Turistas explorando las calles ancestrales de Cusco

Ausangate Trek Classic 5 Days

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Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Peruvian Andes with Ayni Expeditions. You’ll experience the stunning natural wonders of the Ausangate Trek region, from turquoise lakes to towering snow-capped peaks.

We’ll begin your epic journey from the vibrant city of Cusco (3,000 m / 9,842 ft), traveling to the community of Upis in our private transport. After a delicious lunch, we’ll explore the nearby lakes and enjoy a peaceful afternoon stargazing from our private Upis campsite. This tranquil start offers the perfect opportunity to acclimatize to the altitude.

The following day, we’ll hike up to Arapa Pass, where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views before continuing to Yanacocha Lake. Afterward, we’ll make our way to Hatun Pucacocha, where we’ll camp and recover for the next day.

Later on, we’ll tackle the challenge of reaching the highest point of our trek, Palomani Pass, located over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level. As you reach the top, you’ll be rewarded with incredible panoramic views of the surrounding Andean peaks.

The next part of the trek takes us to Sorapata, where we’ll camp once more. Afterward, we’ll cross Jampa Pass, offering views of three stunning mountains: Tres Picos, Jampa, and Huamanticlla, along with several surrounding lakes.

To top off the experience, we’ll relax in the Pacchanta hot springs, with an unforgettable view of the Ausangate Glacier. Finally, we’ll head from Pacchanta to the community of Tinki, where our private transport will take us back to Cusco.

Highlights of the Ausangate Trek Classic 5 Days

Discover the breathtaking landscapes of the Andes, four hours south of Cusco.
Admire the stunning views of vast valleys and towering mountains from incredible viewpoints.
Recharge by the massive Ausangate Glacier and its vibrant turquoise lakes.
Explore the unique lifestyle of local Andean communities, and make new friends along the way.
Learn about local traditions and customs, and get involved in everyday life.
Encounter Andean wildlife, including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, condors, and various aquatic birds.
Escape the city’s hustle and bustle and immerse yourself in the peace of the sacred mountains.

Location

Duration

Altitude

Group Size

Transportation

Difficulty

Itinerary

Best part of the day: Appreciate the Andean landscapes and the beautiful mountain range.

Stunning Andean Landscapes and Lakes Await You

Our journey through the Andean landscapes begins with a pick-up from your hotel around 5 am. We’ll travel in our private transport to the village of Ocongate (3,500 m / 11,482 ft). Along the way, you’ll see picturesque villages and beautiful lakes in the Vilcanota Valley from the window of the transport.

We’ll continue to Tinke, where you can make any last-minute purchases before arriving at the Upis community (4,250 m / 13,944 ft), the starting point of our hike.

Once we reach Upis, we’ll enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared by our trekking chef and meet the team of porters and muleteers who will accompany us on our adventure.

Our first day begins with a hike that offers direct views of the massive Ausangate Glacier (6,372 m / 20,905 ft). Along the way, you’ll encounter locals dressed in traditional colorful clothing and see many herds of llamas, alpacas, and sheep.

We’ll reach the Upis hot springs (4,400 m / 14,436 ft) for our first lunch in the mountains, prepared by our talented chef. We’ll camp here, right in front of the Ausangate Mountain.

In the afternoon, we’ll hike to Wayna Ausangate Lake and enjoy a breathtaking sunset, illuminating the surrounding glaciers with its beautiful light.

Later, our porters will surprise us with snacks, hot drinks, coffee, chocolate, popcorn, and other treats during our tea time to satisfy your hunger. You’ll then enjoy a delicious dinner before a well-deserved night of rest.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Walking 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

Best part of the day: Walk through beautiful landscapes and lakes with waterfalls.

Awe-Inspiring Views of Mother Nature

We’ll rise early, savoring a hearty breakfast in the high, cold mountains, before starting our hike. We’ll walk for about two and a half hours through a picturesque Andean valley towards 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 intensifies, and you’ll be in awe of the natural beauty surrounding you. You might even spot a condor, the world’s largest flying bird.

Our guide will explain the stunning local flora and fauna as you trek, so you’ll learn more about the region you’re exploring.

Next, we’ll descend to the beautiful, crystal-clear Yanacocha Lake (Black Lagoon), then continue along the trail for another hour to reach Hatun Pucacocha. You’ll appreciate the beautiful surroundings and enjoy lunch with brilliant blue waters in front of the snow-capped peaks.

Later, we’ll explore nearby lagoons and relax with a delicious herbal tea. In the evening, a nutritious dinner will await you, and we’ll rest at the campsite to recharge for the next day.

Best part of the day: Walk through vast landscapes and learn about local customs and traditions.

Immerse Yourself in Local Customs and Traditions

As on every morning, you’ll receive a refreshing cup of 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 Ausangate Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). From this vantage point, the immensity of the sacred mountains will exceed all your expectations.

We’ll continue the descent for one hour to reach the Ausangate Cocha Lake, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy your lunch in the midst of a vast Andean landscape.

After lunch, we’ll climb for two more hours to reach Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the entire route. After a brief rest and some awe-inspiring views, we’ll continue for another hour to reach the small Andean community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,650 m / 15,256 ft).

We have great respect for the people of Huchuy Phinaya, who maintain ancestral traditions to this day. Learn from them and their admirable way of life in full connection with Mother Nature (Pachamama) and how they respect and live in harmony with the natural world.

Today was the most challenging day, but it was well worth it for a true connection with the Andes and Mother Earth. Later, we’ll take a gentle two-hour walk to Sorapata, where our campsite will be ready and waiting for your arrival.

