Ausangate Trek, Rainbow Mountain & Machu Picchu includes the best of both worlds: an impressive hike through snow-capped mountains, glaciers, colorful lakes, and rural life, all culminating in a visit to one of the 7 wonders of the world created by the Quechua (Inca) culture, Machu Picchu or Machupicchu.
In our best treks in Peru, the highest peak is Ausangate at 6,385 m / 20,948 ft, located in the Cusco region, an immense mountain covered with snow, glaciers, lagoons, and rural life. Along the way, you will encounter vicuñas, alpacas, chinchillas, deer, and occasionally the Andean condor.
This adventurous hike, Ausangate Trek, covers approximately 67 km / 41.6 miles and ascends to 5,400 m / 17,716 ft. Ausangate is an excellent and peaceful trekking circuit that offers spectacular mountainous landscapes, snow-capped peaks, hot springs, the 7 Ausangate Lagoons circuit, several turquoise lakes, glaciers, herds of llamas, alpacas, and wild vicuñas, as well as picturesque villages with very friendly people who speak the native language “Quechua” and wear traditional ponchos, llicllas, or blankets made from alpaca and llama wool.
This trek ranges from moderate to challenging, with several high passes and freezing nights. However, this adventure is well worth it!
This beautiful 7-day Ausangate package, operated by Tunqui Expeditions, starts in the small Andean town of Tinke and takes you around the Ausangate mountain and through three high passes (two of them over 5000 m / 16,404 ft).
For this trek, we must be well acclimatized, spending at least two or three days in Cusco. A city tour, Sacred Valley, or Maras Moray tour is recommended before starting this world-class trek.
The campsites are at high altitude, and therefore, temperatures will drop below freezing at night, but our tents are designed for this altitude of 5000 m.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we require a minimum of 2 passengers to start the adventure, with a maximum of 10 hikers per group.
Ausangate Trek through the Rainbow Mountain – 7 Days is a magnificent adventure to reach Machu Picchu in a truly adventurous way through snow-capped mountains, turquoise lagoons, colorful mountains, breathtaking landscapes, and Andean communities. Ausangate Trek is one of the dream hikes in Latin America and one of the best treks in the world.
You are about to embark on an unforgettable adventure – the 7-day Ausangate trek is undoubtedly the best adventure that will take you to Machu Picchu through stunning landscapes and snow-capped peaks that will leave you breathless. With the Tunqui Expeditions team, everything will be taken care of, allowing you to enjoy the experience to the fullest.
The sacred Ausangate mountain is surrounded by more than 20 colorful lagoons, and along the way, we will see wildlife such as wild vicuñas, Andean foxes, chinchillas, viscachas, and the largest bird in the Andes – the Andean condor – as well as Andean geese and more.
The most incredible part of this trek is that we have designed a new route where you can enjoy and witness the Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley at both sunset and sunrise. The views will be unforgettable, making this a dream adventure exclusively with Tunqui Expeditions.
HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY SUMMARY
DAY 01: CUSCO – UPIS – ARAPA PASS – HATUN PUCACOCHA
Today we head towards Upis, hiking through wonderful landscapes and observing the Ausangate mountain. In the afternoon, enjoy a visit to a crystal-clear lake before spending the night at the foot of the sacred Ausangate mountain.
DAY 02: HATUN PUCACOCHA – PUCA PASS – ANANPATA – WARMISAYA PASS – SURINECOCHA – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (SUNSET)
Today begins with a hike to Puca Pass, where you will witness stunning lakes before lunch. In the afternoon, we ascend Warmisaya Pass before descending to our Surinecocha campsite, with a visit to Rainbow Mountain in the afternoon.
DAY 03: SURINECOCHA – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (SUNRISE) – ANANTAPATA – AUSANGATE COCHA
Wake up early with coca tea to avoid the crowds at Rainbow Mountain. Continue towards the Red Valley. Walk to Quesiuno for lunch and camp at Ausangate Cocha.
DAY 04: AUSANGATE COCHA – PALOMANI PASS – HUCHUY PHINAYA – SORAPATA
This morning, hike through the breathtaking Andean landscapes, observing mountains and either green or snow-covered scenery depending on the season. After lunch, spend time with local families to learn about their customs and traditions.
DAY 05: SORAPATA – JAMPA PASS – 7 AUSANGATE LAGOONS – PACCHANTA
Wake up to stunning landscapes and join the hike through the 7 Ausangate Lagoons. Observe the lakes and enjoy an Andean ceremony. Relax in the Pacchanta hot springs in the afternoon.
DAY 06: PACCHANTA – TINKE – SACRED VALLEY – SALINERAS – OLLANTAYTAMBO – AGUAS CALIENTES
Today, with Tunqui Expeditions, explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting the most significant sites before boarding a train with beautiful views to Aguas Calientes. Spend the night in a hotel.
