This extraordinary Ausangate Trek expedition through the Peruvian Andes is perfect for adventurous travelers seeking an unforgettable and off-the-beaten-path experience. It’s one of the best trekking routes in Peru for those who crave breathtaking scenery and meaningful cultural encounters.
This epic journey promises to immerse you in spectacular Andean landscapes while connecting with remote mountain communities nestled in the heart of the Andes mountain range.
As you hike, you’ll pass through traditional Quechua villages, where you’ll witness the daily lives of locals working the land, herding llamas, alpacas, and sheep across emerald-green fields beside turquoise glacial lakes—all set against the backdrop of towering sacred mountains and glaciers that surround Mount Ausangate.
This region is also rich in Andean wildlife. Keep your eyes open for majestic condors, eagles, hawks, viscachas, Andean geese, wild vicuñas, and even the elusive Andean puma.
Begin your adventure with our experienced team at Tunqui Expeditions, including professional trekking guides, skilled porters, talented chefs, and dedicated muleteers, who will ensure your journey is not only safe and comfortable, but truly unforgettable—an experience that will stay with you forever.
This once-in-a-lifetime adventure with Tunqui Expeditions takes you through extraordinary, spiritual, sacred, and natural landscapes in the heart of the Peruvian Andes. Starting from the city of Cusco, you’ll travel in private transport with our expert trekking team toward the remote community of Upis.
On Day 1, we begin the hike with a slow, gradual ascent through the highlands, reaching the Upis campsite and visiting the serene Wayna Ausangate Lagoon.
The next day, we’ll hike over Arapa Pass, followed by a descent through stunning turquoise lagoons such as Hatun and Huchuy Pucacocha. Afterward, we ascend to the second-highest point, Anantapata, where you’ll enjoy views of the Ausangate Glacier.
We’ll continue through the Anantapata Valley, heading to Warmisaya Pass, where you’ll get your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) in the distance.
On Day 3, we camp near Surinecocha Lagoon, setting the stage for an unforgettable sunset hike to Rainbow Mountain.
On the final day, we rise before dawn to reach the viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain and experience its stunning colors at sunrise—without the crowds. Afterward, we hike a short distance to the Red Valley, then descend to Llacto, where our private transport awaits to return you to Cusco.
We’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and drive in private transport to the community of Upis, where your hike begins. Enjoy lunch surrounded by majestic peaks before continuing to Upis Camp.
In the afternoon, we’ll take an optional hike to Wayna Ausangate Lagoon before returning to camp for dinner and a restful night beneath the stars near sacred mountains.
Today you’ll hike through spectacular high-altitude landscapes, enjoying views of Mount Ausangate and pristine turquoise lagoons hidden among the sacred peaks.
If we’re lucky, we might even spot an Andean condor soaring above. Tonight, we’ll camp at Pukaqocha, surrounded by glaciers and peace.
After breakfast, you’ll face the majesty of Ausangate up close with your Tunqui Expeditions team.
In the afternoon, we’ll hike to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint to enjoy a stunning sunset over Vinicunca.
Camp tonight will be near Surinecocha Lagoon, just steps away from one of the most beautiful high-altitude trails in the Andes.
Wake up early and enjoy coca tea to start your day. Our goal is to reach Rainbow Mountain at sunrise, before most tourists arrive, for a peaceful, awe-inspiring experience.
After taking in the unforgettable views, we’ll hike another 30 minutes to the Red Valley, a Mars-like landscape of crimson hills.
Finally, we descend to Llacto for lunch and board our private transport back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel in the late afternoon.
Highlight of the day: Discover traditional Andean communities and the serene Wayna Ausangate Lake.
Explore the beauty of Ausangate Mountain and its snow-covered peaks—so white you’ll hardly believe your eyes.
Your Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek adventure begins at 4:00 a.m. with a scenic drive from Cusco to the small community of Upis, where you’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our talented chef.
We’ll begin the trek with a slow, steady ascent to help your body acclimate. As we get closer to the base of Ausangate Glacier, you’ll admire the northeast face of the mighty snowcapped peak.
After approximately 3 hours of hiking through native potato fields and charming adobe homes, we’ll reach Upis Camp for lunch.
In the afternoon, you’ll have the option to hike to Wayna Ausangate Lake (2-hour round trip). Upon return, our porters will welcome you with afternoon tea, including hot drinks, popcorn, coffee, hot chocolate, and snacks. Later, enjoy a delicious dinner before resting beside the sacred Ausangate Mountain.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 mi
Initial Elevation: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Max Altitude: 4,480 m / 14,698 ft
Camp Elevation: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Highlight of the day: Be amazed by the majestic Ausangate Glacier and its surrounding high-altitude lagoons.
