Ausangate Trek 5 days. It is an alternative hike to the classic Inca trail, it is a variety of hiking around the majestic Ausangate mountain (6271 m.a.s.l.) southeast of Cusco. The Ausangate mountain is one of the most important of the Inca period.
For many centuries, the Andean people of Peru have maintained several ancestral elements such as traditions and customs around it. Ausangate Trek 5 days, is an area that has undergone few changes unlike other trail alternatives in Cusco, the Andean community of Ausangate protects the mountain and the area.
This Ausangate Trek 5 days trip will offer the traveler experiences that will never be forgotten, to get an idea of the Peruvian soul and consider the people who live in the Andes.
Overview
The Ausangate Trek is a breathtaking high-altitude trek in the Andes Mountains of Peru, renowned for its stunning landscapes, vibrant cultural experiences, and connection to the ancient traditions of the Andean people. The trek encircles Mount Ausangate, a sacred peak towering at 6,384 meters (20,945 feet) above sea level. This challenging but rewarding journey offers a unique blend of natural beauty, traditional encounters, and a sense of adventure.
Key Features of the Ausangate Trek
- Scenic Beauty
The trek traverses some of the most spectacular scenery in Peru. Hikers pass through diverse landscapes, including snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, colorful mountain ranges such as the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), and sprawling high-altitude meadows. The region’s vibrant mineral-rich terrain creates surreal and vividly colored panoramas. - Cultural Immersion
The Ausangate region is home to traditional Quechua-speaking communities. Along the trail, trekkers encounter local shepherds tending alpacas and llamas, visit small villages, and experience the hospitality of the Andean people. These encounters provide insight into a way of life that has remained largely unchanged for centuries. - Challenging Adventure
The trek is physically demanding due to its high altitudes, often exceeding 4,800 meters (15,750 feet). It requires proper acclimatization and a good level of fitness. Daily distances can range from 10 to 20 kilometers (6 to 12 miles), with steep ascents and descents. - Remote and Untouched
Unlike more crowded trails like the Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek is remote and less traveled, offering a sense of solitude and a deeper connection to nature. The trek provides an authentic wilderness experience without the distractions of mass tourism. - Thermal Hot Springs
Along the route, trekkers can relax in natural hot springs, such as those near the village of Pacchanta. These thermal baths provide a soothing respite after long days of hiking and are surrounded by stunning mountain vistas.
Best Time to Visit
The best time for the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, from May to September. Clear skies and stable weather make for optimal trekking conditions, though temperatures can drop significantly at night, often below freezing.
Essential Preparations
Trekkers should be well-prepared for the Ausangate Trek due to its challenges:
- Acclimatization: Spend a few days in Cusco or other high-altitude locations beforehand to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
- Gear: Bring warm clothing, waterproof layers, sturdy hiking boots, and a sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures.
- Guides and Support: While the trek can be done independently, hiring a guide or joining a tour ensures safety, as well as logistical support like meals and camping equipment.
Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – OCONGATE – TINQUI -UPIS- PUCACOCHA
Driving on the Cusco – Puerto Maldonado route, we will travel from Cusco and pass through the towns of Urcos, Ocongate and finally Tinqui. Here we begin the walk passing through Quinsapucyu and Huarmisaya until we reach Upis, we will walk towards the Arapa Pass at approximately 4,958 meters / 16,266 feet above sea level. We will camp at night near the Pucacocha lagoon where we will enjoy some of the most fantastic views of the Ausangate mountain.
- Meals: Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Total distance: 10 km (6.21 miles)
- Estimated walking time: 5 to 6 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 4 447 m (14 589 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 4 400 m (14 435 ft)
DAY 2: PUCACOCHA – JAMPA
We will start Day 3 with a visit to a group of small lakes, and from there we will hike to the highest pass of our trip: the Palomani Pass at 5,100 meters / 16,732 feet above sea level. At dusk, we will arrive in Jampa and camp at night. B / L / D
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Total distance: 16 km (9.94 miles)
- Estimated walking time: 8 to 9 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 4 750 m (15 583 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 4 447 m (14 589 ft)
DAY 3: JAMPA – QOMERCOCHA – PACHASPATA
We will hike to the Jampa valley and then we will walk northwest until we reach the Ticllacocha lagoon. Then, we will cross the last step of the trek, located at 4,650 meters / 15,256 feet above sea level. After making the pass we will arrive at the Pampas de Pachaspata, where we will camp on the shores of Lake Qomercocha.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch/ Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Total distance: 16 km (9.94 miles)
- Estimated walking time: 8 to 9 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 5 200 m (16 060 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 4 600 m (15 091 ft)
DAY 4: PACHASPATA – PACCHANTA
On day 5, we will descend to the valley and arrive at the town of Pacchanta. Here, we will take a well-deserved rest and a relaxing bath in the hot springs. Breakfast, lunch and dinner included.
- Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/ Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Total distance: 14 km (8.69 miles)
- Estimated walking time: 7 to 8 hours
- Maximum altitude point: 5 080 m (16 666 ft)
- Campsite altitude: 4 100 m (13 451 ft)
DAY 5: PACCHANTA – TINKI – CUSCO
On the last day of our walk, we will take a short walk and arrive at the highway, where a private bus will be waiting for us to take us back to Cusco; We will arrive in Cusco at sunset. The campsites are subject to change depending on the size of the group.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Total distance: 80 km (49.70 miles)
- Estimated time: 3 hours to Cusco
- Maximum altitude point: 5 080 m (16 666 ft)
Inclusions
SERVICE THAT INCLUDES:
- Transfer in – out: Cusco – Tinki – Cusco (Tourism bus)
- Guide: professional guide in English and Spanish; 2 guides for groups of more than 12 people
- Cook: in charge of preparing the food
- Riders and Horses: Bring tents, kitchen equipment, and also carry backpacks, sleeping bags, and mattresses (6 kilos / 13 pounds per person maximum)
- Meals: 4 breakfasts / 4 lunches / 4 dinners / snacks and afternoon tea
- Equipment: tents (2 people for every 3 people), Thermarest sleeping pad, dinner tent, special biodegradable bath tent, kitchen tent, tables and chairs, table, first aid kit, included the emergency oxygen bottle
DOES NOT INCLUDE:
- Breakfast the first day, generally hotels offer this service
- Sleeping bag
EXTRA SERVICE:
- U$.30 sleeping bag (-10°C) during the entire walk
- U$.40 individual accommodation
Should Bring
SHOULD BRING:
- Original passport (student card if applicable (ISIC)
- Sleeping bag
- Walking Shoes
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Thick layer
- Hat and gloves.
- Shirts
- Comfortable pants
- Sun hat
- Sunblock (factor 50 recommended)
- Insect repellent
- Water (you can buy on the way)
- Toiletries
- Medical staff
- Camera and battery.
- Flashlights with extra batteries
OPTIONAL SERVICES (NOT INCLUDED):
- Sleeping bag – 10th c (25)
- Personal tent ($.25)
- Walking stick ($ 15)
Acomodacion
Price
Prices: Season 2025
Private Service
U$. 520 Per Person (Minimum 02 People)
Discounts
- Student Discount (only with active card): US$.20
- Under 18 years Discount: US$.20
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