TRANSCENDENT AUSANGATE: UNFORGETTABLE 4-DAY TRAVERSE
4D/3N
Discover the magic in 4 unforgettable days.
The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek is a four-day journey offering an unforgettable adventure through Peru’s stunning landscapes. Experience hot springs with views of Apu Ausangate, hike amid colorful lakes, and encounter alpacas in snow-capped mountains. Discover the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder located in the Vilcanota range. This trek combines physical endurance with breathtaking scenery, making it a surreal and unique adventure in the Andes.
ITINERARIO
DAY 1: CUSCO - UPISTO UPISTHERMAL BATHS CAMP
We will pick you up from your accommodation at 5:00 am to begin our rural adventure, driving for three hours in our private transport to the town of Upis. Nestled in the heart of the Cusco highlands, Upis offers stunning panoramic views of the horizon.
Upon arrival, you’ll meet the rest of your trekking team, including our skilled cooks and horsemen. Our journey begins with a hike along a wide, ascending path that leads to the northeast face of the majestic Ausangate mountain.
After three hours of walking through picturesque farming fields and charming traditional houses, we will reach the Upis camp, where a delicious lunch awaits us. In the afternoon, we have the option to take a two-hour round trip hike to Wayna Ausangate Lake. Upon returning, you’ll enjoy a delightful tea time, followed by dinner. We will camp under the watchful gaze of the sacred Ausangate mountains, ensuring a peaceful night’s rest.
WALKING DISTANCE: 10 km / 6.21 mi
MEALS: Breakfast, lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Private Camps
DAY 2: UPISTHERMAL BATHS TO PUCACOCHACAMP
We will wake you up today with a hot herbal tea made from coca leaves or coffee delivered to your tent, providing you with the energy boost you need to start your day. Afterward, we’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast in the brisk high mountain air to warm you up.
Our walk today begins with a two-and-a-half-hour trek through a stunning high Andean valley, leading us towards the Arapa pass with the spectacular Ausangate glacier as our constant companion. From the summit (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), the landscape’s beauty will astound you, showcasing the immense creations of Mother Nature. You’ll marvel at the vast mountain range and, if lucky, witness the majestic flight of the condor, the largest flying bird in the world. Our guide will share fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna.
We will then descend for an hour and a half to discover the beauty of the multi-colored crystalline lagoons of Yanaqocha (black lagoon) and Pukaqocha (red lagoons), along with several waterfalls. Keep your camera ready all day to capture breathtaking photos of your epic journey. At this point, we’ll pause for a delicious lunch.
Later, we will reach our Hatun Pukaqocha camp, situated at 4,500 m / 14,764 ft. In the afternoon, you can explore the nearby lakes, relax, and enjoy some delightful tea. A nutritious dinner will be served in the evening, allowing you to reflect on the day’s adventures with your fellow trekkers and team before heading to bed for a restful night.
WALKING DISTANCE: 11 km / 6.84 mi
MEALS: Breakfast , lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Private Camps
DAY 3: SURINECOCHA - RAINBOW MOUNTAIN - RED VALLEY -LLACTO - CUSCO
There’s nothing better for your body than starting the day with a hot herbal tea of coca leaves—a traditional drink since Inca times, providing a natural energy boost. You’ll rise early this morning to begin one of the most picturesque days of our entire excursion.
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll embark on a two-hour uphill trek to Puka Pass (4,870 m / 15,977 ft). Along the way, you’ll be captivated by the stunning views of glaciers and lush green valleys. Feel the powerful presence of Apu Ausangate and take photos of its breathtaking turquoise lagoons.
At the summit, you’ll be greeted by the majestic face of Apu Ausangate right before you. You’ll feel its immense energy and understand its deep significance to the Andean people. You’ll also enjoy the expansive beauty of the Chilca Valley, where llamas and alpacas graze peacefully. From this vantage point, you’ll catch your first glimpse of the Rainbow Mountain range with its striking colorful stripes.
After snapping some more photos, we’ll begin a gentle descent for an hour and a half to our lunch spot in Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). After satisfying our hunger, we’ll take some time to rest and relax before continuing with a two-hour ascent to Warmisaya (4,985 m / 16,354 ft).
From this high point, you’ll feel like a bird soaring through the mountains, able to take in the vast horizon. A short one-hour descent will bring us to Surineqocha Lagoon, where our campsite awaits. Here, you’ll witness an incredible sunset behind Rainbow Mountain, filling you with tranquility and a profound sense of inner peace. After another excellent dinner, you’ll retire for a restful night’s sleep.
WALKING DISTANCE: 10 km / 6.2 mi
MEALS: Breakfast, lunch, Dinner
ACCOMMODATION: Private Camps
DAY 4: SURINEQOCHALAKE - RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TO CUSCO HOSTEL
Experience a sunrise summit at the Rainbow Mountain!
After a delightful breakfast at 4:00 am, we’ll head to the Rainbow Mountain to witness this colorful valley bathed in the golden light of dawn. You’ll have an hour to enjoy this paradise before the crowds arrive. Our expert guide will lead you to the best spots for capturing stunning photos and making the most of your time at this breathtaking site.
Your guide will explain in detail why this mountain boasts such unique colors and how it was only «discovered» in recent years. It’s one of the most extraordinary places in South America and a major natural attraction in Peru. The only other colored mountains similar to it are found in China.
After soaking in the beauty of this Peruvian gem, we’ll start our trek towards the spectacular Red Valley. This rarely visited spot feels like another planet, almost like Mars. You’ll be amazed by its stunning beauty and the profound tranquility that envelops you. Take a deep breath and relish the joy of being alive. It takes just a 45-minute walk to reach the viewpoint, where you’ll get the best views of the valley.
Finally, we’ll descend for two hours through ancient Andean communities and herds of llamas. You’ll observe how these small communities have preserved their ancient traditions. After a delicious final lunch, a bus will be waiting to take you back to your accommodation in Cusco.
WALKING DISTANCE: 6.5 km / 4.04 mi
MEALS: Breakfast , lunch,
RAINBOW MOUNTAIN. ALT: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
PRICE AND INCLUSIONS
Each trip is tailored to your specific needs and desires, so our prices vary depending on the number of people traveling, the desired level of accommodation, and the activities included, among other factors.
INCLUDE
- Transport
- Professional guide
- Meals
- Duffel bags
- Spacious tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, kitchen tent, toilet tent
- Horses to carry the group’s equipment
NOT INCLUDED
- Breakfast on the 1st day
- Dinner on the 4th day
- Other services not mentioned.
ACCOMMODATIONS
We offer you an exclusive selection of our accommodations in Cusco, ensuring that you enjoy the utmost comfort and an unparalleled experience during your stay.
