Ultimate 6-Day Ausangate Trek Peru – Small Group Experience with Rainbow Mountain
This adventurous 6-Day Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain covers approximately 100 km / 62 miles and ascends to 5,400 m / 17,716 ft. The Ausangate Trek is an excellent and peaceful trekking circuit and one of the best treks in Peru, offering impressive features such as spectacular Andean mountain landscapes, snow-capped peaks, hot springs, turquoise lagoons, glaciers, herds of llamas, alpacas, sheep, wild vicuñas, picturesque villages, and Quechua people dressed in traditional attire.
What makes this trek unique:
This trek ranges from moderate to challenging in difficulty, with several high passes and freezing nights. This beautiful 6-day Ausangate package, combined with Rainbow Mountain, begins in the small Andean village of Tinke and takes you around the Ausangate Mountain, crossing various high-altitude passes.
At Tunqui Expeditions, the minimum number of passengers required for the trek to depart is 2 people (there is the possibility of organizing treks for 1 person or private/customized treks with an additional charge). The maximum number of hikers per group is 10 people (special or private groups may exceed the maximum).
The Ausangate Trek Peru is one of the most authentic trekking adventures in the Andes, taking you through remote high-altitude landscapes, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and traditional Andean villages.
Unlike other routes, Ausangate Treks offer a deeper connection with local culture and breathtaking views of the sacred snow-capped Ausangate mountain. Along the way, you will also experience the beauty of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), famous for its vibrant colors.
Perfect for adventure lovers, this trek combines natural wonders, cultural immersion, and the thrill of exploring one of Peru’s most iconic trails.
The 6-Day Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain is one of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in Peru, perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and trekking enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable journey far from the crowds.
This epic high-altitude trek takes you around the slopes of Apu Ausangate, the most sacred mountain in the Cusco region, standing tall at 6,372 m / 20,905 ft. Along the way, you’ll explore remote Andean villages, relax in natural hot springs, and admire the turquoise beauty of glacial crystal-clear lagoons that reflect the sky.
Led by expert local guides from Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll connect deeply with nature and culture. You’ll learn about Andean traditions, witness ceremonial sites, and share smiles with local families who live in harmony with the mountains.
This trail is not just a hike — it’s a spiritual and cultural immersion into the heart of the Andes. Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to escape busy tourist trails and experience authentic Peru.
Ready to hike the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain?
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime high-altitude adventure in the heart of the Andes.
✅ Small groups | ✅ Expert local guides | ✅ All-inclusive service
Highlight of the day: Discover Andean communities and Wayna Ausangate Lake.
Explore and enjoy the beauty of the Ausangate Mountain – you won’t believe the pure white snow covering it, standing right before you.
Our Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain adventure will begin at 4:00 AM from Cusco, heading through the Andean landscapes to the small community of Upis, where we will have a delicious breakfast prepared by the professional hands of our chef.
We will begin our gradual ascent to acclimate and continue the hikes with ease. Once near the glacier’s base, we will appreciate the northeast side of the impressive snow-capped Ausangate.
After three hours of hiking through beautiful fields of native potato crops and picturesque adobe and straw houses, we will arrive at the camp for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will have the option to visit Wayna Ausangate Lagoon – a two-hour round-trip exploration. Upon returning to camp, our porters will have prepared tea time for us, with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and more to satisfy your hunger. Later, you will enjoy a delicious dinner before a well-deserved night of rest in the company of the snow-capped Ausangate.
Highlight of the day: Discover the impressive Andean landscapes surrounding Ausangate.
You will witness stunning lagoons and the immense Ausangate glacier.
Today, we will wake you with hot coca tea, chocolate, or coffee in your tent to give you the energy needed to continue. Then, enjoy a delicious breakfast in the Andean landscapes and the cool mountain air.
Our Ausangate Trek will begin with a two-and-a-half-hour hike through a beautiful high Andean valley along the Andes mountain range towards Arapa Pass with spectacular views of the Ausangate glacier.
From the top of the mountain (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), the Andean landscape will expand before you. You’ll be in awe of Mother Nature’s creations – so beautiful that, even if you don’t believe in God, you will feel the need to thank someone for these natural wonders.
Next, we will descend to discover the beautiful Yanacocha Lagoon (Black Lagoon) with crystal-clear waters. Afterward, we will follow the trail for another hour until we reach Hatun Pucacocha to admire the fantastic landscape.
