Ausangate Trek 5 days

AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS ITINERARY

Day 1: Cusco – Ocongate – Tinqui – Upis

We commence our journey from Cusco at 06:00 am aboard a private van, heading towards Upis Pampa. En route, we traverse the Urcos district and continue until reaching Tinqui, where we can make a brief stop to explore the local market. Upon arriving at Upis Pampa, we indulge in a hearty breakfast before embarking on our adventure, departing from the hamlet of Quinsapucyu and concluding at Upis Huarmisaya. During our hike, we are treated to breathtaking vistas, including the awe-inspiring Mount Ausangate, and have the opportunity to interact with indigenous farmers donning their traditional attire. Upon reaching our campsite, a delectable lunch awaits, meticulously prepared by our skilled chef. Later in the afternoon, we have the option to either embark on a 2-hour round-trip hike to Upis Lake or soak in the rejuvenating hot springs.

• Hiking Distance: 7km/ 4,5 mls.
• Duration: 3 hours roughly.
• Elevation: 4,220 m/ 13,840 Ft.
• Difficulty:
• Campsite Elevation: 4,320 m/ 14,100 Ft.
• Accommodation: Cabins

Day 2: Upis – Puca Cocha- Ananta

We begin the day with an early wake-up call at 5:00 am, complete with a serving of coca tea delivered to your cabin. Following this, we proceed to pack our belongings, enjoy breakfast, and embark on our trek. The initial leg involves an uphill climb to Arapa pass, elevating to 4958 meters, followed by a gentle descent leading to our lunch spot near Lake Pucacocha. After relishing a delectable meal, we continue our journey, ascending to the second pass known as Pucacocha pass, standing at 5000 meters. Subsequently, we embark on a downhill hike lasting a couple of hours, eventually reaching our campsite named Ananta, where we will spend the night in our mountain huts. En route, you’ll have the opportunity to admire various glacier peaks, meandering rivers, pristine small lakes, herds of alpacas, encounters with local herders, and, of course, your knowledgeable guide will be there to provide insights about the region.

• Hiking Distance: 14km/ 8,660 mls.
• Duration: 8-9 hours.
• Difficulty:
• Campsite Elevation: 4,420 m/ 15,400 Ft.
• Accommodation: Mountain Huts.

Day 3: Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Ausangate Cocha

Your day begins with a 4:00 am wake-up call, accompanied by a revitalizing cup of coca tea. After savoring a nourishing breakfast, we proceed to pack our belongings and embark on our journey. We commence the hike towards Surini pass, situated at an elevation of 5051 meters. From this vantage point, you’ll be treated to a panoramic view of the vibrant mountains that surround you, with Rainbow Mountain still visible in the distance. We then descend to the circular lake and continue traversing Peruvian terrain that is relatively level until we reach Rainbow Mountain.

Here, we will have the opportunity to bask in the breathtaking beauty of the colorful mountains and their picturesque surroundings, arriving at Rainbow Mountain around 08:00 am. Subsequently, we commence a 2-hour descent to Alqatari, where we will partake in both lunch and dinner, concluding the day by spending the night in our mountain huts. Along the way, our path will lead us through quaint villages, and you’ll have the pleasure of encountering Llamas and Alpacas.

• Hiking Distance: 13km/ 8,345 mls.
• Distance: 6-7 hours.
• Difficulty: moderate/Difficult.
• Campsite Elevation: 4,420 m / 14,500 Ft.
• Accommodation: Shelter.

Day 4: Ausangate Cocha – Quinsacocha – Jampa

Following a delightful breakfast, we commence our ascent towards the pinnacle of the Ausangate trail, reaching the zenith of our journey at 5300 meters, known as Palomani Pass. At this point, you’ll experience a sensation akin to being in the heavens, elevated above all other treks in the Cusco region. The remarkable landscapes of canyons and valleys in the Andes unfold before you, with the possibility of spotting soaring Condors in the vicinity. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll find yourself at the base of Ausangate Mountain, revered as the guardian deity by the local inhabitants.

Throughout our journey, we’ll encounter a diverse array of natural wonders, including towering glacier peaks, babbling streams, meandering rivers, crimson-hued lakes, charming chinchillas, herds of alpacas, interactions with local herders, and encounters with llamas. We’ll navigate through undulating terrain, arriving at our lunch destination known as Huchuy Phinaya. After indulging in a delectable lunch, we continue our hike for an additional hour, culminating at our campsite, Surapampa. This campsite is nestled in close proximity to a rocky area, providing ample opportunities to observe Chinchillas perched atop the rocks.

• Hiking Distance: 14 km/ 8,5 mls.
• Duration: 8-9 hours.
• Difficulty:  Moderate
• Campsite Elevation: 4,620 m/ 15,190 Ft.
• Accommodation: Tents.

Day 5: Jampa – Pacchanta – Cusco

Today marks our passage over the ultimate summit, as we embark on a 3-hour uphill hike to reach the final pass at an elevation of 4900 meters. From this vantage point, we are treated to captivating vistas of additional glacier peaks and the resplendent Ausangate’s seven lakes. Subsequently, we begin our descent towards our designated lunch locale, known as PACCHANTA, where our skilled cook and horsemen will prepare our last supper.

PACCHANTA boasts a delightful natural hot spring nestled amidst the mountains. After five days of trekking, indulging in a soothing bath in these hot springs is a rejuvenating experience, and you may even choose to savor a refreshing beer. Furthermore, you’ll have the opportunity to acquire exquisite handmade crafts from local artisans. Following this, we bid farewell to our horsemen and board our private van for a 3-hour journey back to Cusco. Your return to your hotel is anticipated around 6 pm.

