Magical Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain: An Unforgettable 5D/4N

Day 1: Cusco to Upis – Ausangate Trek Begins in the Andean Highlands

The 5-day Ausangate Trek and Hike to Rainbow Mountain Tour starts with an early morning pickup from Cusco city at 5:00 am, continuing with 4 hours drive in the Andean highlands to reach Tinki, beginning point of the Vilcanota Mountain chain. Here, you will have a meeting with your trekking team-guides, porters, and chefs-with all logistic services included in the price.

The Ausangate Trek begins in Qoñamuro, trecking in the grasslands near Ausangate mountains, observing the amazing views of the Ausangate Mountain, glaciers and alpacas. Your guide will tell you about the Andean culture and spirituality of the Apu Ausangate. After 6 hours trekking including rests and lunch we will arrive to the Upis campsite, located at the foot of the mountain. During the afternoon you have a relaxing time in the natural hot springs, a good option to recovery after the first day and prepare yourself for the high sections of the Ausangate trek including upcoming Pass crossings.

• Distance: 5.5 Hours / 9 km (5.6 miles)
• Highest Point of Elevation: 3,000 m / 9,842 feet
• It is considered: Moderate & Relaxing day
• Meals: Lunch, Dinner.

Day 2: Upis to Ausangate Cocha – Hike Arapa Pass and Views of Ausangate Lake

We hike after breakfast towards Arapa Pass (4,800m/15,748ft). It is a very strenuous hike, but seeing the rainbow around Ausangate mountain and surrounding mountains makes it among the most exciting days of trekking. Trekkers will see glaciers, snow-capped mountains, and high altitude lakes and Andean wildlife like vicuña, llamas, and alpacas during the hike.

After about 9 hours of trekking with break time and lunch stop, we set camp in Pucacocha campsite near two beautiful lakes surrounding Ausangate mountain. If the weather allows it, campers will have an opportunity to sleep under the stars in the midst of the huge Ausangate mountain.

• Trekking Time: 8 hours / 18km (11.2 miles)
• Highest Point: 4,800m/15,748ft
• Rated as: Moderately challenging day
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 3: Ausangate Cocha to Vinicunca – Rainbow Mountain Trek via Palomani Pass

The third day of the journey starts early with ascending to Apacheta Pass (4,700 m/15,420 ft) and Surimana Pass (4,900 m/16,076 ft). Our path provides stunning views of Rainbow Mountain, the Vinicunca Red Valley, and Ausangate Cocha, an amazingly turquoise-colored lake in front of the majestic snowy peaks.
Then we go down to Rainbow Mountain, where you will be able to see one of Peru’s most breathtaking views – the multi-color layers of red, green, and yellow mineral deposits, forming the rainbow on Ausangate Mountain.

This place is ideal for taking photos and admiring sacred mountains, which had been inspiring Andean culture for ages.
Then we head up to Palomani Pass (5,190 m/17,030 ft), which is the highest point of the whole journey with panoramic views of the Vilcanota Range and surrounding glaciers. Afterward, we are descending to Phinaya Valley, our next camping site near the village of Phinaya at 4,500 m/14,765 ft.

• Hiking Distance: 9 Hours / 18 km (11.2 mi)
• Highest Altitude: 5,190 m / 17,030 ft
• Considered: Challenging day
• Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Day 4: Rainbow Mountain to Otorongo Cocha – Ausangate Pass & Sacred Andean Lakes

We depart early from Phinaya Valley, trekking through high altitude alpine meadows and lakes that surround Ausangate, enjoying spectacular views of the Vilcanota Mountain range. Trekking poles help navigate uneven terrain on this upper-altitude day.

After several hours, we begin the 3-hour ascent to Ccampa Pass (5,180 m / 16,995 ft), the final high pass of the Ausangate circuit, offering breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped Apu Ausangate, the majestic Ausangate Mountain, and surrounding peaks.

