If you’re dreaming of an adventure that goes far beyond the ordinary — one that combines breathtaking landscapes, authentic culture, and a sense of true wilderness — Hiking Ausangate Trek in Peru deserves a top spot on your bucket list. Towering at 6,384 meters (20,945 feet), Ausangate is the sacred “Apu” of the Andes, revered by local Quechua communities and surrounded by glacial lakes, golden valleys, and snow-capped peaks that feel untouched by time.
Unlike the crowded Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek offers solitude, serenity, and soul-stirring beauty. It’s a journey where you’ll hike through vivid turquoise lagoons, meet local herders tending alpacas, and wake up each morning to panoramic views of the mighty Andes. It’s not just another trek — it’s a deep connection to Peru’s living traditions and untamed wilderness.
And when it comes to exploring this remote paradise, Tunqui Expeditions stands out as the perfect local partner. Based in Cusco and led by native guides who grew up in the shadow of Ausangate, Tunqui brings authenticity, expertise, and heart to every expedition. Their small-group treks are designed for travelers who want real connection, not just sightseeing — blending comfort, safety, and cultural immersion with a genuine respect for the Andean environment.
With Tunqui Expeditions, you’re not just walking through the Andes — you’re walking with those who call it home. Their philosophy, captured in the mantra #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures, embodies what makes their journeys unique: sustainable tourism, local empowerment, and an unfiltered experience of Peru’s raw natural beauty.
So, whether you’re an experienced hiker seeking your next high-altitude challenge or a curious explorer craving an authentic slice of Peru, this Ultimate Ausangate Guide will show you why this Ausangate trek tours — and Tunqui Expeditions — are the ultimate choice for your next epic adventure.
Imagine a landscape where crystal-blue lagoons mirror snow-capped peaks, where herds of alpacas roam freely across golden valleys, and where every sunrise paints the Andes in shades of pink and gold. This is Ausangate — one of Peru’s most spectacular and sacred mountains, located about 60 miles (100 km) southeast of Cusco.
Trekking around Ausangate isn’t just about hiking — it’s about entering a world that feels frozen in time. You’ll walk ancient trails that locals have used for centuries, pass through traditional Quechua communities, and witness daily life at altitudes above 13,000 feet (4,000 meters). Women in vibrant woven skirts tend to their herds, and children greet you in Quechua with smiles as bright as the mountain sun.
Each day on the trail feels like stepping into a new landscape. One moment you’re crossing high mountain passes at nearly 16,000 feet (5,000 meters), surrounded by glaciers that glisten under the Andean sky; the next, you’re descending into emerald valleys dotted with mirror-like lakes such as Pucacocha and Jampa Cocha.
The colors of the earth here are surreal — deep reds, purples, greens, and ochres swirl together, especially near the world-famous Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). It’s one of those places where photos barely do justice to the view.
Ausangate isn’t just a mountain — it’s an Apu, a sacred spirit that protects the surrounding villages. The communities you’ll encounter still practice traditions that predate the Inca Empire, offering a rare glimpse into authentic Andean spirituality.
With Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll experience these traditions with deep respect — from sharing local meals prepared by Andean chefs to learning about the Quechua concept of ayni, or reciprocity with nature. You won’t just see the Andes — you’ll understand them.
Make no mistake: the Ausangate Trek is not for the faint-hearted. At high altitude and with multiple mountain passes above 15,000 feet (4,500+ meters), it demands stamina, acclimatization, and a love for raw adventure. But that’s exactly what makes it unforgettable.
Tunqui Expeditions designs its treks to balance challenge and comfort — with professional guides, strong horses, cozy campsites, and nourishing meals that fuel your body for the demanding terrain. Every step tests your limits; every view rewards your effort tenfold.
Choosing Tunqui Expeditions means more than taking a trip — it’s joining a movement. Their commitment to #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures ensures your journey leaves a positive footprint: supporting local communities, minimizing environmental impact, and celebrating the natural and cultural wealth of the Andes.
When you trek Ausangate with Tunqui, expect to feel small in the face of nature’s grandeur — and at the same time, deeply connected to something far greater than yourself.
Trekking Ausangate is an unforgettable adventure any time of year — but weather and seasonality dramatically affect the experience. Because the Andes follow a dry and wet season pattern rather than four distinct seasons, timing your trek is key to getting the best conditions, scenery, and comfort.
