Ausangate Trek 5D/4N

Duration

5D/4N

Difficulty

Difficult

Group

from 2 to 8 people

Recommended Age

All ages

The Ausangate Trek is one of the most breathtaking high-altitude adventures in the Cusco region. This 5-day journey takes you around the sacred Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m / 20,945 ft), the fifth-highest peak in Peru and a place of great spiritual significance for local communities.

Known for its stunning landscapes, the trek passes through remote Andean villages, turquoise lakes, glaciers, colorful valleys, and natural hot springs. Along the way, you will also encounter herds of alpacas and llamas, and enjoy the hospitality of the local highland people.

This trek is a physically demanding experience due to its altitude and challenging terrain, but it rewards adventurers with some of the most spectacular scenery in the Andes. It is the ideal choice for those seeking a combination of nature, culture, and adventure away from the crowds.

Itinerary

What you will do and explore with us

Day 1

Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui – Upis

Your adventure begins with an early morning departure from Cusco, traveling by private transport through the fertile valleys and traditional Andean villages that line the road toward the Vilcanota mountain range. After approximately 3.5 hours, you will arrive at Tinqui (3,900 m / 12,795 ft), a small highland town and the official starting point of the Ausangate trek.
From here, the trail gradually ascends through open landscapes dotted with herds of llamas and alpacas, with the majestic Ausangate Mountain towering in the distance. The crisp Andean air and wide horizons create a sense of both peace and anticipation as you move deeper into the highlands.
By late afternoon, you will reach Upis (4,400 m / 14,435 ft), located right at the base of the sacred Ausangate. This will be your campsite for the night, offering one of the most spectacular views of the snow-capped peak. Nearby, you will also find the Upis hot springs, where you may relax your muscles after the first day’s hike while gazing at the dramatic mountain scenery.
Dinner will be served at camp, prepared by the trekking team with local ingredients to give you a nourishing and authentic Andean meal. The evening is free to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the mountains before resting for the night in your tent, surrounded by the silence of the Andes.

Day 2

Day 2: Upis – Pucacocha Lakes

After an energizing breakfast at camp, the journey continues along high-altitude trails framed by the immense Ausangate massif. The landscape is dotted with grazing alpacas and llamas, their presence adding charm and authenticity to the experience. As you ascend, the crisp mountain air and panoramic views remind you that you are walking through one of the most sacred regions of the Andes.
The trail gradually leads to Arapa Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft), the first significant mountain pass of the trek. From this vantage point, you will be rewarded with sweeping views of rugged peaks, glacial valleys, and the endless expanse of the Vilcanota range. After taking in the views and catching your breath, you’ll begin a descent toward a region famous for its high-Andean lakes.
This section of the trek is one of the most scenic, as the path winds past a series of dazzling lagoons whose turquoise and deep blue waters reflect the surrounding snow-capped peaks. You’ll visit Hatun Pucacocha, Huchuy Pucacocha, and Qomercocha, each one offering unique perspectives and excellent opportunities for photography. The stillness of the lakes and the sheer beauty of their surroundings create an almost otherworldly atmosphere.
By late afternoon, you will arrive at the Pucacocha campsite, set near the lakes and offering breathtaking views of Ausangate. Dinner will be served at camp, followed by a quiet evening under the stars. With minimal light pollution, this is one of the best places to admire the brilliance of the Milky Way, making the experience even more unforgettable.
Overnight camping by the lakes.

Day 3

Day 3: Pucacocha – Palomani Pass – Huchuy Phinaya

After an early breakfast, the trek continues with the gradual ascent toward Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the entire Ausangate circuit. This demanding section is both challenging and rewarding, as the trail climbs through rugged high-altitude terrain surrounded by glaciers and colorful mountains. Step by step, you’ll make your way to the top, where the thin air is matched only by the grandeur of the scenery.
At the summit, you will be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of Ausangate in all its majesty, along with neighboring snow-capped peaks and expansive valleys that stretch into the horizon. This is a perfect spot to pause, take photographs, and appreciate the immensity of the Andean landscape.
The descent leads into the peaceful valley of Huchuy Phinaya, where time seems to stand still. Here, you will encounter herders living in traditional stone houses, caring for their alpacas and llamas in a way that has been passed down through generations. The valley offers a unique glimpse into the resilience and traditions of high-Andean life, far from modern distractions.
By late afternoon, the camp will be set up in this remote and tranquil valley. As evening falls, enjoy a well-deserved dinner prepared by the trekking team and rest under the clear Andean sky, surrounded by silence and the distant presence of Ausangate.
Overnight camping in Huchuy Phinaya.

Day 4

Day 4: Huchuy Phinaya – Jampa Pass – Pacchanta

After breakfast in the quiet valley of Huchuy Phinaya, the journey continues with a gradual ascent toward Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,630 ft). The trail winds through breathtaking mountain scenery, where towering glaciers and colorful peaks dominate the horizon. Along the way, herds of alpacas and llamas can often be seen grazing peacefully, adding to the authenticity of this high-Andean landscape.
Upon reaching the pass, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of snowcapped mountains and glacial valleys stretching out in all directions. From this vantage point, the sheer beauty and immensity of the Vilcanota Range is on full display.
The route then descends toward the serene Qampa Lake, a turquoise lagoon surrounded by ice-capped summits. This hidden gem offers a perfect spot to rest, take photographs, and absorb the tranquility of nature before continuing the trek.
In the afternoon, the trail leads to Pacchanta Village, a welcoming Andean community renowned for its natural hot springs. After days of trekking at high altitude, a relaxing bath in the thermal waters is the ideal way to rejuvenate both body and spirit while gazing at the magnificent Ausangate towering in the background.
Dinner will be served at camp, and the night will be spent under the star-filled Andean sky, marking the final evening of this unforgettable trek.
Overnight camping in Pacchanta.

Day 5

Day 5: Pacchanta – Tinqui – Cusco

After an early breakfast and a final view of the majestic Ausangate, the trek begins with an easy and pleasant hike back to Tinqui Village (approx. 3 hours). The path gradually descends through open highlands and traditional farmlands, offering a last glimpse of the Andean landscapes, where local herders and their alpacas accompany the scenery.
Upon arrival in Tinqui (4,000 m / 13,120 ft), the trekking team will bid farewell, and you will board your private transport back to Cusco. The drive crosses picturesque valleys and Andean villages, providing one more chance to appreciate the diversity of Peru’s highlands.
Arrival in Cusco is scheduled for the afternoon, marking the end of this unforgettable Ausangate Trek, filled with breathtaking landscapes, cultural encounters, and the unmatched beauty of the Andes.

Includes

Professional trekking guide (English/Spanish).
Private transport (Cusco – Tinqui – Cusco).
Entrance fees to Ausangate region.
Horses and horsemen for carrying camping equipment.
Camping equipment: tents, mats, cooking gear.
Meals during the trek (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks).
Cook and muleteer support team.
Emergency horse for assistance.
First aid kit and oxygen.

Not Included

Sleeping bag (available for rent).
Trekking poles (available for rent).
Extra expenses and tips.
Personal snacks and drinks.
Travel insurance.

Recommendations

Acclimatize in Cusco at least 2–3 days before the trek.
Good physical condition is required due to altitude and long hiking days.
Bring warm clothing (temperatures can drop below 0°C at night).
Waterproof jacket, gloves, hat, and layered clothing are essential.
Comfortable trekking boots are a must.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm, and insect repellent recommended.
A camera to capture breathtaking landscapes.

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