The trail then descends for about two hours to our final campsite at Laguna Otorongo Cocha, surrounded by three large and three small sacred lakes with spiritual significance for ancient and modern Andean civilizations. This day allows trekkers to hike at a relaxed pace, enjoy the views of Rainbow Mountain and Ausangate, and take photos of the impressive Ausangate Mountain and alpine lakes before the final day of the trek.

• Hiking Distance: 7.5 Hours / 9 km (8.7 mi)
• Highest Altitude: 5,180 m / 16,995 ft
• Classification: Moderate day
• Meals: Breakfast

Day 5: Otorongo Cocha to Pacchanta – Hot Springs and Back to Cusco

The last day of 5-days trek starts with a gradual descent from Laguna Otorongo Cocha to Pacchanta village via alpine areas (4,200 m / 13,780 ft) and gives an unforgettable opportunity to observe beautiful Rainbow Mountain and Ausangate.

Once in Pacchanta, you will be able to relax in natural hot springs, which is an excellent way to rest after several days of trekking. Optional lunch in the village, followed by the road to Cusco by car completes Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek.

Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek features unique alpine landscapes, alpine lakes, high mountains and snow-peaks that make it one of the most remarkable Peru trekking adventures. Throughout the trek, your trekking equipment and duffel bag (5 kg maximum) were delivered by porters, allowing you to enjoy hiking through the magnificent Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain area.

• Hiking Time: 9 Hours / 18 km (11.2 mi)
• Highest Point: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
• Rating: Moderate day hike
• Meal Times: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.

Professional Tour Guides

Our guides all come from the local Ausangate area and are steeped in Andean culture and tradition. English speaking with many years of experience running multi-day treks in high altitudes, they are experts on each and every day of the Ausangate trek – from Day 1 to Day 5. They know how to keep you safe, informed, and supported every day that you walk. This is where the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain treks start, in the Vilcanota mountain range.

Tickets & Permits

All entrance tickets and permits are included in the price for this Ausangate 5-day trek, including access to Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), all campsites, and hot springs. As an authorized trekking company, we manage all logistics in advance so you can focus on the journey. This also applies to travelers joining a Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco or a Cusco Rainbow Mountain tour extension.

Meals

We will organize tasty and healthy meals for you on our trek days in accordance with all your requirements. You will have an opportunity to enjoy dishes of Andean, Peruvian and international cuisines served to you three times per day from Day 1 to Day 5. Our meals are designed to provide you with enough energy that you require for your trek.

Horses & Wranglers

Your duffel bag can be taken by horses and experienced wranglers for your trek. The maximum weight of duffel bag is 7kg (14 lb), including your sleeping bag. Your duffel bag will be safe with us and it will be provided to you in camps every evening. Such service will suit you if you decide to have a 5-day trek or its variant of 4-day trek.

Camping Equipment

We use high quality 4 seasons tents for our camping. Two people stay in one tent; there is enough place in a tent for your equipment. We can offer you private tents at your request.

Drinking Water

Fresh, boiled, and filtered water is supplied on a daily basis from natural mountain sources. All trekkers are required to use their own water bottle or hydration system to limit plastic garbage produced during the trekking period.

Transportation

Transport from Cusco to the finish of the trek and vice versa is private. In the last day, transportation will be 4 hours driving from Cusco to Vilcanota mountain range starting point of the trek.

First Aid and Safety

Our guides have first aid certification and have oxygen and full medical kit available. Satphones can be used in case of emergency. This will provide us with safety in all trek days, including remote places.

Pre-Trek Briefing

Briefing will take place 1-3 days prior departure at your hotel or our offices in Cusco. In this briefing, we will cover itinerary day-by-day, give duffel bags and answer all your questions.

Packing List: Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain (5 Days)

Because you will be crossing multiple passes near glaciers, you must be prepared for sub-zero temperatures at night and intense sun during the day. Here is your professional gear guide:

Essential Documents & Logistics

• Original Passport: Required for park entries and identification throughout the trip.
• Cash in soles: Essential for the hot springs in Upis (Day 1) and Pacchanta (Day 5), as well as small snacks or handicrafts from local Andean communities.

