly valued).

Packing List

• Daypack with rain protection.
• Flashlight/headlamp.
• Extra socks (preferably wool).
• Outdoor pants and tops – layered.
• Waterproof pants.
• Swimming trunks.
• Camping shoes/sandals – for the night.
• Camping pillow.
• Waterproof hiking shoes.
• Insulating clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, hat and gloves).
• Waterproof attire (poncho).
• Artificial or cotton clothing (pants, shorts, shirts).
• Hat and sunglasses.
• Sunscreen.
• Lip balm.
• Photographic equipment/supplementary battery.
• Nalgene type water containers.
• Essential medicines.
• Hiking poles.
• Personal items.
• Individual snacks.
• Cash (if you wish to buy souvenirs).

Important Info

• While we anticipate that the tour will follow the outlined itinerary for the Ausangate Trek 4 days, participants should acknowledge the potential for adjustments due to local conditions, such as strikes or natural disasters.
• This tour is not suitable for young children due to potential challenges with walking. However, if a child is enthusiastic about high-altitude hiking, it is possible for them to participate.
• Individuals with medical conditions should consult their physician, particularly when planning a hike in the Peruvian Andes, where elevations can reach 5040 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level. Those requiring medication should ensure they have it on hand to continue their treatment.
• The increased elevation also entails colder temperatures, with conditions nearing freezing. Proper attire with very warm clothing is essential, especially for multi-day tours.
• Overnight accommodations will be provided in shelters.
• Our third campsite is located a 40-minute hike away from Rainbow Mountain, providing a better opportunity to savor the solitude of Rainbow Mountain.
• If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, it is crucial to descend rapidly, as it is a serious matter.
• Our guide is equipped with oxygen tanks, a vital resource at altitudes exceeding 5040 meters (16,500 feet) above sea level. It’s worth noting that not all travel agencies offer this amenity, making it a valuable consideration when selecting the best Ausangate tour operator.
• Prior to embarking on your Ausangate hike, ensure you have acclimatized to Cusco’s altitude. This is the best precaution for a smooth and enjoyable journey. We recommend spending at least 3 days in Cusco before starting the excursion.
• Due to cold temperatures, batteries are prone to depletion. To counter this, store them inside your sleeping bag for better performance.

Things To Know

• Travelers with back issues are advised against embarking on this 4-day Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain.
• A guide will accompany you throughout your 4-day Ausangate trek.
• Daily departures available for groups of 2 or more.
• We exclusively arrange the Ausangate Trek 4 days throughout the year due to the availability of shelters at every campsite.
• Wheelchair access is not available.
• Starting from September, our pick-up time has been adjusted to 5 am, as the rainy season has commenced. This change is to ensure safer morning hikes, as afternoon rain is common.
• This trek will accommodate a maximum of 8 travelers.

Duffle Bag

You will receive a kit bag at our office after your briefing. These bags will be transported by our horses, and you will have access to them exclusively at the campgrounds. Use the kit bag to store clothing and personal belongings that you won’t require while hiking. Essentials like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and rain gear should be kept in your daypack. The weight of the kit bag should not exceed 7kg.

Strikes

Protests and roadblocks are common occurrences in Peru and have the potential to disrupt our Ausangate 4-day trek. We will make every effort to ensure that your journey to Ausangate proceeds as planned, although some modifications may be necessary.

If a protest takes place on the initial day of your Ausangate 4-day hike, we will transport you to the trailhead on the evening before your scheduled start date.

In the event of a protest occurring on the day you complete your Ausangate 4-day trek, we will dispatch our vehicles to Kayrawiry one night in advance. This way, you can board the vehicle at 5 pm, as the protest usually concludes after 5 pm. Your arrival in Cusco is anticipated at 11 pm.

Ausangate Weather

The climate in the Andes is highly variable. The dry season in Ausangate spans from April to October, while the rainy season extends from November through March. Nevertheless, rain can occur during the dry season, and sunshine may break through during the rainy season, so it’s wise to be ready for anything. Regardless of when you embark on the Ausangate trek, it’s essential to have rain protection gear such as a rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

Ausangate’s weather can shift rapidly, and you might encounter all four seasons in a single day. Consequently, thorough preparation is essential. Layering is key since it allows you to easily adapt to fluctuating temperatures. It’s advisable to have a down jacket on hand for the chilly early mornings and evenings.

Travel Insurance

We strongly advise obtaining travel insurance, as it can serve as a safeguard in various situations. If you need to cancel your Ausangate 4-day tour unexpectedly, it can provide reimbursement for your prepaid expenses. Additionally, in the unfortunate event that you become ill or sustain an injury while far from home, travel insurance can offer compensation for necessary medical care during your travels

Physical Requirements

This trek presents a challenging endeavor due to the high altitude, making it highly advisable to be in excellent physical shape. The traditional Ausangate trek involves significant elevation variations, which contribute to the demanding nature of the hike, given the presence of four passes along the route.

Accommodation Options

Throughout the 4-day Ausangate trek, individual travelers will be matched with another traveler of the same gender to share a tent, while couples will have their own private tent.

FREQUENT ASK QUESTION

How To Book The Ausangate Trek 4 Day Hike With Sap Adventures?

To Reserve Your Ausangate Trek 4-Day Experience with Us To secure your spot for the Ausangate trek over 4 days with us, please follow these steps:

1. Click on the “BOOK NOW” button.
2. Choose your preferred departure date.
3. Complete the personal information section for each participant.
4. The final step is making payment, which can be done using either your Credit Card or Debit Card. A deposit of $100 per person is required.
5. The remaining balance can be settled in person at our office in Cusco.

On our booking form, you will find optional extras such as walking sticks and sleeping bags. There is no need to pre-book these; you can make arrangements at our office in Cusco just one day before your departure. We always have an ample supply, so availability is not an issue.

Upon receipt of your deposit, we will promptly send you a manual confirmation for your trip, ensuring your reservation is 100% confirmed.

WHAT ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING BALANCE?

The remaining balance can be settled in cash, either in USD or soles, one day before your trip. Alternatively, you have the option to make the payment with a Credit card (a 5% service fee applies). Please inform us of your preferred method. Cash payments MUST be completed one day in advance of your trip.

HOW ABOUT THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

Regrettably, there are no student concessions available for the Ausangate trek.

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE?

Certainly, it can be arranged. However, we kindly request that you inform us with at least a 48-hour notice.

DO I NEED TO BRING MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE AUSANGATE TREK 4 DAYS?

Carrying your Passport is not obligatory. However, if you wish to receive a Rainbow Mountain stamp, it is advisable to have it with you. The cost for the stamp on your Passport is 2 soles.

CAN I STAY IN THE SACRED VALLEY FOR MY AUSANGATE TREK?

Not advisable, as our Ausangate tour groups depart from Cusco. If you are staying in the Sacred Valley, we will arrange for a pick-up 1 hour earlier than the Cusco departure time, with an additional transportation fee of $30.

WHAT TIME DO WE RETURN TO CUSCO ON THE LAST DAY?

Our typical return time to Cusco is around 3 pm – 4 pm.

OUR PRICE FOR OUR AUSANGATE TREK 4 DAYS 

 Our indigenous firm, Sap Adventures, provides DAILY COMMENCEMENTS for the Ausangate trek spanning 4 days. A group can be initiated with just a minimum of 2 participants.

• 02 PERSON: $450 PER PERSON
• 03 PERSON: $430 PER PERSON
• 04 PERSON: $410 PER PERSON
• 05 – 06 PERSON: $390 PER PERSON
• 07 – 08 PERSON: $370 PER PERSON