We’ve put together the most frequently asked questions about the Ausangate Trek, based on what our travelers ask us most.
Whether you’re already set on this adventure or still deciding, these FAQs will give you the clarity and confidence you need to take the next step toward experiencing one of Peru’s most breathtaking treks.
Planning to hike the Ausangate Trek in Peru? You’ve come to the right place. This spectacular high-altitude route takes you deep into the Andes, past towering glaciers, turquoise lakes, and remote Quechua-speaking communities, offering one of the most authentic trekking experiences in Cusco.
Because the trek is less known than the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu or Salkantay Trek, travelers often have many questions before booking. From difficulty and altitude to weather conditions, safety, and costs, being well-prepared is the key to enjoying the journey.
That’s why we’ve created this complete list of Ausangate Trek FAQs—to help you get all the essential information in one place. Here you’ll find answers about:
Whether you’re joining the 6- Day Ausangate Trek, 5-Day Ausangate Trek, 4-Day Ausangate Trek, 3-Day Ausangate Trek y 2-Day Ausangate Trek combining it with Rainbow Mountain, or exploring the 7 Lakes of Ausangate, these FAQs will give you everything you need to know before starting your adventure with Tunqui Expeditions.
With this guide, you’ll feel confident, prepared, and excited to take on one of Peru’s most breathtaking treks. 🌄
Booking your Ausangate Trek tour with Tunqui Expeditions is simple, secure, and designed to give you peace of mind before starting this once-in-a-lifetime adventure in the Peruvian Andes. Whether you’re planning the 5-day Ausangate Trek, the 6-day Ausangate Mountain Trek, or a custom itinerary that includes the Rainbow Mountain hike, we’ve made the process straightforward so you can focus on preparing for your journey.
To begin, click the “BOOK NOW” button on our website. You will see all available departure dates for the Ausangate Trek in Cusco, Peru. Select the date that works best for you and your group.
Once you’ve chosen your date, you’ll be asked to enter the personal details of each participant. This step ensures that our team can properly arrange your permits, accommodations, and logistics for the trek.
To confirm your reservation, you only need to make a deposit payment, which can be completed using a credit card or debit card. The remaining balance can be paid before your trek begins.
Booking early is highly recommended, especially if you’re planning your trek during the best time of year for the Ausangate Trek (typically the dry season, from May to September).
On our secure booking platform, you will also find optional add-ons to make your trek more comfortable:
These extras are ideal for travelers who want additional support while navigating the high-altitude trails of the Ausangate region.
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most off-the-beaten-path treks in Peru, taking you through stunning alpine lakes, glaciers, and the colorful landscapes surrounding the sacred Ausangate mountain. Along the way, you’ll also visit remote Andean communities, offering a truly authentic cultural experience that few other treks can provide.
By booking with Tunqui Expeditions, you get:
For your convenience, the remaining balance of your Ausangate Trek tour package can be paid in different ways:
To ensure a smooth check-in process before beginning your adventure on the Ausangate Trek in Peru, we kindly ask that you inform us in advance of your preferred payment method. This helps us better organize your trip and avoid last-minute delays.
Booking with Tunqui Expeditions means peace of mind—our flexible payment options make it easy to prepare for your trek, whether you’re joining the 5-day Ausangate Trek, the 6-day Ausangate Mountain Trek, or a combined itinerary with Rainbow Mountain.
Yes – absolutely! The Ausangate Trek in Peru is one of the most breathtaking and rewarding treks in the Cusco region. Often described as one of the best alternative treks to Machu Picchu, this route is ideal for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure away from the crowded trails.
Choosing the Ausangate Mountain Trek means immersing yourself in pristine Andean landscapes and authentic cultural encounters. Along the way, you’ll discover:
For those who enjoy trekking in remote areas and connecting with nature, the Ausangate Trek is most definitely worth it.
We rate the Ausangate Trek as moderately to challenging, depending on your level of fitness and experience with high-altitude hiking. The main factor is not the distance itself, but the altitude, which makes even short climbs feel more strenuous.
During the Classic 5-Day Ausangate Trek, the toughest parts are typically Day 2 and Day 3, when you cross mountain passes at very high elevations (over 5,000 meters / 16,400 feet). Uphill sections at this altitude can be demanding, but the rewards are unmatched – panoramic views of glaciers, colorful lakes, and sacred mountains.
With proper preparation and a good acclimatization period in Cusco before starting, most trekkers can successfully complete the route.
