Ausangate 4-Day Trek: Explore Peru’s Majestic Mountain and Stunning Landscapes

Physical Level

Challenging

Trip Style

Trekking, Adventure

Max Altitude

5,053 meters/16,578 ft

Group Size

Max. 08 people

INQUIRY ABOUT THIS TREK

Trip Summary

The Ausangate Trek is located south of Cusco, nestled between the valleys of the Vilcanota and Tinquimayo rivers, within the districts of Ccatcca, Ocongate, and Marcapata. This trek traverses the Ausangate mountain range, a massive massif stretching nearly 100 kilometers, adorned with numerous snow-capped peaks that seem to touch the sky with their eternal snows. The most prominent and revered peak is Apu Ausangate, the main mountain of the southern Peruvian Andes.

In this region of glacial valleys, winding paths, endless hills, and extreme climates where human activity seems almost impossible, reside the Ausangate runas—men and women who invite you to explore the most extraordinary corners of the nation. These high-altitude shepherds still maintain their ancestral customs and traditions.

Highlights

Hike through remote Andean valleys and experience the stunning Ausangate Trek.
Share unique experiences with the last descendants of the Incas, learn about their rites and ancestral traditions, and participate in a ceremony honoring Mother Earth with sacred coca leaves.
Enjoy the best trekking experience in the Andes, featuring fabulous views of Apu Ausangate and lakes in shades of red, turquoise, and green.
Taste the unique traditional Incan dish, Pachamanca.
Connect your body and mind with the powerful energy of the sacred Apus and Incan mountains.
Discover the ancestral paths of the Quechuas with our local guides.
Learn about the textile traditions of the Cusco Andes, including the dyeing, weaving, and crafting of ponchos, chullos, and chompas using alpaca wool, where Quechuas incorporate their sacred symbolism.
Uncover the magical and sacred world of Andean priests who still practice their ceremonies of gratitude to their sacred mountains and Pachamama (Mother Earth).
Deepen your understanding of Incan agriculture by observing local farming practices, including the cultivation of some of the world’s most delicious and colorful potatoes.

Itinerary

DAY 1:

AUSANGATE TREK – Cusco to Upis to Puca Cocha Lake

We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 AM to begin this incredible expedition. You will have private transportation to the trailhead in Upis, a small Andean village near Ocongate, situated at 3,900 meters (12,795 feet) above sea level. Here, you will meet your riders and horses. Enjoy your first breakfast prepared by our trekking chef. Marvel at the breathtaking views of the Ausangate glacier peaks as you walk close by. You may also witness stunning lakes and waterfalls, and possibly spot wild llamas, alpacas, vicuñas (the undomesticated ancestors of alpacas), and condors soaring overhead.

We will embark on a 3-hour uphill hike to the first pass at 5,000 meters (16,404 feet), offering magnificent surrounding views. Depending on the time of year, there may be some snow-covered sections, but excellent views are guaranteed, especially during the dry season. You might encounter vicuñas, the most impressive animals still living wild in Peru, belonging to the Andean camelid family. Their fleece is the most expensive wool in the world today. After capturing some incredible photos, we will continue to our lunch spot with a gradual 1.5-hour downhill hike to a beautiful area where you will enjoy lunch on the first day.

Following lunch, we will hike for another 2½ hours to reach our campsite at Puca Ccocha (Red Lake). This campsite is one of the most beautiful, located on the slopes of Ausangate peak and by the lake’s shore. From here, you can witness amazing sunsets and possibly see condors and eagles flying nearby.

Accommodation: Camping in tents for 3 people, 4 seasons (double occupancy)

Included Activities

Ausangate Trek: Visit the local Tinki market to observe traditional commerce of the Ocongate communities.
Ausangate Trek: Traverse Andean plains with picturesque views of Andean camelids and the majestic Apu Ausangate.
Ausangate Trek: Camp beside Laguna Pucacocha with views of Ausangate. In the dry season, enjoy a star-filled sky and the Milky Way.

Included Meals

Lunch
Dinner

Special Information This trek visits high-altitude locations, and some individuals may experience altitude sickness regardless of age or physical health.

