The Classic Trek to the Majestic Ausangate – 5 Days / 4 Nights
The Ausangate Trek is a premier choice for nature and trekking enthusiasts in Cusco. This epic journey takes you through the foothills of the sacred Ausangate glacier, towering at 6,372 m / 20,905 ft.
On this incredible adventure, you’ll explore remote Andean villages, soak in relaxing hot springs, and capture the turquoise glow of stunning crystalline lagoons along the route. Perfect for those passionate about mountain hiking, learning local customs, and seeking an intense experience in the remote areas of Peru, this trek offers an unforgettable journey.
Day 1:
Cusco | Ocongate – Upis – Huayna Ausangate Lake
Huayna Ausangate Lake Awaits You
Your adventure begins early as we pick you up for a scenic drive through the mountains to Upis. Upon arrival, you’ll meet your trekking team, finalize details, and enjoy a delicious breakfast before starting the hike. This morning, trek across plains with the majestic Ausangate mountain in view. At the Upis thermal baths, relax in the warm water and enjoy lunch.
In the afternoon, we’ll continue to Huayna Ausangate Lake. Our camp, set up near the glaciers, awaits you with a delicious dinner before you settle in for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camp
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 mi
Walking Time: 5 hours
Starting Elevation: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,480 m / 14,698 ft
Campsite Elevation: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Day 2:
Upis | Arapa Pass – Yanacocha – Hatun Pucacocha
Be Awed by the Natural Beauty
Start your day early with breakfast before we embark on our hike. We’ll journey through a picturesque valley to the Arapa Pass, where you’ll enjoy stunning views and possibly spot a condor in flight. Next, we’ll visit the lagoons of Yanacocha and Pucacocha before heading to our camp for lunch.
In the afternoon, explore the area around the lakes and learn about the local flora and fauna. With Ausangate as our constant companion, we’ll immerse ourselves in the beauty of the surroundings. Return to camp in the evening for dinner and a restful night’s sleep.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camp
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.84 mi
Walking Time: 6 hours
Minimum Elevation: 4,400 m / 14,436 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft
Campsite Elevation: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Day 3:
Hatun Pucacocha | Ausangatecocha – Palomani Pass – Huchuy Phinaya – Sorapata
Immerse Yourself in Local Customs and Traditions
Another tasty breakfast awaits, and then you’ll be on your way to the Ausangate pass to enjoy more astounding sights. We’ll then keep going to the Ausangatecocha lake, where we’ll have a delicious lunch amidst the mountains.
Later, we’ll trek to the Palomani pass and then onto the small community of Huchuy Phinaya. You’ll be able to learn all about local customs and traditions from the local people. We’ll con- tinue then to our camp in Scrapata.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camp
Difficulty: Challenging
Walking Distance: 16.5 km / 10.25 mi
Walking Time: 9 hours
Minimum Elevation: 4,500 m / 14,764 ft
Highest Elevation: 5,200 m / 17,060 ft
Campsite Elevation: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft
Day 4:
Sorapata | Jampa Pass – Pacchanta
Pay Homage to Mother Earth and Explore Stunning Lakes
Start your day hiking through breathtaking landscapes, perfect for capturing beautiful photos on the way to our lunch spot. We’ll tour seven lakes and visit some stunning bodies of water, with a chance to participate in an Andean ceremony.
In the afternoon, unwind in the local medicinal hot springs, a perfect way to relax your tired muscles. Enjoy a delicious dinner before heading to bed for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Accommodation: Camp
Difficulty: Moderate
Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.84 mi
Walking Time: 5-6 hours
Minimum Elevation: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Highest Elevation: 5,070 m / 16,634 ft
Campsite Elevation: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
Day 5:
Pacchanta | Tinke – Cusco
Bid Farewell to Ausangate with a Relaxing Final Day on the Trail
Start your final day with an optional soak in the medicinal hot springs. Then, we’ll hike to a nearby community to spend time with a local family and learn about ancient traditions. After lunch, we’ll bid farewell to our trekking team.
In the afternoon, our private transport will take us back to Cusco. Enjoy one last look at the stunning scenery before we drop you off at your accommodation around 6:00 pm.
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Difficulty: Easy
Walking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 mi
Walking Time: 3 hours
Minimum Elevation: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Highest Elevation: 4,100 m / 13,451 ft
What is Included?
High Quality Service & Safety
Pre-departure Briefing
Experienced Tour Guide
Medical Kit or First Aid Kit
Private Camping Equipment
Portable Travel Toilet
One Duffle Bag
Inflatable Mattress
Extras Included in our Service
Satellite Phone
Accommodation
Best Sleeping Tents
Meals
5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, and 4 Dinners
Filtered Water on the Trail
Wake Up Tea
Tea Time or Happy Hour
Snacks on the Trail Daily
One Cloth Snack Bag per Person
Hygiene Products
Transportation
Exclusive Transportation for our Groups
Transportation of Personal Belongings (Duffle Bag)
Pick-up from Your Hotel (within the Historic Center of Cusco) and Transport to the Starting Point of the Hike
Return Transport to Your Hotel in Cusco at the End of the Tour
Permits & Entrance Tickets
Entrance for the Ausangate Trek
Entrance to Pacchanta Thermal Baths
What is Not Included?
Sleeping Bag
Walking Sticks for the Hike
Dinner (Day 5)
Clothing and Personal Trekking Equipment
Travel Insurance
Tips for Staff
Additional Costs or Delays Out of Our Control
What Should You Bring?
Valid Passport
Extra Money (recommended for purchases)
Personal Medication
Water Bottle or CamelBak (optional water purifying pills)
Sunblock (factor 70 or more)
Personal Care Products
Hiking Boots or Shoes (preferably waterproof)
Light Footwear or Sandals
Trekking Pants
Trekking Socks
Pair of Thermal Pants
Waterproof Gaiters
Warm Jacket
Waterproof Jacket
Raincoat or Rain Poncho
Waterproof or Wool Gloves
Sun Hat to Protect Neck and Face
Wool Hat for the Cold
Neck Gaiter or Buff
Sunglasses with UV Protection
Sleeping Bag (-15°C)
Trekking Poles
Medium Trekking Backpack (15-25 liters)
Camera and Charger
Power Bank
Snacks (Energy Bars, Chocolate, Candies, Dried Fruits, etc.)
Bathing Suit
Towel
Flashlight
*Price per person from 625 USD
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