3-Day Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain Sunrise Adventure – An Exclusive Journey with Tunqui Expeditions
Are you searching for an unforgettable trekking adventure that pushes your limits and rewards you with breathtaking views?
Join Tunqui Expeditions on our exclusive 3-Day Ausangate Trek, a route specially crafted for hikers seeking a unique and immersive Andean experience. This thrilling journey combines the awe-inspiring Ausangate Glacier, the mystical Rainbow Mountain, and the vibrant Red Valley—all in one extraordinary trek.
Unlike typical tours, we offer a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness both the sunset and sunrise at Rainbow Mountain, far from the crowds. You’ll camp near the mountain under a starlit sky, surrounded only by your fellow adventurers and nature at its purest.
As the pioneers of this exclusive route, Tunqui Expeditions ensures a fully guided, small-group experience led by our expert local guides. Along the way, you’ll hike through untouched trails of the Andes, pass shimmering turquoise lakes, spot alpacas and llamas in their natural habitat, and marvel at the snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota Mountain Range.
👉 Perfect for:
Adventurers looking for a challenging but rewarding trek in Peru, photographers, nature lovers, and those seeking authentic Andean culture and remote hiking experiences.
Don’t just visit Peru — live it with Tunqui Expeditions, pioneers in the Ausangate region.
Join Tunqui Expeditions on an unforgettable 3-day Ausangate Trek that takes you through the heart of the Andes to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and the surreal Red Valley.
Starting from Cusco, you’ll hike across high mountain passes, shimmering lagoons like Hatun Pucacocha, and fields of alpacas, with stunning views of the Ausangate Glacier. Experience both the beauty and challenge of this remote trail with full support from our expert guides and porters.
You’ll visit Rainbow Mountain in the peaceful afternoon light—away from the crowds—and explore the colorful Red Valley before returning to Cusco.
This 3-day trek is designed for those who want more than just a hike — it’s for those who seek authentic connection with nature, culture, and themselves.
Highlight of the day: Hike through the Andean landscapes of Ausangate.
Walk through the beautiful Andean landscape and breathe pure, fresh air.
Our journey to Ausangate Trek begins from the city of Cusco at 4:00 AM, in private transport by Tunqui Expeditions, heading to the community of Upis.
We will have a nutritious breakfast prepared by the talented hands of our professional super chef, in the middle of the Andean landscapes of Ausangate. From here, we will begin the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain, admiring the stunning landscape.
Once we are ready with walking sticks in hand, we will calmly walk for three hours to have lunch at Upis, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Along the way, you will see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas throughout this part of the Ausangate mountains.
Afterward, we will continue with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Arapa Pass, where we will witness a multitude of colors spread across the mountains and a valley stretching before our eyes.
After reaching the highest point of our hike, we will begin the descent and walk for approximately two and a half hours, passing by Yanacocha Lagoon until we reach our campsite next to Hatun Pucacocha Lagoon. Upon arrival at our camp, we will be at the base of the sacred Ausangate mountain, which will amaze you with its beautiful snow-covered silhouette.
In the afternoon, our porters will have a surprise ready at the table for our tea time 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’s rest.
Highlight of the day: Bright, stunning lagoons await us on today’s trek.
A day filled with lagoons and the sacred Ausangate mountains.
After a long night spent under the bright stars, we will wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our chef, providing the necessary energy to start the day.
Our impressive hike will begin after filling our water bottles and canteens. We will hike uphill for two hours until we reach Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft).
Then, we will descend for an hour and a half to have lunch at Anantapata. After lunch, we will hike uphill for approximately two more hours until we reach Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), where we can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sacred mountains and Rainbow Mountain in the distance.
The goal is to arrive in the afternoon to witness the last rays of sunlight on Rainbow Mountain.
From that point, we will descend for 45 minutes until we reach our campsite next to 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 and freshen up. After resting, we will take a short hike to Rainbow Mountain to witness the sunset. You and your group will be the only ones exploring this impressive place in the afternoon.
