The 5-day Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain hike will immerse you in the pulse and spirit of the sacred snow-capped mountains and vibrant rainbow-colored peaks as you walk through high-altitude wilderness areas.
This Ausangate Trek is designed for a more peaceful and relaxed experience in the remote areas of Ausangate Mountain. The Ausangate trek with Rainbow Mountain (Ausangate, Peru) takes you along paths less traveled by tourists.
From the most iconic snow-capped peaks of the Andes to Rainbow Mountain, this is one of the best treks in the world, taking you through the rarely visited Ausangate circuit in the Peruvian Andes.
A Trek for True Hikers: “Fly like a Tunqui, Hike like an Inca”
You will walk along sacred trails, glacier lagoons, colorful mountains, herds of llamas and alpacas, waterfalls, and the enigmatic peaks and glaciers of Ausangate Mountain (20,956 ft).
At the end of each exciting day, you will be welcomed at our unique campsites in spectacular landscapes. Each campsite is equipped with spacious private tents, a dining tent, a bathroom tent, and a kitchen!
Your greatest reward will be exploring the ethereal Rainbow Mountains & Red Valley at sunset and sunrise – an impressive natural formation of colorful mountains in Peru.
Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain is one of the most breathtaking adventures in Peru. Over 5 days, you will explore the sacred Ausangate snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, remote Andean villages, and finally reach the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Ausangate Trek combines stunning natural beauty with authentic cultural encounters, offering a unique experience for adventure lovers. Guided by our expert team, you will enjoy the best equipment, delicious meals, and the safety needed to fully immerse yourself in the Andes.
Are you planning an unforgettable adventure with your partner, family, or group of friends? Escape the noise of the city and immerse yourself in the majestic tranquility of the Peruvian Andes with our exclusive 5-Day Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain.
This extraordinary trekking route takes you deep into the heart of Ausangate, one of Peru’s most sacred mountains, far away from the crowds. Designed for those seeking a peaceful and authentic experience, this trek offers a journey through pristine high-altitude wilderness, vibrant culture, and natural wonders.
This is more than a hike — it’s a spiritual journey through some of the most dramatic and sacred landscapes in South America.
Book your Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain now with Tunqui Expeditions, the experts in personalized Andean adventures.
Highlight of the day: Hike through the Andean landscapes of Ausangate.
Walk through the beautiful Andean landscape and breathe pure, fresh air.
Our Ausangate Trek adventure begins at 4:00 AM in the city of Cusco with private transport from Tunqui Expeditions, heading to the community of Upis.
A nutritious breakfast will be prepared by the talented hands of our professional chef, surrounded by the Andean landscapes of Ausangate. From here, we will begin the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain, enjoying the stunning scenery.
Once ready with walking poles in hand, we will calmly hike for three hours to have lunch at Upis, surrounded by breathtaking views. Along the trail, you will see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas across this part of the mountains.
We will then continue with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Arapa Pass, where you will witness vibrant colors scattered across the mountains and a valley stretching before your eyes.
After reaching the highest point of our hike, we will begin our descent for approximately two and a half hours, passing by Yanacocha Lagoon until we reach our campsite near Hatun Pucacocha Lagoon.
Upon arrival, we will camp at the base of the Sacred Ausangate Mountain, where you will be amazed by its snow-covered silhouette.
In the afternoon, our porters will surprise us with a tea time filled with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and other treats to satisfy your hunger. Later, you will enjoy a delicious dinner before a well-deserved rest.
Highlight of the day: Stunning bright lagoons on our trek.
A day filled with lagoons and the sacred mountains of Ausangate awaits.
After a long night under the bright stars, we will wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our chef to give us the energy needed to start the day.
Our trek begins by filling our water bottles or canteens before hiking uphill for two hours to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft).
We will descend for an hour and a half to have lunch at Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). Afterward, we will ascend for approximately two more hours to reach Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), where we will witness the spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sacred mountains and Rainbow Mountain in the distance. The goal is to arrive in the afternoon to see the last rays of sunlight on Rainbow Mountain.
From there, we will descend for 45 minutes to our campsite near Surinecocha Lagoon (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). Upon arrival, porters will welcome us with hot water to refresh ourselves. After resting, we will take a short hike to Rainbow Mountain to enjoy the sunset, exploring this breathtaking site exclusively with your group.
Your expert guide will lead you to the best photo spots to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t worry – we will return the next day to witness the sunrise and the colors shining differently in the morning light.