On average, you’ll walk 6–7 hours per day during the Ausangate 5-Day Trek. The distances vary depending on the terrain and altitude. The longest trekking day is Day 4, but because the terrain involves less steep uphill, it’s generally easier than Days 2 and 3.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the daily distances:
By the end of the trek, you’ll have covered approximately 57 km (35 miles) through some of the most spectacular landscapes in the Andes.
The cost of the Ausangate Trek in Peru depends on the number of days, the type of itinerary, and the tour operator you choose. At Tunqui Expeditions, we take care of every detail so that you can enjoy an authentic trekking experience in the Andes of Cusco. Below is a summary of our group tour prices (per person):
These prices include professional guides, meals, camping equipment, and support staff to ensure a safe and unforgettable Ausangate Mountain Trek.
Yes! On every trek, we provide accommodation in high-quality tents and a comfortable sleeping mat. However, if you need extra gear, we also offer top-of-the-range equipment rentals, which can be reserved in advance or arranged during your trek briefing the day before departure.
Available rental items include:
If you already have your own gear, feel free to bring it. Just remember that there are weight restrictions per person, so packing light but smart is essential.
The Ausangate Trek is challenging due to the high altitude (with passes over 5,000 m / 16,400 ft). Proper preparation will make the experience much more enjoyable. Here are some tips:
By following these steps, you’ll be ready to take on the Ausangate Trek difficulty and enjoy every moment of the journey.
Yes. We provide safe, clean drinking water throughout the trek. On the first morning, you’ll need to bring your own supply, but after that, our team will refill your bottles or hydration packs with boiled, filtered water at every meal and campsite.
We strongly encourage trekkers to bring a reusable water bottle or Camelbak. This helps reduce plastic waste and protects the fragile Andean ecosystem.
Along the route, you may also find the occasional kiosk selling bottled water and snacks, but it’s best to rely on the water we provide to minimize your environmental footprint.
One of the aspects that surprises most of our guests is the quality and variety of the food on the Ausangate Trek. Many travelers expect only the basics while trekking in the high Andes, but with Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll enjoy a truly memorable culinary experience prepared by our professional mountain chefs.
We know that nutrition is essential at high altitude, as you’ll be hiking for several hours every day and need plenty of energy. That’s why we’ve worked closely with experienced chefs and nutritionists to create a well-rounded trekking menu that is both nourishing and delicious. Every meal includes a balanced mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and vegetables to keep your body fueled throughout the trek.
Each time you sit down for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you’ll be welcomed with an array of freshly prepared dishes—often including traditional Peruvian recipes alongside international favorites. Expect to see options like quinoa soup, trout, chicken, fresh vegetables, rice, pasta, hearty stews, and of course, Peruvian superfoods such as potatoes and corn.
We also provide:
It’s not an exaggeration to say that many trekkers describe the food as one of the highlights of their journey. Eating a freshly cooked, hearty meal while surrounded by the snowy peaks of the Andes is an experience you’ll never forget.
While most expenses are already included in your Ausangate Trek package, it’s always a good idea to bring some extra cash with you. We recommend around 300 Peruvian soles per person (approximately US$80).
This money can be useful for:
Please note:
Unlike the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu, the Ausangate Trek does not require a government-issued permit to hike. This makes it much more flexible to book, even at the last minute.
Instead of limited permits, there is a small entrance fee to access certain communities and natural areas along the route. This fee is already included in your tour package with Tunqui Expeditions, so you don’t need to worry about paying anything extra during the trek.
This is one of the reasons why the Ausangate Trek is one of the best alternative treks in Cusco—you avoid the stress of permit availability while still enjoying world-class trekking and stunning natural scenery.
The Ausangate Trek is considered moderately to highly challenging due to its high altitude (over 5,000 m / 16,400 ft at some passes), cold temperatures, and long trekking days. Because of these conditions, it is not recommended for very young children.
We suggest a minimum age of 12 years old for children to join the trek. Even then, it’s important that your child is:
Families who decide to bring older children often describe the trek as a life-changing experience—giving them the chance to connect deeply with nature, see glaciers and high-altitude lakes, and interact with Andean communities.
For families with younger children, we usually recommend considering shorter treks in Cusco or visiting destinations such as the Sacred Valley, Rainbow Mountain, or Machu Picchu by train, which are more family-friendly.