DAY 2:

AUSANGATE TREK – Chillca to Ausangate Mountain to Yana Cocha Lake

After an early breakfast, we will begin a steep 2-3 hour ascent to Paso Arapa at 5,100 meters (16,732 feet) above sea level. Along the way, you will continuously enjoy beautiful views of blue lakes and the majestic Ausangate glacier peak surrounding you. Occasionally, you might witness avalanches from the glacial hills as ice crashes into the lakes below.

Upon reaching the summit, you will be directly in front of Ausangate, allowing you to fully appreciate the Chilca Valley, where numerous alpacas graze along the hills. Honestly, being at this point is so impressive that it sometimes feels like you are on the Kilimanjaro Trails in Africa. After taking excellent photographs, we will continue with a gradual 2-hour downhill hike (in some sections, the trail may still be somewhat difficult to follow) to our lunch spot in the Chilca Valley. The views here are always astounding, featuring waterfalls, green hills, and distant snow-capped mountain peaks.

After enjoying lunch and a short nap, we will proceed to the day’s second pass, Paso Vicuña, at 5,300 meters (17,388 feet) above sea level. It will take approximately an hour and a half at a slow pace to reach the summit of this higher pass. Along the way, you may spot condors and vicuñas if we are fortunate. Once at the mountain’s peak, we will enjoy one or two cups of traditional coca tea provided by your porters. Then, it will be another 1-hour downhill hike to our campsite by Yana Cocha Lake, where you can enjoy our famous daily happy hour with hot beverages. This is a perfect spot in the evening to observe the famous Incan constellations and stargaze.

Accommodation: Camping in tents for 3 people, 4 seasons (double occupancy)

Included Activities

Ausangate Trek: Majestic views of the Ausangate glacier peak.
Ausangate Trek: Chilca Valley, with numerous grazing alpacas.

Included Meals

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

DAY 3:

AUSANGATE TREK – Ausangate Lake to Palomani to Surapata

Early in the morning, after enjoying a delicious breakfast, we will ascend for 2-3 hours to the second pass of our excursion, Paso Apacheta (4,900 meters / 16,076 feet above sea level). From here, we will descend for 1.5 hours to Ausangate Qocha, where we will have lunch while taking in the incredible scenery. After lunch, we will ascend for another 2 hours to reach Paso Palomani (5,100 meters / 16,732 feet above sea level), and then descend to the small community of Surapata, where our campsite will be set up. Here, you can enjoy a comfortable night’s rest after savoring the delicious dinner prepared with care by our chef.

Accommodation: Camping in tents for 3 people, 4 seasons (double occupancy)

Included Activities

Ausangate Trek: Fabulous views of the Ausangate Glacier, with turquoise lagoons.
Ausangate Trek: Camping beside Huchuy Phinaya, with views of Ausangate. In the dry season, enjoy a star-filled sky and the Milky Way.

Included Meals

Breakfast
Lunch
Dinner

DAY 4:

AUSANGATE TREK – Paso Qampa to Tikacocha to Pacchanta

In the morning, we will wake up early for breakfast, then begin our hike to the highest point of our Ausangate Trek at Paso Palomani (5,300 meters / 17,388 feet), a location surrounded by several snow-capped peaks. After approximately 3½ hours, you will see Qomerqocha Lake, where we will have lunch. Following lunch, we will continue hiking for about 2 more hours until we reach the community of Pacchanta (4,000 meters / 13,000 feet). This place still preserves many of its traditions. Additionally, this community offers hot springs, where you can enjoy a relaxing bath if you wish.

In the afternoon, we will take transportation back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 PM.

Included Activities

Ausangate Trek: Visit a typical rural house to learn about their culture and traditions. You will be introduced to their textile art, mountain worship, and how they perform the famous Pachamama offering ceremony with coca leaves.

Included Meals

Breakfast
Lunch

Inclusions

Pickup from your hotel in Cusco.
Private transfer to T’inkiqucha, the starting point.
Professional guide in English or Spanish.
Entrance to the Ausangate Circuit.
Porters and horses to carry all equipment (tents, food, cooking gear, passenger equipment).
Permits and entry fees for our team and porters.
3 breakfasts, 4 snacks, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners, all prepared by our chef and assistant.
All equipment, including tents for the staff.
Guided visits to the most important sites.
First aid kit and oxygen.
Vegetarian and special diets upon request.
Return transfer from Quesiunu to Cusco.
Transfer back to the hotel.