Your expert guide will lead you to the perfect spots for the best photos, ensuring you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t worry – the next day, we will witness the sunrise at this impressive site, where the colors shine differently in the morning light!
After the afternoon visit, our porters will have prepared tea time with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and more to calm your hunger. Later, you will enjoy a delicious dinner before a well-deserved night’s rest.
Highlight of the day: Explore Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley with an impressive sunrise in the Andes, away from the crowds.
This natural wonder will captivate you, and Red Valley, often compared to Mars, feels like another world.
We will wake you up very early this morning, at 4:00 AM, with a hot cup of coca leaf tea in your tent. This will provide the energy boost you need to start the day and warm up in the cold mountains.
Afterward, you will enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast prepared by our chef.
Get ready because soon you will discover Rainbow Mountain at sunrise, as well as the spectacular Red Valley!
We will hike for 2 hours to reach the viewpoint of the stunning Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). You will have time to explore and enjoy breathtaking views, not only of Rainbow Mountain but also of the powerful Ausangate Glacier and the other snow-capped peaks surrounding the area.
The 360° view from here is fantastic, and you will appreciate it fully before the large crowds arrive, as Rainbow Mountain is the second most-visited destination in Cusco.
Open your heart to the mountains – they will reward you for all your efforts.
After enjoying this Andean gem, we will begin our hike towards the fascinating Red Valley (5,050 m / 16,568 ft). This place feels like stepping onto another planet – many compare it to Mars – and very few tourists visit it. Tunqui Expeditions aims to take you to less-visited places, away from the crowds.
The vibrant colors and the immense tranquility will surprise you. It only takes a 30-minute walk to reach the viewpoint, offering the best views of the surrounding valley. Enjoy every step!
Finally, we will take a two-hour hike through ancient Andean communities filled with history, culture, and tradition, alongside herds of llamas. If you’re lucky, you may spot vicuñas, beautiful wild animals that have coexisted with Peru’s inhabitants since pre-Inca times.
At noon, we will enjoy a final delicious lunch before returning to Cusco in our private transport, which will drop you off at your accommodation.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we provide detailed information about what’s included in all of our tours. We take care of all logistics, but we kindly ask you to review the inclusions carefully so you don’t miss anything important.
✔ Pre-Trek Briefing:
Meet your guide and group at our main office (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm the night before your trek. You’ll receive a duffel bag (max. 7 kg / 15.4 lb), which will be carried by our muleteers and must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mat (if bringing or renting).
✔ Expert Local Guide:
Bilingual (English–Spanish) certified guide, graduate of the Tourism program at the National University of Cusco. All our guides are passionate locals with deep knowledge of Andean history, culture, and nature.
✔ First Aid & Oxygen Kit:
All guides are trained in first aid. They carry a first-aid kit and portable oxygen for altitude-related issues and other basic emergencies. In serious cases, we will coordinate the fastest possible evacuation and transfer to a medical center.
✔ Private Camping Equipment:
✔ 24/7 Support & Satellite Phone:
You’ll have 24/7 support from our team. All guides carry a fully charged satellite phone in case of emergency or personal calls (fee applies if used by passengers).
All taxes and entry fees are included in the tour price. No hidden costs.
While we pay fair wages, tips are a great way to thank your guide, cook, and muleteers.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your journey to Peru and the Ausangate Trek to be as memorable and worry-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most common questions from our travelers. Please read carefully—it may answer everything you need to know before your trek.
Still have questions? Send us a message, and we’ll be happy to help!
It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before taking on a mountain trek. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before the start of the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
Even if you’ve already been in a high-altitude region of Peru, we suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and enjoy the city before heading out.
Great pre-trek activities near Cusco:
All briefings take place at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one day before your trek. They last about 30–45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend, please contact us via email, phone, or in person to reschedule.
If you still owe a balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed.
Preferred method: Cash payment in USD or Peruvian soles at our Cusco office.