After the afternoon visit, porters will prepare tea time with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, and more. Later, we will enjoy a delightful dinner before resting.
Highlight of the day: Rainbow Mountain, a masterpiece perfectly crafted by nature.
Today will be spectacular as we reach Rainbow Mountain at sunrise, witnessing the first rays of light and being the first to arrive.
The view is breathtaking – even if we don’t believe in God, we will feel the need to thank someone for these stunning landscapes, which feel like works of art.
Our adventure begins early with a delicious breakfast.
We will start with a gentle uphill hike that will lead us to enjoy the incredible natural wonder of Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Once we arrive, we will witness the sunrise, capturing incredible photos long before the other groups arrive.
After this magical moment, your guide will explain the significance of this site in Andean culture.
Later, we will visit the Red Valley viewpoint (5,050 m / 16,568 ft), where you can see the vast valley fading into the distance.
After exploring the Red Valley, we will return along the same path, gradually descending to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), where we will enjoy a delicious Andean meal prepared by our trekking chef.
After lunch and a well-deserved rest, we will continue with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike, admiring the beautiful green valley filled with herds of llamas and alpacas. In the evening, our campsite will await us at Ausangate Cocha (4,500 m / 14,774 ft), where we will relax after another delicious dinner.
Highlight of the day: Hike through vast landscapes and learn about local customs and traditions.
Immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of the Andean people.
As every morning, you will receive a cup of hot coca tea in your tent to start the day, followed by a delicious breakfast prepared by our expert chef.
Today’s hike begins with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill trek to Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the entire route.
After a short break to enjoy the incredible views, we will hike for another hour to reach the small Andean community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,650 m / 15,256 ft). Here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch surrounded by the vast Andean landscape.
What a great way to spend lunchtime!
We hold great respect for the people of Huchuy Phinaya, who have preserved their ancestral traditions to this day. Learn from them and their admirable way of living in harmony with Pachamama (Mother Nature).
Today is the most challenging day, but the connection with the Andes and Mother Earth will make it worthwhile. Later, a gentle 2-hour hike will lead us to Sorapata, where our camp will be set and ready for your arrival.
After a delicious dinner, you will enjoy a peaceful night’s rest without the noise and hustle of the city.
Highlight of the day: Explore the stunning lagoons and offer a small tribute to Mother Nature.
Show gratitude to Pachamama for this epic journey.
After breakfast, we will begin a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft). From here, you will witness breathtaking views of majestic, snow-capped sacred mountains.
Don’t forget to have your camera ready!
We will then descend along a smooth trail for approximately three hours until we reach our lunch spot at the Pacchanta camp. Along the way, we will pass through the famous 7 Ausangate Lagoons.
By one of the mystical and beautiful lagoons, such as Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo, we will have the opportunity to perform a small ceremony to Pachamama and the surrounding mountains, especially Ausangate, which has protected and guided us throughout the trek.
After lunch in Pacchanta, you will have a free afternoon to relax and rejuvenate your tired body in the medicinal hot springs of Pacchanta.
Later, we will bid farewell to the Tunqui Expeditions team, including the porters, muleteers, and our amazing chef.
Without them, this epic adventure would not have been possible!
Finally, after our farewell, we will embark on a two-and-a-half-hour return journey to Cusco, marking the end of this incredible 6-day Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain adventure. You will be dropped off at the door of your hotel.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we specify exactly what’s included and not included in every itinerary listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but we kindly ask that you review the details carefully to ensure a worry-free experience.
Please note: Some elements may vary depending on the specific program, so be sure to read the information thoroughly before booking.
Meet your guide and group at our Cusco office at 5:00 p.m. the day before your trek. You’ll receive a duffel bag (maximum 7 kg / 15.4 lb) to be carried by our muleteers or porters. This must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if you rent or bring your own.
All of our guides speak English and Spanish and are certified tourism professionals from the National University of San Antonio Abad in Cusco. They are selected for their knowledge, professionalism, and deep love for sharing their Andean heritage.
All guides are first-aid trained and carry a medical kit and oxygen tank for common trail conditions. We also hold mandatory training every February to keep our team up to date. In case of emergencies, we will arrange a rapid evacuation to the nearest medical center.
All gear is carried by our team of porters or muleteers and includes:
Provided for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Boiled, filtered, and cooled water is provided from the first lunch to the last breakfast. Bring a hydration bladder or bottle (minimum 2L capacity) for refills during meals.