Meals and beverages not mentioned in the program.
Trekking poles (available for rent at the office for USD 10.00).
Travel insurance.
Sleeping bags (available for rent at our office for USD 25 for the entire trip).
Extra activities and tips for the staff (optional).
Entrance to Upis Hot Springs (PEN 10.00).

What to Bring

While we aim to follow the Ausangate Trek 4-day itinerary, participants must accept the possibility of changes due to local conditions, such as strikes or natural disasters.
This trek is not recommended for children as they may have difficulty walking, although children who enjoy high-altitude hiking can participate.
If you have medical issues, consult your doctor and inform them that you plan to trek in the Peruvian Andes at elevations of 5,040 meters (16,500 feet) above sea level. If you take medication, you should bring it with you to continue your treatment.
Our third campsite is 40 minutes from the 7-colored mountain, allowing us the chance to arrive for sunrise and be alone on the mountain.
This 4-day Ausangate trek is not recommended for travelers with back problems.
Our guide always carries oxygen tanks, which are essential as you surpass 5,040 meters (16,500 feet) above sea level! Not all travel agencies offer this, so it is definitely something to consider when choosing the best Ausangate tour operator.
We only organize the 4-day Ausangate Trek year-round because we have shelters at each campsite.
Daily departures with a group of 2 or more.
Wheelchair access is not available for the 4-day Ausangate Trek.
Our pickup time changes to 5 AM starting in September due to the rainy season, as it often rains in the afternoon, making it better to hike in the morning.

Why to Choose

Why choose “Illapa Peru Trip”?

“Illapa Peru Trip” is a 100% Peruvian-owned tour operator based in Cusco, with extensive experience in hiking, adventure tours, and customized travel packages. As a completely local company, we’re dedicated to providing travelers with authentic, high-quality experiences.

Our vision as a local company is to deliver personalized travel and hiking journeys, managed exclusively by experienced local professionals, with a strong focus on HIGH-QUALITY and PERSONALIZED SERVICE.

We are proud of our reputation as a travel agency that upholds RESPONSIBLE and SUSTAINABLE practices benefiting both the environment and local communities.

We treat our team like family and ensure they receive fair wages. We are incredibly proud of each member of our team! Their dedication makes it possible for us to provide the top-notch service that our many travelers appreciate.

At “Illapa Peru Trip,” we understand that our reputation and the feedback from our travelers are essential for gaining the trust of future adventurers. You can check out honest reviews from our guests on TripAdvisor, Facebook, and Google to see why we’re a reliable choice for creating your Peruvian adventure.

Small Group Travel

To ensure a more personalized experience at “Illapa Peru Trip,” we keep our group sizes to a maximum of 8 travelers. This approach allows us to offer a tailored experience, unlike companies that operate with larger groups.

About Our Tour Guides

Our guides are our pride. They’re highly knowledgeable and professional, fluent in English, and deeply passionate about Inca culture and history. Each guide is committed to ongoing personal and professional development, allowing them to share accurate insights and fascinating theories about Andean heritage. They are friendly, athletic, and well-educated, with backgrounds in Archaeology, Tourism, Botany, History, or Anthropology.

Our Inca Trail Porters

Hiking with “Illapa Peru Trip” ensures a fulfilling experience. Our porters are here to make your journey comfortable and memorable. They carry your equipment, prepare meals, set up camps, and attend to your needs so you can relax and enjoy the adventure. Along the way, you’ll connect with local people, explore stunning sites, and discover historic Inca villages.

We provide our porters with essential equipment at no cost: jackets, sun hats, warm hats, shirts, pants, hiking boots, comfortable bags, canteens, back support belts, sleeping bags, mattresses, and travel insurance. Our porters come from remote communities, and by hiring them, we help improve their economic conditions and support their children’s education. We treat our porters like family!

