Explore the Ausangate Trek
Observe incredible wildlife and various species along with local fauna.
Ausangate is one of the highest mountains in the Cusco region and is also an important cultural centre for the Andean communities. Every year huge pilgrimages are made to the mountain. This has been going on for centuries.
The peak of the mountain is 6,385 masl, but we won’t go quite that high. On this hike you’ll come close to nature and feel the connection while you observe the impressive views that surround you. You’ll get to observe some fascinating bird species and other wildlife along the way as well as spectacular landscapes.
Unlike other hikes, this is more about nature and its beauty rather than Inca ruins. This is a quieter trek in the Cusco region and you can enjoy peace and tranquility. It’s perfect for those who love outdoor trekking adventures.
Ausangate is one of the highest mountains in the Cusco region and is also an important cultural centre for the Andean communities. Every year huge pilgrimages are made to the mountain. This has been going on for centuries.
Locally Owned & Operated
We are the operators! We are a licensed Tour Company. There is no middleman on a trip with us!
Expert Local Guides
Chosen for great knowledge of their country, and a passion to make your trip extraordinary.
Fantastic Meals
Our owner and all of our staff are local to Peru and care about its environment, people and culture.
Eco-Friendly Tours
Education and conservation are our passion. We aim to create lifelong ambassadors for the protection of all wilderness areas.
Small Groups
Average groups of 10; solos, couples and friends, united by a desire for authentic experiences.
Our Best Seller
If you have a love for adventure and enjoying some of the best hiking routes in the world, our Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 3 Days is for you. It combines the most exciting trekking trails with the most incredible scenery you can imagine. Join us on your own, in a couple, or as part of a group.
Our Best Seller
Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain
The Rainbow Mountain of Peru, Vinicunca, has grown increasingly popular with visitors over the last few years. This great spectacle of nature is located in the Vilcanota mountain range, near the highest snow-capped peak in the Cusco region, Ausangate (6,372 m / 20,905 ft), which is considered an important sacred deity for the Andean cosmovision. From pre-Inca times until today, this mountain has been a place of worship and offering.
The Rainbow Mountain of Peru, Vinicunca, has grown increasingly popular with visitors over the last few years. This great spectacle of nature is located in the Vilcanota mountain range, near the highest snow-capped peak in the Cusco region, Ausangate (6,372 m / 20,905 ft), which is considered an important sacred deity for the Andean cosmovision. From pre-Inca times until today, this mountain has been a place of worship and offering.
If you want to visit the colorful mountain of seven colors but love the idea of a 3-day trek to maximize your experience, then the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain 3-day trek is for you. You’ll enjoy trekking through some of the most stunning Andean mountain scenery and get to visit the highest mountain in the Cusco region as well as the colorful Rainbow Mountain, all in one epic trip!
Ausangate Trek Tours
There are various tours heading to the Ausangate Mountain. Some can be combined with a visit to Rainbow Mountain or other sites. You can read more about your options here.
The Best Adventure Combinations in Peru
Every journey we design is carefully curated and completely bespoke, fine-tuned to your passions and interests. Experience jaw-dropping natural wonders, mysterious ancient civilisations, diverse indigenous culture and unique wildlife with some of the best trek combinations in Peru and South America.
Ausangate 7 Lakes Hike 1 Day
-
![Highest altitudes in Peru]()
4,800 meters / 15,748 feet Max. altitude -
![Trekking Difficulty Level]()
Moderate Difficulty
The 7 Lakes Hike is one of the most beautiful routes in all of the Vilcanota Mountain Range; you’ll stand before the imposing Ausangate, one of the 5 highest snowcaps in Peru. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with the purest of nature and gaze upon a gorgeous place in the Andes of Cusco surrounding these multi-colored lakes.
On top of that, you’ll take a dip in the hot springs of Pacchanta to relax before enjoying a traditional lunch prepared by a local family who will cordially receive us in their home. This is a one-day excursion, within which you’ll discover indigenous communities who still keep their cultures and traditions alive today. Are you ready to live this experience?
The 7 Lakes Hike is one of the most beautiful routes in all of the Vilcanota Mountain Range; you’ll stand before the imposing Ausangate, one of the 5 highest snowcaps in Peru. You’ll have the opportunity to connect with the purest of nature and gaze upon a gorgeous place in the Andes of Cusco surrounding these multi-colored lakes.
On top of that, you’ll take a dip in the hot springs of Pacchanta to relax before enjoying a traditional lunch prepared by a local family who will cordially receive us in their home. This is a one-day excursion, within which you’ll discover indigenous communities who still keep their cultures and traditions alive today. Are you ready to live this experience?
Machu Picchu, Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 7 Days
-
![Accommodation Peru Treks]()
Camps & Hotel Accommodation -
![Highest altitudes in Peru]()
5,100 m / 16,732 ft Max. altitude -
![Trekking Difficulty Level]()
Moderate to Challenging Difficulty
This package boasts the best of the best when it comes to the Peruvian Andes. It combines the most amazing places in Cusco; Cusco city, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ausangate, and Rainbow Mountain. If you want to visit all these places when you come to Peru, why not combine them in a fantastic 6-day adventure where every last detail is planned for you?