Today starts with hot coca tea or coffee delivered to your tent, followed by breakfast in the crisp mountain air.
We’ll begin a scenic 2.5-hour hike through a high Andean valley toward Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), accompanied by the stunning Ausangate Glacier.
From the top of the pass, the landscape opens up, revealing the breathtaking power of nature. Whether or not you’re religious, you may feel the urge to give thanks for the overwhelming beauty around you.
We descend toward the crystal-clear Yanacocha (Black Lake), and after one more hour of hiking, we arrive at Hatun Pucacocha, surrounded by dramatic alpine scenery.
Enjoy a tasty lunch and take advantage of photo opportunities throughout the day—don’t forget your camera!
Later, settle into Hatun Pucacocha Camp (4,500 m / 14,764 ft). Explore nearby lagoons and enjoy afternoon tea with hot drinks and snacks, followed by a nourishing dinner and rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.84 mi
Hiking Time: 6–7 hours
Min Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Max Altitude: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Camp Elevation: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Highlight of the day: Walk along the base of Ausangate and reach Rainbow Mountain for a peaceful sunset.
After your morning coca tea, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast before beginning one of the most spectacular days of the trek.
We’ll ascend for 2 hours to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft), with continuous views of the Ausangate glaciers and green valleys below. Feel the presence of this sacred mountain and witness its turquoise glacial lakes.
As you crest the pass, the face of Mount Ausangate reveals itself in full glory—an awe-inspiring moment.
Continue hiking down to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) for lunch, then rest before another ascent to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the Rainbow Range.
From here, descend for 45 minutes to reach Surinecocha Camp (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where your tent will be ready.
Later, we’ll hike to Rainbow Mountain at sunset—a magical and crowd-free moment only for your group. Your guide will take you to the best photo spots and help you make the most of this rare opportunity.
After the hike, enjoy afternoon tea and a delightful dinner before a peaceful night under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 mi
Hiking Time: 7–8 hours
Min Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Max Altitude: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
Camp Elevation: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Highlight of the day: Witness the sunrise over Rainbow Mountain and walk through the surreal Red Valley.
Wake up early at 5:00 a.m. for an energizing breakfast and a short hike to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)—arriving at sunrise, before the crowds.
At 5,100 m / 16,732 ft, enjoy incredible views of the iconic Rainbow Mountain. Your expert guide will explain the geology behind its vibrant colors, formed by sedimentary mineral layers exposed by erosion—a phenomenon visible in only two places on Earth: Peru and China.
Next, walk for an hour to the Red Valley (5,050 m / 16,568 ft), a lesser-visited area often compared to the surface of Mars for its otherworldly red landscapes.
Enjoy 30 minutes at the viewpoint for stunning photos before beginning the final 2-hour descent to Llacto. Along the way, you’ll pass ancient Andean communities and see herds of llamas, alpacas, and—if lucky—wild vicuñas.
At midday, enjoy a well-earned final lunch, then return to Cusco in our private transport, with drop-off at your hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: —
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 mi
Hiking Time: 5–6 hours
Max Altitude: 5,100 m / 16,732 ft
Camp Elevation: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
At Tunqui Expeditions, we specify exactly what’s included and not included in every itinerary listed on our website. We take care of all the logistics, but we kindly ask that you review the details carefully to ensure a worry-free experience.
Please note: Some elements may vary depending on the specific program, so be sure to read the information thoroughly before booking.
Pre-Trek Briefing
Meet your guide and group at our Cusco office at 5:00 p.m. the day before your trek. You’ll receive a duffel bag (maximum 7 kg / 15.4 lb) to be carried by our muleteers or porters. This must include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if you rent or bring your own.
Professional Bilingual Tour Guide
All of our guides speak English and Spanish and are certified tourism professionals from the National University of San Antonio Abad in Cusco. They are selected for their knowledge, professionalism, and deep love for sharing their Andean heritage.
First Aid Kit & Oxygen
All guides are first-aid trained and carry a medical kit and oxygen tank for common trail conditions. We also hold mandatory training every February to keep our team up to date. In case of emergencies, we will arrange a rapid evacuation to the nearest medical center.
All gear is carried by our team of porters or muleteers and includes:
Inflatable Mattress
Provided for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
Drinking Water
Boiled, filtered, and cooled water is provided from the first lunch to the last breakfast. Bring a hydration bladder or bottle (minimum 2L capacity) for refills during meals.
Morning Wake-Up Tea
Each morning, our staff brings you a hot cup of coca tea to your tent.
Afternoon Tea (Happy Hour)
Popcorn, cookies, tea, hot chocolate, and other snacks served before dinner.
Daily Trail Snacks
Reusable cloth snack bag filled daily with fruits, cookies, chocolate, and candies.
