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Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek 6 Days

Duration:

6 days - 5 nights

Max. Altitude:

2730 M.S.N.M

Group Size:

8 person(s)

Service:

Group

Overview

Mount Ausangate (6,377mts/20,921ft) is the highest and most sacred mountain in Southern Peru, which for centuries has been central to the religious beliefs of the Andean people. With spectacular glacial views, uninterrupted beauty and solitude, this is a spectacular trip for seasoned trekkers who love outdoor adventures. Hiking completely around this mountain, we will camp near hot springs and blue lakes inhabited by numerous bird species, including Andean goose and the mighty Andean condor. As you trek, you will walk amongst herds of llamas and alpacas in secluded Andean villages. A new added feature to the itinerary of the Mt. Ausangate trek is the opportunity to visit and marvel at the natural colors of the Rainbow Mountain.  The Rainbow mountain trek offers a selection of wildlife; including soaring condors, vicuñas and Cara Cara falcons. The colorful sandstone mountains in the Vinicunca area is probably the coolest thing you will ever see! During the adventure, you will be well taken care of by our professional team of English-speaking guides, cooks and horsemen with their mules. We also have an extra horses in case of emergenc, or sickness. Click on the link to find out more about our Ausangate Rainbow Trekking Experience!

Price from: 757USD Book Now Enquire Now
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Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui – Upis

Pick up at your hotel in Cusco at 6am in the morning, in our private transportation to the starting point of our trek at Tinqui. Give your duffel to the horseman who will load up the gear onto the pack horses, keeping only your daypack for the hike. Hike for the next 3 hours and enjoy lunch before continuing our hike to our first camp. Today we only hike for a few hours until we arrive at the village of Upis. Here, take the opportunity to soak in the hot springs, while enjoying coca tea, and relaxing your muscles until dinner.

  • Distance: 9.65km/ 6 miles
  • Elevation: 4,100m/ 13,450ft
  • Hiking time: 5 to 6  hours
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodations: camping

Day 2: Upis – Chillca

Awake early with hot coffee or tea brought to your tent. Get energized for the day ahead with a big, hot breakfast. This morning start with a hike up Arapa pass (4,958m/16,266ft). Later descend to our lunch spot near Puma Cocha – a deep blue lake and a perfect spot to enjoy the views while we enjoy another delicious and hearty meal. Along the hike, see local llama herdersAusangate Mountain range towering above us, our expert guide will explain the history and culture of the indigenous people of Ausangate as well as the landscape.

After lunch, hike up to the second pass, Pucacocha (5,000m/16,404ft) where, if we are lucky, we may see condors soaring above and vicuñas grazing in the wild. Descend to our campsite of Chillca where we will be surrounded by towering mountains and incredible glaciers. Here, we can also watch for the glaciers crashing into the lake below! The camp will be set up for you to change and rest your weary legs while dinner is being prepared.

  • Distance: 15km/ 9.3miles
  • Elevation: 4,300m/ 14,100ft
  • Hiking time: 7 hours
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodations: camping

Day 3: Chillca- Rainbow Mountain (5200m)- Lake Ausangate

Today, starts with Chillca pass (5,051m/16,571ft), a very colorful mountain but it’s just the beginning of what comes next! After crossing the pass you enter into the Red Mountain valley, a vast desert landscape with surrounding vibrant colors, and llamas grazing below. When we approach the top of the pass, have incredible views of the valleys below! From here, we descend to circle lake and continue walking along a trail until we are presented with our last climb to Rainbow Mountain. This natural, colorful phenomenon is beyond words! We will enjoy lunch in the surrounding area, head back down the valley to make our way to the beautiful Lake Ausangate, where camp will be set up and waiting for us to take a rest our weary bodies.

  • Distance: 20km/12.4miles
  • Elevation: 4,300m/14,107ft – 5,200m/17,060ft
  • Hiking time: 7-8 hours
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner
  • Accommodations: camping

Day 4: Lake Ausangate- Palomani Pass – Pampacancha

Hiking a shorter distance today, we pass beautiful small glacial lakes, lush green everglades, and walk along the edge of the river. Today, is a great day for spotting wildlife so we will keep an eye out for Condors, and Vicuñas! When we get to camp hot drinks and appetizers will be ready for you. The tents will again already be set up so you can settle in before dinner.