After a delicious dinner, you’ll enjoy a peaceful night’s rest, free from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 16.5 km / 10.25 miles
Walking 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

Best part of the day: Explore the stunning lagoons and perform a small thanksgiving ceremony to Mother Nature.

Give Thanks to Mother Nature for This Epic Journey

After the penultimate breakfast, we’ll begin our uphill walk for two and a half hours to Jampa Pass at 5,070 meters (16,634 feet). From this spot, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of majestic snow-covered sacred mountains.

Don’t forget to have your camera ready!

Then, we’ll take a gentle descent for about three hours to our lunch spot at Pacchanta camp. Along the way, we’ll join the famous 7 Lagoons of Ausangate Trek.

By one of the beautiful and mystical lagoons (Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo), we’ll have the option of performing a small ceremony or thanksgiving to Pachamama (Mother Nature) and the surrounding mountains, especially the sacred Ausangate Mountain that has been our guardian throughout the journey.

After our lunch in Pacchanta, we’ll have the afternoon free to relax in the medicinal hot springs of Pacchanta.

We’ll end the day with a satisfying dinner and a surprise from our talented chef in the mountains.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.84 miles
Walking 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

Best part of the day: Relax in the hot springs and discover traditions passed down from generation to generation.

Say Goodbye to This Ausangate Trek with a Last Easy Walk

Your epic adventure ends today, but not before a final optional visit to the hot springs and a fantastic day for an easy walk.

After our last breakfast, we’ll begin a three-hour walk to the community of Tinke (3,800 m / 12,467 ft). Along the way, we’ll visit the home of an Andean family to learn about their ancestral traditions that have been kept alive for generations in the mountains.

Once in Tinke, we’ll have lunch and bid farewell to our trekking support team. At the end of the route, our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco.

When we arrive in Cusco, the transport and guide will drop you off at your hotel around 6:00 pm.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Difficulty: Easy
Walking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 miles
Walking Time: 2 – 3 hours
Min. Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Max. Altitude: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft

Include

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

Permits and Entrance Tickets

Permits and tickets for the Ausangate Trek
Entrance to the Pacchanta Hot Springs

Pre-Departure Information

Meeting with your guide at our office at 5:00 pm the night before the trek starts.
We provide you with a Duffel Bag (maximum 7 kg) for the porters to carry.

Experienced Guide

Official English and Spanish-speaking guides, trained in Tourism at the National University of San Antonio Abad of Cusco.

First Aid Kit

Guides with first aid training and oxygen for emergencies.

Camping Equipment

Dining tents, inflatable mattresses, portable toilet, and a Duffel Bag. Your personal luggage is limited to 7 kg.

Extras Included

Rain poncho, backpack cover, and satellite phone for emergencies.
24/7 customer support.

Accommodation

4 nights of camping in high-quality tents for your safety and comfort.

Meals

5 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners, prepared by our chef. Special diets (vegetarian, vegan) available at no extra charge.
Filtered, boiled, and chilled water throughout the trek.
Morning coca tea and snacks on the trail.

Transportation

Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Upis (day 1) and from Pacchanta to Cusco (day 5).

Mule Transport

Mules carry all the camping gear and your Duffel Bag (maximum 7 kg).

Other Extras

Pillow to sleep on and foam mattress.
Salkantay Trek t-shirt at the end of the trek.
Happy Hour with snacks, hot drinks, and treats in the afternoon.

Taxes and Fees

All taxes and permit fees are included in the price, with no hidden charges.

Not Include

Sleeping Bag: You can rent one for US$ 20.00.
Trekking Poles: You can rent a pair for US$ 20.00.
Dinner in Cusco (Day 5).
Travel Insurance.
Tips for the Staff: It is customary to leave tips for the porters and cooks, generally collected by the group.

Additional Costs

Delays or changes due to weather conditions, landslides, strikes, or other events beyond our control.

Recommendation

Recommendations for the Ausangate Trek

Acclimate to the Altitude: Arrive in Cusco 2-3 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Bring Proper Gear: Pack essential items including a warm jacket, comfortable trekking shoes, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget your camera to capture the breathtaking views.
Prepare for Changing Weather: The weather in the Andes can be unpredictable, so bring layers for both cold temperatures and sunny days. A poncho or rain jacket is recommended.
Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of the local communities and their traditions. Always ask before taking photos of people or their homes.
Hydrate Well: Drink plenty of water throughout the trek to stay hydrated. You will have the chance to refill your water at designated stops during the trek.
Pack Light: Keep your personal items within the 7 kg weight limit for the duffel bag provided by us. This helps the porters carry your gear efficiently.
Physical Preparation: While the trek is moderate to challenging, it’s a good idea to do some light training before the trip to get accustomed to walking at high altitudes.
Incorporate Rest and Stretching: Take breaks to relax and stretch during the trek. This helps prevent muscle fatigue and enhances your overall experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend arriving in Cusco 2-3 days before to acclimate and avoid altitude sickness. You can enjoy activities such as the City Tour, Sacred Valley, and more.

The briefing is held the night before the trek at 5:00 pm at our office or your hotel. It will last 30-45 minutes to prepare you for the hike.

The balance must be paid 2 days before the trek. We accept cash (USD or soles), credit/debit cards, or PayPal with a 5% service fee.

Yes, you can leave your luggage at our office or your hotel at no additional cost.

In case of strikes or changes outside of our control, we will adjust the itinerary. The safety of our clients is our priority, and we work to keep the trip as close to the original plan as possible.