Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek 4D/3N
Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek 4D/3N
$780
Tour Overview
Embark on a breathtaking 4-day, 3-night adventure through the stunning landscapes of Peru with the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek. This remote trek offers an unparalleled experience, taking you off the beaten path to explore the majestic Ausangate mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of crystal-clear lakes, vibrant wildlife, and traditional Andean villages. Relax in the natural hot springs at Upis and marvel at the spectacular glaciers and alpine lakes. The journey culminates at the extraordinary Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder that promises unforgettable views. With professional guides, comfortable camping equipment, and all meals included, this trek ensures a seamless and enriching experience. Support local communities and social projects while enjoying the adventure of a lifetime. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
DAY 1: CUSCO – TINKI – UPIS – HOT SPRINGS
Location: Cusco
Accommodation Name: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will pick you up from your hotel between 5 and 6 am (depending on your location) and drive towards the community of Tinki – arriving around 8:00 am. After enjoying a delicious breakfast we will start your Ausangate Trek with a 4-hour uphill trek to our lunch spot at the base of Ausangate Mountain – the highest peak in the Cusco region at 20 926 ft. After lunch, we will continue for 2 further hours downhill to the community of UPIS – located at 14458 ft. Tonight we will be camping close to the medicinal hot springs so you can take your time to relax and enjoy the hot waters in chilly weather of the highlands in the afternoon.
- Distance: :13 km / 8 m
- Elevation: 14,458 ft
- Hiking time: 6h
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
DAY 2: UPIS – PUCACOCHA
Location: Pucacocha
Accommodation Name: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will wake you up with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea and leave you to enjoy the stunning sunrise in this secluded location. Today is a relatively easy day with gradual up and downhills throughout, so you can relax and enjoy your surroundings. As we hike we will pass by an abundance of flora and fauna including viscachas (a small rodent similar to a rabbit), birds, llamas, and alpacas. Our campsite is located at the bank of a beautiful lake called Pucacocha. This campsite is extremely beautiful with stunning views of the lake and astonishing sunsets. If you are lucky enough to camp on a clear night, this is the perfect place to stargaze!
- Distance: 12 km /7.5 miles
- Elevation: 4,300 m / 14,100 ft
- Hiking time: 8 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
DAY 3: PUCACCOCHA– CHILLCA – VICUÑA PASS - YANACCOCHA
Location: Ausangate
Accommodation Name: Camping
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We will wake you up bright and early with a hot cup of coffee/coca tea. Today will be the most challenging, yet arguably the most beautiful day of the Ausangate Trek. We will start with a 3-hour uphill hike to Alpaca Pass (16,732 ft), taking in the breathtaking views of the highlands, crystal clear blue lakes, and Andean mountains along the way. From the top, we will descend down into the valley of Chillca, where a delicious lunch will be waiting for you. Chilla is a beautiful and traditional village, with thatched roof houses and locals wearing a typical dress. From Chillca we will hike uphill for two hours to Vicuña pass, at 17,388 ft. Once at the summit, you can take some time to rest and enjoy your majestic surroundings while your tour guide performs an ancient offering ritual to this sacred mountain. We will then continue for another 2 hours to Lake Yanacocha where we will spend second-night camping beside the beautiful lake. Tonight you will have a second chance to stargaze.
- Distance: 15 km/9.3 m
- Elevation: 4,400 m/ 14,435 ft
- Hiking time: 9 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
DAY 4: YANACCOCHA – RAINBOW MOUNTAIN – CUSCO
Location: Vinicunca
Meals Included: Lunch
The last day of the Ausangate Trek begins with a 3-hour ascent to Vinicunca mountain (16,466 ft / 5,020 m), along the way we will observe llamas and alpacas, traditional houses and breathtaking landscapes of the Ausangate Mountain (6398m/20991ft). Rainbow Mountain, (or Vinicunca) is located in the Southern Region of Cusco. This a remarkable place that will impress even to most demanding of hikers. The high altitude allows for some of the most incredible views in the region and here you feel completely separated from modern civilization. Rainbow mountain is considered one of the most beautiful one-day hikes in the world. Upon reaching the summit and taking some time to explore and enjoy this extraordinary place we will start descending again. We will break for lunch before taking our private bus back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel at around 6 pm.
- Highest elevation: 5,020 m / 16,466 feet
- Distance: 7 miles ascent (6 km) / 2 miles descent (3 km)
- Approximate duration: 3-hour ascent / 2-hour descent
- Level of difficulty: Challenging
What's Included
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Airport Transfers
Airport pick up and drop off on request.
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Pre-Departure Briefing
Pre-Departure briefing is included.
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Hotel Pick Up
Pick up from your hotel in the morning of the trek.
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Transportation
All transportation from the beginning to the end of the trek.