Hygiene Kit
A small towel and soap provided before every meal for handwashing.
Private Transport
Pack Mules
All taxes and trekking permit fees are included. No hidden charges.
While some items may be intangible, they define who we are at Tunqui Expeditions:
Ethical & Responsible Treatment of PortersOur porters are the heart of our operation. Founder Silvio Tunqui began as a porter and ensures every team member receives fair wages and top-quality equipment:
We sponsor school supplies, medical campaigns, and reforestation efforts in their home villages.
We organize 4 annual trips for our porters and their families to visit Machu Picchu and explore their ancestral heritage—many for the first time.
Since 2022, we’ve proudly included female guides, porters, and cooks. We look forward to the day when we reach a 50/50 gender balance in the mountains.
We practice Leave No Trace principles, use biodegradable products, and assign an extra porter to clean up litter left by other groups. We’re proud to be a leader in sustainable tourism in Peru.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your trip to Peru—and especially your Ausangate Trek—to be as memorable and stress-free as possible. Below you’ll find answers to the most common questions about this experience, all in one place.
If your question isn’t listed here, feel free to contact us directly, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible!
It’s very important to be well-acclimated to the altitude before attempting a high-altitude trek. We recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2–3 days before your trek begins to help your body adapt and prevent altitude sickness.
If you’ve already spent time at high altitude elsewhere in Peru, we still recommend spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest and explore before starting your trek.
Recommended pre-trek tours in the Cusco area:
All briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or your hotel) at 5:00 p.m., the evening before your trek. Sessions last approximately 30–45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend, please contact us via email, phone, or in person to schedule an alternative time.
If you still have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 2 days before your trek begins. Otherwise, your booking cannot be confirmed.
We highly appreciate if you can pay your balance in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) at our Cusco office.
ATMs are available along Avenida El Sol and dispense both currencies.
Alternatively, you can pay using a credit/debit card or PayPal, online or in person. Please note that both Niubiz and PayPal apply a 5% processing fee. We do not accept bank or traveler’s checks.
During your briefing, you’ll receive a duffel bag to be carried by our muleteers along the trek. Bags measure 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in).
You are allowed to pack a maximum of 7 kg / 15.4 lb, including your sleeping bag, mat, clothing, and personal items.
Absolutely!
You can safely store your main luggage at our office (arrange during your briefing or via email) or at your hotel—both are free of charge.
Any items you don’t need during the trek can be left at your hotel. Most hotels offer luggage storage. Please do not leave valuables in your suitcase. Use the hotel’s safe box and request a detailed receipt—required for most travel insurance claims in case of loss.
For added security, place items like credit cards in a sealed envelope and sign it.
Tunqui Expeditions provides hotel pick-up as long as your accommodation is located within Cusco’s Historic Center.
Your guide will confirm the pickup time during the briefing, but please note that delays of 30–45 minutes may occur due to traffic.
Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs may be located on steep hills or streets without vehicle access, which can make transportation difficult.
For this reason, we strongly recommend booking accommodation with easy access.
Our group treks include participants of varied fitness levels and ages. By joining a group, you agree that some travelers may be faster or slower than you. Everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace.
In some cases, groups may request itinerary changes. However, it is up to the guide’s discretion, and any changes must be discussed and approved with all participants.
Strikes and social protests are common in Peru and may disrupt some tours. Roads and train routes can be blocked.
We will do everything possible to keep your itinerary intact—even if it means departing earlier than scheduled. In rare cases, tours may be canceled or rerouted.
In all such cases, our operations team will keep you informed, and your safety will remain our top priority.
Please pay attention to your belongings at all times. Be sure to check the transport vehicle, tents, and restaurants before leaving.
You are fully responsible for your personal items during the trek.
To ensure a safe and comfortable experience, we recommend packing the following items. Remember that muleteers will carry up to 7 kg (15.4 lb) of your belongings, including your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (which together weigh approx. 3.5 kg).
The Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain – 4 Days can depart any day of the week, from January to December. We operate this itinerary year-round without interruption.
Small Group Guarantee: This trek is guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 participants.
Note: PayPal charges a 5% service fee for online payments. We kindly ask our clients to cover this fee, as it is not charged by us but by the platform. This fee only applies to the deposit; the remaining balance can be paid in cash with no extra fees during the briefing in Cusco.
Enhance your adventure in Peru with one of our recommended extensions:
You can rent the following items for your trek:
Once your reservation is confirmed, your price is 100% guaranteed and will not increase, no matter the circumstances. Please make sure to read all our important tour information before booking.
Available for travelers 17 years old or younger. To apply the discount, we require a clear photo or scanned copy of a valid passport at the time of booking. The passport must not expire before or during your travel dates.
Please email your document to: info@tunquiexpeditions.com