Make sure to have your camera ready all day to capture some fantastic photos of this epic journey. We will have a delicious lunch at this spot.
Later, we will arrive at our Hatun Pucacocha camp (4,500 m / 14,764 ft). In the afternoon, explore the lagoons and relax during tea time with hot drinks, snacks, coffee, and popcorn.
At night, a nutritious dinner prepared by our private chef awaits you. During dinner, share the day’s experiences with fellow travelers and the team before heading to rest in your private tent.
Highlight of the day: Walk at the base of Ausangate and visit Rainbow Mountain in the afternoon.
Ascend the highest pass of the trek and catch your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain from afar.
Once again, we will wake you with coca tea – a natural remedy used since Inca times for energy and altitude sickness. Today begins one of the most beautiful days of the entire trek.
After a delicious breakfast, we will ascend for two hours to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft), with impressive views of glaciers and deep green valleys.
You’ll feel the powerful presence of Ausangate and take photos of its turquoise lagoons. From the top, you will see Ausangate’s majestic face right in front of you. Its immense energy will explain why it holds such significance for the Andean people.
Afterward, we will descend for an hour and a half to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) for lunch. Later, we will ascend for two more hours to Warmisaya (4,985 m / 16,355 ft).
From here, you will feel as if flying over the mountains, with vast horizons stretching endlessly.
After descending for 45 minutes, we will arrive at Surinecocha camp (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where our tents will be ready.
In the afternoon, enjoy a short walk to Rainbow Mountain at sunset, accompanied only by your Tunqui Expeditions group.
Highlight of the day: Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder perfectly crafted by nature.
Today is spectacular, as we will arrive at Rainbow Mountain to watch the sunrise, catching the first rays of light and being the first to arrive.
The view is truly breathtaking – even if we don’t believe in God, the beauty of these natural landscapes will make us feel the need to thank someone.
Our adventure begins early with a delicious breakfast.
We will start with a gentle uphill hike leading to the incredible natural wonder, Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Once there, we will appreciate the sunrise, take incredible photos, and enjoy 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 the vast valley disappears into the distance.
After exploring the Red Valley, we will return along the same path and descend gradually to Quesiuno (4,376 m / 14,357 ft), where we will enjoy a delicious Andean lunch prepared by our exceptional trekking chef.
After lunch and a well-deserved break, we will continue with an approximately two-and-a-half-hour ascent, enjoying the views 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.
Highlight of the day: Hike through vast landscapes and learn about local customs and traditions.
Immerse yourself in local customs and traditions.
As 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 of the entire route.
After a short break to enjoy 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 vast Andean landscape.
We hold great respect for the people of Huchuy Phinaya, who continue to uphold ancestral traditions. You will learn from them and their admirable way of life in harmony with Mother Nature (Pachamama).
Today is the most challenging day, but it is worth it for the genuine connection with the Andes and Mother Earth.
Later, we will take a gentle two-hour hike to Sorapata, where our camp will be ready for your arrival.
After a delicious dinner, you can enjoy a peaceful night’s rest, free from the noise of the city.
Highlight of the day: Explore the stunning lagoons and give thanks to Mother Nature.
Express gratitude to Mother Nature for this epic journey.
After our second-to-last breakfast, we will begin the two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft). From this point, you will have incredible views of majestic snow-capped sacred mountains.
Keep your camera ready!
We will then follow a gentle downhill path for approximately three hours to reach our lunch spot at Pacchanta camp. Along the way, we will join the famous 7 Ausangate Lagoons Trek.
At one of the beautiful and mystical lagoons – Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo – we will have the option to hold a small ceremony to thank Pachamama and the surrounding mountains, especially Ausangate, which has watched over us during the trek.
After lunch at Pacchanta, enjoy a free afternoon and take the opportunity to relax in the Pacchanta hot springs.
Later, we will say goodbye to the Tunqui Expeditions team, including the porters, muleteers, and chef.
Without them, this epic adventure wouldn’t have been possible!
Finally, after the farewell, we will embark on a two-and-a-half-hour journey back to Cusco, concluding this incredible 6-day Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain adventure. Our guide will drop you off at your hotel.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe in transparency and high-quality service. That’s why we clearly outline everything that’s included — and not included — in your 6-day Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek package.
Our goal is to provide a seamless trekking experience in the Andes, where you can focus entirely on the beauty of nature, local culture, and the adventure of a lifetime — while we take care of the rest.
Please review the inclusions carefully to ensure your journey is smooth, comfortable, and worry-free.