Nearby ATMs on Avenida El Sol allow withdrawals in both currencies.
You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, online or in person. However, note that a 5% service fee applies via PayPal or our payment gateway (Niubiz).
We do not accept bank checks or traveler’s checks.
Yes! During your pre-trek briefing, we’ll give you a duffel bag (60 x 24 x 22 cm / 23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
You can pack up to 7 kg (15.4 lb), including your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, clothing, and personal items. This will be carried by our muleteers.
Absolutely!
We offer free luggage storage at our office during your trek. You may also store items at your hotel—most offer this service at no cost.
Important:
Do not store valuables in your luggage. Use your hotel’s safe and request a detailed receipt, which may be required for travel insurance in case of loss or theft. We recommend sealing credit cards or valuables in a signed envelope for peace of mind.
We’ll pick you up directly from your hotel as long as it’s located in the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm the exact pick-up time during the pre-trek briefing. Please allow for a 30–45 minute window due to traffic and shared pick-ups.
Note: Some hotels or Airbnbs may be on narrow, steep streets where vehicles cannot reach. We strongly recommend booking accommodation with easy vehicle access.
Group treks include hikers of various fitness levels and ages. By joining a group, you accept that some may hike faster or slower than you.
Each participant can hike at their own pace. If a group requests changes to the itinerary, the final decision will be made by the guide, after consulting everyone.
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and may disrupt tours, especially by blocking roads or railways.
If needed, we may adjust your itinerary to keep your adventure on track, even departing one night early if required. In rare cases, tours may be cancelled for safety.
All decisions will be communicated by our operations team—your safety is our top priority.
Please be mindful of your belongings during the trek. Once you leave our transport, campsites, or restaurants, you are fully responsible for your items.
Double-check your space before departing!
Here’s what you should bring to fully enjoy your adventure in the high Andes. Be prepared for cold nights, strong sun, and spectacular views.
Our muleteers will carry up to 7 kg (15.4 lb) of your personal belongings, which must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (total weight approx. 3.5 kg).
This trek is available any day of the week, year-round—from January to December. We operate this itinerary in all seasons with full service and logistics.
This small-group trek is guaranteed to operate with only 2 participants.
💡 Please note: PayPal charges a 5% service fee for online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash in Cusco with no extra charges.
Upgrade your Peru adventure with these additional experiences:
Add comfort to your journey with the following rentals:
Once your booking is confirmed, your price is locked—it will never increase, no matter the circumstances.
Before reserving, please make sure to review all the important details of the trek.
Join Tunqui Expeditions on an unforgettable 3-day Ausangate Trek that takes you through the heart of the Andes to the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and the surreal Red Valley.
Starting from Cusco, you’ll hike across high mountain passes, shimmering lagoons like Hatun Pucacocha, and fields of alpacas, with stunning views of the Ausangate Glacier. Experience both the beauty and challenge of this remote trail with full support from our expert guides and porters.
You’ll visit Rainbow Mountain in the peaceful afternoon light—away from the crowds—and explore the colorful Red Valley before returning to Cusco.
This 3-day trek is designed for those who want more than just a hike — it’s for those who seek authentic connection with nature, culture, and themselves.
Highlight of the day: Hike through the Andean landscapes of Ausangate.
Walk through the beautiful Andean landscape and breathe pure, fresh air.
Our journey to Ausangate Trek begins from the city of Cusco at 4:00 AM, in private transport by Tunqui Expeditions, heading to the community of Upis.
We will have a nutritious breakfast prepared by the talented hands of our professional super chef, in the middle of the Andean landscapes of Ausangate. From here, we will begin the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain, admiring the stunning landscape.
Once we are ready with walking sticks in hand, we will calmly walk for three hours to have lunch at Upis, surrounded by beautiful scenery. Along the way, you will see llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas throughout this part of the Ausangate mountains.
Afterward, we will continue with a two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Arapa Pass, where we will witness a multitude of colors spread across the mountains and a valley stretching before our eyes.