Each morning, our staff brings you a hot cup of coca tea to your tent.
Popcorn, cookies, tea, hot chocolate, and other snacks served before dinner.
Reusable cloth snack bag filled daily with fruits, cookies, chocolate, and candies.
A small towel and soap provided before every meal for handwashing.
All taxes and trekking permit fees are included. No hidden charges.
While some items may be intangible, they define who we are at Tunqui Expeditions:
Our porters are the heart of our operation. Founder Silvio Tunqui began as a porter and ensures every team member receives fair wages and top-quality equipment:
We sponsor school supplies, medical campaigns, and reforestation efforts in their home villages.
We organize 4 annual trips for our porters and their families to visit Machu Picchu and explore their ancestral heritage—many for the first time.
Since 2022, we’ve proudly included female guides, porters, and cooks. We look forward to the day when we reach a 50/50 gender balance in the mountains.
We practice Leave No Trace principles, use biodegradable products, and assign an extra porter to clean up litter left by other groups. We’re proud to be a leader in sustainable tourism in Peru.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable and stress-free. Here’s everything you need to know before starting your Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain.
The Ausangate Trek is one of the best alternatives to the Inca Trail and ideal for adventurous travelers seeking less crowded trails and stunning natural landscapes. It’s suitable for hikers with moderate to high fitness levels, as it involves hiking at high altitudes and over long distances.
Unlike the Inca Trail, this trek reaches over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) and includes remote sections of the Andes, with glacier lakes, herds of alpacas, and sacred mountain views. With proper acclimatization and support from our expert team, you’ll be well prepared for this unforgettable experience.
We are proud to offer a Plastic-Free Ausangate Trek experience. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we reduce single-use plastics and promote eco-friendly trekking practices. Together, we protect the pristine beauty of the Andes for future generations.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, we strongly recommend 2–3 full days of acclimatization in Cusco before starting the trek.
Even if you’ve been to other high-altitude areas, it’s best to spend at least one day resting in Cusco to recover and prepare. During this time, you can explore these tours:
A mandatory pre-trek briefing will be held the evening before your departure at 5:00 p.m. at our main office in Cusco or your hotel. Briefings last 30–45 minutes and cover all essential details. If you cannot attend, please notify us in advance to reschedule.
Any outstanding trek balance must be paid at least 1 days before the trek to confirm your spot.
Payment options:
Note: We do not accept traveler’s checks or bank drafts.
You’ll receive a duffel bag (60 x 24 x 22 cm) during your briefing. Our porters will carry it throughout the trek.
Weight limit: 6 kg (13.2 lbs) including sleeping bag and mat.
Yes! You can store your main luggage at our office free of charge, or arrange storage with your hotel.
For security:
Our group treks include travelers of different ages and physical conditions. Everyone is welcome to walk at their own pace. Any route changes must be agreed upon by the group and authorized by the guide.
Social protests and strikes may occasionally disrupt roads or services. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll inform you of any itinerary changes. In some cases, we may leave a day early or reschedule tours.
Please keep your belongings safe at all times. Tunqui Expeditions is not responsible for lost items during the tour. Always check your transport, campsite, and accommodation before leaving.
If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Tunqui Expeditions. We’re here to make your journey through the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain circuit the adventure of a lifetime.
Planning your adventure with Tunqui Expeditions? Here’s your essential packing list for the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain to ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking in the Peruvian Andes.
From personal documentation and gear to clothing and optional items, this guide covers everything you need for a safe and comfortable 5-day trek.
Footwear & Base Layers
Outerwear
Your personal duffel bag (carried by porters) has a 7 kg limit, which includes your sleeping bag and air mat (usually 3.5 kg together). Pack efficiently:
By following this Ausangate Trek packing list, you’ll be fully equipped to take on the stunning trails of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley with comfort and confidence.
Need help renting trekking gear in Cusco? Just let us know at Tunqui Expeditions — we’ll take care of the details!
Join us on the breathtaking 5-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, one of the top high-altitude treks in Peru. Below, you’ll find all the essential information regarding availability, pricing, payment options, add-ons, and special discounts.
The Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days is available to start any day of the week from March to January.
⚠️ February Closure:
We do not operate this trek in February due to the rainy season and route maintenance. During this month, our Tunqui Expeditions team—guides, cooks, porters, and muleteers—receives annual training and safety updates to offer you the best experience for the year ahead.
Need extra gear for comfort and convenience? You can rent the following items:
Let us know in advance so we can have everything ready for you.
