Ausangate trek & Rainbow mountain 5 Days | 4 Nights

Challenging

Culture

Adventure

Immersion

Travel to Cusco and go on the pilgrimage of the sacred mountains: Rainbow mountain (Vinicunca) and Ausangate mountain in the Peruvian Andes.

Ausangate (6,398 m) is the most representative mountain of the Andes in the Cusco region and its surroundings offer breathtaking landscapes of mountains, glaciers, lakes and rivers. Moreover, the Andean people are very welcoming and they have retained all their respect for nature. Farmers have excellent skills in raising cattle, vicuñas, alpacas and llamas, which are valued for the quality of their wool and meat. The 3-hour drive from Cusco to Tinqui is excellent preparation for the changes in temperature and altitude as well as to observe Andean life.

Tour highlights

Explore vibrant Andean landscapes on an unforgettable Ausangate hike.
Discover the diverse flora and fauna of the Vilcanota mountain range.
Engage with local communities, participate in their activities, and gain insights into their organic farming methods.
Challenge yourself to reach the summit of Rainbow Mountain and go beyond your limits.

Itinerary

Inclusions

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Day 1 : Cusco – Tinqui – Upis – Arapa pass – Yanacocha

After picking you up from your accommodation at about 5.30 am in our private vehicle, we’ll drive for about 3 hours to the Tinqui community (4050m/13287 ft). At this point, you’ll meet the rest of the team: cooks and muleteers as well as the horses and mules that will help us carry our equipment and belongings. After loading the animals, the trek starts with a gradual ascent of 2 hours towards the Upis community (4400m/14435ft). Here, we’ll make a stop for lunch and to recover our energy as we are going to continue ascending to the Arapa pass (4800m/15748ft). Then, we’ll go downhill to get to Yanacocha (4500m/14763 ft), where we’ll camp for the night.

Transportation time: 3h
Walking time: 6h approx.
Distance: 12 Km
Difficulty level: challenging
Meals: L = lunch, D = dinner.
Overnight: tent
Climate: mild during the day and cold at night.
Elevation: Cusco (3,400m) – Tinqui (4,050m) - Upis (4,400m) – Arapa pass (4,800m) – Yanacocha (4,500m).

Day 2: Yanacocha – Pucacocha pass - Anantapata

After a healthy protein breakfast made by our cook, we’ll continue with our trek to discover amazing colourful lakes on our way to the Pucacocha pass (4900m/16076ft). Then, we’ll make our way to Anantapata (4750m/15583ft), where we’ll spend the night.

Walking time: 7h approx.
Distance: 12 Km
Difficulty level: challenge
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner.
Overnight: tent
Climate: mild during the day and cold at night.
Elevation: Yanacocha (4,500m) – Pucacocha pass (4,900m) - Anantapata (3,750m).

Day 3: Anantapata – Rainbow mountain, Vinicunca – Ausangate cocha

After having breakfast, we’ll follow the path around the Kayrawiri lake characterised by its peaks and great valley. Then the path will take us to the top of Rainbow mountain at 5200 masl. After enjoying the place and taking photos, we’ll head to our lunch spot. Along the way, you’ll see the Andean geese nesting in the Anantapa cliffs from where we’ll descend to the Ausangate Cocha campsite.

Walking time: 7h approx.
Distance: 12 Km
Difficulty level: challenging
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner.
Overnight: tent
Climate: mild during the day and cold at night.
Elevation: Anantapata (3,750m) – Rainbow mountain (5,200m) – Ausangate cocha (4,650m).

Day 4: Ausangate cocha – Palomani pass – Jampa

On this day, you’ll make it to the highest pass: Palomani (5100masl). From this point, we’ll get a spectacular panoramic view of the snow-capped mountain Ausangate. Our path will take us to Finaya Pampa (4400masl) where you’ll see a variety of Anden camelids: alpacas, llamas and vicuñas and we are lucky enough, we’ll get to see some condors too. From here, we’ll walk to our Jampa campsite (4700masl). Walking time: 7h approx. Distance: 12 Km Difficulty level: challenging Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch, D = dinner. Overnight: tent Climate: mild during the day and cold at night. Elevation: Ausangate cocha (4,650m) – Palomani pass (5,100m) – Jampa (4,700m).

