Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain is our most epic high-altitude adventure!
Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, glaciers, lagoons, Andean wildlife, and the incredible Rainbow Mountain or Vinicunca.
You will witness the highest sacred mountain, Ausangate, standing at 6,385 m / 20,948 ft in the Cusco region.
This adventurous Ausangate Trek with Tunqui Expeditions 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.
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.
It is recommended to be well-acclimatized for this trek by spending at least two or three days in Cusco (taking tours such as: Cusco city tour, Sacred Valley, Maras Moray, and Salineras) before starting. The campsites where we will spend the nights are at high altitudes, so it will be quite cold at night, but it will be a fantastic experience in the Peruvian Andes.
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 6-Day Ausangate Trekking with Rainbow Mountain Connection is one of the best treks in Peru and a top option in Cusco for nature lovers, adventurers, and trekking enthusiasts.
This epic journey takes you along the slopes of the most important sacred mountain south of Cusco: the incredible Ausangate Glacier, standing at 6,372 m / 20,905 ft.
On this incredible journey with Tunqui Expeditions, you will visit Andean villages where locals work daily in their fields, enjoy relaxing hot springs, and photograph the turquoise shine of beautiful crystal-clear lagoons scattered along the route.
Honestly, it’s truly incredible!
If you love hiking through mountains, learning about local customs and traditions, and are looking for an unforgettable experience in areas where few tourists go, this Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain package is perfect for you with Tunqui Expeditions.
Whether you are traveling with your partner, family, or friends, you can join us on this incredible adventure through Peru’s sacred mountains and the unimaginable expanse of the Ausangate Glacier. This journey is perfect for those looking to escape crowded tourist spots, avoid the hustle and bustle, and fully immerse themselves in culture and nature.
The Ausangate Glacier is the most sacred in the Cusco region, receiving great respect, ceremonies, and offerings from Andean communities. It stands at 6,372 m / 20,905 ft and is the fifth-highest mountain in Peru. Being close to this gigantic Apu (Sacred Mountain) will fill you with peace as you breathe in its energy.
This trek will take you across mountain passes, incredible mountain landscapes, remote Andean villages, hot springs, colorful mountains, and multicolored lakes.
You will learn about the customs and traditions of Andean communities that still preserve ancient practices today.
So, what are you waiting for? This epic journey awaits you in the remote mountain regions of Peru. Travel with peace of mind with Tunqui Expeditions, knowing that every last detail is planned for you. All you have to do is enjoy your adventure to the fullest.
HIGHLIGHTS
ITINERARY SUMMARY
DAY 01: CUSCO – OCONGATE – TINKI – UPIS – WAYNA AUSANGATE LAGOON
We will pick you up in Cusco and head in our private transport to the community of Upis to begin the hike. Enjoy lunch among the mountains and start walking to the Upis camp. In the afternoon, you will have the optional opportunity to visit Wayna Ausangate Lagoon. Finally, we will return to our camp for dinner and sleep alongside the sacred mountains.
DAY 02: UPIS – ARAPA PASS – YANACOCHA – HATUN PUCACOCHA
Today, you will hike through stunning Andean landscapes and see the snow-capped Ausangate, as well as beautiful turquoise lagoons in the middle of the sacred mountains. You may even spot an Andean condor. Spend the night at Pucacocha in our private tents.
DAY 03: HATUN PUCACOCHA – PUCA PASS – ANANTA – WARMISAYA PASS – SURINE COCHA – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (SUNSET)
This morning, with the Tunqui Expeditions team, you will come face-to-face with Ausangate and hike to Rainbow Mountain in the afternoon to witness a stunning sunset. At night, sleep at Surineqocha near Rainbow Mountain.
DAY 04: SURINECOCHA – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN (SUNRISE) – QUESIUNO – AUSANGATE COCHA
Wake up early with coca tea to avoid the crowds at Rainbow Mountain. Continue toward the Red Valley, hike to Quesiuno for lunch, and camp at Ausangate Cocha.
DAY 05: AUSANGATE COCHA – PALOMANI PASS – HUCHUY PHINAYA – SORAPATA
This morning, you will hike through breathtaking Andean landscapes and observe green or snow-covered mountains depending on the season. After lunch, spend time with local families to learn about their customs and traditions.
DAY 06: SORAPATA – JAMPA PASS – 7 AUSANGATE LAGOONS – PACCHANTA (HOT SPRINGS) – CUSCO
Wake up to beautiful landscapes and join the 7 Lagoons Hike. Observe the lagoons and participate in an Andean ceremony. Enjoy a free afternoon and relax in the Pacchanta hot springs.
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.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Starting elevation: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours
Highest altitude: 4,480 m / 14,698 ft
Camp elevation: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
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.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 11 km / 6.84 miles
Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours
Minimum altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Highest altitude: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Camp elevation: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
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.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 7 km / 4.35 miles
Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours
Minimum altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
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 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.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 17 km / 10.5 miles
Hiking time: 8 – 9 hours
Minimum altitude: 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: 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.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking distance: 16.5 km / 10.25 miles
Hiking time: 8 – 9 hours
Minimum altitude: 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.
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.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Accommodation: Hotel
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking distance: 11 km / 6.84 miles
Hiking time: 5 – 6 hours
Minimum altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Highest altitude: 5,070 m / 16,634 ft