DAY 07: AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU – OLLANTAYTAMBO – CUSCO
The most exciting day has arrived with Tunqui Expeditions! In the morning, we will explore the lost Inca citadel of Machu Picchu with our expert guide before returning by train to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transport will take you back to Cusco and drop you off at your hotel.
Highlight of the day: Hike through the Andean landscapes of Ausangate.
Walk through the beautiful Andean landscape and breathe fresh, clean air.
Our Ausangate Trek adventure begins in Cusco at 4:00 AM with private transportation from Tunqui Expeditions, heading to the Upis community.
We will enjoy a nutritious breakfast prepared by the talented hands of our professional chef, surrounded by the Andean landscapes of Ausangate. From here, we will start the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain, admiring the breathtaking scenery.
Once ready, with trekking poles in hand, we will hike for three hours at a relaxed pace to have lunch in Upis, surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Along the way, you will see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas throughout the mountains.
After lunch, we will continue with a two-and-a-half-hour ascent to Arapa Pass, where we can admire a multitude of colors spread across the mountains and a valley stretching before us.
Upon reaching the highest point of our hike, we will begin our descent, walking for approximately two and a half hours, passing Yanacocha Lagoon until we reach our campsite next to Hatun Pucacocha Lagoon. Upon arrival, we will be at the base of the sacred Ausangate Mountain, which will amaze you with its snow-covered silhouette.
In the afternoon, our porters will surprise us by setting up a tea table 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 night of rest.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 17 km / 10.56 miles
Starting elevation: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
Hiking time: 8 – 9 hours
Highest altitude: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Camp elevation: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Highlight of the day: Bright, stunning lagoons along our trek.
A day of sacred Ausangate lakes and mountains awaits us.
After a long night under bright stars, we will wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our chef, giving us the energy needed to start the day.
Our impressive hike will begin after filling our water bottles. We will ascend for two hours to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft).
Next, we will descend for an hour and a half to have lunch in Anantapata. After lunch, we will continue ascending for approximately two more hours to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), where we can admire spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sacred mountains and Rainbow Mountain in the distance. The goal is to arrive in the afternoon to catch the last rays of sunlight over Rainbow Mountain.
From there, we will descend for 45 minutes to our campsite by Surinecocha Lagoon (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where our tents will be ready.
Upon arrival, our porters will greet us with hot water to wash up. After resting, we will take a short hike to Rainbow Mountain to watch the sunset. It will be just you and your group exploring this incredible place in the afternoon.
Your expert guide will lead you to the perfect spots for photos, making the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t worry – the next day, we will return to witness the sunrise with different colors glowing in the morning light!
In the afternoon, our porters will once again surprise us with tea, snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and more. A delicious dinner will follow before a restful night.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 10 km / 6.20 miles
Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours
Highest altitude: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
Camp elevation: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Highlight of the day: Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder perfectly crafted by nature.
Today is a spectacular day because we will reach Rainbow Mountain at sunrise, catching the first rays of sunlight and being the first to arrive.
The view is truly breathtaking – even if we don’t believe in God, we will feel the need to thank someone for these beautiful natural landscapes that resemble works of art.
Our adventure begins very 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 admire the sunrise, capture amazing photos, and appreciate the peace long before other groups arrive.
After this magical moment, your guide will explain the importance of this site in the Andean world.
Later, we will visit the Red Valley viewpoint (5,050 m / 16,568 ft), where you can see the immense valley fading into the distance.
After walking through the Red Valley, we will return along the same path and gradually descend to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), where we will enjoy a delicious lunch in the Andes, prepared by our amazing trekking chef.
After lunch and a good rest, we will continue with an uphill hike for approximately two and a half hours, enjoying the sight of a beautiful green valley with herds of llamas and alpacas.
At night, our camp will be waiting for us at Ausangate Cocha (4,500 m / 14,774 ft), where we will rest comfortably after a delicious dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
Hiking time: 8 – 9 hours
Lowest elevation: 4,376 m / 14,357 ft
Highest altitude: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
Camp elevation: 4,500 m / 14,774 ft
Highlight of the day: Walk through vast landscapes and learn about local customs and traditions.
Immerse yourself in the local customs and traditions.
As with every morning, you will receive a warm 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 ascent to Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point on the entire route.
After a short break to take in the stunning 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 enjoy lunch amidst the immense Andean landscape – not a bad way to spend lunchtime!
We have great respect and admiration for the people of Huchuy Phinaya, who preserve ancestral traditions to this day. Learn from them and witness their admirable way of life, in complete harmony with Mother Nature (Pachamama).
Today is the most challenging day, but it is worth it for a true connection with the Andes and Mother Earth. Later, we will take a gentle two-hour hike to Sorapata, where our camp will be ready and waiting for your arrival.
After a delicious dinner, enjoy a peaceful night of rest, free from the noise of city life and traffic.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking distance: 16.5 km / 10.25 miles
Hiking time: 8 – 9 hours
Lowest elevation: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Highest altitude: 5,200 m / 17,060 ft
Camp elevation: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft
Highlight of the day: Explore the stunning lagoons and give thanks to Mother Nature.
