Ausangate is one of the most stunning trekking destinations in the Cusco region. Known for its impressive snow capped peak visible from the city, few travelers experience its beauty up close. The trek offers breathtaking natural scenery, including turquoise lakes and constant views of the majestic Ausangate mountain, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
The Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain is a stunning 4-day adventure. On the first day, you'll visit the colorful Rainbow Mountain, one of Peru's most popular attractions. The trek continues around Ausangate, the highest and most sacred mountain in southern Peru, deeply rooted in Andean religious traditions. With breathtaking glacier views, unspoiled natural beauty, and peaceful solitude, this trek is perfect for experienced hikers seeking a true outdoor adventure. Click the link to learn more about the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain experience!
Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Upis – Hot Springs
The trek begins with a 4 a.m. pickup from Cusco and a drive to Tinki (3,900 m). After meeting the team and enjoying breakfast, you’ll hike gradually for 3–4 hours, passing traditional Andean villages and seeing distant views of Ausangate. After lunch, a 2-hour hike takes you to the Upis Alto campsite (4,100 m), near hot springs.
Distance: 13 km | Elevation: 4,100 m
Day 2: Upis – Condor Pass – Pucaccocha
Begin the day with coca tea and breakfast before a 3-hour ascent to Condor Pass (5,000 m), offering views of glaciers, lakes, and possible wildlife sightings like vicuñas and condors. After lunch, a 2.5-hour descent takes you to the stunning Pucaccocha campsite beside a red lake (4,300 m).
Distance: 12 km | Elevation: 4,300 m
Day 3: Pucaccocha – Alpaca Pass – Chillca – Vicuña Pass – Yanaccocha
This challenging but rewarding day includes two high passes. First is Alpaca Pass (5,100 m) after a 2–3 hour climb, followed by a descent into Chillca Valley for lunch. Then a slow climb to Vicuña Pass (5,300 m), the trek’s highest point, before descending to the Yanaccocha Lake campsite (4,400 m).
Distance: 15 km | Elevation: 4,400 m
Day 4: Yanaccocha – Rainbow Mountain – Chillca – Cusco
A 1.5-hour hike leads to the iconic Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley (5,200 m), known for their mineral-rich, colorful striations. After photos and explanations from your guide, descend through Chillca Valley for a final lunch, then return to Cusco by car, arriving around 6 p.m.
Distance: 12 km
Included: All meals, snacks, drinking water, professional guide, and campsites.
Weather: Dry and cold throughout the trek.
Note: Best suited for experienced hikers due to high elevation and multiple mountain passes.
Includes
- Pick up from your hotel
- Transportation by private bus from Cusco to Tinki
- Professional English Speaking Tour Guide
- Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9 or more trekkers
- 4 breakfast, 4 lunches, 4 afternoon snacks and 3 dinners. If you have a dietary request such as vegetarian
- food please let us know.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs.
- Chef, porters & horsemen
- Emergency Horse
- Private Transportation
- Foo
- First Aid
water
Does Not Include
- Sleeping Bag (Can be hired from us)
- Inflatable sleeping pad
- Trekking poles
Tips
What you need to take
- Original Passport
- ISIC card (if you are a student and want to qualify for the discount)
- Day pack
- Sleeping bag( you can rent from Quinoa Expeditions )
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket
- Warm jacket
- Warm clothes: layers for variable temperatures, especially at night. Thermals:Hat, gloves.
- wool socks and wool hat for cold nights
- T-shirts for the intire trek
- Comfortable Trousers
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen (factor 35 or higher)
- Toiletries : poilet paper, toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes and hand sanitizer
- Personal medical kit
- Camera and film
- Torch with spare batteries
- Camel bag or wáter bottle
- Extra money for drinks,tips and souvinirs. Etc( soles or dollars).
Packing List (Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain):
Essentials to Carry with You:
- Original passport (same used for booking)
- Comfortable backpack (30–40L recommended)
- Water storage (2–3L reusable bottles; no disposables)
- Hiking boots with ankle support
- Sleeping bag (minimum -15°C, can be rented)
- Headlamp (mandatory)
- Toilet paper
What to Pack in Your Duffel Bag (Max 7 kg / 15 lbs):
- 2 T-shirts
- At least 2 hiking pants
- 4 sets of underwear
- 3 pairs of hiking socks
- Swimsuit (for hot springs)
- Fleece/thermal wear
- Warm clothing, down jacket (2nd campsite ~3°C)
- Waterproof gloves (ski gloves acceptable)
- Camp shoes
- Quick-dry towel (a small one is provided, but bring your own if preferred)
- Small soap bottle (warm water provided daily)
- Power bank (no electricity during trek)
- Large plastic bags (provided to line duffel bag)
- Sleeping bag (counts as 2.5 kg) and sleeping mat (1 kg)
- Toiletries:
- Facial moisturizer
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- oothbrush and toothpaste
- Personal medication
- Basic first-aid kit (e.g. band-aids, moleskin)
What to Carry in Your Daypack:
- Water (for Day 1 until lunch; boiled water provided afterward
- Sun hat and sunscreen
- Headlamp
- Wool hat
- Rain gear and warm layers
- Snacks (chocolate, granola bars, dried fruit)
- Rain poncho
- Gloves
- Camera
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for trash
- Extra money (souvenirs, drinks, tips)
- Valuables (keep with you at all times)
Note: Duffel bags are weighed before departure. Extra weight must be carried in your personal backpack.