Day 5: Jampa – Campa pass – Pacchanta – Cusco

After breakfast, the highlight of the morning is the spectacular ascent amidst a cinematic backdrop of peaks and mountains to the Campa Pass (5,050 m). In addition, we will go very close to several lakes of different colours, which are part of a lake circuit. Pacchanta (4,350m) is the place for lunch. After enjoying and relaxing at the hot springs, we’ll return to Cusco.

Transportation time: 3h 30m
Walking time: 7h approx.
Distance: 13 Km
Difficulty level: challenging
Meals: B = breakfast, L = lunch.
Overnight: on your own
Climate: warm during the day.
Elevation: Jampa (4,700m) – Campa pass (5,050m) - Pacchanta (4,350m) – Cusco (3,400m).

Informative briefing in your accommodation 1 or 2 days before the hike. We’ll confirm the details after booking is made.
Private transportation from your accommodation in Cusco to Tinqui, the beginning of the hike.
Private transportation to return to Cusco and drop off at your accommodation.
Rainbow mountain and Red Valley and Ausangate park entrance fees.
Camping gear: 2-people professional tents (Doite Pro Aconcagua 3 or Eureka tent), mats, toilet and utility tents (toilet, kitchen and dining tents with tables and chairs).
Cook.
Kitchen gear.
Meals: breakfasts, lunches and dinner. We pay special attention to dietary restrictions (vegetarian, vegan and allergies). Meals are prepared by an expert cook and they include: pancakes, omelettes, soups, spaghetti, rice, chicken, fish, beef, fresh fruit, hot drinks (including coca leaves infusions which are great for altitude) among others.
Professional, bilingual tour guide (English-Spanish). For other languages contact us in advance. Bear in mind there may be extra charges.
Boiled water to refill your water bottles.
Hand biodegradable liquid soap.
Biodegradable dishwasher for the kitchen gear.
Hot water for personal use in the camp in the morning and evening.
Muleteer and mules to transport the camping gear and food.
Transportation of participant’s personal bags (up to 8kg, including the sleeping bag).
A safety horse during the hike.
Duffel bag for personal use.
Trekking poles.
First-aid kit (including oximeter and thermometer) and oxygen bottle.

Recommendations

The hike previously described may vary due to weather conditions, landslides, participants’ walking pace, or other factors. Our professional guide will make the right and best decisions along the way for the benefit and safety of the group.
Understanding that the weather is unpredictable, and due to the fact that it’s cold and wet, once your belongings get wet, it will be very difficult to dry them during the night. It’s important to bring extra clothes and socks.
During this trek we’ll reach 5,200 masl. This combined with the weather conditions can make the daily hiking even harder. To enjoy the trek better, we recommend you to be healthy and in good physical condition and to acclimatize in Cusco for at least 3 days before the trek.
Camping sites: The camping sites on the route may vary from those described in our itinerary, due to the limited number of campsites that are known to the general public. Our guide and representative will recommend to the group the best option given the circumstances.

Optional services to be hired

Extra Porter / Horseman: In accordance with the law (31614) of the Ministry of Labour, the collaboration of an extra porter will be granted at the request of the client. However, the customer’s luggage must not exceed 12 kilograms. The service of an extra porter/horseman has a cost of 140 USD, which includes transportation, entrance to the Inca Trail, food, and camping equipment.

Note: The group of Porters/Horsemen and horses are only present in the trekking part.

What we recommend that you bring

An ergonomic day backpack for hiking with waterproof cover (30 or 40 liters).
A waterproof backpack. Otherwise, request a duffel bag from your agency for carrying your personal belongings on the horse.
Sleeping bag (-10º degrees).
Clothing for cold and hot weather.
Waterproof jacket, rain pants, light pants, rain poncho, hat, or cap.
Hiking shoes.
Flip flops or sandals (for showers and hot springs in Aguas Calientes).
Wool or cotton socks.
T-shirts with short and long sleeves.
Towel (easy dry) and swimsuit (in case you want to relax in the hot mineral spring).
Sunblock.
Anti-mosquito spray – minimum recommended 20% DEET (non-toxic – we suggest nature-friendly repellents). No malaria risk has been reported.
Anti-itch cream.
Disinfectant hand gel.
Toilet paper.
Plastic or metal water container and water-sterilizing tablets in case you pick up water from streams or rivers along the route. Otherwise, we provide filtered boiled water, which is safe to drink.
Camera (wrapped in a plastic pouch).
Flashlight and spare batteries.
Snacks, like chocolate bars and dried fruits.
Original passport.
Original ISIC Student Card (in case you have applied for a student discount).
Extra money in soles.