Save US$ 20.00
Available for students 17 years or younger. To apply the discount, please send a clear photo or scan of your passport during the booking process.
Email to: [email protected]
Why stop at just the Ausangate Trek? Add one of these amazing day tours before or after your trek:
Ask us how to combine these excursions with your trek for a complete Cusco adventure package.
Our 5-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain operates with just 2 confirmed trekkers, so your adventure is guaranteed even with a small group.
Book now with Tunqui Expeditions — your trusted local experts in high-altitude trekking in Peru.
Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain is one of the most breathtaking adventures in Peru. Over 5 days, you will explore the sacred Ausangate snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, remote Andean villages, and finally reach the famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
Ausangate Trek combines stunning natural beauty with authentic cultural encounters, offering a unique experience for adventure lovers. Guided by our expert team, you will enjoy the best equipment, delicious meals, and the safety needed to fully immerse yourself in the Andes.
Are you planning an unforgettable adventure with your partner, family, or group of friends? Escape the noise of the city and immerse yourself in the majestic tranquility of the Peruvian Andes with our exclusive 5-Day Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain.
This extraordinary trekking route takes you deep into the heart of Ausangate, one of Peru’s most sacred mountains, far away from the crowds. Designed for those seeking a peaceful and authentic experience, this trek offers a journey through pristine high-altitude wilderness, vibrant culture, and natural wonders.
This is more than a hike — it’s a spiritual journey through some of the most dramatic and sacred landscapes in South America.
Book your Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain now with Tunqui Expeditions, the experts in personalized Andean adventures.
Highlight of the day: Hike through the Andean landscapes of Ausangate.
Walk through the beautiful Andean landscape and breathe pure, fresh air.
Our Ausangate Trek adventure begins at 4:00 AM in the city of Cusco with private transport from Tunqui Expeditions, heading to the community of Upis.
A nutritious breakfast will be prepared by the talented hands of our professional chef, surrounded by the Andean landscapes of Ausangate. From here, we will begin the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain, enjoying the stunning scenery.
Once ready with walking poles in hand, we will calmly hike for three hours to have lunch at Upis, surrounded by breathtaking views. Along the trail, you will see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas across this part of the mountains.
We will then continue with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Arapa Pass, where you will witness vibrant colors scattered across the mountains and a valley stretching before your eyes.
After reaching the highest point of our hike, we will begin our descent for approximately two and a half hours, passing by Yanacocha Lagoon until we reach our campsite near Hatun Pucacocha Lagoon.
Upon arrival, we will camp at the base of the Sacred Ausangate Mountain, where you will be amazed by its snow-covered silhouette.
In the afternoon, our porters will surprise us with a tea time filled with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and other treats to satisfy your hunger. Later, you will enjoy a delicious dinner before a well-deserved rest.
Highlight of the day: Stunning bright lagoons on our trek.
A day filled with lagoons and the sacred mountains of Ausangate awaits.
After a long night under the bright stars, we will wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our chef to give us the energy needed to start the day.
Our trek begins by filling our water bottles or canteens before hiking uphill for two hours to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft).
We will descend for an hour and a half to have lunch at Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). Afterward, we will ascend for approximately two more hours to reach Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), where we will witness the spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sacred mountains and Rainbow Mountain in the distance. The goal is to arrive in the afternoon to see the last rays of sunlight on Rainbow Mountain.
From there, we will descend for 45 minutes to our campsite near Surinecocha Lagoon (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). Upon arrival, porters will welcome us with hot water to refresh ourselves. After resting, we will take a short hike to Rainbow Mountain to enjoy the sunset, exploring this breathtaking site exclusively with your group.
Your expert guide will lead you to the best photo spots to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t worry – we will return the next day to witness the sunrise and the colors shining differently in the morning light.
After the afternoon visit, porters will prepare tea time with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, and more. Later, we will enjoy a delightful dinner before resting.
Highlight of the day: Rainbow Mountain, a masterpiece perfectly crafted by nature.
Today will be spectacular as we reach Rainbow Mountain at sunrise, witnessing the first rays of light and being the first to arrive.
The view is breathtaking – even if we don’t believe in God, we will feel the need to thank someone for these stunning landscapes, which feel like works of art.
Our adventure begins early with a delicious breakfast.
We will start with a gentle uphill hike that will lead us to enjoy the incredible natural wonder of Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Once we arrive, we will witness the sunrise, capturing incredible photos long before the other groups arrive.
