Ausangate Rainbow Mountain 4 days

Daily program

Itinerary

DAY 1

CUSCO/QUIMSACOCHA/APACHETA

This early morning our minivan will drive us from Cuzco (3326m, 10912.07ft) to Upis (4400m, 14435.7ft). We will relax and acclimatize to the higher altitude for a while. A 6-hour hike takes us across Quimsacocha (4797m, 15738.19ft). We hike through a variety of landscapes. The Ausangate region is very colorful with its four lagoons: YANACOCHA, VINOCOCHA, HUCHUYPUCACOCHA, HATUNPUCACOCHA. Then we continue to the Apacheta (4756m, 15603.67ft) area where we arrive for camping and overnight. This is the longest day, with an almost 1000m climb. It looks difficult, but it is worth it.

SNACKS, LUNCH & DINNER

ACCOM: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES) – 01

DAY 2

K’AYRAWIRE/RAINBOW MOUNTAIN/ALQATARWI

After breakfast, our trip brings us more surprises. We will meet native communities of Quechua-speaking Inca descendants that use the vast altiplano. We will see snowcapped mountains, shepherd’s paths, alpacas, and maybe the Andean condor on the way to the landscape of Vinicunca. A 2-hour more hike takes us toward Alqatarwi, where we will camp for the night.

BREAKFAST. LUNCH & DINNER

ACCOM: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES) – 01

DAY 3

ALQATARWI/PUCAPUNTA(RED FACES)

This day, after seeing a variety of colorful lagoons and scenery, we will do a long, steady climb with plenty of rest stops. We take the trail to another mountain pass, dropping down by Puca punta. We continue as far as we can towards the red sandstone formations. We will return, camp, and stay overnight.

BREAKFAST, LUNCH & DINNER

ACCOM: CAMPING (WITH BASIC FACILITIES) – 01

DAY 4

OSQOLLOÑAN (CAT WATERFALL)/CUSCO

Here we will see vicuñas and maybe the famous Andean condor. To shorten the climb, this is a relatively short day and we eventually encounter the waterfall of OSQOLLOÑAN, (CAT WATERFALL). We will have had a marvelous time and arrive in Cusco.

BREAKFAST & LUNCH

What's included

Inclusions & Exclusions

Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain 4days Included:

Services of expert guides in high-mountain treks.
Private transport round trip from your hotel in Cusco.
Accommodation: 3 nights of camping in tents.
Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 4 Lunches, 3 Dinners, and daily snacks.
Waterproof bags for personal belongings.
First aid kit and emergency oxygen.

Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain 4days Does Not Include:

Flights to and from Peru / Cusco.
Transport before or after the program.
Sleeping Bag (can be rented).
Tips for the staff (guide, cook, horsemen).

Choose your package

Prices

EXTRAS & UPGRADES

Sleeping Bag – $20 USD per person per trek (Warm, clean, and rated for high-altitude temperatures. Essential if you don’t have your own — nights on the Ausangate circuit regularly drop below freezing)
Trekking Poles – $15 USD per pair per trek (Professional-grade, adjustable poles that provide crucial support on the steep high-altitude passes. Highly recommended for this trek)
Air Mattress / Sleeping Pad – $20 USD per person per trek (Insulated from the cold ground at campsites above 4,600 m. Significantly improves comfort and warmth during the night)
Personal Tent (Single Occupancy Upgrade) – $30 USD per person per trek (Standard tents sleep 2 people. Request a single-occupancy tent at the time of booking for extra privacy and comfort)
Emergency Horse – $80 USD per person per trek (Available for any trekker who needs assistance due to altitude sickness, injury, or fatigue. A deposit is required at the time of booking. Strongly recommended for first-time high-altitude trekkers)
Upis & Pacchanta Hot Springs Entry – $3 USD per person (~10 soles — A well-earned soak in the natural thermal pools at the foot of Ausangate on Day 1 and the final day of the trek. Pay directly on-site in cash)
Red Valley Extension – $15 USD per person (Add a guided hike into the dramatic Red Valley on Day 4, before or after visiting Rainbow Mountain. A surreal Mars-like landscape that relatively few trekkers see)
Rainbow Mountain Entrance Fee – $5 USD per person (~20 soles — Paid to local farming communities who manage access to Vinicunca / Rainbow Mountain. Cash only; included in some packages, separate in others — confirm at booking)
Porter Upgrade – Extra Luggage – $25 USD per person per trek (Standard service includes porter carry of up to 7 kg / 16 lbs of your gear in a provided duffel bag. This upgrade allows an additional 5 kg / 11 lbs)
Hotel Accommodation in Cusco – Pre-Trek Night – from $30 USD per person (We can arrange an overnight in Cusco the night before departure to ensure an easy early morning pickup. Prices vary depending on category — budget, mid-range, or superior)

Pricing & Availability – Ausangate Rainbow Mountain 4 Days

The Ausangate Rainbow Mountain 4 Day trek departs daily, year-round, subject to a minimum of 2 trekkers per departure. High season runs from May to September. A 2–3 day acclimatization period in Cusco is strongly recommended before departure. An early evening pre-trek briefing at our office takes place the day before departure.

GROUP SERVICE

$549 USD per person
Personal porter is included in the price (carries up to 7 kg / 16 lbs)
Discount of $30 USD per person for groups of 5 or more persons

PRIVATE SERVICE

$749 USD per person – 2 persons
$649 USD per person – 3 to 4 persons
$579 USD per person – 5 to 6 persons
$549 USD per person – 7 to 8 persons

DISCOUNTS

Students (18–25 years old): $30 USD discount. Information required from the student card: name of university, student name, photo, and expiration date. A copy of the card is required at booking.
Under 18 years old: $30 USD discount. Please send a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Under 11 years old: $40 USD discount. Please send a copy of your passport at the time of booking. Note: this trek involves altitudes above 5,000 m and is not recommended for children under 8.

