Ausangate Trek 6 Days

The Ausangate Trek is a magical hike through the most sacred mountain range in the Peruvian Andes, near Cusco. Over 6 days, you traverse deep valleys, very high mountain passes, colorful lakes like Yana Cocha and Ausangate Lake, and Andean communities where alpaca herders and master weavers live. It is a unique experience that combines nature, culture, and Andean spirituality. It’s not just a physical trek, but also a symbolic journey into the heart of Pachamama (Mother Earth).

Our official tour lasts 6 days and 5 nights. It includes transport from Cusco, all meals, tents, and professional guides, and entrance fees. The first few days are for progressive acclimatization to the altitude, and days 3, 4, and 5 are the most intense. The last day ends with a return to Cusco. We also offer shorter versions (4 days), but this is the complete and most recommended route.

Yes, it is moderate to high difficulty, primarily due to the altitude. We walk between 12,500 and 17,060 feet above sea level. Some days require 7 or 8 hours of hiking with steep ascents. You don’t need to be an athlete, but you do need to be in good health, have endurance, and a desire to push yourself. We recommend training beforehand: walking long distances, climbing stairs with a backpack, and acclimatizing in Cusco for 2 days before the start.

The trek begins in the town of Tinqui, located at 12,795 ft, in the province of Quispicanchi, Cusco region. We get there by private transport from Cusco. Tinqui is the traditional entry point to the Ausangate circuit, and from here we start walking towards Upis on the second day.

We leave early by ground transport (between 5:00 and 6:00 a.m.) from your hotel in Cusco. The journey takes approximately 5 hours. We pass through Urcos, a historic town, and then through the Catca Valley, where we stop for a picnic with a view of the mountains. The entire route is on paved and gravel roads, which are safe and comfortable.

Technically yes, but we do not recommend it. The route is remote, with no cell phone signal, sudden weather changes, and areas of extreme altitude. A certified guide knows the trails, monitors your pace, helps with altitude sickness, and connects you with local communities. Furthermore, many sections are on communal lands that require permission. Going with an agency guarantees safety, logistical support, and respect for the local culture.

During the trek, you will see several of the seven sacred lakes that surround the Ausangate Mountain, each with unique colors and great spiritual value for the Andean communities. You will see the stunning Ausangate Lake up close, with its bright turquoise tones, and we will pass by Yana Cocha, the “black lake,” near Arapa Pass. We will also be near Upis Cocha, Jampa Cocha, and Pacchanta Cocha, ideal for connecting with nature. Some, like Kimsaqucha (of three colors) and Tullpacocha, are a bit further away but are part of the same magical system of high-altitude waters. These lakes, fed by glaciers and minerals, are not only beautiful but are considered living beings by the local people. Respecting them—without touching offerings or leaving a trace—is an essential part of the journey.

The highest point is Palomani Pass, at 17,060 feet above sea level. It is a demanding climb that is done slowly to avoid altitude sickness. From the top, you have a spectacular view of the Ausangate Mountain, bluish glaciers, and deep valleys. We rest before descending to Jampa. It is the most exciting moment of the trek.

Yes! You will enjoy natural hot springs at two points:

For the Andean communities, the Apu Ausangate is not just a mountain: it is a living being, a spiritual protector. “Apu” means “chief” or “guardian.” Homage is paid to it with offerings (despachos) to ask for good weather, health, and harvests. During the trek, you will see colored flags (mesas) at some passes, placed by the local people as thanks.

You need layered clothing for the extreme cold:

Also bring sandals to use at the campsites. Avoid cotton: it doesn’t insulate when wet.

It gets very cold, especially at night. Temperatures drop to 23°F (-5°C) at the campsites. During the day, if it’s sunny, it can feel pleasant (41–50°F or 5–10°C), but in the shade or with wind, the cold is biting. On the high passes (like Palomani), the wind and altitude make it feel much colder. That’s why dressing in layers is key.

Only the essentials for the day:

Everything else (tents, food, sleeping bag) is carried by the pack horses.

Yes, all meals are included from lunch on day 1 to breakfast on day 6. We eat three times a day + picnics. The food is fresh, nutritious, and typical: quinoa, native potatoes, hot soups, trout, rice, vegetables. If you have a special diet (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free), let us know in advance. The kitchen team works with gas stoves and always maintains high hygiene standards.

No, during the hike there is no electricity or internet signal. Once we start from Tinqui, we are in remote areas of the Vilcanota range, with no access to power grids or cell phone coverage. Only on the first day (in Urcos or Tinqui) will you be able to charge your phone or camera before starting. We recommend bringing fully charged external batteries (power banks). Some guides carry small solar batteries, but they are not guaranteed. This disconnection is part of the experience: it allows you to unplug from the world and connect with nature and yourself.