After this magical moment, your guide will explain the significance of this site in Andean culture.
Later, we will visit the Red Valley viewpoint (5,050 m / 16,568 ft), where you can see the vast valley fading into the distance.
After exploring the Red Valley, we will return along the same path, gradually descending to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), where we will enjoy a delicious Andean meal prepared by our trekking chef.
After lunch and a well-deserved rest, we will continue with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike, admiring the beautiful green valley filled with herds of llamas and alpacas. In the evening, our campsite will await us at Ausangate Cocha (4,500 m / 14,774 ft), where we will relax after another delicious dinner.
Highlight of the day: Hike through vast landscapes and learn about local customs and traditions.
Immerse yourself in the customs and traditions of the Andean people.
As every morning, you will receive a cup of hot coca tea in your tent to start the day, followed by a delicious breakfast prepared by our expert chef.
Today’s hike begins with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill trek to Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the entire route.
After a short break to enjoy the incredible views, we will hike for another hour to reach the small Andean community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,650 m / 15,256 ft). Here, you will have the opportunity to enjoy lunch surrounded by the vast Andean landscape.
What a great way to spend lunchtime!
We hold great respect for the people of Huchuy Phinaya, who have preserved their ancestral traditions to this day. Learn from them and their admirable way of living in harmony with Pachamama (Mother Nature).
Today is the most challenging day, but the connection with the Andes and Mother Earth will make it worthwhile. Later, a gentle 2-hour hike will lead us to Sorapata, where our camp will be set and ready for your arrival.
After a delicious dinner, you will enjoy a peaceful night’s rest without the noise and hustle of the city.
Highlight of the day: Explore the stunning lagoons and offer a small tribute to Mother Nature.
Show gratitude to Pachamama for this epic journey.
After breakfast, we will begin a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft). From here, you will witness breathtaking views of majestic, snow-capped sacred mountains.
Don’t forget to have your camera ready!
We will then descend along a smooth trail for approximately three hours until we reach our lunch spot at the Pacchanta camp. Along the way, we will pass through the famous 7 Ausangate Lagoons.
By one of the mystical and beautiful lagoons, such as Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo, we will have the opportunity to perform a small ceremony to Pachamama and the surrounding mountains, especially Ausangate, which has protected and guided us throughout the trek.
After lunch in Pacchanta, you will have a free afternoon to relax and rejuvenate your tired body in the medicinal hot springs of Pacchanta.
Later, we will bid farewell to the Tunqui Expeditions team, including the porters, muleteers, and our amazing chef.
Without them, this epic adventure would not have been possible!
Finally, after our farewell, we will embark on a two-and-a-half-hour return journey to Cusco, marking the end of this incredible 6-day Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain adventure. You will be dropped off at the door of your hotel.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we specify exactly what’s included and not included in every itinerary listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but we kindly ask that you review the details carefully to ensure a worry-free experience.
Please note: Some elements may vary depending on the specific program, so be sure to read the information thoroughly before booking.
Meet your guide and group at our Cusco office at 5:00 p.m. the day before your trek. You’ll receive a duffel bag (maximum 7 kg / 15.4 lb) to be carried by our muleteers or porters. This must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if you rent or bring your own.
All of our guides speak English and Spanish and are certified tourism professionals from the National University of San Antonio Abad in Cusco. They are selected for their knowledge, professionalism, and deep love for sharing their Andean heritage.
All guides are first-aid trained and carry a medical kit and oxygen tank for common trail conditions. We also hold mandatory training every February to keep our team up to date. In case of emergencies, we will arrange a rapid evacuation to the nearest medical center.
All gear is carried by our team of porters or muleteers and includes:
Provided for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Boiled, filtered, and cooled water is provided from the first lunch to the last breakfast. Bring a hydration bladder or bottle (minimum 2L capacity) for refills during meals.
Each morning, our staff brings you a hot cup of coca tea to your tent.
Popcorn, cookies, tea, hot chocolate, and other snacks served before dinner.
Reusable cloth snack bag filled daily with fruits, cookies, chocolate, and candies.
A small towel and soap provided before every meal for handwashing.
All taxes and trekking permit fees are included. No hidden charges.
While some items may be intangible, they define who we are at Tunqui Expeditions:
Our porters are the heart of our operation. Founder Silvio Tunqui began as a porter and ensures every team member receives fair wages and top-quality equipment:
We sponsor school supplies, medical campaigns, and reforestation efforts in their home villages.