Group Service:
US$540 per person
Private Service:
- 2 people: US$640 pp
- 3 people: US$600 pp
- 4 people: US$570 pp
- 5+ people: US$540 pp
Equipment Rental (Optional)
- Walking Poles (pair): US$15
- Sleeping Bag: US$20
- Inflatable Mattress: US$20
- Single Tent Supplement: US$30
Important Information Ausangate Trek with Quinoa Expeditions
Arrival & Briefing
You’ll be welcomed at Cusco airport and transferred to your hotel.
Inform flight details at least 14 days in advance.
Look for the Quinoa Expeditions representative with an Yellow sign.
A mandatory pre-trek briefing takes place at 6:00 p.m. the day before the trek at your hotel or Quinoa Office.
Luggage & Packing
You can store your main luggage at the office or your hotel during the trek.
A 7 kg duffel bag (provided) is carried by horses and includes your sleeping bag and mat. You’ll only access this bag at camp.
A 30–40L daypack is needed for personal items during the hike.
Booking Process
Fill out the online reservation form with complete passport details.
Pay a $211 USD deposit via VISA or PayPal.
The remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD or PEN) at the Cusco office or online (with a 5.5% fee).
Date Changes & Cancellations
You may change your departure date with some restrictions.
Deposits are non-refundable if you cancel.
Weather & Altitude
Weather is unpredictable and varies with elevation.
Cold temperatures and possible snow; warm layers and rain gear are essential.
Altitude sickness is a risk. Acclimatize in Cusco for at least 3 days. Coca tea, hydration, and oxygen are helpful. Guides are trained to assist.
Trek Difficulty
The trek is challenging, with most of the route above 4,000 m (13,123 ft).
Good physical condition and training (e.g., walking 15 km/day) are recommended.
Proper acclimatization is crucial.
Toilets & Hygiene
Private, portable toilets are provided by Quinoa Expeditions cleaner and more hygienic than public ones.
Toilets are set up a short distance from the campsite and maintained by the crew.
Health & Emergency
If you can’t complete the trek due to illness, guides will help you return to the nearest village for transport.
Oxygen is always carried. Helicopter evacuation can be arranged (travel insurance required).
No refunds if you’re unable to complete the trek.
Tips
Tipping is optional but appreciated. It motivates staff and is customary in Peru’s tourism industry. Amounts are based on your satisfaction and experience.
Sustainability
Quinoa Expeditions is committed to responsible, sustainable tourism.
Their practices aim to protect the environment and support local communities while respecting cultural values.
Why Choose Quinoa Expeditions
Quinoa Expeditions is a 100% locally owned Cusqueñian travel agency and tour operator, founded on years of experience and a passion for authentic Andean adventures. Our mission is to offer personalized, small-group treks and tours with a strong focus on quality, responsibility, and sustainability.
Locally Rooted & Responsible
Entirely run by locals with no outside shareholders.
We ensure fair wages and respectful treatment for all our staff—our extended family.
Committed to giving back through community service projects and local employment.
Small Group Policy
Max 8 people per group to ensure a more intimate and personalized experience, far from the crowds.
Top Guides
Professional, fun, and fluent in English.
Hold degrees in fields like archaeology, history, tourism, and anthropology.
Passionate about Inca culture and constantly expanding their knowledge.
Well-Cared Pack Animals
Fully supported treks with mules to carry your gear.
We prioritize the health and humane treatment of our pack animals.
BuffetTrekking Cuisine
Delicious and abundant meals crafted by expert cooks using local and international ingredients.
We cater to all dietary needs (vegetarian, gluten-free, allergies, etc.).
High-Quality Equipment
4-season EUREKA or Doite tents (4-person tents used for 2 people) with extra space.
Foam and inflatable mattresses for better comfort (inflatable available for rent).
Complete camping setup: dining tent, chairs, tables, duffel bags, and biochemical toilet.
Extras: hot showers, survivor T-shirts, rain covers, and more.
Community Commitment
We invest in local communities through education, donations, and hiring.
Proud to strengthen ties with highland villages and promote sustainable tourism.
Choose Quinoa Expeditions for a life-changing trekking experience, where every step supports local people, respects nature, and delivers exceptional service and cultural authenticity.