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Duffle Bags
Duffle bags for your personal stuff up to 8 kilos.
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Camping Equipment
4 men Eureka tents for each 2 trekkers, sleeping foam mattress, pillows, hot water bags, warm blankets, and comfortable camping equipment.
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Portable Facilities
Portable toilet and showers are provided.
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Professional Guide
Professional local tour guide is included.
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Meals
All meals during the trek are included.
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Safety Equipment
First-aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phones are provided.
What's Not Included
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Personal Trekking Gear
Sleeping bags, air mattress, trekking poles are not included but can be hired from us.
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Dinner on Last Day
Dinner on the last day is not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is highly recommended.
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Gratuities
Gratuities are optional and not included.
Requirements
• Original passport
• Rain gear, rain ponchos
• Sun protection
• Warm clothes, comfortable for hiking
• Personal medication
• Camera, extra batteries
• Headtorch
• Extra snacks, power bars, chocolate
• Extra money for souvenirs, drinks & tips (small change is useful for paying to use the villagers' toilets on the first day)
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Mode of Transport
All transportation is provided from the beginning to the end of the trek, including airport pick-up and drop-off on request, and pick-up from your hotel. Travel comfortably with duffle bags for personal items, and horses to carry food and equipment, ensuring a seamless journey.
Accommodation
Experience the great outdoors with comfortable camping accommodations, including 4-man Eureka tents for every two trekkers, sleeping foam mattresses, pillows, hot water bags, and warm blankets. Enjoy the convenience of portable toilets and showers, ensuring a cozy and refreshing stay amidst nature.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek?
During the trek, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including vicuñas, llamas, alpacas, vizcachas (a small rodent similar to a rabbit), and condors. The area is rich in flora and fauna, providing a unique opportunity to observe these animals in their natural habitat.
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What is the highest point we will reach during the trek?
The highest point you will reach during the trek is the Vicuña Pass at an elevation of 17,388 feet. This is on the third day of the trek, which is considered the most challenging day.
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Are there any special activities included in the trek?
Yes, on the first day, you will have the opportunity to relax in the medicinal hot springs at Upis. Additionally, on the third day, your tour guide will perform an ancient offering ritual to the sacred mountain at the summit of Vicuña Pass.
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What kind of meals are provided during the trek?
All meals are provided during the trek, including breakfast, snacks, lunch, tea time, and dinner. The meals are prepared by a trekking chef, and options for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements are available upon request.
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What should I bring with me for the trek?
You should bring your original passport, rain gear, sun protection, warm clothes suitable for hiking, personal medication, a camera with extra batteries, a headtorch, extra snacks like power bars and chocolate, and extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips.
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Is there any emergency support available during the trek?
Yes, the trek includes a first-aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phones for emergencies. Additionally, there is an emergency horse available in case you struggle during the trek.
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When is the best time to travel to Cusco?
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring the city, with clear skies and little chance of rain. This is also the peak travel season, so it can be busier. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a little rain, the shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be great times to visit.
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When do you have to arrive in Cusco?
It’s a good idea to arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts. This gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, which is crucial since Cusco sits pretty high up at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters). The extra days also give you time to explore the city and its surroundings before your big adventure begins.
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How to prevent altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is pretty common when you head to places like Cusco, so it’s smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to avoid or lessen it: - Arrive early: Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate. - Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. - Try coca tea: Locals swear by it. It's made from coca leaves and can help with altitude adjustment. - Avoid heavy meals and alcohol: These can make it harder for your body to adjust. - Take it easy: Don’t push yourself too hard on the first day or two. - Medication: Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness pills like Diamox if you're worried. If you start feeling dizzy, tired, or get a headache, slow down, rest, and stay hydrated.
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Which is better, Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?
Both treks offer incredible experiences, but they’re different in key ways: - The Inca Trail is all about history, as you’ll walk the same paths the Incas did and pass through several archaeological sites. It’s a shorter trek but highly regulated, with limited permits. - The Salkantay Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. It’s longer and tougher but offers stunning scenery, including glaciers and cloud forests. There are fewer crowds, and no permit is required. If you want the classic Machu Picchu experience, go for the Inca Trail. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Salkantay might be the better choice.
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How many people are allowed in each group?
The size of each group on the Inca Trail is typically limited to 16 people. This ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier management on the narrow paths of the trail. TreXperience, like most tour operators, adheres to this limit to comply with government regulations and to preserve the environment along the trail.
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Low Deposit
TreXperience requires a minimum deposit of 140 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 2 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trexperience charges.
Up to 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 0 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek 4D/3N
4 Days Starting and ending in Cusco, Peru
Visiting: Cusco, Pucacocha, Ausangate, Vinicunca
Tour operator:
Tour code:
381236
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 12
Age range:
10-80