  • Distance: 17km/10.5miles
  • Elevation: 4,300m/14,107ft – 5,400m/17,716ft
  • Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours
  • Accommodations: camping
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 5: Pampacancha – Qampa Pass – Pacchanta (hot springs/ camping)

As we only have one pass to cross today, we will take it slow today to enjoy the deep blue lakes and colorful glacial lakes along the way. If you are brave, you are welcome to jump into the cold water and take a swim! Views of the massive Ausangate Mountain are visible, today you will get to enjoy them from a different angle along with views of Pacchanta Valley. Our goal is to get to the hot springs of Pacchanta, enjoy a nice, hot soak with the views of the Ausangate Mountain above.

  • Distance: 16k/10miles
  • Elevation: 4,300m/14,107ft- 5,400m/17,716ft
  • Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours
  • Accommodations: camping
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch & dinner

Day 6: Pacchanta – Tinqui

Take it easy today as we make our way back to the starting point of Tinqui,  walk on relatively flat ground and celebrate our accomplishments. Arrive at the village, have our final lunch on the trek while everything is packed up in our private transportation to head back to back to Cusco, you will be dropped off at your hotel around 5pm.

Note: This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions or other events which are beyond our control. We will always do our best to follow the itinerary as closely as possible.

  • Distance: 16k/10miles
  • Elevation: 4,000m (descending)
  • Hiking time: 3 – 4 hours
  • Accommodations: camping
  • Meals: breakfast, lunch

WHAT IS INCLUDED:

  • Private transportation to and from the trek
  • Professional English-speaking guide
  • Meals as indicated
  • 7kgs personal luggage allowance to put on the horses
  • Personal duffel bags for your extra luggage to put on the horses
  • Spacious tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, kitchen tent, latrine tent
  • Horses to carry the group equipment (food, tents, tables, etc.)
  • Emergency horse in case you are tired or feel ill
  • Emergency Oxygen bottle and first aid kit
  • Tips for the crew, guide and cook of ORANGE NATION PERU

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED:   

  • Sleeping Bag –$25 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress –$25 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles –$20 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent -$30 USD – (Please request when you book your trek)
  • Breakfast on the 1st day
  • Dinner on the 6th day

The Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek is available to depart any day of the week as long as we have two people!

No. OF PEOPLEPRICE
2 to 8 people$ 757 USD per person

***This price includes the extra porter who will carry your belongings up to 7kgs. We provide you a duffel bag, in which to put your belonggings.

***We provide large Eureka 4 person tents for each 2 trekkers.

DISCOUNTS

  • Group of 5 or more: $30 USD – All you need is to book the trek together at the same time.

EXTRAS

  • Sleeping Bag –$25 USD per person per trek (It will be clean and warm)
  • Air Mattress –$25 USD per person per trek (Therm-a-rest mattresses)
  • Walking Poles –$20 USD per pair per trek (Professional Poles that can be extended)
  • Personal tent- $30 USD – (Tent for solo trekkers only)

ADDED VALUES FOR FREE

  • Foam mattresses
  • Camping pillow
  • Transfer from the airport to your hotel (Cusco only)
  • Boiled water for drinking purposes
  • Personal porter included
  • Duffle bags and liner bags
  • Thick warm blanket to put over the sleeping bag
  • Hot water bottles to put into your sleeping bag so you can sleep like a baby

Please read the following information carefully. It will help with your questions about our services and the Ausangate Trek.

ARRIVAL TO CUSCO

We will pick you up from the Cusco airport and take you to your hotel in Cusco. Please let us know your flight details at least 14 days before arrival. Our representative will be holding an orange sign reading ORANGE Nation outside the arrivals. You must exit the terminal to find our representative as they cannot enter. (Please let us know if your hotel is in the Sacred Valley so we can make the necessary arrangments). 