We organize 4 annual trips for our porters and their families to visit Machu Picchu and explore their ancestral heritage—many for the first time.
Since 2022, we’ve proudly included female guides, porters, and cooks. We look forward to the day when we reach a 50/50 gender balance in the mountains.
We practice Leave No Trace principles, use biodegradable products, and assign an extra porter to clean up litter left by other groups. We’re proud to be a leader in sustainable tourism in Peru.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable and stress-free. Here’s everything you need to know before starting your Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain.
The Ausangate Trek is one of the best alternatives to the Inca Trail and ideal for adventurous travelers seeking less crowded trails and stunning natural landscapes. It’s suitable for hikers with moderate to high fitness levels, as it involves hiking at high altitudes and over long distances.
Unlike the Inca Trail, this trek reaches over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) and includes remote sections of the Andes, with glacier lakes, herds of alpacas, and sacred mountain views. With proper acclimatization and support from our expert team, you’ll be well prepared for this unforgettable experience.
We are proud to offer a Plastic-Free Ausangate Trek experience. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we reduce single-use plastics and promote eco-friendly trekking practices. Together, we protect the pristine beauty of the Andes for future generations.
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, we strongly recommend 2–3 full days of acclimatization in Cusco before starting the trek.
Even if you’ve been to other high-altitude areas, it’s best to spend at least one day resting in Cusco to recover and prepare. During this time, you can explore these tours:
A mandatory pre-trek briefing will be held the evening before your departure at 5:00 p.m. at our main office in Cusco or your hotel. Briefings last 30–45 minutes and cover all essential details. If you cannot attend, please notify us in advance to reschedule.
Any outstanding trek balance must be paid at least 1 days before the trek to confirm your spot.
Payment options:
Note: We do not accept traveler’s checks or bank drafts.
You’ll receive a duffel bag (60 x 24 x 22 cm) during your briefing. Our porters will carry it throughout the trek.
Weight limit: 6 kg (13.2 lbs) including sleeping bag and mat.
Yes! You can store your main luggage at our office free of charge, or arrange storage with your hotel.
For security:
Our group treks include travelers of different ages and physical conditions. Everyone is welcome to walk at their own pace. Any route changes must be agreed upon by the group and authorized by the guide.
Social protests and strikes may occasionally disrupt roads or services. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll inform you of any itinerary changes. In some cases, we may leave a day early or reschedule tours.
Please keep your belongings safe at all times. Tunqui Expeditions is not responsible for lost items during the tour. Always check your transport, campsite, and accommodation before leaving.
If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Tunqui Expeditions. We’re here to make your journey through the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain circuit the adventure of a lifetime.
Planning your adventure with Tunqui Expeditions? Here’s your essential packing list for the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain to ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking in the Peruvian Andes.
From personal documentation and gear to clothing and optional items, this guide covers everything you need for a safe and comfortable 5-day trek.
Footwear & Base Layers
Outerwear
Your personal duffel bag (carried by porters) has a 7 kg limit, which includes your sleeping bag and air mat (usually 3.5 kg together). Pack efficiently:
By following this Ausangate Trek packing list, you’ll be fully equipped to take on the stunning trails of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley with comfort and confidence.
Need help renting trekking gear in Cusco? Just let us know at Tunqui Expeditions — we’ll take care of the details!
Join us on the breathtaking 5-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, one of the top high-altitude treks in Peru. Below, you’ll find all the essential information regarding availability, pricing, payment options, add-ons, and special discounts.
The Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 5 Days is available to start any day of the week from March to January.
⚠️ February Closure:
We do not operate this trek in February due to the rainy season and route maintenance. During this month, our Tunqui Expeditions team—guides, cooks, porters, and muleteers—receives annual training and safety updates to offer you the best experience for the year ahead.
Need extra gear for comfort and convenience? You can rent the following items:
Let us know in advance so we can have everything ready for you.
Save US$ 20.00
Available for students 17 years or younger. To apply the discount, please send a clear photo or scan of your passport during the booking process.
Email to: [email protected]
Why stop at just the Ausangate Trek? Add one of these amazing day tours before or after your trek:
Ask us how to combine these excursions with your trek for a complete Cusco adventure package.
Our 5-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain operates with just 2 confirmed trekkers, so your adventure is guaranteed even with a small group.
Book now with Tunqui Expeditions — your trusted local experts in high-altitude trekking in Peru.