This package boasts the best of the best when it comes to the Peruvian Andes. It combines the most amazing places in Cusco; Cusco city, Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, Ausangate, and Rainbow Mountain. If you want to visit all these places when you come to Peru, why not combine them in a fantastic 6-day adventure where every last detail is planned for you?
Recharge yourself mentally and physically by the most powerful energy points in the Cusco region. Immense sacred glaciers like the imposing Apu Ausangate, turquoise lakes, wild animals, and the captivating Rainbow Mountain are the perfect complement to the ancient Inca city of Machu Picchu. This trip really has it all for you to see everything special about Cusco.
Ausangate and Sibinacocha Lagoon 7 Days
-
![Accommodation Peru Treks]()
Campsite Accommodation -
![Highest altitudes in Peru]()
5,400 m / 17,716 ft Max. altitude -
![Trekking Difficulty Level]()
Moderate Difficulty
Awaken all of your senses on this alternative route that's incredibly special and unique. You'll walk on impressive trails alongside the immense, sacred mountain of Ausangate (6,372 m / 20,900 ft). You'll also visit authentic Andean towns, hot springs and crystal clear lagoons. This alternative circuit to the classic Ausangate route offers you the most amazing views of this sacred glacier before deviating off toward the amazing Sibinacocha Lagoon, leaving behind the hordes of tourists and entering a practically uninhabited area where you can connect with nature.
Our excursion ends in Phinaya, a small, middle-of-nowhere Andean community with horses and bicycles as the only means of transportation. Without a doubt, it's an unforgettable excursion for mountain lovers who are looking for something completely different and far from the traditional tours crowded with visitors. Join Salkantay Trekking, and get ready to live an unforgettable adventure.
Awaken all of your senses on this alternative route that's incredibly special and unique. You'll walk on impressive trails alongside the immense, sacred mountain of Ausangate (6,372 m / 20,900 ft). You'll also visit authentic Andean towns, hot springs and crystal clear lagoons. This alternative circuit to the classic Ausangate route offers you the most amazing views of this sacred glacier before deviating off toward the amazing Sibinacocha Lagoon, leaving behind the hordes of tourists and entering a practically uninhabited area where you can connect with nature.
Our excursion ends in Phinaya, a small, middle-of-nowhere Andean community with horses and bicycles as the only means of transportation. Without a doubt, it's an unforgettable excursion for mountain lovers who are looking for something completely different and far from the traditional tours crowded with visitors. Join Salkantay Trekking, and get ready to live an unforgettable adventure.
Why Travel With Us?
We are dedicated and commited to our clients, to the environment, and to our fellow compatriots
Our Horsemen & Horses
All of our horsemen are from Mollepata, which is the starting point of our trek. We make sure to employ responsible people that are serious about what they do. This way, they do an excellent job at transporting everyone’s items along the trail with mules and are in charge of getting your gear safely to each campsite where it will be waiting for you.
Our horsemen are very content with us receiving a good salary and benefits at the end of each season. Salkantay Trekking provides all the mountain gear and uniforms to the horsemen. These guys can be of great help in an emergency because they know the area and trail like the back of their hand.
In addition to the trekking and camping equipment, each horse carries 40kg of the trekkers’ belongings. You’ll have 7kg of allowance for your gear.
Find Out More
Knowledgeable Tour Guides
Salkantay Trekking relies on an extensive network of highly trained guides and expert ambassadors as a premise to guarantee excellence in our services. We are fully conscious that an excellent guide is key to making your trip a memorable experience, which is why we are extremely demanding when recruiting and regularly training our guides.
Find Out More
Our Chefs
In all of our trekking trips, the chef ensures high-quality meals on time, an adequate diet both in its quality and quantity. The secret lies in the careful selection of our team of chefs, whose top-quality restaurant background, creativity and passion for their jobs provide an unequalled touch to all of our meals. We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip.
Find Out More
The Best Trekking Food in Peru
We do not have set menus since we wish to give our chefs the chance to create, innovate and surprise our clients through delicious dishes in every trip. We provide general guidelines, guest information on dietary restrictions and preferences and, most especially, the tools for a constant updating of our cooks’ knowledge in both Peruvian and International cuisine through specialization courses and training.
Find Out More
The Best Camping Equipment
Enjoy a good night’s sleep in our spacious Eureka tent. All our tents are built to be four man tents, but you will only have to share with one other trekker. This leaves a lot of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffels. They are an A-frame design, with entrances on both sides of the tent. They also include a vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks. We are proud to be the only company to use these tents.
Find Out More
Find the Perfect Destination in Peru
With astonishingly varied landscapes, stunning scenery, compelling history, and a legacy of fascinating cultures, there is truly something for everyone. Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.
Our expeditions in Peru are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer.
Ausangate Trek Travel Guide
Before You Go, What You Should Know
We hope that this Peru & Ausangate Trek travel guide will serve as a reference for you to prepare for and undertake an exceptional and seamless journey through this “Empire of Hidden Treasures.”
