Whether you’ve already booked your trip to Peru or are still sketching out your itinerary, you’re likely looking for unforgettable experiences beyond the classic tourist trails. One of the most spectacular options — and still relatively untouched by mass tourism — is the Ausangate Trek.
Rising proudly above the Andes, Ausangate is the highest peak in the Cusco region, and its glacier is visible even from the city itself. Hiking this remote route rewards you with panoramic views of snow-capped mountains, turquoise lagoons, and a rich diversity of flora and fauna that thrive at high altitudes.
But if there’s one factor that can make or break your adventure, it’s the weather. Conditions in the Andes are unpredictable, and knowing what to expect will help you avoid the wettest months, pack correctly, and make the most of your trek.
In this ultimate guide, you’ll discover:
With the right preparation, your journey through Ausangate will be truly unforgettable. Our Ausangate Trek packages have been carefully crafted by Silvio Tunqui and his expert team to offer an authentic and seamless adventure.
The Ausangate Weather – Before You Go, Everything You Need to Know
There isn’t one single “best month” for the Ausangate Trek, but some periods are more favorable than others. June and July are the most popular months to visit Cusco and trek Ausangate because they fall in the middle of the dry season, offering clearer skies and stunning views of the Andes. This is also when Cusco comes alive with local festivities.
However, these months also bring the coldest nights, which can be a challenge at such high altitudes. If you want to avoid freezing nights while still steering clear of heavy rainfall, the best months to trek Ausangate are May, September, and October.
Below, we’ll break down the Ausangate weather month by month, so you know what to expect during both the rainy season and the dry season.
The rainy season in the Andes is—unsurprisingly—wet. The good news is that the rain usually comes in bursts rather than lasting all day. Still, the weather here is highly unpredictable. One moment you may be walking under bright sunshine, and the next you could face sudden showers, or even hail.
👉 Pro tip: Always bring a rain jacket or lightweight poncho when trekking Ausangate. Being prepared is key to enjoying the experience.
The rainiest months are December through February. These are also the quietest months in Cusco, which some travelers may prefer if they enjoy solitude. That said, the Ausangate Trek is never crowded, even during peak season, so you’ll have a sense of remoteness year-round.
Let’s take a closer look at Ausangate weather during the rainy season, month by month.
At the beginning of November, the landscape around Ausangate is still dry and brown after several months without rainfall. This is when the first rains begin, though they remain sporadic and usually brief. Trekkers may still enjoy several dry days in a row, but the Ausangate weather begins shifting toward the wet season.
Daytime temperatures are relatively mild and comfortable for hiking, but nights remain cold at high altitude, often close to freezing. If you hike this month, you’ll get a mix of dry trails with the occasional shower, so a lightweight rain jacket is essential.
👉 Why go in November? Fewer tourists, greener landscapes starting to appear, and still relatively dry trails compared to December–March.
December marks the beginning of summer in Peru, but don’t expect tropical weather in Ausangate. At over 6,300 meters (20,900 ft) and surrounded by glaciers, temperatures stay cool. Sunny days can feel pleasantly warm, but heavier rain showers start becoming frequent.
Despite the rain, trekking is still possible with proper waterproof gear. Campsites can be damp, and trails occasionally muddy, but the lush scenery and fewer crowds make December a rewarding time for adventurous hikers.
👉 Packing tip: Waterproof boots are a must, and gaiters help keep your legs dry in muddy sections.
January is one of the wettest months in Cusco, and Ausangate is no exception. Expect frequent rainfall and heavy cloud cover. However, the sun does break through occasionally, warming the air quickly when it does.
The weather makes conditions trickier, with slippery trails and colder evenings due to dampness. Still, for trekkers seeking solitude, January in Ausangate can be appealing because of the absolute lack of crowds.
👉 Caution: If trekking in January, always check local conditions and go with a specialized trekking agency for safety.
February is the riskiest month to visit Ausangate. Rainfall reaches its peak, making trails muddy, slippery, and in some cases, dangerous. Landslides can occur, and visibility often drops due to fog. Many trails in the Andes, including the Inca Trail, close during this month for safety and maintenance.