Below you’ll find a month-by-month breakdown, plus a quick guide to choosing the ideal trek duration with Tunqui Expeditions. Dive deeper here: The Salkantay Trek Weather Guide
Choosing the Right Duration with Tunqui Expeditions
Tunqui Expeditions offers a range of Ausangate trekking options — all guided by local experts and tailored to your pace and goals:
| Trek Option | Duration | Highlights | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Express | 2–3 days | Quick adventure including Vinicunca and Surinecocha Lake | Moderate |
| Classic Ausangate Circuit | 4–5 days | Full loop with glaciers, lagoons, and high passes | Challenging |
| Extended Ausangate Expedition | 6+ days | Immersive exploration + local homestays + Red Valley | Advanced |
| Private Custom Trek | Flexible | Tailored route, photography or spiritual focus | Depends on design |
Each route blends comfort and authenticity, supported by Tunqui’s team of mountain guides, cooks, and local horsemen who ensure both safety and cultural respect along the way.
Whether you go for two days or six, you’ll feel the same magic — the pulse of the Andes, the warmth of the people, and the pride of walking alongside #RealHikers on #RealGreenAdventures.
Your adventure begins as Tunqui Expeditions picks you up from Cusco in private transportation for a scenic drive through the Andean highlands. Passing traditional villages like Ocongate and Tinki, you’ll witness the first glimpses of Peru’s wild mountain beauty.
Arriving at Upis Village, enjoy a delicious Andean lunch surrounded by towering peaks before beginning your hike to the first campsite, Upis Camp, nestled at the foot of Ausangate.
If time and energy allow, take an optional afternoon hike to the stunning Wayna Ausangate Lagoon, where the turquoise waters mirror the snow-capped peaks. As the sun sets, return to camp for a hearty dinner and your first night beneath the sacred stars of the Andes.
Wake up to the crisp Andean air and begin ascending toward Arapa Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft) — your first high-altitude challenge of the trek. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of glacier-crowned mountains and emerald valleys below.
Continue toward Yanacocha and the beautiful Hatun Pucacocha Lagoon, famous for its vivid turquoise hues. Keep your eyes peeled for Andean condors and vicuñas roaming freely across the high plains.
Arrive at Pucacocha Camp, where Tunqui’s private tents offer comfort and warmth in the heart of the wilderness. Fall asleep surrounded by silence, stars, and the spirit of the Andes.
Today’s trek takes you deeper into the Ausangate circuit — a route of dramatic contrasts. Cross the breathtaking Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the journey, offering jaw-dropping views of Ausangate’s glacial face.
Descend into a remote valley for lunch, where the landscape shifts from icy peaks to rolling green meadows dotted with herds of alpacas.
In the afternoon, visit a local Andean family to experience their traditions, stories, and way of life passed down through generations.
Tonight, rest at Huchuy Phinaya Camp, embraced by the tranquil sounds of mountain streams.
This is a day of pure Andean beauty. Trek across Huano Huano Pampa, a vast highland pasture alive with alpacas, llamas, and sheep grazing freely.
Gradually ascend toward Jampa Pass (5,060 m / 16,600 ft), where snow peaks rise majestically around you. From here, the views of Wayna Ausangate are unforgettable — a photographer’s dream.
You’ll camp tonight at Jampa Camp, one of the most scenic and peaceful spots of the expedition, surrounded by towering glaciers and endless stars.
Rise early for a magical day exploring the legendary 7 Ausangate Lakes, each with its own unique color — from sapphire blue to emerald green. These sacred lakes are believed by locals to hold spiritual energy and healing power.
After lunch, descend toward the charming community of Pacchanta, where steaming natural hot springs await. Soak at sunset with the majestic Ausangate watching over you — the perfect way to celebrate your adventure.
Here, you’ll also have the chance to interact with local Quechua families, learning about their weaving, traditions, and deep respect for the mountains.
Begin your final morning with a sunrise soak in the hot springs, a rejuvenating farewell to the Andes.
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed short hike back to Tinke, where Tunqui’s private vehicle will be waiting to take you through the picturesque landscapes of Ocongate and back to Cusco.
It’s the perfect ending to an unforgettable trek — one that combines challenge, beauty, and connection in every step.
Why Travelers Love This Experience
With Tunqui Expeditions, every day is more than a hike — it’s a story of nature, culture, and spirit. Expect personalized attention, small groups, and sustainable travel practices that truly honor the Andes.
This journey embodies what Tunqui stands for: #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures — authentic experiences for travelers who want to connect deeply with Peru’s natural and cultural heritage.
In a world of mass tourism and crowded trails, Tunqui Expeditions stands apart by offering something rare — authenticity, connection, and true respect for the mountains. This isn’t a trek run by outsiders or big agencies; it’s a locally owned company from Cusco, led by people who grew up in the shadow of Ausangate, the sacred mountain they call Apu. Their deep knowledge of the terrain and culture ensures that every step you take has meaning.