-
Ausangate Trek Highlights
Here are the top highlights that you’ll enjoy on the excursion:
- Feel the spirituality high in the mountains and understand the importance of the Ausangate Mountain to the local communities.
- Observe incredible wildlife and various species along with local fauna.
- Take in some of the best views you’ll ever see.
- Take part in a real mountain adventure and overcome the challenge.
- Form your own connection with the Andean mountains and recharge your energy.
Very High Altitude
One of the things that makes this trek more challenging is the altitude. You’ll reach Condor Pass at 5,400 masl, so you need to make sure you’ve prepared for the high elevation in advance. You can do this by arriving in Cusco a few days before to acclimate. Failing to take this into consideration could leave you feeling sick on the trek or even unable to go.
Wonderful Views
There’s no doubt that on this trek through the Andean mountains you’ll see some incredible sights. Expect to see lakes, snowy mountain peaks, and rolling hills. Don’t forget your camera to capture it all.
Changing Weather
The weather in the mountains can change a lot. In the days you’ll feel the sun beating on your face. Make sure you use a lot of protection from it as you’re much closer to it up here. In the nights it will get chilly, so make sure you have the right clothing. It may also rain, so a lightweight poncho is a must in your backpack.
Basic Amenities
Being away from the city means you’ll be going back to basics. You’ll be camping along the route, so won’t have proper bathrooms or showers. In some spots you’ll find places to buy water and maybe some simple snacks, but it’s best to take enough with you from the start.
To Feel Tired
Even though this trek isn’t the most difficult in the region, you’ll be walking long distances at high altitude. The days can feel long, so know that you’ll feel tired along the way.
-
Where is Ausangate?
Ausangate Mountain is about 100km to the south-east of Cusco. It’s 6.385 masl and towers over the nearby mountains. It can be seen from the city of Cusco and is the highest mountain in the region.
-
Difficulty Level
The Ausangate Trek is moderately challenging, so is suitable for most hikers. You do need to be in a good physical condition but it isn’t as tough as some other treks. You’ll be hiking long distances and at high altitude, so you need good stamina
The most difficult obstacles to overcome will be the high altitude and possibly tough weather conditions, especially in the rainy season.
-
Ausangate Facts
Now for a few facts about this adventurous trek.
- The average altitude along the trek is 4,000 masl.
- This route doesn’t attract many tourists, so it’s very quiet.
- The temperature at night can go as low as -15°C.
- You won’t see many vehicles as most of the route is far away from any roads.
- You don’t need a specific permit to go on this trek, so there’s always availability.
- The mountain, Apu Ausangate, is seen as the owner of all the Cusco region.
-
Ausangate Tips
Read on for some useful tips to help you get ready for your trek.
- Spend time in Cusco before the trek. Going on small hikes around the city and the Sacred Valley will help you prepare for the high altitude.
- If you’re worried about the altitude, talk to a doctor back home about the possibility of a prescription for some pills to help you cope. You can also consume coca tea once in Cusco to help.
- Starting an exercise and stretching regime weeks before you come will help greatly. Include long hikes over weekends to aid your body in building muscle and stamina.
- Don’t drink alcohol in Cusco before your trek. This can make the effects of the altitude far worse and make you very ill.
- To stay hydrated at the altitude and in the strong sunlight you need to drink water frequently along the route.
- Go at your own pace on the trek. Your guide will always be with you and there’s no need to rush. Again, this can make you feel sick if you overexert yourself.
-
Recommendations
Finally, when you’ve got your trek booked, take a look at these recommendations to make sure you’ve got all you need.
Use a Packing List
Make use of our packing lists for treks to make sure you have everything you need without going over the weight limit. It can be tough to know exactly what you need when leaving town for a few days.
Get Travel Insurance
This is a must as most tour operators won’t allow you on their tours without one. You’ll also find that if you fall ill or have an accident and aren’t insured, the healthcare in Peru is expensive.
Plan Your Trip Beforehand
The further ahead you plan the better prepared you’ll be. This also gives the tour operator or agency you choose to travel with the chance to make sure they have a guide free for your trip. Hoping to book upon arrival in Cusco could mean you miss out as there isn’t anyone available.
Consider Weather Conditions
Some people like to hike in the warm sun, and others in colder climates. From May to October is the dry season in Cusco. The sun is warm in the day but the nights get very cold. If you decide to come between November and April, you’ll be trekking during the rainy season. This can make the trail a little slippery and the general climate is a little warmer.
Pack Snacks
You’ll be well-fed on the trip, but packing extra snacks means you can get a quick boost of energy whenever you need it on the trail. Think of high calorie energy snacks like chocolate, nutrs, and dried fruits.
Quality Service
For us quality of experience is only second to safety
We are committed to providing world-class trekking experiences for our guests that go way above and beyond the mass-produced tours so common today.
I had the most fantastic trek with my family. It was one of the best experiences in the mountains, hiking to Machu Picchu. The weather was with us, and we all had a great experience with unique landscapes.
TAKUMA DELAROSA
Inspiring Stories
Get a glimpse of what you can experience
Here you will find useful tips, travel news and experiences that will make from your experience in Peru more enjoyable and complete.