Our Team and Equipment

Our team—guides, cooks, porters, muleteers—and our equipment make “Illapa Peru Trip” stand out from the competition. During our hikes, we provide:

Our Tents: We use 4-season EUREKA Timberline tents, designed for four but used by two for extra comfort and storage. They include a small vestibule for boots and poles.
Foam Mats: Insulate you from the ground for added warmth.
Kitchen and Dining Tents: Serve as a common area during meals, perfect for relaxing and socializing.
Tables and Chairs: Set up in the dining area, adapted for varying weather.
Travel Bags: Provided the night before the trek.
Additional Items: We offer pillows, rain covers for backpacks, survival shirts, and portable toilets during the trek.

Our Commitment to Social Responsibility

“Illapa Peru Trip” is committed to giving back to isolated communities. We support social projects and prioritize hiring local staff.

We are proud to support local communities not only by providing employment but also by offering assistance to their families. This holistic approach benefits our employees from the Peruvian Andes and their loved ones, strengthening our connection to the local heritage.

Faqs

What is the 4-Day Ausangate Trek?

The 4-Day Ausangate Trek is a challenging trek in the Peruvian Andes, offering spectacular landscapes with views of the snow-capped Ausangate, colorful lagoons, and traditional Andean communities.

Is a Guide Necessary for the Ausangate Trek?

While it is possible to trek independently, hiring a guide is recommended, especially for those unfamiliar with high altitudes or the terrain, as some routes can be confusing.

What is the Maximum Altitude During the Ausangate Trek?

The highest point of the trek is Paso Palomani, reaching 5,200 meters above sea level, which can cause altitude sickness if you are not acclimated.

How Difficult is the 4-Day Ausangate Trek?

The trek is considered of moderate to high difficulty due to the altitude and long daily distances. It is advisable to be in good physical condition before undertaking it.

How Long is the Daily Hike?

Throughout the four days, you will hike between 6 to 8 hours each day, depending on the group’s physical condition and weather conditions.

What Type of Clothing Should I Bring for the Ausangate Trek?

You should bring appropriate clothing for cold and rainy conditions, including thermal layers, a waterproof jacket, a hat, gloves, and sturdy trekking boots. The weather can be very cold, especially at night.

Is It Necessary to Acclimate Before Trekking?

Yes, acclimating to the altitude before trekking is very important, as the highest points exceed 5,000 meters. Spending a few days in Cusco or doing shorter hikes can help prevent altitude sickness.

What is the Best Time of Year for the Ausangate Trek?

The best time to trek Ausangate is during the dry season, from May to September. During this period, there is a higher chance of clear skies, allowing you to see the Andes in their full splendor. You can still trek in April, October, November, and December, but it is necessary to have good rain gear. We do not recommend trekking Ausangate in January and February due to frequent rain.

What Does the Trek Cost Include with Tour Agencies?

Generally, the cost includes transportation to and from Cusco, meals during the trek, a guide, camping equipment, and horses to carry gear. It is important to verify the details with your chosen agency.

Is There Phone or Internet Signal During the Trek?

No, most of the trek does not have phone or internet signal. It is advisable to inform friends or family before starting the trek.

Can I Trek Without Prior Experience?

While prior trekking experience is not mandatory, it is recommended to have experience with long-distance hikes or similar high-altitude activities.

What Type of Food is Provided During the Trek?

Agencies typically provide hot and nutritious meals, including soups, rice dishes, pasta, vegetables, and sometimes meat or chicken. Vegetarian options are also available if requested in advance.

Is It Possible to Rent Trekking Equipment?

Yes, in Cusco, you can rent equipment such as sleeping bags, trekking poles, and specialized clothing for the trek. Ensure the equipment is of good quality to withstand the cold temperatures.

How Cold Can It Get During the Trek?

Daytime temperatures can be cool, around 10°C, but at night, temperatures can drop below -5°C, especially at higher campsites.

How Can I Prevent Altitude Sickness During the Ausangate Trek?

To prevent altitude sickness, acclimate before the trek, stay well-hydrated, walk at a slow pace, and consider chewing coca leaves or taking specific medications for altitude sickness, such as sorojchi pills.