✅ Note: Specific details may vary slightly depending on your chosen itinerary or group type.
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.
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.
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:
Provided for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
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.
Each morning, our staff brings you a hot cup of coca tea to your tent.
Popcorn, cookies, tea, hot chocolate, and other snacks served before dinner.
Reusable cloth snack bag filled daily with fruits, cookies, chocolate, and candies.
A small towel and soap provided before every meal for handwashing.
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:
Our 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.
Our Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 6 Days is crafted with care and local expertise. From logistics to meals, we ensure that every step of your trek through Peru’s sacred mountains is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
Any outstanding trek balance must be paid at least 1 days before the trek to confirm your spot.
Payment options:
Note: We do not accept traveler’s checks or bank drafts.
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.
Yes! You can store your main luggage at our office free of charge, or arrange storage with your hotel.
For security:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Planning your adventure with Tunqui Expeditions? Here’s your essential packing list for the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain to ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking in the Peruvian Andes.
From personal documentation and gear to clothing and optional items, this guide covers everything you need for a safe and comfortable 5-day trek.
Footwear & Base Layers
Outerwear
Your personal duffel bag (carried by porters) has a 7 kg limit, which includes your sleeping bag and air mat (usually 3.5 kg together). Pack efficiently:
By following this Ausangate Trek packing list, you’ll be fully equipped to take on the stunning trails of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley with comfort and confidence.
Need help renting trekking gear in Cusco? Just let us know at Tunqui Expeditions — we’ll take care of the details!
Join us on the breathtaking 6-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, one of the top high-altitude treks in Peru. Below, you’ll find all the essential information regarding availability, pricing, payment options, add-ons, and special discounts.
The Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 6 Days is available to start any day of the week from March to January.
⚠️ February Closure:
We do not operate this trek in February due to the rainy season and route maintenance. During this month, our Tunqui Expeditions team—guides, cooks, porters, and muleteers—receives annual training and safety updates to offer you the best experience for the year ahead.
Need extra gear for comfort and convenience? You can rent the following items:
Let us know in advance so we can have everything ready for you.
Save US$ 20.00
Available for students 17 years or younger. To apply the discount, please send a clear photo or scan of your passport during the booking process.
Email to: [email protected]
Why stop at just the Ausangate Trek? Add one of these amazing day tours before or after your trek:
Ask us how to combine these excursions with your trek for a complete Cusco adventure package.
Our 6-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain operates with just 2 confirmed trekkers, so your adventure is guaranteed even with a small group.
Book now with Tunqui Expeditions — your trusted local experts in high-altitude trekking in Peru.
The Ausangate Trek Peru is one of the most authentic trekking adventures in the Andes, taking you through remote high-altitude landscapes, turquoise lakes, glaciers, and traditional Andean villages.
Unlike other routes, Ausangate Treks offer a deeper connection with local culture and breathtaking views of the sacred snow-capped Ausangate mountain. Along the way, you will also experience the beauty of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), famous for its vibrant colors.
Perfect for adventure lovers, this trek combines natural wonders, cultural immersion, and the thrill of exploring one of Peru’s most iconic trails.
The 6-Day Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain is one of the most breathtaking trekking experiences in Peru, perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and trekking enthusiasts looking for an unforgettable journey far from the crowds.
This epic high-altitude trek takes you around the slopes of Apu Ausangate, the most sacred mountain in the Cusco region, standing tall at 6,372 m / 20,905 ft. Along the way, you’ll explore remote Andean villages, relax in natural hot springs, and admire the turquoise beauty of glacial crystal-clear lagoons that reflect the sky.
Led by expert local guides from Tunqui Expeditions, you’ll connect deeply with nature and culture. You’ll learn about Andean traditions, witness ceremonial sites, and share smiles with local families who live in harmony with the mountains.
This trail is not just a hike — it’s a spiritual and cultural immersion into the heart of the Andes. Perfect for couples, families, or solo travelers looking to escape busy tourist trails and experience authentic Peru.
Ready to hike the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain?
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime high-altitude adventure in the heart of the Andes.
✅ Small groups | ✅ Expert local guides | ✅ All-inclusive service
Highlight of the day: Discover Andean communities and Wayna Ausangate Lake.
Explore and enjoy the beauty of the Ausangate Mountain – you won’t believe the pure white snow covering it, standing right before you.
Our Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain adventure will begin at 4:00 AM from Cusco, heading through the Andean landscapes to the small community of Upis, where we will have a delicious breakfast prepared by the professional hands of our chef.
