The 5-Day Ausangate Trek is an adventurous route that showcases the most breathtaking Andean landscapes: dramatic mountain scenery, snow-capped peaks of Ausangate, natural hot springs, turquoise lagoons, immense glaciers of the Ausangate range, herds of llamas, alpacas, sheep, wild vicuñas, chinchillas, and occasionally the majestic condor. Along the way, you’ll pass picturesque villages and encounter Quechua people in their traditional clothing.
This 5-day, 4-night trek begins at the start of the Andes mountain range and takes you around the highest peak in the Cusco region—Ausangate, standing tall at 6,385 m (20,948 ft). Covering approximately 67 km (41.6 miles), the trail ascends to altitudes as high as 5,400 m (17,716 ft), offering a moderate to challenging trekking experience. Cold nights present an additional challenge due to the high elevation.
The adventure begins in the community of Upis and concludes in the Andean village of Pacchanta or the famous Ausangate 7 Lakes. You’ll circle the mighty Ausangate Mountain and cross three high mountain passes—two of which are over 5,000 m (16,404 ft).
Would you like to hike this fascinating route? We also offer a special extended package:
Ausangate Trek + Machu Picchu – 7 or 8 Days.
It is essential to be properly acclimatized before starting this trek. We recommend spending at least two or three days in Cusco (or at an equivalent altitude of 3,000 m / 9,842 ft) to adjust to the elevation.
The campsites are located at high altitude, so expect freezing temperatures at night. If you’re passionate about hiking through mountains, immersing yourself in local traditions and culture, and seeking a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience in Peru, the 5-Day Ausangate Trek is the perfect adventure for you.
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days is a thrilling adventure through some of the most breathtaking Andean scenery in Peru. This route offers awe-inspiring views of towering snow-capped peaks, massive glaciers, vibrant turquoise lakes, natural hot springs, and high mountain passes that soar above 5,000 meters (16,404 ft). Along the trail, you’ll encounter herds of llamas, alpacas, sheep, wild vicuñas, chinchillas, and if you’re lucky, the elusive Andean condor. You’ll also pass through traditional Quechua villages where locals still wear colorful, handwoven clothing and live according to ancestral customs.
Located at the beginning of the Andes mountain range, the 5-day, 4-night Ausangate Trek takes you around the imposing Mount Ausangate (6,385 m / 20,948 ft), the highest peak in the Cusco region. The full route covers approximately 67 kilometers (41.6 miles) and reaches altitudes up to 5,400 meters (17,716 ft). It’s considered a moderate to challenging trek, especially due to the cold and frosty nights at high altitude.
This unforgettable journey begins in the small Andean community of Upis and finishes in Pacchanta or the spectacular Ausangate 7 Lakes, taking you around the mighty Ausangate Massif and across three high mountain passes, two of which exceed 5,000 meters. It’s an ideal trek for adventurous travelers who want to hike off the beaten path and discover the raw beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
Check out our special combo package:
Ausangate Trek + Machu Picchu – 7 or 8 Days.
Due to the high elevations, it is essential to be well-acclimated before starting the trek. We recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco (or another location at 3,000 m / 9,842 ft) to allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Nights on the trail are cold—temperatures often drop below freezing—so proper clothing and gear are necessary.
Highlight of the day: Marvel at breathtaking Andean scenery and the stunning Cordillera of the Andes.
Incredible Andean landscapes and glacial lakes await you.
Your adventure through the Andean highlands begins early with a hotel pick-up around 5:00 a.m. We’ll head out in our private Tunqui Expeditions transport to the village of Ocongate (3,500 m / 11,482 ft). During the drive, enjoy picturesque views of traditional villages and sparkling lagoons nestled in the Vilcanota Valley, all from the comfort of your window seat.
We’ll continue on to the district of Tinke, where you can make any last-minute purchases before reaching the starting point of the trek in the community of Upis (4,250 m / 13,944 ft).
Upon arrival in Upis, we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our dedicated Ausangate Trek chef and meet the support team of porters and muleteers who will accompany us throughout the journey.
Our trek begins with a scenic hike facing the immense Ausangate Glacier (6,372 m / 20,905 ft). As we walk, you’ll encounter locals dressed in vibrant traditional attire and spot numerous herds of llamas, alpacas, and sheep grazing across the open landscapes.