The Ausangate Trek technically remains open, but conditions are challenging. Trekking agencies may limit departures, and those who go must be very well-prepared with waterproof boots, strong rain gear, and warm clothing.
👉 Recommendation: If possible, avoid February and wait until the dry season for a safer and more enjoyable trek.
March continues the heavy rainfall of February, but daytime temperatures start to rise slightly. The Ausangate landscapes look lush and green, but trails remain muddy, and river crossings can be more difficult.
If you trek this month, expect daily showers and prepare for slippery paths. On the positive side, the surrounding mountains and lagoons look particularly vivid and colorful after so much rainfall.
👉 Best for: Experienced hikers who don’t mind challenging conditions in exchange for stunning, freshly renewed landscapes.
April marks the transition between the rainy and dry seasons. Rainfall decreases significantly, skies clear up, and you’ll enjoy some of the best mountain views of the year. Days are warmer and trekking conditions are far more comfortable compared to previous months, though occasional showers still occur.
This is one of the best months to visit Ausangate if you want clear trails, fewer crowds, and spectacular scenery.
👉 Pro tip: April is a sweet spot—less rain, warmer days, and before the big crowds of Cusco arrive in June.
The dry season in Ausangate is the most popular time to hike this spectacular Andean route. With plenty of sunshine and clear skies, you’ll enjoy jaw-dropping views of snow-covered peaks, sparkling glacial lakes, and wide open valleys. This is also considered the best time to do the Ausangate Trek, since trails are more accessible and you can camp under the stars without constant worry about heavy rain.
That said, the dry season in Cusco (May–October) is also peak tourist season. While the Ausangate Trek itself is never crowded, the city of Cusco and other routes like the Inca Trail and Rainbow Mountain attract larger groups of travelers. To secure your spot on guided treks or tours, it’s always best to book in advance.
Let’s break down the Ausangate weather month by month during the dry season, so you can plan your hike at the perfect time.
May officially marks the start of the dry season in the Cusco region. While the occasional light shower is still possible, rainfall drops significantly compared to March and April. Days are sunny and relatively warm, while nights remain cold, especially at higher altitudes.
👉 Best for: Travelers who want good weather but smaller crowds before peak season begins.
June is typically the driest month of the year in Ausangate. The weather is almost guaranteed to be clear, offering some of the most incredible views of the snowcapped Andes. This month also marks the beginning of the high season in Cusco due to festivals like Inti Raymi. While Cusco will feel busy, the Ausangate route itself remains a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path trek.
👉 Packing tip: Nights are much colder—bring a high-quality sleeping bag rated for below-freezing temperatures.
July is famous for being both very dry and the coldest time of year in Ausangate. Night temperatures often plunge below 0°C (32°F), sometimes even lower. Days are sunny, and the strong Andean sun quickly warms up the afternoons, but the drastic difference between day and night can be challenging.
👉 Tip for trekkers: Sunscreen and layers are essential. Be ready for sudden hailstorms even if skies look clear.
August marks the end of the coldest period, though nights are still very chilly. Days are warmer than in July, but strong winds are common in the valleys and mountain passes. Skies remain mostly clear, giving trekkers amazing visibility of glaciers and colorful lagoons.
👉 Best for: Photographers who want clear skies and dramatic mountain views.
By September, the Ausangate weather softens: nights aren’t as cold, and days are pleasantly warm with plenty of sunshine. Occasional light showers may occur, but they are short-lived and don’t usually disrupt trekking. This is one of the best months for those looking for great conditions without the peak tourist crowds.
October is the warmest month of the year in Ausangate, and weather is generally mild and enjoyable. However, with the rainy season just around the corner, there’s an increasing chance of afternoon showers. Even so, this is the last great month to trek Ausangate before the wet season begins.
👉 Tip: If you want to experience the clearest mountain views before rain clouds roll in, October is your last window.
The coldest months of the year in Ausangate are June and July, right in the middle of the dry season. While this is generally the most popular time to hike in the Cusco region, it is also when temperatures drop the most, especially at night. During these months, night temperatures can fall well below freezing, sometimes reaching -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F) in the higher campsites.