THE BRIEFING

The Briefing will be at 6pm at our office which is located at Garcilaso Street 210 , Office Nº:213 (2and Floor) in the la CASA DEL ABUELO shopping center.

CAN I STORE MY LUGGAGE AT YOUR OFFICE?

ABSOLUTELY! During the Ausangate trek your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both are free.

HOW TO BOOK THE TREK

FIRST, to book your Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek, we need you to fill out our booking form by clicking on BOOK NOW on our homepage or click here – BOOK NOW.

Please be ready with the following information (FROM EACH PARTICIPANT in your group).  We cannot purchase Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek entrance tickets without the following information:

  • Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
  • Gender
  • Passport number
  • D.O.B. (dd / mm / yyyy)
  • Nationality

SECOND, we require a deposit of $286.00 USD per person in order to purchase a permit for the Ausangate Trek. You can make you deposit by clicking on the PAYPAL symbols on the top of our home page, or you can click on the PAYPAL symbols on our booking page.

WHAT ABOUT THE BALANCE?

It would be greatly appreciated if you pay in cash at our office (US dollars or Peruvian soles) here in Cusco. We have many ATMs within the historical center to withdraw money.  You can also pay by PAYPAL online but you will have to pay a 5.5% service charge, charged by PAYPAL. To pay your balance through PAYPALyou need to log into your PAYPAL account using our email address orangenationperu@gmail.com. 

MAY I CHANGE THE DEPARTURE DATE AFTER THE TICKETS HAVE BEEN BOUGHT?

Yes, but with some restrictions.  Please contact the office as soon as possible if you need to change your date.
If you cancel your Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek, the deposit is not refundable at all!

WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE TREK?

The expected weather in the area of Ausangate Mountain Peru usually is divided in two big seasons: dry and wet. As the zone of Ausangate Mountains Cusco forms part of the Cordillera Vilcanota in the Peruvian Andes, the dry season is considered from May to November mostly sunny days, with minimum percentage of rain or bad days, recommended time to trek to these Mountains. During the winter season (June- August) the places in the proximity of the Ausangate Mountain Peru get warmer days but cold at night.

But the rainy season usually is from December to April with hail storms, snowy, cloudy days and not much visibility on the mountains. Summer season (December- March) usually the trail gets wet, muddy and difficult to walk. Travelers visiting the Ausangate Mountains Cusco should be prepared for the quick change of temperatures and climates even in winter, but much more in summer season.

WHAT ABOUT ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON THE TREK?

For some visitors, the first hours in Cusco can be summarized as: shortness of breath, a discomfort in the body, dizziness, headaches, stomachaches, even vomiting. As great connoisseurs of natural medicine, the Incas used coca leaves to counteract soroche, quechua for high-altitude sickness.

Don’t do anything other than rest

If you travel from Lima to Cusco, the effect can be immediate. This lack of oxygen, scientifically known as hypoxia, begins to manifest itself at 7,874 ft (2,399 m) above sea level. That’s why right after landing in Cusco, visitors can feel fatigued and have difficulty walking. It is advisable to take it really easy on the first day and, if possible, rest the first few hours to help the body acclimatize to the altitude.

Stay hydrated

How do people feel after a night of drinking? Thirsty. That’s how you’ll feel when you arrive in Cusco. As already stated, the body dehydrates quickly in high altitudes. It is recommended you drink lots of water before and during your trip to Cusco. Also, avoid heavy meals since your stomach takes longer to digest food at high altitudes. A diet of low proteins and high carbs is advisable.

Discovering coca

No one knew better the effects of high altitude than indigenous peoples. Coca is the best natural medicine to combat altitude sickness. It was even considered sacred because of its curative powers and is still used in the same way now as it was in the time of the Incas. It contains iron, vitamins A, B1, B2 and calcium, among other nutrients. Coca makes it easier for your bloodstream to absorb oxygen, suppresses hunger, combats fatigue, headaches and can ease your stomach. Try drinking coca tea, which is found in the lobbies of most hotels in Cusco.