We’ll arrive at the Upis hot springs (4,400 m / 14,436 ft), where we’ll enjoy our first freshly prepared lunch, surrounded by towering mountains. This is also where our first campsite will be set up—directly facing the mighty Ausangate Mountain.
In the afternoon, we’ll hike to the serene Wayna Ausangate Lake and witness a mesmerizing sunset that casts golden light over the surrounding glaciers—a perfect photo opportunity.
Later, you’ll return to camp to a surprise tea time prepared by our porters. Enjoy hot drinks, popcorn, snacks, and more to soothe your appetite before sitting down for a delicious dinner and a well-earned night’s rest under the stars.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours
Min. Altitude: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
Max. Altitude: 4,480 m / 14,698 ft
Camp Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Highlight of the day: Walk through stunning landscapes and cascading lakes.
Be amazed by the incredible natural wonders of Mother Nature.
We will wake up early and enjoy a hearty breakfast amidst the tall and chilly mountains before starting our hike. For approximately two and a half hours, we will walk through a beautiful and picturesque Andean valley toward Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). The spectacular Ausangate Glacier will be beside us throughout the journey.
From the top of the pass, the beauty of the landscape multiplies, and the natural splendor of this part of the world will leave you speechless. You will witness the vastness of the mountain range and, if you’re lucky, spot the majestic flight of the Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world.
Our guide will explain more about the impressive local flora and fauna as we traverse this section, enriching your understanding of the area you are exploring.
We will then begin our descent toward the beautiful crystal-clear Yanacocha Lagoon (Black Lagoon). Afterward, we will follow the trail for another hour until we reach Hatun Pucacocha, where we can admire the scenery and enjoy the shimmering waters beneath the snow-capped peaks.
Later, we will explore the surrounding lagoons and relax with a delicious coca tea. In the evening, a nutritious dinner will be waiting for us before settling into our camp for a restful night to recharge for the next day.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours
Min. Altitude: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
Max. Altitude: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Camp Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Highlight of the day: Hike through vast mountain landscapes and learn about local customs and traditions.
Immerse yourself in the wisdom and way of life of the high Andes.
We’ll begin the day with a warm cup of coca tea delivered to your tent, followed by a hearty breakfast prepared by our expert trekking chef.
Our hike begins with a 2.5-hour ascent to Ausangate Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). From this incredible viewpoint, you’ll enjoy panoramic vistas of the sacred mountains—an experience that will exceed all your expectations.
We’ll descend for one hour to Ausangate Cocha Lagoon, where we’ll take a break and enjoy lunch surrounded by the stunning Andean scenery.
Afterward, we’ll begin a 2-hour uphill hike to the trek’s highest point: the Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). Once at the top, we’ll take time to admire the breathtaking views and take memorable photos before continuing downhill for one hour to reach the small community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,650 m / 15,256 ft).
This is a special opportunity to learn from locals who still live in harmony with Pachamama (Mother Earth) and maintain their ancestral traditions.
Today is the most challenging day of the trek—but also the most rewarding, offering a deep connection with nature and Andean culture.
We’ll continue with a gentle 2-hour hike to our camp in Sorapata, where we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and a well-deserved night of rest.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 16.5 km / 10.25 miles
Hiking Time: 8 – 9 hours
Min. Altitude: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Max. Altitude: 5,200 m / 17,060 ft
Camp Altitude: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft
Highlight of the day: Discover mystical lagoons and offer thanks to the spirit of the Andes.
Express gratitude to Mother Nature for this unforgettable journey.
After breakfast, we’ll begin a 2.5-hour ascent to Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft), where you’ll be rewarded with magnificent views of snow-capped peaks and surrounding glaciers.
Have your camera ready!
We’ll then follow a gentle downhill trail for about three hours, joining part of the 7 Ausangate Lagoons Trail on our way to Pacchanta. Along the way, we’ll visit some of the region’s most beautiful lagoons, such as Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo.
Here, we’ll pause to give thanks to Pachamama and the Apus (mountain spirits) in a small optional ceremony for guiding and protecting us throughout our journey.
After lunch in Pacchanta, you’ll have time to relax in the natural hot springs, soaking your tired muscles and enjoying the tranquility of this beautiful village.
