Everything You Need to Know Before Your Ausangate Trek – Tunqui Expeditions
At Tunqui Expeditions, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable and stress-free. Here’s everything you need to know before starting your Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain.
Is the Ausangate Trek Right for Me?
The Ausangate Trek is one of the best alternatives to the Inca Trail and ideal for adventurous travelers seeking less crowded trails and stunning natural landscapes. It’s suitable for hikers with moderate to high fitness levels, as it involves hiking at high altitudes and over long distances.
Unlike the Inca Trail, this trek reaches over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) and includes remote sections of the Andes, with glacier lakes, herds of alpacas, and sacred mountain views. With proper acclimatization and support from our expert team, you’ll be well prepared for this unforgettable experience.
Plastic-Free Trekking with Tunqui Expeditions
We are proud to offer a Plastic-Free Ausangate Trek experience. As part of our commitment to sustainability, we reduce single-use plastics and promote eco-friendly trekking practices. Together, we protect the pristine beauty of the Andes for future generations.
How Many Days Should I Acclimatize in Cusco?
To ensure a safe and enjoyable trek, we strongly recommend 2–3 full days of acclimatization in Cusco before starting the trek.
Even if you’ve been to other high-altitude areas, it’s best to spend at least one day resting in Cusco to recover and prepare. During this time, you can explore these tours:
Briefing Before the Trek
A mandatory pre-trek briefing will be held the evening before your departure at 5:00 p.m. at our main office in Cusco or your hotel. Briefings last 30–45 minutes and cover all essential details. If you cannot attend, please notify us in advance to reschedule.
Balance Payment in Cusco
Any outstanding trek balance must be paid at least 1 days before the trek to confirm your spot.
Payment options:
- Cash (preferred): USD or Peruvian soles
- Card / PayPal: Available online or in person, with a 5% service fee
Note: We do not accept traveler’s checks or bank drafts.
Duffel Bag Provided
You’ll receive a duffel bag (60 x 24 x 22 cm) during your briefing. Our porters will carry it throughout the trek.
Weight limit: 6 kg (13.2 lbs) including sleeping bag and mat.
Can I Store My Luggage?
Yes! You can store your main luggage at our office free of charge, or arrange storage with your hotel.
For security:
- Use the hotel safe for valuables
- Get a written inventory receipt
- Place important items (e.g. cards) in a sealed envelope
Hotel Pick-Up in Cusco
- All pick-ups take place within Cusco city, ideally from hotels in the historic center.
- Narrow streets or high slopes may limit direct vehicle access.
- Pick-up times may vary by 30–45 minutes due to traffic.
- Our staff will confirm pick-up the day before your trek.
Group Tour Expectations
Our group treks include travelers of different ages and physical conditions. Everyone is welcome to walk at their own pace. Any route changes must be agreed upon by the group and authorized by the guide.
Strikes & Demonstrations in Peru
Social protests and strikes may occasionally disrupt roads or services. Your safety is our top priority, and we’ll inform you of any itinerary changes. In some cases, we may leave a day early or reschedule tours.
Lost Items During the Tour
Please keep your belongings safe at all times. Tunqui Expeditions is not responsible for lost items during the tour. Always check your transport, campsite, and accommodation before leaving.
Need More Help?
If you have any additional questions, don’t hesitate to contact our team at Tunqui Expeditions. We’re here to make your journey through the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain circuit the adventure of a lifetime.