Give thanks to Mother Nature for this epic journey.
After our second-to-last breakfast, we will begin our uphill hike of two and a half hours towards Jampa Pass at 5,070 meters (16,634 ft). From here, you will have stunning views of majestic, snow-capped sacred mountains, especially Wayna Ausangate.
Don’t forget to have your camera ready!
Next, we will follow a gentle downhill route for approximately three hours until we reach our lunch spot at the Pacchanta camp. Along the way, we will also join the famous 7 Ausangate Lagoons Trek.
By one of the beautiful and mystical lagoons in the area (Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo), we will have the option to hold a small ceremony to give thanks to Pachamama (Mother Nature) and the surrounding mountains, especially the sacred Ausangate Mountain that has watched over us throughout the trek.
After our lunch in Pacchanta, you will have a free afternoon and the opportunity to heal your tired body in the medicinal hot springs of Pacchanta.
We will end the day by satisfying our hunger and taste buds with another delicious dinner. Tonight, our talented chef will surprise us once again with a special treat in the mountains.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 11 km / 6.84 miles
Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours
Lowest elevation: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Highest altitude: 5,070 m / 16,634 ft
Camp elevation: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Highlight of the day: Visit Inca archaeological sites, the Lamay handicraft center, and the Maras Salt Mines.
Explore the Sacred Valley of the Incas in the best way.
After breakfast prepared by our amazing chef, you will have a moment to say goodbye to our trekking team who accompanied you on this magnificent Ausangate trek – the professional chefs, muleteers, and porters.
Without them, this epic adventure would not be possible!
After the farewell, we will take private transportation from Tunqui Expeditions for a three-and-a-half-hour drive to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Our first stop will be Taray Viewpoint or Sacred Valley Viewpoint. This incredible location offers a fantastic opportunity to see the magnificent landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
We will continue our journey through the Sacred Valley along the right side of the Willkamayu River (Sacred River) until we reach Urco (2,900 m / 9,514 ft), an archaeological site dedicated to water worship.
At noon, after visiting Urco, we will continue with a one-hour drive to Urubamba, where we will enjoy a buffet lunch at the best restaurant offering a variety of traditional dishes.
After lunch, our private transportation will take us to Maras Salt Mines, home to over 3,000 salt ponds.
Finally, we will reach the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo. Once there, we will take a short walk to see the Inca walls and water canals throughout the city. Afterward, we will head to the train station for the train ride to Aguas Calientes, where you will check into a comfortable hotel.
We will have dinner, and then you can rest and dream about the incredible places you have seen so far.
Meals: Breakfast and lunch.
Accommodation: Hotel
Difficulty: Easy
Walking distance: 2 km / 1.24 miles
Hiking time: 1 hour
Lowest elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Highest elevation: 2,950 m / 9,678 ft
Hotel elevation: 2,900 m / 9,514 ft
Here is the complete translation of Day 07:
Highlight of the day: Walk through the stone streets of Machu Picchu and imagine what life was like centuries ago.
Marvel at the energy of Machu Picchu and uncover the secrets of the Incas.
Your epic journey comes to an end today with a visit to the New Wonder of the World and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Machu Picchu. In the morning, you will enjoy breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes before departing early. We will take the bus from Aguas Calientes to the archaeological site, arriving before the crowds. This way, you can take advantage of the morning light and watch the sunrise as the first bright rays illuminate the ancient stone structures.
At the hotel, you can store your backpacks or belongings and bring only the essentials in a small daypack for your visit to Machu Picchu. The bus ride from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu takes approximately 30 minutes. Once at Machu Picchu, your guide will lead you directly to the best spot to witness the sunrise (weather permitting) and take photos.
Afterward, your expert local guide will explain the main sectors of the citadel during a 2.5-hour guided tour. During this tour, you will learn more about the history and culture of the Inca Empire.
You have the option to hike Huayna Picchu Mountain (advance reservation required, as spaces fill quickly and the cost is $75 per person). Your guide will show you where the hike begins. The round-trip hike takes no more than two hours.
Alternatively, you can hike to Machu Picchu Mountain, which is more challenging and takes a minimum of three hours round trip (with an additional cost of USD $75 per person).
After fully exploring this magical site, around midday, we will return to Aguas Calientes for lunch at a restaurant of your choice. In the afternoon, around 2:00 PM, we will head to the train station for the journey to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, Tunqui Expeditions’ private transportation will be waiting to take you back to Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.
Now it’s time to rest your legs after an epic 7-day adventure through the Ausangate Lagoons, Rainbow Mountains, and Machu Picchu. We are sure you will never forget this life-changing trek.
Meals: Breakfast
Difficulty: Easy
Machu Picchu site elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Machu Picchu Mountain elevation: 3,000 m / 9,843 ft
Huayna Picchu Mountain elevation: 2,720 m / 8,924 ft
Optional activities (Difficulty – Duration): Moderate (2-4 hours)