To close the day, we’ll enjoy a delicious dinner and a special surprise from our mountain chef as we reflect on the journey so far.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.84 miles
Hiking Time: 5 – 6 hours
Min. Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Max. Altitude: 5,070 m / 16,634 ft
Camp Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Highlight of the day: Enjoy one last soak in the hot springs and visit an Andean home to learn ancestral traditions.
A peaceful end to your unforgettable Andean journey.
Our final day begins with breakfast and the option to take one last dip in the soothing Pacchanta hot springs.
We’ll then begin a gentle 3-hour hike toward the town of Tinke (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). Along the way, we’ll visit the home of a local Andean family and gain insight into their traditional way of life, which has been passed down through generations.
Upon arrival in Tinke, we’ll enjoy our final lunch together and say goodbye to our support team. Our private transport will then take you back to Cusco, where we’ll drop you off at your hotel around 6:00 p.m. with unforgettable memories and stories to share.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Difficulty: Easy
Walking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 miles
Hiking Time: 2 – 3 hours
Min. Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Max. Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
At Tunqui Expeditions, we clearly specify what is included and not included in every tour listed on our website. We handle all logistics, but we kindly ask that you review the details carefully to ensure you’re fully prepared.
Some items may vary slightly depending on the specific program, so please read carefully before booking.
Pre-Departure Briefing
Meet your tour guide and group at our office the evening before your trek at 5:00 p.m. You’ll receive your duffel bag, which will be carried by our porters or muleteers. It must not exceed 7 kg / 15.4 lb, and should include your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress if renting or bringing your own.
Professional Bilingual Tour Guide
An official English and Spanish-speaking tour guide, all graduates from the tourism program at the National University of San Antonio Abad of Cusco. We select them for their professionalism, knowledge, safety focus, passion for sharing culture and history, and personal connection to the Andes—because they all grew up here! They are fun, responsible, and committed to your safety and happiness.
First Aid Kit & Medical Supplies
All our guides are certified in first aid, and we provide regular emergency training every February. Your guide will carry a first aid kit and oxygen for common issues like altitude sickness, traveler’s diarrhea, or cuts and scrapes. In case of emergency, we’ll evacuate you and ensure proper medical attention.
All camping gear is carried by our porter and mule team.
Includes:
Inflatable Mattress
Thicker camping mattresses for a more restful sleep.
We believe the little details set us apart. You’ll receive:
Our team is available by phone 24 hours a day, before and during your trek, to answer any questions or concerns.
Every guide carries a fully charged satellite phone, offering peace of mind in case of emergencies—or even if you just want to call home. While radio communication is limited in remote areas, our satellite phones ensure we’re always connected.
Drinking Water
From lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 5, we’ll provide boiled, filtered, and cooled water. Bring a hydration pack or bottle (minimum 2 liters) to refill during meals.
Wake-Up Coca Tea
Every morning, our team will bring a hot cup of coca tea to your tent to help you wake up warmly and start the day.
Afternoon Tea (Happy Hour)
Before dinner each day, enjoy popcorn, cookies, coffee, hot chocolate, tea, and more to recharge after hiking.
Daily Trail Snack
Each morning, you’ll receive a cloth snack bag with local fruits, cookies, chocolate, and sweets to enjoy on the trail.
Eco-Friendly Snack Bag
To reduce plastic waste, we provide a reusable cloth bag for your snacks.
Personal Hygiene Items
You’ll receive a small towel and soap before every meal to wash your hands.
Tourist Transport
Pack Mules
Our pack animals will carry all camping gear and your personal duffel bag (up to 7 kg / 15.4 lb). Our muleteers take care of your gear every day.
We include thoughtful extras you won’t find with other local tour companies:
All applicable taxes, permits, and fees for the trek are included. No hidden charges.
While the following may be less tangible, it’s part of everything we do at Tunqui Expeditions.
Our porters are the backbone of our company. Founder Silvio Tunqui began his career as a porter, so he understands their needs better than anyone. We provide them with:
While our porters hike the trail regularly, most never enter Machu Picchu. So we organize 4 annual trips just for them and their families, allowing them to explore the heritage of their ancestors.
Since 2022, we’ve proudly included female guides, cooks, and porters on our team. While we’re still striving for full gender balance, we aim for a future where women and men work side-by-side in equal numbers.
We are committed to eco-friendly trekking. We leave no trace, use biodegradable products, and even assign a porter to clean up trash left by other groups. We’re leading the way in responsible tourism in Peru.