HOW MANY PEOPLE ARE THERE PER GROUP?

The maximum group size is 10 persons.  Our groups are usually between 2-6 persons. ORANGE NATION Peru specializes in SMALL and PRIVATE groups to provide a personalized service.

HIKING THE TREK 

The evening before you start your trek, you will be given a SMALL DUFFEL BAG to pack your clothes for the next six days. Your weight allowance is up to 7kg/14lbs. Your team of pack horses will carry your duffel bag for you, together with the food and camping gear. Please Note: you will not have access to your items in the duffel bag until the end of each day, as the horses will always be ahead of the group. During the Ausangate trek, you need a day backpack big enough to carry your personal belongings such as a warm jacket, a raincoat, your camera, sunscreen, snacks, water, etc.  A 30 to 40L backpack is sufficient.

IS THE TREK DIFFICULT, DO I NEED TO BE FIT?

Yes, it is a challenging trek with most of the you are over 4,000 meters or 13,123 feet. You need to be in good physical condition and accustomed to hiking.

In preparation: try walking 15kms a day or go to the fitness club in the months leading up to the trek. It is also important to be well acclimatised to the altitude. Try to spend at least 3 days in Cusco (3,350m/11,047ft) before starting the trek.

WHAT ABOUT TOILETS ON THE AUSANGATE TREKS?

ORANGE NATION Peru toilet facilities have an individual tent and a “camping toilet with a seat.” Our toilet is always set up a comfortable distance from our campsite. If you need to use the toilet at night, it is readily accessible and clean.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I AM UNABLE TO FINISH THE AUSANGATE TREK?

In the unlikely scenario that you are unable to finish the trek due to a health issue, Orange Nation Peru will assist you to the nearest town for help with transportation. We always carry oxygen on the trek for any respiratory problems. In extreme cases, a helicopter pick up can be arranged at your own expense. (Travel insurance required).

ARE WE GOING TO BE DROPPED OFF AT OUR HOTEL AFTER THE AUSANGATE TREK?

OF COURSE! Included in the package and on the last day we will drop you at your hotel in Cusco! If you have booked your hotel in the Sacred Valley, we will drop you there too!

TIPPING

If you’re happy with the services provided, a tip – though not compulsory – is appreciated. While it may not be customary in your country, it’s of great significance for the people who will take care of you during the trek. It inspires them to give excellent service and is customary in the tourism industry across many ORANGE NATION Peru destinations. Of course, you are free to tip as much as you feel appropriate, depending on your perception of the quality and the length of your trip.

ARE WE SUSTAINABLE? 

Yes, we are a local, sustainable & responsible tour operator, for that we incorporate the universal principles of tourism: protect the environment and benefit the local communities by respecting their culture and religion. With this in mind, we have trained all our local staff to know and understand, respect the places and the indigenous people.

WHAT YOU HAVE TO TAKE WITH YOU FOR THE AUSANGATE TREK?

  • Original Passport (it has to be the same you have used for booking your trek)
  • Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
  • Water storage:  2-3L (Camelbaks are encouraged)
  • Comfortable hiking boots with ankle support
  • Sleeping bag (can be rented from Orange Nation)
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Toilet paper

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR DUFFLE BAG IN THE AUSANGATE TREK?

As a Direct Local Tour operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and  INCLUDE an extra porter who will carry up to 7 kgs or 14 pounds including your 2.5kg sleeping bag, mattress and extra clothing.

  • 2 t-shirts.
  • 2 hiking pants at least
  • 4 sets of undergarments
  • 3 sets of hiking socks
  • Bathing Suit for the thermal waters
  • Fleece / Thermals
  • Warm clothes, down jacket — 2nd campsite temp around 3º C
  • Waterproof gloves (even if they are ski gloves, take them)
  • Comfortable shoes for camp
  • Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger
  • Small bottle of soap: we provide warm water each day to wash
  • Battery Charger: No electricity along the trek
  • Large plastic bags will be provided at the office — Please ask for them
  • Sleeping bag: It has to be at least -15ºC – This can be rented from us

TOILETRIES

  • Face moisturizer
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Wet wipes
  • Toothbrush and toothpaste
  • Personal medications
  • First aid kit: band aids, moleskin, etc

WHAT TO PUT IN YOUR BACKPACK IN THE AUSANGATE TREK?