Arctic-Level Layering (The Survival System)

• The “Summit” Jacket: A high-quality down jacket (rated for -10°C or lower). The campsites are at very high elevations where temperatures drop below freezing as soon as the sun sets.
• Hard Shell: A professional waterproof and windproof jacket. Wind at the Palomani Pass (5,190 m) can be very strong.
• Thermal Base Layers: At least two sets of mid-weight thermal tops and bottoms (merino wool is highly recommended).
• Trekking Pants: Quick-dry hiking pants. Avoid leggings alone, as they offer no wind protection.
• Accessories: Waterproof gloves, a heavy wool beanie (covering ears), and a “buff” or neck gaiter to protect your lungs from the cold, dry air.

Footwear & Trekking Hardware

• Advanced Trekking Boots: Waterproof (Gore-Tex) boots with excellent ankle support. The terrain on Day 3 and 4 involves steep, loose scree and rocky paths.
• Trekking Poles: These are essential for navigating the steep ascents to Palomani and Ccampa passes and protecting your knees on the long descents.
• Headlamp: High-lumen output with spare batteries. Necessary for the cold nights and early-morning starts.
• Swimwear: Don’t forget your swimsuit and a small travel towel for the hot springs.

High-Altitude Health & Protection

• Hydration: 3 liters of capacity (bladder + bottle). At 5,000m+, your body dehydrates twice as fast.
• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, lip balm with UV protection, and Category 3 or 4 sunglasses. The snow reflection at these altitudes can cause snow blindness or severe burns.
• Electrolytes: Powdered supplements to help with hydration and mineral balance during the 9-hour trekking days.
• Personal Hygiene: Wet wipes (for “mountain baths”), hand sanitizer, and biodegradable toilet paper.

Important Trek Notes:

• Night Skies: The Ausangate region has zero light pollution. If you have a tripod for your camera, it is worth the weight for the astrophotography opportunities.
• The Highest Point: On Day 3, you reach 5,190 m / 17,030 ft. Ensure you have spent at least 3 days in Cusco acclimatizing before starting this specific trek.

Thank you for choosing our Classic Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain Adventure, one of the most breathtaking high-altitude trekking experiences in Peru. This 5-day journey through the Vilcanota mountain range offers stunning landscapes, alpine lakes, Andean wildlife, cultural insights, and the unforgettable Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).

How to Make the Booking for the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek?

Booking for the Ausangate 5-day Trek couldn’t be simpler, safer, and faster! In order to ensure that your booking is completed successfully, you need to provide the details below.
Please make sure that all the information is identical to the one provided in your passport in order to avoid possible problems during the trek.

Passenger Details Required

In order to make sure that all the arrangements for your trek are made correctly, please provide the following information for each passenger:

• Full name (as shown on passport)
• Passport number
• Nationality
• Date of birth

All this information will help us arrange the services required for your trek.

Accommodations & Transport Information

In order to arrange convenient transport to and from Cusco, please provide the name and address of your accommodation in Cusco well in advance of the hike. We can ensure early morning pick-ups and drop-offs in Cusco.
The lodging facilities for the 5-day Ausangate trek are organized by us and chosen based on comfort, safety, and proximity to attractive locations.

Food & Special Diets

We value your comfort while hiking through this high altitude trek. Should you require any special food needs such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free or lactose-free diets, kindly let us know in advance.
The food will be freshly cooked by our expert trekking chefs every day.

Secure Payment and Trek Confirmation

Our payment process is entirely secure and encrypted. For confirming your Ausangate Trek, kindly make the payment via the secure link given below:
[SECURE PAYMENT LINK]
After confirmation of your payment, we instantly guarantee all the following services for you included in your trekking package such as:

• Transportation to and from Cusco
• Trekking guided by professional guides
• Porters and horses for your backpack (maximum weight of 7kg/14lbs)
• Tents, sleeping bags, mat, and pillows
• All meals during trekking days
• Permits to enter Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and all campsites
• Hot springs at Upis and Pacchanta

Please be aware of the availability of the trek based on limited campsite capacity.