Here’s what makes the Tunqui Expeditions experience truly special:
At Tunqui, quality always wins over quantity.
Each expedition runs with intentionally small groups, ensuring a personal and flexible experience where your pace, comfort, and connection to the landscape come first. You’ll have the space to hike without crowds, the time to interact with your guides, and the freedom to truly absorb the Andean wilderness.
Small groups also mean less environmental impact — a core value of Tunqui Expeditions.
Tunqui’s guides aren’t just trained professionals — they’re locals who have grown up trekking these mountains. Their knowledge goes far beyond trail maps; they share stories of the land, teach you Andean traditions, and help you understand the sacred connection between people and nature.
Expect fluent English-speaking guides, experienced chefs who prepare nourishing Andean meals, and a support team that treats you like family. You’ll hike safely, learn deeply, and connect authentically with the culture that makes the Andes so unique.
When you trek with Tunqui, you’re not just exploring Peru — you’re exploring it through the eyes of those who call it home.
Tunqui Expeditions is built on the philosophy of #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures — a commitment to adventure that respects nature and uplifts local communities.
Every expedition is designed with sustainability in mind:
By choosing Tunqui, you’re not only experiencing one of the world’s most stunning treks — you’re directly supporting local livelihoods and environmental conservation in the Cusco region.
Even in the rugged Andean wilderness, Tunqui ensures your comfort and safety. From top-quality camping gear and private tents to nutritious meals and first-aid-trained guides with satellite communication, every detail is carefully planned so you can trek with confidence.
Their balance of adventure and care allows you to focus on what truly matters — the journey itself.
Tunqui Expeditions combines the heart of a local family business with the professionalism of a world-class operator. For travelers seeking something beyond the surface — something real — this is the way to experience Ausangate.
So when you’re ready to explore the Andes, remember:
Go with Tunqui Expeditions — #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures.
Trekking around Ausangate is one of the most rewarding adventures in South America — but it’s also one that demands respect for the mountains, your body, and the local culture. The key to a safe and unforgettable experience lies in good preparation. Here’s how to get ready for your journey with Tunqui Expeditions.
The Ausangate Trek is a high-altitude adventure, with elevations ranging between 4,200 m (13,780 ft) and over 5,200 m (17,000 ft). At these heights, the air is thinner and oxygen levels are lower — meaning your body needs time to adapt.
Tips for acclimatization:
Remember: trekking in the Andes isn’t about speed — it’s about rhythm.
While you don’t need to be a professional athlete, a solid fitness base will make your experience far more enjoyable. Expect long days (6–8 hours of hiking) with ascents, descents, and changing terrain.
How to train before your trek:
Even moderate training will make a big difference once you’re tackling Andean passes above 15,000 ft.
Packing the right gear is crucial for comfort and safety in the high Andes. The weather can shift from blazing sun to snow within hours, so layering is key.
Tunqui Expeditions provides top-quality tents, sleeping pads, and meals — but your personal gear matters too.
Essential items:
Tunqui’s team can also assist with gear rentals in Cusco, so you don’t have to bring everything from home. Dive deeper here: Ausangate Trek Packing List
The Ausangate region is not just a place — it’s a living culture. For the Quechua people, Ausangate is a sacred Apu, a guardian spirit that protects the land and its people.
When trekking with Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll have the privilege of visiting communities that still live according to ancient Andean traditions. To ensure your experience is meaningful and respectful:
Cultural respect is at the core of #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures — it’s what transforms a trek into a life-changing journey.
With the right preparation, the Ausangate Trek becomes more than just a physical challenge — it’s a soulful encounter with the heart of the Andes.
Trust Tunqui Expeditions to guide you every step of the way, combining safety, authenticity, and sustainability in one extraordinary adventure.
So lace up your boots, pack your sense of wonder, and get ready to meet the real Peru — the one that breathes, smiles, and welcomes you at 17,000 feet above sea level.
#RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures
When you’re ready to trade city noise for mountain silence, planning your Ausangate Trek with Tunqui Expeditions couldn’t be easier. As a locally owned and operated company based in Cusco, Peru, Tunqui handles every detail from start to finish — so all you need to do is show up ready to hike, explore, and connect.
Booking your adventure is simple and secure:
💡 Tip: Book early if you plan to trek between May and October — the dry season and most popular time to visit. Small-group departures fill up fast.
Prices vary depending on group size, season, and trek duration, but you can expect:
Compared to large international tour operators, Tunqui offers exceptional value — providing professional service, sustainable practices, and authentic local expertise, all at a fair price that supports the community.