After reaching the highest point of our hike, we will begin the descent and walk for approximately two and a half hours, passing by Yanacocha Lagoon until we reach our campsite next to Hatun Pucacocha Lagoon. Upon arrival at our camp, we will be at the base of the sacred Ausangate mountain, which will amaze you with its beautiful snow-covered silhouette.
In the afternoon, our porters will have a surprise ready at the table for our tea time 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’s rest.
Highlight of the day: Bright, stunning lagoons await us on today’s trek.
A day filled with lagoons and the sacred Ausangate mountains.
After a long night spent under the bright stars, we will wake up and enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our chef, providing the necessary energy to start the day.
Our impressive hike will begin after filling our water bottles and canteens. We will hike uphill for two hours until we reach Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft).
Then, we will descend for an hour and a half to have lunch at Anantapata. After lunch, we will hike uphill for approximately two more hours until we reach Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), where we can enjoy spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding sacred mountains and Rainbow Mountain in the distance.
The goal is to arrive in the afternoon to witness the last rays of sunlight on Rainbow Mountain.
From that point, we will descend for 45 minutes until we reach our campsite next to 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 and freshen up. After resting, we will take a short hike to Rainbow Mountain to witness the sunset. You and your group will be the only ones exploring this impressive place in the afternoon.
Your expert guide will lead you to the perfect spots for the best photos, ensuring you make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Don’t worry – the next day, we will witness the sunrise at this impressive site, where the colors shine differently in the morning light!
After the afternoon visit, our porters will have prepared tea time with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and more to calm your hunger. Later, you will enjoy a delicious dinner before a well-deserved night’s rest.
Highlight of the day: Explore Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley with an impressive sunrise in the Andes, away from the crowds.
This natural wonder will captivate you, and Red Valley, often compared to Mars, feels like another world.
We will wake you up very early this morning, at 4:00 AM, with a hot cup of coca leaf tea in your tent. This will provide the energy boost you need to start the day and warm up in the cold mountains.
Afterward, you will enjoy a delicious and nutritious breakfast prepared by our chef.
Get ready because soon you will discover Rainbow Mountain at sunrise, as well as the spectacular Red Valley!
We will hike for 2 hours to reach the viewpoint of the stunning Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). You will have time to explore and enjoy breathtaking views, not only of Rainbow Mountain but also of the powerful Ausangate Glacier and the other snow-capped peaks surrounding the area.
The 360° view from here is fantastic, and you will appreciate it fully before the large crowds arrive, as Rainbow Mountain is the second most-visited destination in Cusco.
Open your heart to the mountains – they will reward you for all your efforts.
After enjoying this Andean gem, we will begin our hike towards the fascinating Red Valley (5,050 m / 16,568 ft). This place feels like stepping onto another planet – many compare it to Mars – and very few tourists visit it. Tunqui Expeditions aims to take you to less-visited places, away from the crowds.
The vibrant colors and the immense tranquility will surprise you. It only takes a 30-minute walk to reach the viewpoint, offering the best views of the surrounding valley. Enjoy every step!
Finally, we will take a two-hour hike through ancient Andean communities filled with history, culture, and tradition, alongside herds of llamas. If you’re lucky, you may spot vicuñas, beautiful wild animals that have coexisted with Peru’s inhabitants since pre-Inca times.
At noon, we will enjoy a final delicious lunch before returning to Cusco in our private transport, which will drop you off at your accommodation.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we provide detailed information about what’s included in all of our tours. We take care of all logistics, but we kindly ask you to review the inclusions carefully so you don’t miss anything important.
✔ Pre-Trek Briefing:
Meet your guide and group at our main office (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm the night before your trek. You’ll receive a duffel bag (max. 7 kg / 15.4 lb), which will be carried by our muleteers and must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mat (if bringing or renting).
✔ Expert Local Guide:
Bilingual (English–Spanish) certified guide, graduate of the Tourism program at the National University of Cusco. All our guides are passionate locals with deep knowledge of Andean history, culture, and nature.