Optional: Walking sticks or poles are recommended, which can help you reduce the amount of time you spend pounding the trail, taking the pressure off your joints.

During high season (May to September), it is difficult to ensure the exact date of entry, due to the restrictions set by the Ministry of Culture to limit the number of entries to the Inca Trail and Machu Picchu; therefore, the date of entry to the Inca Trail could vary for one or two days. We will adapt the program so you can make the most of it.

Entrance tickets to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain: To hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountain, it is required to book well in advance, because the entrance tickets are limited to a certain number of people daily. Therefore, we’ll take care of the reservation and confirm your entrance with an additional charge of $75 USD for adults and $55 USD for students.

Note: If you wish to visit any of the extra mountains, please inform us in due time before purchasing the entrance tickets to the Machu Picchu citadel.

A solidarity trip: Feel free to bring pens, notebooks, picture books, or other school supplies to give to the children’s community school. The villagers will be very grateful. You can also buy bread on the way to share with the locals you meet.

Tips: Tips for porters, cooks, and guides are always welcome. Porters are also very grateful for a small donation, such as school clothes or supplies for their children.

Cancellation policy: For any cancellation, the costs already incurred by the travel agency will be at your expense. For more details on the cost of cancellations by certain participants, please refer to articles 6, 6.4, and our cancellation policies in the sales terms and conditions.

For more information, you may wish to check or consult our FAQ, Safe and Healthy Travel, and Flexible Booking with Explorandino.

In December 2021, Explorandino obtained the TourCert certification for its “Sustainable Management System for Tour Operators” guided by the criteria and guidelines of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC).

Our approach highlights the richness of culture and natural beauty. Each tourist experience is a chance to preserve and showcase cultural heritage while promoting practices that regenerate the natural environment.

We collaborate closely with diverse stakeholders to develop a model that benefits all. From respecting local communities to conserving biodiversity, each action represents a stride toward more responsible tourism.

Why Book Early?

Spots for the best Machu Picchu experiences fill up fast! Securing your visit to the essential circuits of the citadel, perfect for capturing stunning photos and videos.

Machu Picchu is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (1983) and one of the New Seven Wonders of the World (2007). To protect its rich history and cultural significance, the Peruvian government enforces strict visitor limits. Plan your visit early to ensure you experience this breathtaking marvel while preserving its legacy for future generations. Don’t miss out—book now to guarantee your adventure.

Updated Machu Picchu Circuits for Better Visitor Management

The Ministry of Culture of Peru has revised the circuits in the Inca city of Machu Picchu to enhance visitor capacity management. Effective from June 1st to October 15th, and on December 30th and 31st, 2024, three new circuits comprising 10 different routes will be in place to explore Machu Picchu. These new routes aim to streamline visits and offer a better experience while preserving the integrity of this ancient site.

Visitor Capacity and Booking Information Machu Picchu Citadel:

Daily Capacity: Ministerial Resolution N° 000528-2023-MC allows up to 4,500 visitors per day, with a potential increase to 5,600 during high season (May to September). To secure your spot, especially during peak season, book at least 3 months in advance.
Low Season (October to April): Although there may be more availability, it’s always wise to book ahead to ensure your preferred date and time.

Tourist Circuits:

Machu Picchu offers several circuits to manage the visitor flow and enhance your experience:

Circuit 1 (Panoramic)

This circuit offers the iconic postcard photo from the Guardian’s House viewpoint, with panoramic views of the main Inca structures. It is divided into 4 optional routes:

Route 1-A: Machu Picchu Mountain – Visit the Lower and Upper Platforms for views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban zone, then continue towards Machu Picchu Mountain.
Route 1-B: Upper Terrace – Explore the Lower and Upper Platforms with views of the Vilcanota River, Waynapicchu Mountain, and the urban area.
Route 1-C: Intipunku Gate (available only in high season) – Start at the Lower and Upper Platforms for scenic views, then proceed to the Intipunku Gate.
Route 1-D: Inca Bridge (available only in high season) – Begin with the Lower and Upper Platforms, followed by a path to the Inca Bridge, offering picturesque views of the Cusco rainforest.