Trek Booking Confirmation and Customer Support

Once the booking process is completed, you will receive a comprehensive confirmation email containing:

Complete itinerary and trekking schedule
A list of items to pack and necessary equipment suggestions
Safety precautions and acclimatization instructions
Our experienced support team at Cusco is here to help before, during, and after the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain trekking experience to make sure your stay is safe and enjoyable.

What Is the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek?

The Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek is a well-known 5-day adventure trip in southern Peru circling the sacred Apu Ausangate and visiting Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the Red Valley. It is a unique combination of high-altitude mountain passes, glaciers, alpine lakes, Andean fauna, and cultural encounters, which makes it one of the best multi-day treks in Peru.

How Challenging is the Ausangate Trek?

Ausangate trek is challenging trek due to the high altitude, many trekking days, and the mountain passes of more than 5,100 meters (16,700 ft). This trek is appropriate for physically fit people with some trekking experience. It is always advisable to acclimatize first in Cusco.

Should I Acclimatize Before the Trek?

Yes. You need to acclimatize for 2-3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley prior to starting your trek. This minimizes the possibility of altitude sickness and maximizes your pleasure on the days of the hike.

What Are the Ideal Dates to Go to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain?

April – October is the ideal time when you can do the Ausangate and trek to Rainbow Mountain. This period is characterized by clear skies and dry trails with great views of Ausangate Mountain and Rainbow Mountain.

Does Rainbow Mountain Form Part of the Trek?

Yes. This 5-day Ausangate trek includes the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) hike, as well as the hike to Red Valley and Anantapata. It is worth noting that the Rainbow Mountain hike will be done in solitude, unlike the normal tour from Cusco.

What Is the Height of the Hike’s Highest Point?

The highest point of the trek is Palomani Pass (5,190 m / 17,030 ft) and is one of the highest passes in Peru suitable for trekking. The Palomani pass is a feature of the Ausangate loop with amazing panoramic views of the Vilcanota mountain range.

What Type of Accommodation Will Be Provided?

Camp accommodation for 4 nights in top-quality 4 season tents. The campsites are in beautiful locations in Ausangate in lakes and valleys.

Are porters or horses included?

Yes. Packhorses and wranglers are included to carry your duffel bag (maximum 7 kg / 14 lbs, including sleeping bag). Your bag is stored safely and available at camp each evening, allowing you to hike with just a daypack.

What Should I Carry During the Trek?

You will only need to carry a daypack with essentials such as water, snacks, camera, sunscreen, warm layers, and trekking poles. All camping equipment and main luggage are carried by horses.

What Type of Food Will Be Provided During the Trek?

Fresh and healthy food will be provided during the trek by our professional chefs, which includes Andean, Peruvian, and international cuisine. Special requests for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other types of meals can be provided with prior notice.

Are the Hot Springs Available During the Trek?

Yes. You will have an opportunity to enjoy natural hot springs on Day 5 at Pacchanta, and the hot springs offer the view of the Ausangate Mountain.

Is This Trek for the Beginners?

It is not suggested to start the trek for the beginners since it requires previous experience. However, the well-prepared travelers can easily complete the trek.

Is This Ausangate Trek Safe?

Yes. This trek is considered to be safe with the help of a professional trekking operator. All our guides are first aid trained, provide medical kits, oxygen, and satellite phone communication system.

What Happens After the Trek Ends?

After finishing the trek in Pacchanta, we return to Cusco by private transport. Optional lunch is available before the drive back, marking the end of the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 5-day trek.

Can I combine this trek with Machu Picchu?

Yes. Many travelers combine this trek with a Machu Picchu tour before or after the Ausangate adventure. We can help arrange extensions upon request.