If you plan to trek Ausangate during this period, you’ll need a warm sleeping bag rated for extreme cold and plenty of thermal layers to stay comfortable after sunset. That said, don’t be discouraged: the days are typically clear, bright, and warm when the sun is out. This means you’ll still enjoy incredible panoramic views of glaciers, snow-capped peaks, and turquoise lakes, making the trek well worth it despite the cold nights.
👉 Tip for trekkers: Always bring layers. Mornings and evenings are freezing, but afternoons in the sun can feel surprisingly warm, even at high altitude.
You can’t fly directly to Ausangate itself — the closest airport is in the city of Cusco (Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport). From Cusco, it’s about a 3–4 hour drive to reach the Ausangate trailhead.
In general, flights to Cusco operate on time and without issues. However, during the rainy season (December to March), occasional heavy storms can cause delays or cancellations. While these are not extremely common, it’s always wise to plan an extra buffer day in Cusco before starting your trek, especially if you’re visiting during the wet season.
👉 Travel tip: If you’re connecting flights through Lima, book with enough layover time. Sudden weather shifts in the Andes can cause short-term disruptions.
At over 6,300 meters (20,900 ft), Ausangate is one of the highest trekking routes in Peru, and the high-altitude weather is no joke. You’ll need to be prepared for both extreme cold and intense sun exposure. The golden rule for trekking here is: be ready for four seasons in one day.
Here’s an essential packing list for the Ausangate Trek:
👉 Packing tip: Don’t underestimate the cold! Many trekkers are surprised by how much the temperature drops after dark. Bring gear that can handle sub-zero nights.
The riskiest month to visit Ausangate is February, which is the peak of the rainy season in the Peruvian Andes. During this time, the region experiences intense rainfall, making trekking conditions far more challenging and even dangerous.
Key issues travelers face in February include:
👉 Pro tip: If possible, avoid February and plan your Ausangate Trek during the dry season (May–September), when weather conditions are far more reliable and safe.
The Ausangate Trek is not your average hike—it is a demanding, high-altitude trek in a remote part of the Andes. Weather conditions can change quickly, and distances between villages or facilities are long. This is why choosing a specialized trekking agency can make a huge difference.
A professional agency provides:
👉 If it’s your first multi-day trek in the Andes, traveling with an experienced agency is highly recommended. It transforms a tough journey into a safe and truly unforgettable adventure.
Since the Ausangate weather can shift rapidly, packing smart is essential. You’ll need to be ready for both freezing cold nights and intense UV rays during the day. Here’s a recommended Ausangate Packing List:
👉 Packing tip: Even in the dry season, weather at over 4,000 m (13,000 ft) can surprise you. Always bring rain gear, and don’t underestimate the cold.
If the weather doesn’t cooperate or you prefer something less demanding, Peru offers several alternative treks and day hikes that still deliver incredible Andean landscapes and cultural immersion:
These routes are excellent alternatives if you’re unable to trek Ausangate due to weather, timing, or difficulty.
Now that you know about the Ausangate weather by season, when to expect rain, and how to prepare for cold nights, you’re ready to start planning your adventure. Whether you choose the quieter rainy season or the popular dry season, Ausangate offers one of the most authentic trekking experiences in the Peruvian Andes.
Make sure to use our complete Ausangate packing list to ensure you don’t miss any essentials. A little preparation goes a long way in making your trek safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
👉 Final tip: Give yourself at least 2–3 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimate to the altitude. This will make your experience in Ausangate much more enjoyable and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Enjoy your time in Ausangate – one of Peru’s most breathtaking and sacred mountains!
The weather in Ausangate can be unpredictable, but with the right preparation, it becomes one of the most memorable adventures in Peru. Whether you trek during the dry season for the clearest skies or take on the challenge of the rainy season, being prepared with the right gear and mindset is essential.
And if Ausangate isn’t the right fit, remember: Peru is full of breathtaking trekking routes and day hikes, each offering its own mix of natural beauty and cultural richness. The key is to stay informed, travel smart, and enjoy every step of your journey through the Andes.