We will begin our gradual ascent to acclimate and continue the hikes with ease. Once near the glacier’s base, we will appreciate the northeast side of the impressive snow-capped Ausangate.
After three hours of hiking through beautiful fields of native potato crops and picturesque adobe and straw houses, we will arrive at the camp for lunch.
In the afternoon, you will have the option to visit Wayna Ausangate Lagoon – a two-hour round-trip exploration. Upon returning to camp, our porters will have prepared tea time for us, with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and more to satisfy your hunger. Later, you will enjoy a delicious dinner before a well-deserved night of rest in the company of the snow-capped Ausangate.
Highlight of the day: Discover the impressive Andean landscapes surrounding Ausangate.
You will witness stunning lagoons and the immense Ausangate glacier.
Today, we will wake you with hot coca tea, chocolate, or coffee in your tent to give you the energy needed to continue. Then, enjoy a delicious breakfast in the Andean landscapes and the cool mountain air.
Our Ausangate Trek will begin with a two-and-a-half-hour hike through a beautiful high Andean valley along the Andes mountain range towards Arapa Pass with spectacular views of the Ausangate glacier.
From the top of the mountain (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), the Andean landscape will expand before you. You’ll be in awe of Mother Nature’s creations – so beautiful that, even if you don’t believe in God, you will feel the need to thank someone for these natural wonders.
Next, we will descend to discover the beautiful Yanacocha Lagoon (Black Lagoon) with crystal-clear waters. Afterward, we will follow the trail for another hour until we reach Hatun Pucacocha to admire the fantastic landscape.
Make sure to have your camera ready all day to capture some fantastic photos of this epic journey. We will have a delicious lunch at this spot.
Later, we will arrive at our Hatun Pucacocha camp (4,500 m / 14,764 ft). In the afternoon, explore the lagoons and relax during tea time with hot drinks, snacks, coffee, and popcorn.
At night, a nutritious dinner prepared by our private chef awaits you. During dinner, share the day’s experiences with fellow travelers and the team before heading to rest in your private tent.
Highlight of the day: Walk at the base of Ausangate and visit Rainbow Mountain in the afternoon.
Ascend the highest pass of the trek and catch your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain from afar.
Once again, we will wake you with coca tea – a natural remedy used since Inca times for energy and altitude sickness. Today begins one of the most beautiful days of the entire trek.
After a delicious breakfast, we will ascend for two hours to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft), with impressive views of glaciers and deep green valleys.
You’ll feel the powerful presence of Ausangate and take photos of its turquoise lagoons. From the top, you will see Ausangate’s majestic face right in front of you. Its immense energy will explain why it holds such significance for the Andean people.
Afterward, we will descend for an hour and a half to Anantapata (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) for lunch. Later, we will ascend for two more hours to Warmisaya (4,985 m / 16,355 ft).
From here, you will feel as if flying over the mountains, with vast horizons stretching endlessly.
After descending for 45 minutes, we will arrive at Surinecocha camp (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where our tents will be ready.
In the afternoon, enjoy a short walk to Rainbow Mountain at sunset, accompanied only by your Tunqui Expeditions group.
Highlight of the day: Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder perfectly crafted by nature.
Today is spectacular, as we will arrive at Rainbow Mountain to watch the sunrise, catching the first rays of light and being the first to arrive.
The view is truly breathtaking – even if we don’t believe in God, the beauty of these natural landscapes will make us feel the need to thank someone.
Our adventure begins early with a delicious breakfast.
We will start with a gentle uphill hike leading to the incredible natural wonder, Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Once there, we will appreciate the sunrise, take incredible photos, and enjoy 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 the vast valley disappears into the distance.
After exploring the Red Valley, we will return along the same path and descend gradually to Quesiuno (4,376 m / 14,357 ft), where we will enjoy a delicious Andean lunch prepared by our exceptional trekking chef.
After lunch and a well-deserved break, we will continue with an approximately two-and-a-half-hour ascent, enjoying the views 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.
Highlight of the day: Hike through vast landscapes and learn about local customs and traditions.
Immerse yourself in local customs and traditions.
As 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 of the entire route.
After a short break to enjoy 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 vast Andean landscape.
We hold great respect for the people of Huchuy Phinaya, who continue to uphold ancestral traditions. You will learn from them and their admirable way of life in harmony with Mother Nature (Pachamama).