Important Notes: The Ausangate circuit reaches a maximum altitude of approximately 5,200 m / 17,060 ft, making proper acclimatization non-negotiable. There is no mobile phone reception along the route — our guides carry a satellite phone for emergencies. No permits are required for this trek (unlike the Inca Trail), but Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley entrance fees must be paid in cash on-site. Tips for guides, cooks, porters, and muleteers are optional but warmly appreciated.

PERSONAL CLOTHING

Long-sleeved shirts: Bring 2-3 for layering and sun protection.
Walking pants: Two pairs of comfortable, durable hiking pants.
Polar or thermal clothing: A top and bottom set is essential for the cold nights.
Sweater and Warm jacket: A fleece sweater and an insulated, windproof/waterproof jacket.
Thermal sleeping clothes: A dedicated set of clean, warm clothes to wear inside your sleeping bag.
Hiking boots: Waterproof, with good ankle support, and fully broken-in.
Waterproof pants and jacket: An essential outer shell for protection against rain or snow.
Cotton pants: Comfortable pants to wear at the campsite after hiking.
Wool gloves: Warm, insulated gloves are necessary for cold temperatures.
Scarf: Or a neck gaiter/buff for warmth and sun/wind protection.
Wool socks for sleeping: A thick, clean pair of socks to keep your feet warm at night.
Hat or cap for the sun: And a warm beanie for the cold mornings and nights.

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT

Sleeping Bag: A four-season bag rated for cold temperatures (e.g., -10°C / 14°F) is required.
Water bottle for the first day: Bring at least a 1.5-liter reusable bottle.
Water tablets (Micropur): To purify water from streams as a backup.
Memory Cards: Bring extras, as there is no place to charge electronics.
Toiletries and first aid: Include your personal medications, blister care, and basics.
Binoculars: Recommended for viewing wildlife and distant peaks.
Sunglasses: High UV protection is critical at high altitudes.
Sunscreen: High SPF (50+) is necessary.
Lip balm: With SPF to prevent chapped lips from sun and wind.
Hiking poles: Highly recommended to reduce strain on your knees.
Flashlight: A headlamp is best for hands-free use at camp.
Pocket knife: A small multi-tool can be useful.
Bottle or canteen: To carry water during the day. Boiled water will be provided to refill.
Plastic bag: To keep wet or dirty clothes separate and protect electronics.
Small backpack: A daypack (25-35 liters) to carry your daily essentials (water, snacks, jacket, etc.).

Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek

When to Visit The recommended time to do this trek is during the Andean dry season, which runs from May to September. This period provides the best chance for clear skies and stable weather, although conditions can still change quickly.

Recommendations

This is a serious high-altitude trek. Do not attempt it without proper acclimatization and physical preparation.
Ensure your travel insurance specifically covers trekking up to 5,000 meters and includes emergency helicopter evacuation.
Rent or bring high-quality gear, especially a warm sleeping bag and waterproof hiking boots.

Climate The climate is of the high Andes. Expect intense sun, strong winds, and very cold temperatures. Days can be pleasant while walking in the sun, but temperatures drop instantly in the shade or when clouds appear. Nights are consistently below freezing.

Local People The Ausangate region is home to some of the last remaining pastoralist communities in the Andes. These Quechua-speaking people live a traditional lifestyle herding llamas and alpacas. Be respectful of their land and customs.

How to Prepare for the Tour You must have a high level of cardiovascular fitness. Prepare by doing long-distance hikes with elevation gain for several weeks or months before your trip. Being physically and mentally prepared for challenging conditions is key.

Recommended Age Due to the extreme altitude and physical demands, this trek is recommended for experienced adult hikers, generally between the ages of 18 and 60, who are in excellent health. It is not suitable for children.

How to Acclimatize Proper acclimatization is mandatory. You must spend at least three full days in Cusco (3,400m) or a similar high-altitude location before starting. This is the most critical step to prevent serious altitude sickness and ensure you can complete the trek safely. During this time, rest, stay hydrated, and eat moderately.

How difficult is this trek? This is a difficult and demanding trek. It involves long daily hikes at very high altitudes with significant elevation changes and is only suitable for people in excellent physical condition.

Do I need previous trekking experience? Yes, previous experience with multi-day, high-altitude hiking is strongly recommended. This trek is not for beginners.

What are the sleeping arrangements? Accommodation is in mountain tents for three nights. A foam sleeping mat is usually provided, but you must bring your own warm sleeping bag.

What is the highest altitude on the trek? The trek consistently stays above 4,400 meters (14,435 ft). The highest passes will be close to 5,000 meters (16,400 ft).

Are meals provided? Yes, all meals are provided from lunch on Day 1 through lunch on Day 4. The food is prepared by a designated cook.

How cold will it be? Very cold, especially at night. Temperatures can easily drop to -10°C (14°F) or colder. You must be prepared with appropriate cold-weather clothing and a four-season sleeping bag.

Is there a toilet at the campsites? A portable toilet tent is set up at each campsite for the group’s private use.

What is the best time of year to do the Ausangate trek? The dry season, from May to September, is the best time. This period offers the most stable and dry weather, though nights will still be very cold.

Do I have to carry all of my gear? You will only carry a small daypack with personal items like water, snacks, sunscreen, and a jacket. Pack animals (horses or mules) carry the larger equipment, food, and the rest of your personal luggage.

Will I have a chance to see the Rainbow Mountain? Yes, a visit to the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) is included in the itinerary on the second day of the trek.

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