Circuit 2 (Classic Machu Picchu)

Explore the classic route through the entire Machu Picchu citadel, perfect for capturing the iconic photo of the city. This circuit is divided into 2 sub-routes:

Route 2-A: Designed Route – Includes the Temple of the Sun viewpoint, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.
Route 2-B: Lower Terrace Route – Covers the Lower Platform, Granite Chaos, Plaza of the Temples, Sacred Rock, and the water mirrors complex.

Circuit 3 (Royal Machu Picchu)

Discover the lower sections of the archaeological site with this circuit, offering four optional routes to explore prominent features like the summit of Huayna Picchu, the Great Cavern, or Huchuy Picchu:

Route 3-A: Huayna Picchu Route – Begin with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huayna Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip). On the return, visit the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
Route 3-B: Designed Royalty Route – Explore the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, Three Doorways sector, the water mirrors complex, and the Temple of the Condor.
Route 3-C: Great Cavern Route (High Season Only) – Visit the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Proceed to the Great Cavern (3 km round trip). On the return, explore the Temple of the Condor and the water mirrors complex.
Route 3-D: Huchuy Picchu Route (High Season Only) – Start with the Agricultural Sector, Temple of the Sun, Inca’s House, ceremonial fountains, and the Three Doorways sector. Continue to Huchuy Picchu Mountain (2.4 km round trip), and on the way back, visit the water mirrors complex and the Temple of the Condor.

For Better Orientation, Explore Our Circuit Maps:

To enhance your visit, we provide detailed maps of the various circuits at Machu Picchu. These maps will help you navigate the site and make the most of your experience. Discover the various Machu Picchu circuits and pick the adventure that suits you best. Explore your options here.

Alternative Treks:

If Inca Trail permits are unavailable, consider these stunning alternatives:

Lares Valley Trek: A culturally rich trek through Andean villages, providing an immersive experience of local traditions and stunning natural beauty. This route also doesn’t require permits and offers a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Salkantay Trek: A challenging and scenic route offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and highland landscapes. No permits are required, but early booking ensures the best spots and guides.
Choquequirao Trek, Ausangate Trek, and More: Explore the Peruvian Andes like never before with our Choquequirao and Ausangate Treks. These innovative routes uncover the rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty of the region. Journey beyond Machu Picchu and immerse yourself in the true heart of Peru. Embark on an extraordinary adventure today!

Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain:

Additional Hiking Options: For those seeking an extra adventure, climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain offers stunning panoramic views.
Limited Tickets: To preserve these trails, daily entrance is limited. Advance booking is essential.

Huayna Picchu Mountain: Limited to 200 people per day.
Machu Picchu Mountain: Limited to 400 people per day.

Cost: We can handle your reservation with an additional charge of $75 USD for adults and $55 USD for students.

Booking Tips:

Machu Picchu Entrance: The most sought-after entry options for Machu Picchu (Circuits 2 & 3) are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To secure your visit, especially during peak season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain entrance: Admission options to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain are in high demand and tend to sell out quickly. To ensure your visit, especially during the high season (May to September), we recommend booking at least 3 months in advance.
High Season (May to September): Secure your place well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Low Season (October to April): While there may be more availability, booking early ensures your preferred dates and accommodations.

Why Choose Explorandino?

At Explorandino, we simplify your booking process and design unforgettable adventures that cater to your adventurous spirit. Whether you choose treks like the Lares Valley, Salkantay, or other unique routes with or without Machu Picchu citadel, our expert guides and seamless logistics guarantee a memorable, worry-free experience.

Ready to Explore?

Click here to book your adventure and secure your place among the wonders of Machu Picchu!

Don’t miss out!

Act now to experience the breathtaking beauty of Peruvian Culture and the rich history of Machu Picchu. Book with Explorandino and travel with confidence.

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6 valoraciones en Ausangate trek & Rainbow mountain 5 Days | 4 Nights

Valorado con 5 de 5

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Travel to Peru

Travel and Tours in Cuzco

Theme Trips & Activities

Inca Trails to Machupicchu

Lares Valley trek, a living Inca Culture

Salkantay Trekking

Choquequirao Treks

Ausangate Treks

Cachicata trek, origin of the stone

Explore Peruvian Culture

Travel to Machu Picchu by train

Soft trekking tours

Mountain biking & hiking tours

Travel with your loved ones