Tunqui Expeditions provides everything you need for a comfortable, safe, and memorable high-altitude adventure.
Included:
Tunqui Expeditions also offsets environmental impact by following strict “Leave No Trace” principles and supporting local communities through responsible tourism projects.
Meeting Point: Tunqui Expeditions Office, Cusco, Peru
Departure Time: Early morning (approx. 4:00 a.m.)
Return: Afternoon of the final day back in Cusco
Tunqui’s staff provides a detailed pre-trek briefing the day before your departure, reviewing your route, packing checklist, and altitude preparation. You’ll meet your guides, confirm equipment, and get answers to all your last-minute questions.
Booking directly supports the people who make your journey possible — local guides, cooks, and porters who live in the Ausangate region.
You’re not just buying a trek — you’re helping preserve traditional livelihoods and the environment that sustains them.
That’s what makes Tunqui more than just a travel company — it’s a community.
Some adventures stay with you long after they end — the Ausangate Trek is one of them. With Tunqui Expeditions, you don’t just walk through breathtaking landscapes; you live the Andes, breathe its spirit, and connect with a world untouched by time.
Here are the unforgettable moments that make this journey truly special
Standing at 6,384 m (20,945 ft), Ausangate dominates the Cusco skyline like a guardian spirit. For centuries, it has been worshiped as an Apu — a sacred protector of the land and its people.
Watching the sunrise over its glacier-crowned peak is more than a view — it’s a spiritual moment that words can’t describe.
Few sights compare to the colorful ridges of Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain). But with Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll approach it from the scenic Ausangate side — arriving before the crowds, with the colors glowing under early morning light.
Nearby lies the Red Valley, an almost Martian landscape of crimson hills that feels like another planet.
Emerald, turquoise, sapphire, and jade — each of the 7 Ausangate Lakes has its own hue and legend. Locals believe these lakes hold the energy of the mountain spirits. As you hike between them, you’ll feel the stillness and magic of places few travelers ever reach.
You’ll meet Quechua herders in traditional dress, weaving colorful textiles, tending alpacas, and living much as their ancestors did centuries ago.
Tunqui’s guides — locals themselves — act as cultural bridges, helping you experience the Andes not as a tourist, but as a welcomed guest.
You’ll share stories, laughter, and coca tea under the stars — memories that stay long after the trek ends.
At over 4,000 meters above sea level, the Andean sky feels impossibly close. When night falls, the Milky Way stretches from horizon to horizon, brighter than you’ve ever seen.
Camping with Tunqui Expeditions means warm tents, hot tea, and an open sky full of constellations — the same stars the Inca once used to navigate their world.
Ausangate isn’t an easy trek — and that’s what makes it unforgettable.
Each pass you cross, each step you take, rewards you with views that redefine what adventure means.
But you’re never alone — Tunqui’s guides, cooks, and horsemen create a safe, supportive environment where every hiker feels like part of a team.
Every trek with Tunqui Expeditions supports local families, preserves ancient traditions, and protects fragile mountain ecosystems.
This is more than travel — it’s responsible exploration at its best.
Because real adventure isn’t just about where you go; it’s about how you get there.
When you finally return to Cusco, your legs might be tired — but your heart will be full.
You’ll carry with you the laughter of your guides, the faces of Andean families, and the silence of a sunrise over the Sacred Mountain.
That’s the power of trekking with Tunqui Expeditions — #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures — where every step tells a story worth remembering.
Every great adventure has its tests — and the Ausangate Trek is no exception.
Its wild beauty, remote location, and high elevation are exactly what make it unforgettable — but also what demand preparation, patience, and respect for the mountains.
The good news? With Tunqui Expeditions, you’re never facing these challenges alone.
Their expert local guides, small-group approach, and strong safety culture ensure that every step of the journey is as rewarding as it is safe.
Here are the main challenges you might face — and how to overcome them like a true #RealHiker
The reality:
Most of the Ausangate Trek takes place above 4,200 m (13,800 ft) — with mountain passes reaching over 5,200 m (17,000 ft). At these heights, oxygen levels drop, and your body needs time to adapt.
How to overcome it:
With proper acclimatization and guidance, altitude becomes part of the adventure — not an obstacle.
The reality:
The Andes are unpredictable. You might experience sunshine, snow, wind, and rain — all in the same day.
How to overcome it:
And remember: Tunqui Expeditions provides four-season tents and hot meals, so even on cold nights, you’ll rest comfortably.
The reality:
You’ll be hiking long distances (up to 10–12 miles per day) with steep ascents and descents — often at high altitude.