No. The Ausangate Trek in Peru takes you deep into the remote Andes, far away from towns, villages, and modern infrastructure. This means you will not have access to Wi-Fi, mobile data, or phone signal during the trek.
For many travelers, this is actually one of the highlights of the journey—it allows you to fully disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in nature, breathtaking landscapes, and authentic Andean culture.
If staying in touch is essential, we recommend letting friends and family know your travel itinerary before you begin the trek. Your guide will also carry a satellite phone for emergencies, ensuring your safety at all times.
No, there are no charging stations or electricity points along the Ausangate route. If you plan on taking photos with a camera, drone, or phone, we recommend bringing:
This way, you can capture every incredible moment of the trek, from the snowy peaks to the colorful alpine lakes, without worrying about running out of power.
Yes. There are basic bathrooms available along certain sections of the trek. In addition, Tunqui Expeditions provides portable chemical toilets at campsites to ensure comfort and cleanliness during the journey.
While facilities may be simple compared to city standards, they are maintained with care, and we do our best to provide a hygienic experience in the middle of the Andes. We also recommend bringing biodegradable wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and toilet paper, as these are not always available.
No, there are no showers on the Ausangate Trek. The region is very remote and at high altitude, where water sources are extremely cold. Most travelers find they don’t miss showers during the trek, as the cold temperatures make it uncomfortable anyway.
To freshen up, we recommend bringing:
At the end of the trek, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a hot shower back in Cusco or even relax in local thermal baths, depending on your itinerary.
Yes. If at any point you feel that the Ausangate Trek difficulty is too demanding, you can rent an emergency horse. However, this must be arranged through your tour operator in advance or during the trek if available.
Having an extra horse is particularly helpful for travelers who are concerned about altitude sickness, long uphill climbs, or simply want a backup option in case they feel fatigued. Keep in mind that horses are limited, so advance notice is highly recommended.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we offer several variations of the Ausangate Trek in Cusco, typically ranging from 4 to 5 days. The main differences are:
Both itineraries include breathtaking views of Ausangate Mountain, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and encounters with wildlife such as alpacas and llamas. The right choice depends on your time availability, trekking experience, and whether you want to include Rainbow Mountain in your adventure.
Unlike the Inca Trail, where travelers often worry about booking months in advance to avoid crowds, the Ausangate Trek in Peru remains a quiet and uncrowded route all year round. This makes it one of the best off-the-beaten-path treks in Cusco.
However, the climate and weather conditions do play an important role in planning your trip.
For the best overall experience, we recommend planning your trek between May and October, when you’ll have the greatest chance of good weather and clear mountain views.
Yes, solo travelers are more than welcome to join the Ausangate Trek with Tunqui Expeditions. However, since this trek is not as frequently booked as the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek, we require a minimum of two people to guarantee a departure.
Here are your options as a solo traveler:
Joining a group not only reduces costs but also provides a chance to connect with like-minded adventurers while experiencing one of the most beautiful treks in the Andes.
The weather on the Ausangate Trek can be quite unpredictable because of the trek’s high altitude (over 5,000 m / 16,400 ft at some points). Here’s what you can expect:
In short, the Ausangate Trek weather requires you to be prepared for all conditions: sun, wind, cold nights, and potential rain. Proper gear and layering will make your experience much more comfortable.
Unfortunately, we do not offer a student discount for the 5-Day Ausangate Trek. Our prices are already designed to be fair, covering all logistics, professional guides, meals, equipment, and support staff needed to make your experience safe and unforgettable.
If you’re a student looking for affordable treks in Cusco, we recommend checking shorter routes like the Rainbow Mountain day trip or Sacred Valley tours, which are often more budget-friendly.
Yes! The 7 Lakes of Ausangate are included in the itinerary. You’ll have the opportunity to visit them on the afternoon of the last day.
This part of the trek is a highlight for many travelers. The lakes—each with different shades of turquoise, blue, and green—are surrounded by snowy peaks and grazing alpacas. It’s a magical way to end your adventure on the Ausangate 4-Day Trek.
Yes, it is possible to skip the Upis campsite and continue trekking farther on the first day. However, this option is only recommended for highly experienced hikers who have previously completed other high-altitude treks such as Huaraz treks, the Salkantay Trek, or the Inca Trail.
Please note:
For most trekkers, we recommend following the classic itinerary, which allows for better acclimatization and a smoother experience.