✔ First Aid & Oxygen Kit:
All guides are trained in first aid. They carry a first-aid kit and portable oxygen for altitude-related issues and other basic emergencies. In serious cases, we will coordinate the fastest possible evacuation and transfer to a medical center.
✔ Private Camping Equipment:
✔ 24/7 Support & Satellite Phone:
You’ll have 24/7 support from our team. All guides carry a fully charged satellite phone in case of emergency or personal calls (fee applies if used by passengers).
All taxes and entry fees are included in the tour price. No hidden costs.
While we pay fair wages, tips are a great way to thank your guide, cook, and muleteers.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your journey to Peru and the Ausangate Trek to be as memorable and worry-free as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most common questions from our travelers. Please read carefully—it may answer everything you need to know before your trek.
Still have questions? Send us a message, and we’ll be happy to help!
It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before taking on a mountain trek. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before the start of the trek to avoid altitude sickness.
Even if you’ve already been in a high-altitude region of Peru, we suggest spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and enjoy the city before heading out.
Great pre-trek activities near Cusco:
All briefings take place at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 pm, one day before your trek. They last about 30–45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend, please contact us via email, phone, or in person to reschedule.
If you still owe a balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek. Otherwise, your reservation will not be confirmed.
Preferred method: Cash payment in USD or Peruvian soles at our Cusco office.
Nearby ATMs on Avenida El Sol allow withdrawals in both currencies.
You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, online or in person. However, note that a 5% service fee applies via PayPal or our payment gateway (Niubiz).
We do not accept bank checks or traveler’s checks.
Yes! During your pre-trek briefing, we’ll give you a duffel bag (60 x 24 x 22 cm / 23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
You can pack up to 7 kg (15.4 lb), including your sleeping bag, sleeping pad, clothing, and personal items. This will be carried by our muleteers.
Absolutely!
We offer free luggage storage at our office during your trek. You may also store items at your hotel—most offer this service at no cost.
Important:
Do not store valuables in your luggage. Use your hotel’s safe and request a detailed receipt, which may be required for travel insurance in case of loss or theft. We recommend sealing credit cards or valuables in a signed envelope for peace of mind.
We’ll pick you up directly from your hotel as long as it’s located in the Historic Center of Cusco.
Your guide will confirm the exact pick-up time during the pre-trek briefing. Please allow for a 30–45 minute window due to traffic and shared pick-ups.
Note: Some hotels or Airbnbs may be on narrow, steep streets where vehicles cannot reach. We strongly recommend booking accommodation with easy vehicle access.
Group treks include hikers of various fitness levels and ages. By joining a group, you accept that some may hike faster or slower than you.
Each participant can hike at their own pace. If a group requests changes to the itinerary, the final decision will be made by the guide, after consulting everyone.
Strikes and protests are common in Peru and may disrupt tours, especially by blocking roads or railways.
If needed, we may adjust your itinerary to keep your adventure on track, even departing one night early if required. In rare cases, tours may be cancelled for safety.
All decisions will be communicated by our operations team—your safety is our top priority.
Please be mindful of your belongings during the trek. Once you leave our transport, campsites, or restaurants, you are fully responsible for your items.
Double-check your space before departing!
Here’s what you should bring to fully enjoy your adventure in the high Andes. Be prepared for cold nights, strong sun, and spectacular views.
Our muleteers will carry up to 7 kg (15.4 lb) of your personal belongings, which must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (total weight approx. 3.5 kg).
This trek is available any day of the week, year-round—from January to December. We operate this itinerary in all seasons with full service and logistics.
This small-group trek is guaranteed to operate with only 2 participants.
💡 Please note: PayPal charges a 5% service fee for online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash in Cusco with no extra charges.
Upgrade your Peru adventure with these additional experiences:
Add comfort to your journey with the following rentals:
Once your booking is confirmed, your price is locked—it will never increase, no matter the circumstances.
Before reserving, please make sure to review all the important details of the trek.