We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40L for hiking in the day. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.

  • Water: Please supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we will provide you with cold boiled water  at every meal time. Please bring your canteens
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect repellent
  • Headlamp: essential
  • Wool hat
  • Rain gear
  • Fleece
  • Snacks like chocolate bars, cereal bars or any dry fruits
  • Rain poncho
  • Gloves
  • Camera
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
  • Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips

Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Trek 6 Days

Please fill in our BOOKING FORM carefully with your correct personal details.

Book Now

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Gideon G

Trip to Rainbow mountain. First to the mountain thanks to Yair’s expert driving and special thanks to Cristian for being my guide. Highly recommend!

D'Ivion P

Our group of 8 did the 3-day Inca trail tour. From the very beginning Ray demonstrated his knowledge by answering all our questions thoroughly. Trekking the Inca trail was the hardest thing I’ve ever had to do in my life. I can say for certain that I would not have finished the trail, if not for Ray. I am not active at all, and hiking up and down a mountain, for 7 hours, seemed impossible. Within the first 10 minutes I was ready to be done. That sentiment was shared within most of my group.

Andria E

Our tour guide Ray was excellent and very helpful. And we did the short inks trail to machupicchu thanks for the experience

Elipicyz F

Ray was absolutely amazing 😎 would definitely recommend him to anyone that wants to travel to Machu Picchu !!! Best experience of my life and off my bucket list🙏🏾

Ze Mi

Vinimos desde Choquequirao para visitar Machu Picchu e incluso después de todos los momentos inolvidables del trekking con Jhony como nuestro guía Machu Picchu fue realmente memorable. Tener boletos para la entrada de las 6 a.m. fue fantástico, ya que nos permitió explorar con menos multitudes y presenciar la niebla que se elevaba sobre las ruinas.

vidya kannan

Éramos un grupo de tres que decidimos realizar un recorrido de un día por el Valle Sagrado de Orange Nations, contemplando Ollyantaytambo y terminando en Cusco. La mejor decisión que tomamos fue que fuimos recibidos por nuestro increíble guía Miguel justo a tiempo, quien nos llevó a este increíble día lleno de diversión, risas y con un gran conocimiento sobre el área.

Asiah Butler

Gracias Jhony y Grober por sus recorridos entusiastas y conocedores. Definitivamente ambos guías turísticos del siguiente nivel con una compañía del siguiente nivel. Hicimos la caminata Laures y Machupichu con Sam Travels / Orange Nation y lo recomendamos encarecidamente :)

Anna S

¡Los mejores guías turísticos del Perú para el sendero Machu Picchu! Nuestros guías turísticos Johny y David brindaron un servicio de la más alta calidad en mi experiencia viajando por Perú. Johnny enriqueció toda nuestra experiencia con humor, un conocimiento increíblemente detallado de la historia y cultura peruana, así como su entusiasmo y amabilidad. Durante los 2 días,

Jaden Curtis
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This was my first time in Peru and I wanted to do something bigger and better than Machu Picchu. I was searching online and came across Orange Nation's "Choquequirao Trek to Machu Picchu" , which is three times larger than Machu Picchu. Since Peru is known for a Machu Picchu

Ray Besos
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My girl and i did the Machu Pichu trek tour with Orange Nation. It was seriously the most amazing experience that we'll never forget. Gorgeous views! The long trek was worth the amazing view. The tour guide was friendly and very knowledgeable.

Juliet Julz
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Wow, what a wonderful trekking experience! My trip to Peru was amazing thanks to this awesome tour that i took with Orange Nation. I did multiple tours with this company. I'm a solo traveler and everyone in my group was always still friendly and did not make me feel left out.

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