• Hiking Distance: 12km/ 7,5 miles.
• Duration: 6 hours roughly.
• Difficulty: moderate/Difficult.

Inclusions

Included

• English-speaking guide, accompanied by an assistant guide for sizable groups.
• Skilled chef, along with an assistant chef for larger groups, and a horseman overseeing the mules and horses.
• Mules responsible for transporting group equipment and sizable duffel bags supplied by the company for personal belongings.
• All meals throughout the trek, featuring traditional Peruvian dishes and contemporary fusion cuisine, tailored to specific dietary requirements.
• Purified water and snacks.
• Charges for accessing privately-owned land.
• Spacious dining tent, complete with tables, stools, all necessary cutlery, and a kitchen tent.
• Complimentary breakfast on the first day.
• Overnight accommodation in tents, equipped with Thermarest mattresses. Single individuals receive two-person tents, while couples are allocated three-person tents to ensure ample space for personal belongings.
• Comprehensive first aid kit, including oxygen.
• Pre-trek briefing to provide essential information.
• Admission fee for Rainbow Mountain.
• Private transportation to and from your Cusco hotel.
• Allowance for carrying 7 kilograms of personal belongings.
•  

Not Included

• Sleeping Bag
• Individual hiking equipment, encompassing backpacks, trekking poles, and sleeping bags. Nevertheless, these items can be leased from the company.
• Private riding horse. Extra horses can be hired based on the requirements of both individuals and groups.
• Optional Gratuity for Guide, Driver, and Chef (Please note that gratuities are customary in Latin America and are highly valued).

WHAT TO BRING FOR AUSANGATE 5 DAYS

• Daypack with a rain cover.
• Flashlight/ headlamp.
• Additional stockings (preferably wool).
• Trekking pants and shirts, suitable for layering.
• Rain trousers.
• Camp shoes/ sandals, ideal for evening wear.
• Camp pillow.
• Water-resistant hiking footwear.
• Insulating attire (thermal undergarments, fleece, beanie, and gloves).
• Waterproof attire (poncho).
• Synthetic or cotton clothing (trousers, shorts, T-shirts).
• Sunhat and shades.
• Sunscreen.
• Lip balm.
• Swimwear.
• Camera/ spare battery.
• Water containers like Nalgene.
• Basic medical supplies.
• Walking poles.
• Personal belongings.
• Personal snacks.
• Cash (if you wish to purchase mementos).

Important Info

If you experience symptoms of altitude sickness, descend as rapidly as possible. This is not a matter to be taken lightly.

Our guide always carries oxygen tanks, which are indispensable when you ascend to altitudes exceeding 5040 meters (16,500 feet) above sea level. Not all travel agencies provide this service, so it’s certainly something to consider when selecting the best Rainbow Mountain tour operator.

Ensure that you are acclimatized to the high altitude of Cusco before embarking on your journey to Rainbow Mountain. This is the most reliable way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. We recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco prior to the excursion.

Be aware that cold temperatures can cause batteries to drain quickly, so it’s advisable to store them in your sleeping bag.

The elevated altitude also brings colder, nearly freezing temperatures, so be well-prepared. If you opt for a multi-day tour, make sure to dress in very warm clothing. Additionally, bring coca leaves to combat altitude sickness and carry the minimal necessary gear to make the hike more manageable.

Our fourth campsite is situated 40 minutes away from Rainbow Mountain, allowing for a greater opportunity to relish the solitude and beauty of this natural wonder.

In some of our campsites, we provide huts that offer protection from rain, snow, and hail.

Regardless of the weather conditions, the scenery remains awe-inspiring.

While we anticipate that the tour will follow the outlined itinerary for the Ausangate Trek 5 days, participants should be prepared for the potential of changes due to local circumstances such as strikes or natural disasters.

You will traverse three passes that exceed an elevation of 16,000 feet. These passes are generally gradual in their incline.

Temperatures can plummet significantly at night, and you should be ready for the possibility of snow.

FREQUENT ASK QUESTION

HOW TO BOOK THE AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAY HIKE WITH SAP ADVENTURES?

• Reservation Guidelines
• How to Reserve
• Booking Process
• Steps to Secure Your Spot
• Procedure for Reserving

To secure your spot on the Ausangate Trek 5 days with us, follow these steps:

1. Click on the “BOOK NOW” button.
2. Select your preferred departure date.
3. Fill out the personal information for each participant.
4. Complete the payment of your $100 per person deposit.

Once we receive your deposit, we will send you a confirmation of your trek along with a booking form to be filled out. Here are the details we require from you:

Personal Information (Please provide the following for each participant):

• Full name:
• Hotel name:
• Dietary restrictions:
• Passport number:

Note: We need copies of the passports of all participants as they are required when purchasing Ausangate trek permits.

WHAT ABOUT THE OUTSTANDING BALANCE?

The remaining amount can be settled in cash one day before your trip in either USD or soles, or alternatively, you have the option to use PayPal at least one week prior to your trip (a 7% service fee will be incurred). Additionally, payment via Credit card is accepted, but only Visa cards (with a 5% service fee). Please inform us of your preferred payment method. Please note that cash payments must be made one day prior to your trip.

CAN I STAY IN THE SACRED VALLEY FOR MY AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS?

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.

DO I NEED TO BRING MY ORIGINAL PASSPORT ON THE AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAY TREK?

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.

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.

HOW ABOUT THE STUDENT DISCOUNT?

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