How to overcome it:
It’s not a race — it’s a rhythm. Move with the mountains, not against them.
The reality:
Ausangate is wild, remote, and far from crowds — and that’s exactly what makes it magical. But it also means limited connectivity and basic facilities.
How to overcome it:
Sometimes, being far away from everything brings you closer to yourself.
The reality:
Tourism can easily harm fragile mountain ecosystems if not done responsibly.
How to overcome it:
Every responsible choice you make helps protect Ausangate for future generations.
The reality:
There may be moments when your legs feel heavy, the air feels thin, or the mountain seems too vast.
How to overcome it:
When you finally reach that final pass and see the sun rise over Ausangate, you’ll realize — every challenge was part of the transformation.
The Ausangate Trek isn’t meant to be easy — it’s meant to be real.
And that’s exactly what makes it so powerful.
Every climb, every cold night, every deep breath at 17,000 feet brings you closer to nature, culture, and yourself.
With Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll conquer each challenge safely and sustainably — discovering the Andes in their purest form.
Because real adventure lives in real challenge.
Ausangate Trek Made Easy: Local Answers to the 10 Most Common Traveler Questions. Dive deeper: Ausangate Trek FAQs
Most itineraries range from 4 to 7 days, depending on the route, sightseeing stops (e.g., Rainbow Mountain) and your pace.
Shorter options (3-4 days) exist but will be more strenuous and give less time to acclimatize.
The dry season—typically May through September/October—offers clearer skies and more stable weather, making it the best time.
The rainy season (roughly November to March) is possible but can mean more mud, snow, and unpredictable conditions.
This is a moderately to highly challenging trek due largely to the high altitude and sustained effort.
You’ll benefit from prior cardio training, leg strength work, hiking with a backpack, and good acclimatization.
Trail elevations often stay above 4,000 m (≈13,000 ft), with passes rising to around 5,000 m (≈16,400 ft) or more.
Altitude sickness (AMS) is a real risk — acclimatize, hydrate, ascend slowly, and be aware of symptoms (headache, nausea, fatigue).
While it’s technically possible to trek independently, most travellers use a guided tour for safety, logistics, culture, and equipment support.
Given the remote terrain, high passes, and altitude, a guide adds significant value.
Typically you’ll get: transportation from Cusco, camping gear (tents, mats), meals, guides/porters/mules, permit or entrance fees, and pre-trek briefing.
Always check the specific tour package for exactly what’s included and what’s extra.
Essential items include: broken-in hiking boots, layered clothing (base layer, fleece, insulated jacket, rain shell), gloves/beanie, sunglasses/sunblock, trekking poles, hydration system, and a day pack.
Also useful: water purification, headlamp, personal medications, and backup batteries.
No — compared to the famous Machu Picchu/Inca Trail routes, Ausangate remains much less crowded and offers more remote wilderness.
However, popular side-trips like Rainbow Mountain may see more tourists.
During the day in the dry season you might have good sun and moderate temps (e.g., ~18 °C / 64 °F), but nights can get very cold — often below freezing.
Weather can change quickly — sudden storms, snow, high winds are possible at elevation.
Yes — the region is home to high-Andean herding communities, the mountain Ausangate is considered sacred (“Apu”) in local Quechua culture.
Responsible trekkers should follow Leave No Trace, respect local customs and communities, and support sustainable tourism practices.
If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping off the beaten path and into a world of pure, untamed beauty — the Ausangate Trek is calling your name.
It’s not just another hike; it’s a journey that reconnects you with what truly matters: nature, culture, and the quiet strength that lives within you.
Here, the Andes rise like ancient guardians. Glacial lakes shimmer in impossible shades of turquoise. Herds of alpacas graze freely beneath snow-capped peaks. And every evening, the sun paints the mountains gold before bowing to a sky crowded with stars.
This is Peru beyond postcards — a place where time slows down, and the mountains still speak.
With Tunqui Expeditions, you don’t just witness this magic — you become part of it.
Led by local guides who grew up in these valleys, every trek is infused with authentic culture, genuine connection, and a deep respect for the environment.
Whether you’re soaking in the hot springs of Pacchanta at sunset or sharing stories around a campfire, you’ll feel the difference that comes from traveling with a company built on heart, purpose, and sustainability.
So if your spirit craves more than comfort zones — if you want to challenge your limits, support local communities, and discover the real Peru — then it’s time to make the Ausangate Trek your next great adventure.
Book your journey today at BOOK NOW
and experience what true adventure feels like with
Tunqui Expeditions — #RealHikers #RealGreenAdventures