Yes, we provide safe drinking water three times a day—after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The water is filtered, boiled, and cooled before refilling your bottles, ensuring it is safe to drink at high altitude.
Important notes:
This system ensures you don’t need to worry about buying bottled water along the way, helping us keep the trek more eco-friendly.
Yes, you can change your departure date for the Ausangate Trek, but you must notify us at least 48 hours in advance.
Last-minute changes (within 48 hours) are not possible, as we need time to organize guides, horses, permits, and logistics. We recommend confirming your new date as early as possible to ensure availability.
Bringing your passport is not required for the Ausangate Trek. However, if you’d like to get the famous Rainbow Mountain stamp, you will need to bring it with you. The stamp is available at Rainbow Mountain for 5 soles and makes a fun souvenir from your journey.
There are no permanent toilet facilities along the Ausangate route. In some areas, you may need to use natural spaces (behind rocks or bushes). Please remember to bring your own toilet paper and small plastic bags to dispose of waste responsibly.
To make the experience more comfortable, Tunqui Expeditions provides a private portable toilet at every campsite. This ensures privacy, hygiene, and a more eco-friendly experience, as it reduces the environmental impact on the fragile Andean ecosystem.
The Classic 5-Day Ausangate Trek covers approximately 74 kilometers (46 miles) in total. Each day you will hike between 10 km and 15 km, depending on the section of the route.
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the distances:
This makes the Ausangate Trek in Peru a moderately to highly challenging adventure, especially because of the altitude (over 5,000 m / 16,400 ft at some passes). However, with good acclimatization in Cusco and proper preparation, most trekkers find the experience both achievable and rewarding.
The Ausangate region is home to a wide variety of Andean wildlife, including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, vizcachas, and various species of birds.
Mountain lions (pumas) do live in the area, but they are extremely rare and very shy. They naturally avoid humans, and the chances of seeing one are minimal. Their population is also quite small because locals sometimes hunt them to protect their herds of alpacas and llamas.
In short, while pumas exist in the area, the Ausangate Trek is safe in terms of wildlife encounters.
Yes, we highly recommend travel insurance for the Ausangate Trek. Because the trek reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters, medical help or evacuations can be complicated and expensive. Having proper travel insurance will give you peace of mind in case of:
When purchasing insurance, make sure it specifically covers high-altitude trekking in Peru (over 5,000 m). Popular providers include World Nomads, Allianz, and SafetyWing, but always check the details of your policy before traveling.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe in providing a personalized trekking experience, which is why we keep our groups small.
Our groups have a maximum of 8 – 12 people, allowing you to:
Small group sizes also help us minimize environmental impact and support sustainable tourism in the Andes.
No, there is no electricity along the Ausangate Trek. The communities in the region are very rural, and while some homes may have small solar panels provided by the government, the electricity they generate is very limited.
This means you won’t be able to charge your devices during the trek. We recommend bringing:
This way, you can capture every unforgettable moment of your Ausangate Mountain Trek without worrying about running out of battery.
We recommend spending at least 3 full days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the Ausangate 5-Day Trek. The trek begins at 4,400 meters (14,436 feet) and reaches a maximum altitude of 5,110 meters (16,765 feet). At this elevation, oxygen levels are significantly lower, which can make hiking much more difficult without proper acclimatization.
During these 2–3 days, you can enjoy light activities such as exploring Cusco’s historic center, visiting nearby archaeological sites, or taking a gentle tour of the Sacred Valley. This preparation time gives your body the chance to adjust to the thinner air, helping you avoid altitude sickness (soroche) and ensuring you enjoy the trek more comfortably.
The Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 5-Day Trek is considered challenging and requires a good level of physical fitness and stamina. While the distances are manageable, the high altitude makes the trek more demanding than regular hikes.
You will be hiking at altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), where the air is thinner and breathing becomes more difficult. The trail also includes:
For trekkers with previous hiking experience and proper acclimatization, the trek is absolutely doable and rewarding. However, it is not recommended for complete beginners or those with respiratory or heart conditions.
On Day 3 of the 5-Day Rainbow Mountain & Ausangate Trek, we start early to make the most of the day.
This means most trekkers will arrive at the Rainbow Mountain summit around 8:00 AM. Faster hikers may arrive earlier, while those who prefer a slower pace may arrive a little later.
Starting early ensures we reach Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) before the large crowds of day tours arrive, giving you a much more peaceful experience and better photo opportunities.