Travel Guide

Recommendations

Acclimate to the Altitude: Ensure you are acclimated to Cusco’s altitude before embarking on your hike to Ausangate. This is the best way to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. We recommend spending at least 3 days in Cusco before the excursion.
Protect Your Phone: We recommend storing your phone inside your sleeping bag and keeping it warm during the day, such as in a pocket. Batteries tend to drain quickly due to the cold.
Bring Two Pairs of Shoes: One for hiking and another for camping. If your hiking shoes get wet, you will have a dry pair.
Sleeping Bag Requirements: Ensure your sleeping bag can withstand -15°C, as it gets very cold. We rent Mountain Hard Wear sleeping bags, which are excellent for the Ausangate area.
Prepare for Cold Temperatures: The Ausangate Trek reaches elevations of 4,400 meters, meaning much colder, almost freezing temperatures. If you decide to undertake the 4-day Ausangate hike, ensure you wear very warm clothing.
Sunglasses Are Essential: Sometimes snow falls, and the reflection can damage your eyes, potentially causing temporary blindness for about 24 hours.

Canvas Bag We will provide you with a canvas bag at our office at the end of your informational session. This bag must be given to the porter on the first day, and the horse will carry it—you will only have access to it at the campsites. Place your clothes and other personal items that you won’t need during the hike in the bag. Items such as water, snacks, a first aid kit, and rain gear should remain in your backpack. The bag should weigh 7 kg.

Strikes Strikes and road blockages are common in Peru and can disrupt our 4-day Ausangate trek. We will do our best to ensure your Ausangate hike proceeds as planned with some adjustments.

If a strike occurs on the first day of your 4-day Ausangate hike, we will transport you to the trailhead the night before your start date.
If a strike occurs on the day you finish your 4-day Ausangate trek, we will send our transport to Kayrawiry the night before. Therefore, you will depart at 5 PM as strikes end at 5 PM and arrive in Cusco around 10 PM.

Ausangate Climate The weather in the Andes is unpredictable. The dry season in Ausangate is from April to October, which are the most recommended dates for the Ausangate Trek, while the rainy season is from November to March. However, rain can occur during the dry season, and sunshine can appear during the rainy season, so be prepared. Regardless of the season you undertake the Ausangate hike, ensure you have rain gear, such as a rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

Travel Insurance We recommend obtaining travel insurance because if you cancel your 4-day Ausangate trek at the last minute, it can refund your prepaid money. Additionally, if you become ill or injured while away from home, it can reimburse covered emergency medical care while traveling.

Physical Requirements This trek is challenging due to the altitude, so being in good physical condition is highly recommended. Elevation changes during the Ausangate hike make it difficult, as there are four passes throughout the trek.

Accommodation Options for Solo Travelers During the 4-day Ausangate trek, solo travelers will be paired to share a tent with another traveler of the same gender, while couples will have a tent to themselves.

Pre-Departure Meeting There is a mandatory pre-departure informational meeting at our Cusco office one day before your Ausangate departure at 6 PM. You will meet your guide, who will provide detailed information about your hike, a packing list, rental equipment options, and general questions. Our office is located at: Calle Márquez 250, Second Floor, Office 03, Cusco, Peru.

Best Time for the Ausangate Trek The best time to trek Ausangate is from May to September, which is the dry season in the Cusco region. This period offers more chances of clear skies, allowing you to see the Andes in their full glory. You can still trek in April, October, November, and December, but it is necessary to have good rain gear. We do not recommend trekking Ausangate in January and February due to frequent rain almost every day.

Tipping Tipping is common during the 4-day Ausangate trek. On the last day of the adventure, we will bid farewell to our incredible porters and professional chefs. This is the appropriate time to tip them. Any extra amount is always greatly appreciated. Please note that tipping is not mandatory, and you should never feel obligated to do so.

Typically, our clients pool their tip money for the chef and porters. The porter retires when the trek ends, so that is the appropriate time to tip. You can tip your cook when you arrive at the warehouse where all the equipment is left. For the guide, tips are given once they drop you off at your hotel. You decide the amount based on your experience with them. Soles are preferred for our porters and chefs. Guides can accept both U.S. dollars and soles without any issues.