Today is the most challenging day, but it is worth it for the genuine connection with the Andes and Mother Earth.
Later, we will take a gentle two-hour hike to Sorapata, where our camp will be ready for your arrival.
After a delicious dinner, you can enjoy a peaceful night’s rest, free from the noise of the city.
Highlight of the day: Explore the stunning lagoons and give thanks to Mother Nature.
Express gratitude to Mother Nature for this epic journey.
After our second-to-last breakfast, we will begin the two-and-a-half-hour uphill hike to Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft). From this point, you will have incredible views of majestic snow-capped sacred mountains.
Keep your camera ready!
We will then follow a gentle downhill path for approximately three hours to reach our lunch spot at Pacchanta camp. Along the way, we will join the famous 7 Ausangate Lagoons Trek.
At one of the beautiful and mystical lagoons – Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo – we will have the option to hold a small ceremony to thank Pachamama and the surrounding mountains, especially Ausangate, which has watched over us during the trek.
After lunch at Pacchanta, enjoy a free afternoon and take the opportunity to relax in the Pacchanta hot springs.
Later, we will say goodbye to the Tunqui Expeditions team, including the porters, muleteers, and chef.
Without them, this epic adventure wouldn’t have been possible!
Finally, after the farewell, we will embark on a two-and-a-half-hour journey back to Cusco, concluding this incredible 6-day Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain adventure. Our guide will drop you off at your hotel.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we believe in transparency and high-quality service. That’s why we clearly outline everything that’s included — and not included — in your 6-day Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek package.
Our goal is to provide a seamless trekking experience in the Andes, where you can focus entirely on the beauty of nature, local culture, and the adventure of a lifetime — while we take care of the rest.
Please review the inclusions carefully to ensure your journey is smooth, comfortable, and worry-free.
✅ Note: Specific details may vary slightly depending on your chosen itinerary or group type.
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.
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.
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:
Provided for a more comfortable night’s sleep.
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.
Each morning, our staff brings you a hot cup of coca tea to your tent.
Popcorn, cookies, tea, hot chocolate, and other snacks served before dinner.
Reusable cloth snack bag filled daily with fruits, cookies, chocolate, and candies.
A small towel and soap provided before every meal for handwashing.
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:
Our 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.
Our Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 6 Days is crafted with care and local expertise. From logistics to meals, we ensure that every step of your trek through Peru’s sacred mountains is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
Any outstanding trek balance must be paid at least 1 days before the trek to confirm your spot.
Payment options:
Note: We do not accept traveler’s checks or bank drafts.
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.
Yes! You can store your main luggage at our office free of charge, or arrange storage with your hotel.
For security:
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.
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.
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.
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.
Planning your adventure with Tunqui Expeditions? Here’s your essential packing list for the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain to ensure you’re fully prepared for the challenges of high-altitude trekking in the Peruvian Andes.
From personal documentation and gear to clothing and optional items, this guide covers everything you need for a safe and comfortable 5-day trek.
Footwear & Base Layers
Outerwear
Your personal duffel bag (carried by porters) has a 7 kg limit, which includes your sleeping bag and air mat (usually 3.5 kg together). Pack efficiently:
By following this Ausangate Trek packing list, you’ll be fully equipped to take on the stunning trails of Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley with comfort and confidence.
Need help renting trekking gear in Cusco? Just let us know at Tunqui Expeditions — we’ll take care of the details!
Join us on the breathtaking 6-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley, one of the top high-altitude treks in Peru. Below, you’ll find all the essential information regarding availability, pricing, payment options, add-ons, and special discounts.
The Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 6 Days is available to start any day of the week from March to January.
⚠️ February Closure:
We do not operate this trek in February due to the rainy season and route maintenance. During this month, our Tunqui Expeditions team—guides, cooks, porters, and muleteers—receives annual training and safety updates to offer you the best experience for the year ahead.
Need extra gear for comfort and convenience? You can rent the following items:
Let us know in advance so we can have everything ready for you.
Save US$ 20.00
Available for students 17 years or younger. To apply the discount, please send a clear photo or scan of your passport during the booking process.
Email to: [email protected]
Why stop at just the Ausangate Trek? Add one of these amazing day tours before or after your trek:
Ask us how to combine these excursions with your trek for a complete Cusco adventure package.
Our 6-Day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain operates with just 2 confirmed trekkers, so your adventure is guaranteed even with a small group.
Book now with Tunqui Expeditions — your trusted local experts in high-altitude trekking in Peru.