It is not recommended to stay in the Sacred Valley the night before your Ausangate Trek because it is at a lower altitude than Cusco. Staying in Cusco is much better for acclimatization, as it is at 3,400 meters (11,155 feet) compared to the Sacred Valley at around 2,800 meters (9,186 feet).
That said, many travelers choose to spend their first day in the Sacred Valley after arriving in Cusco, then return to Cusco for 2–3 nights to acclimatize properly before the trek.
If you still prefer to stay in the Sacred Valley, please note:
No, horses are not available for rent at the trailhead because they are usually grazing in the high Andean fields and not stationed at the starting point.
If you think you might need an emergency horse to help during the trek, we strongly recommend booking it in advance through Tunqui Expeditions. This way, we can ensure a horse is available and ready for you.
Having a horse is especially helpful if you are concerned about altitude difficulty or if you’d like extra security during the steepest sections of the trek.
The best time to hike the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, from April to November. During this period, the skies are clearer, rainfall is minimal, and you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, lakes, and glaciers.
If you want the perfect balance of good weather and fewer tourists, the months of April, May, September, and October are ideal.
Yes, the Ausangate region is very cold, especially at night due to its high altitude. Temperatures vary depending on the season:
Because of these conditions, it is essential to bring warm clothing and layers, including:
Being well-prepared for the cold will make your trek much more enjoyable.
There are no strict age restrictions for the Ausangate Trek. However, we recommend it only for children aged 8 years and above, as the trek involves cold temperatures, long hiking days, and high-altitude passes (over 5,000 m / 16,400 ft).
For families traveling with children:
For older travelers (60+), the trek is also possible but may be physically demanding. In this case, we often recommend the 4-Day Ausangate Trek, which is slightly shorter and more manageable.
The Ausangate Trek does not require government permits like the Inca Trail, so it’s generally easier to book. However, we recommend:
If you’re booking last-minute, contact Tunqui Expeditions directly. We can often accommodate late bookings depending on group schedules and logistics.
Yes, we recommend bringing some extra cash in Peruvian soles (around 300–400 soles / US$80–100). While your trek package covers meals, equipment, and services, you may want money for:
Please note: U.S. dollars and credit cards are not accepted in rural areas, so always carry soles in cash.
Yes, private Ausangate treks can be arranged upon request. A private trek is ideal for families, couples, or groups of friends who prefer a more personalized experience.
Benefits of booking a private trek:
For pricing and availability, contact us directly through the Tunqui Expeditions website.
No, there are no charging stations on the Ausangate Trek. While some local homes in remote villages may have small solar panels, the energy is minimal and not available for tourists.
We recommend bringing:
The only time you’ll be able to charge devices is in the van before or after the trek.
Yes, the Ausangate Trek is generally safe for well-prepared trekkers. Our professional guides are trained in high-altitude first aid, and we carry oxygen and emergency equipment at all times.
The biggest challenge is the altitude, which can cause symptoms of soroche (altitude sickness) such as headaches, nausea, or shortness of breath. To minimize risks:
With proper acclimatization, fitness, and preparation, the Ausangate 5-Day Trek is safe and extremely rewarding.
Yes, you can still join the Ausangate Trek even if you are uncomfortable with heights. Most of the paths are wide and stable, making them safe for trekkers.
The only slightly narrow section is after Warmisaya Pass on Day 3, but it is not steep or dangerous. Walking slowly and focusing on the trail will help you feel more confident. The remaining days of the trek involve wide trails that are not intimidating.
Yes, many older travelers successfully complete the trek. However, we usually recommend the 4-Day Ausangate Trek for those over 60, as it is shorter and slightly less demanding.
For seniors joining the trek, we recommend:
Yes, airport drop-offs are available. Since the airport is located on the way out of Cusco, we can conveniently drop you off before other passengers are returned to their hotels.
This makes it easy to catch your flight home right after finishing the trek.
No. Horses are not available for rent along the trail, as they are usually grazing in the mountains. If you think you might need one, you must arrange an emergency horse in advance with Tunqui Expeditions.
No. Local providers do not offer horses for single-day use, since transporting horses to the trek requires significant effort. If you would like to have a horse, it must be booked for the entire trek.
Yes. If you prefer to bring your own gear or need extras, you can rent camping equipment in Cusco on Procuradores Street, a popular area for trekking shops.
Items available for rent include:
Make sure to rent high-quality gear, as temperatures on the Ausangate Trek can be extremely cold at night.