Our Recommendations:

Porters: 50 – 60 soles per porter.
Chefs: 80 – 120 soles per chef.

Recommendations for the 4-Day Ausangate Trek The 4-day Ausangate Trek is an incredible adventure for those seeking to experience the pure beauty of the Andes. As it is a demanding trek, it is important to consider the following recommendations:

Hire a Local Guide: It is highly recommended to undertake this trek with an experienced guide who knows the safe routes and can provide useful information about the environment.
Acclimate Before the Trek: The altitude can be challenging, reaching over 5,000 meters in some sections. It is essential to acclimate in Cusco for a few days before starting.
Careful Planning: Before starting, ensure you have enough food, proper equipment, and check the weather conditions, as the weather can change rapidly in this region.

Climate on the Ausangate Trek The climate in the Ausangate region is unpredictable and depends on the season.

Dry Season (May to September): This is the best time to trek. During the day, temperatures usually range between 10°C and 15°C, while at night they can drop to -5°C or lower.
Rainy Season (October to April): During the rainy season, trails can become slippery and more dangerous. Daytime temperatures are similar, but humidity is high, and it can be even colder at night due to precipitation.

Clothing Tips Due to variable temperatures and unpredictable weather, proper attire is essential for this trek.

Layered Clothing: It is ideal to dress in layers to easily adapt to temperature changes. Wear a breathable long-sleeved base layer, followed by a thermal layer, and finish with a waterproof jacket to protect against wind and rain.
High-Quality Trekking Boots: The terrain is rugged and challenging, so wearing trekking boots with good grip and ankle support is essential.
Winter Accessories: Due to the cold, especially at night, do not forget to bring thermal gloves, a hat, and a scarf to protect against the cold mountain winds.

Restrictions on the Ausangate Trek There are some restrictions to consider before embarking on the 4-day Ausangate trek.

Recommended Age: Due to the altitude and physical difficulty, this trek is not recommended for young children or elderly individuals without prior trekking experience.
Individuals with Health Issues: Those with heart, respiratory, or hypertension conditions should consult a doctor before undertaking the trek, as the extreme altitude can exacerbate these conditions.

Physical Preparation for the Ausangate Trek The 4-day Ausangate Trek is physically demanding and requires adequate preparation.

Pre-Trek Physical Condition: It is advisable to be in good physical shape before embarking on this trek. Engaging in cardiovascular exercises, such as running or hiking on inclined terrains, can help prepare you.
Acclimation Hikes: Before undertaking this trek, try to perform other hikes at moderate altitudes, such as the Rainbow Mountain or the Laguna Humantay trek, to help your body adjust to the lack of oxygen.

Health Recommendations for the Ausangate Trek Taking care of your health during the 4-day trek is crucial due to the climate, altitude, and physical effort involved.

Constant Hydration: Carry enough water and ensure you stay hydrated regularly. The altitude can cause you to dehydrate faster than usual.
Altitude Sickness Prevention: Extreme altitude can cause altitude sickness. Bring coca leaves or medications recommended by a doctor to prevent and treat symptoms.
Sun Protection: Even on cold days, the sun at high altitudes is very strong. Don’t forget to use sunscreen, wear sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from UV rays.

Altitudes on the Ausangate Trek The 4-day Ausangate Trek is renowned for its stunning high-altitude landscapes.

Average Altitude: Throughout the 4 days, you will hike at altitudes ranging between 4,000 and 5,200 meters above sea level. Proper acclimation is crucial to avoid health issues.
Maximum Altitude: The highest point of the trek is Paso Palomani, which reaches 5,200 meters above sea level. At this point, it is common to experience the effects of altitude sickness if you are not well acclimated.

Temperatures During the Ausangate Trek Temperatures vary significantly over the 4 days of the trek.

Daytime Temperatures: In the dry season, daytime temperatures typically range between 10°C and 15°C, although the wind can make it feel colder.
Nighttime Temperatures: At night, temperatures drop drastically, often falling below -5°C. It is essential to have a suitable sleeping bag for these conditions.