At Tunqui Expeditions, we want your journey to Peru—and especially your Ausangate Trek—to be as smooth and memorable as possible. In this section, you’ll find answers to the most common questions about traveling with us, all in one place.
If your question isn’t answered here, feel free to contact us and we’ll respond as soon as possible!
It’s essential to be well-acclimated to the altitude before embarking on a high-elevation trek. We strongly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek to adjust and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
If you’ve already visited another high-altitude destination in Peru before arriving in Cusco, we still recommend spending at least one full day in Cusco to rest, recover from travel, and explore the city before starting your adventure.
Suggested pre-trek tours near Cusco:
All briefings are held at our main office in Cusco (or at your hotel) at 5:00 p.m., one day before your trek begins. The session lasts 30–45 minutes.
If you’re unable to attend, please contact us by email, phone, or in person to reschedule.
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 appreciate it if you can pay in cash (USD or PEN) at our office. There are several ATMs on Avenida El Sol that dispense both currencies.
You may also pay using credit/debit card or PayPal, online or in person, but please note that both Niubiz and PayPal apply a 5% service fee.
We do not accept bank checks or traveler’s checks.
You’ll receive your duffel bag at the pre-trek briefing. Our muleteers will carry it during the trek and hand it to you at each campsite.
Size: 60 x 24 x 22 cm (23.6 x 9.45 x 8.66 in)
Weight limit: 7 kg / 15.4 lb, including your sleeping bag, mat, clothing, and personal items.
Absolutely! During the trek, your main luggage can be securely stored at our office (just let us know during the briefing or by email) or at your hotel—free of charge.
Most hotels in Cusco offer luggage storage for guests. Please do not leave valuables in your suitcase. Use the hotel safe and request a detailed receipt for insurance purposes.
For extra security, seal important items like credit cards in an envelope and sign it.
Tunqui Expeditions provides hotel pick-up as long as you are staying in Cusco’s Historic Center.
Your guide will confirm the pick-up time during the briefing. Please be aware that pick-up times may vary by 30–45 minutes due to traffic.
Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobblestone streets. Some hotels or Airbnbs may be located on steep hills or streets without vehicle access.
For this reason, we highly recommend choosing accommodation with easy access for a smoother pick-up experience.
Group treks are made up of travelers of varying ages and fitness levels. By joining a group tour, you agree that some participants may hike faster or slower than others. Everyone is encouraged to go at their own pace.
If a group wishes to modify the itinerary, it will be up to the guide’s discretion—after consulting with all members—whether such changes are feasible.
Strikes and protests are relatively common in Peru and may affect some tours. Roads may be blocked, and train lines interrupted.
In these cases, we’ll do our best to adjust your itinerary to maintain your experience—sometimes even departing the night before the scheduled date.
If changes or cancellations are necessary, our operations team will coordinate everything with you. Your safety is always our top priority, and we’ll make decisions accordingly.
Please keep a close eye on your belongings during the trek. Always double-check your transport, tent, and restaurant table before leaving.
You are fully responsible for your personal items throughout the trip.
To ensure you have a safe and comfortable experience on the Ausangate Trek, here is a complete list of recommended items. Pack wisely, travel light, and be prepared for the changing weather conditions in the Andes.
Note: Our muleteers will carry up to 7 kg / 15.4 lb of your personal gear. This includes your sleeping bag and inflatable mattress (together around 3.5 kg if renting or bringing your own).
The Classic Ausangate Trek 5 Days departs any day of the week, from January to December. We operate this itinerary year-round with full service.
This small group tour is guaranteed to operate with a minimum of just 2 people.
Please Note:
PayPal applies a 5% service fee for online payments, which we ask the client to cover. This fee only applies to online deposits. The remaining balance can be paid in cash during your briefing in Cusco without any additional fees.
Enhance your Peru adventure by adding one of these amazing experiences:
Need extra gear? We’ve got you covered:
Once your booking is confirmed, we guarantee your price will not change, regardless of currency fluctuations, operational costs, or any other conditions.
Before booking, we encourage you to carefully review all tour information to ensure you’re fully informed and ready for the experience.
We offer a $20.00 discount for students 17 years old or younger.
To apply the discount, please email us a clear photo or copy of a valid passport at the time of booking. The passport must be valid during the travel dates.
Send documents to: info@tunquiexpeditions.com
