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Ausangate And Rainbow Mountain Trek 5 Days Economic

(15 Reviews)
  • Departure city:Cusco, Peru
  • Ends in the city:Cusco, Peru
  • Group Size:12 Per Group
  • Availability:Every Monday
  • Trip Styles:Hiking
  • Max Altitude:5200 m. / 17060 ft.
  • Lodging Type:Camps
  • Difficulty:Moderate

Overview

Ausangate To Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

If you’re looking for the most authentic, challenging, and scenic trekking experience in Peru, the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights is without a doubt the best option. This unforgettable high-altitude adventure takes you deep into the heart of the Andes, through pristine alpine valleys, colorful glacial lakes, snow-covered peaks, and ancient Quechua communities, while offering you the unique opportunity to explore the majestic Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) and the sacred Ausangate Mountain – one of the most revered Apus (spirits of the mountain) in all of Peru.

This is not just a hike — it’s an experience of a lifetime. Over five magical days, you’ll walk through landscapes so surreal they look like they belong to another planet. You’ll witness turquoise lakes, towering glaciers, and the incredibly colorful formations of the Rainbow Mountain, while camping under star-filled skies and soaking in natural hot springs. This trek is perfect for those seeking adventure, connection with nature, cultural immersion, and an off-the-beaten-path experience far from the crowds of Machu Picchu.

Why Take the Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain 5 Days?

  • Join us on this breathtaking five-day trek through the Andes Mountains.
  • Marvel at majestic snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and crystalline turquoise lakes.
  • Get in touch with indigenous people in rustic rural villages of the mountains.
  • Spectacular views from high altitudes, especially while crossing two passes: the Palomani Pass and the Q’ampa Pass.
  • Catch a glimpse of Andean wildlife – condors, llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and many aquatic birds.
  • Hike with a real, direct & official local tour operator based in Cusco.
  • Camp beside stunning alpine lakes such as Pucacocha and Ausangate Cocha.
  • Soak in relaxing natural hot springs at Upis and Pacchanta.
  • Visit the famous 7 Lagoons of Ausangate, each with unique colors and legends.
  • Stand in awe at the incredible Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), a must-see in Peru.
  • Enjoy delicious meals prepared by local mountain chefs during the trek.
  • Support sustainable and community-based tourism with every step you take.
  • Perfect for adventure lovers, photographers, and trekking enthusiasts.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – Upismampa – Upis Lake – Yanacocha – Hatun Puqacocha

We’ll start our adventure early, with a 4:30 a.m. pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. After about 3 hours driving through peaceful valleys and small Andean villages, we arrive at Upismampa, a quiet highland community at the foot of the majestic Ausangate Mountain.

Here, our cook will greet us with a warm, energizing breakfast to get us ready for the day’s hike. We begin walking gradually, heading toward the beautiful Upis Lagoons—a group of peaceful, glacial lakes surrounded by open valleys and snowy peaks. The views from the start are stunning, with Ausangate dominating the landscape and herds of alpacas grazing along the way.

From the lagoons, we begin a steady ascent to the Arapa Pass at (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). It’s the first real challenge of the trek, but we’ll take it slow and enjoy the changing scenery. At the top, we’re rewarded with sweeping views of the high Andes—open skies, snow-covered ridges, and pure mountain silence.

After a break at the pass, we descend toward the dark, quiet waters of Yanacocha Lagoon. This remote spot feels untouched by time, and it’s a perfect place to catch our breath and take in the surroundings. From there, it’s a short and gentle hike to our campsite beside Hatun Puqacocha, a beautiful lagoon nestled in the middle of dramatic mountain scenery.

We’ll arrive in the afternoon with time to rest, explore, or simply relax by the water. As the sun sets behind the mountains, we’ll enjoy a well-deserved dinner prepared by our team, then settle into our tents for the night. Sleeping here, under a sky full of stars and surrounded by nature, is the perfect way to end our first day on the Ausangate trek.

  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
  • Accommodation:Camps
  • Difficulty:Moderate
  • Walking Distance:9 km / 5.59 mi
  • Highest Elevation:4,800 m / 15,748 ft
  • Camp Altitude:4,500 m / 14,764 ft

Day 2Hatunpucacocha – Pucacocha Pass – Hanantapata Camp

We start our day with a peaceful breakfast surrounded by the silence of the mountains at our Pucacocha campsite, nestled beside turquoise lagoons and under the gaze of snow-capped peaks. The fresh morning air and breathtaking scenery energize us as we prepare for a moderate but rewarding trek.

Our trail begins with a steady ascent toward Pucacocha Pass (4,870 meters / 15,977 ft), a high point that offers sweeping panoramic views of the Ausangate Glacier and the surrounding Andean wilderness. The terrain is rugged but beautiful, with rocky paths, grazing alpacas, and colorful slopes painted with mineral-rich hues. From the top of the pass, we pause to appreciate the immensity of the Ausangate Peru landscape, a photographer’s dream and a hiker’s paradise.

After soaking in the scenery, we descend gradually through open valleys and vibrant high-mountain terrain. The trail winds gently downward until we arrive at Hanantapata, a remote and quiet location where we’ll set up camp for the night. Surrounded by open skies and peaceful wilderness, this is the perfect place to relax, enjoy a warm meal, and reflect on the natural beauty that defines the Ausangate Trek 5 Days.

Though this day is shorter in distance, it offers a balanced mix of scenic views and physical activity—an ideal opportunity to acclimate, recharge, and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead in the heart of the Andes.

  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
  • Accommodation:Camps
  • Difficulty:Moderate
  • Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.9710 mi
  • Highest Elevation:4,870 m / 15,977 ft
  • Camp Altitude:4,750 m / 15,583 ft

Day 3 Hanantapata – Warmisaya Pass – Rainbow Mountain – Ausangate Cocha

Today is one of the highlights of our Ausangate Trek—and to make the most of it, we begin very early. After a hot and energizing breakfast at our Hanantapata campsite, we hit the trail just as the surrounding peaks begin to glow with the first light of day.

The morning starts with a steady climb toward Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,354 ft). With each step, the landscape opens up even more—wide Andean valleys, glaciated peaks in the distance, and that deep, peaceful silence that defines trekking in the Andes. It’s a stunning section of the Ausangate Trek, and starting early lets us enjoy it in complete tranquility.

After crossing the pass, we descend briefly before beginning a gentle climb toward one of the most anticipated spots of the journey—Rainbow Mountain Peru.

As we approach, the colors gradually begin to appear, like a hidden painting coming to life. Then suddenly, there it is: Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft)—a true marvel of nature, known for its incredible mineral stripes of red, gold, turquoise, and lavender. Among all Rainbow Mountain elevations, this one stands out not just for its height, but for the surreal beauty that surrounds it.

We take our time here, soaking in the views and capturing unforgettable photos. Being here on foot, away from the crowds of the day tours, gives the experience a special intimacy. You really feel connected to the land—and to the moment.

Afterward, we make our way back to Hanantapata for a well-earned lunch. With renewed energy, we continue on a peaceful trail through high-altitude plains, crossing gentle streams and passing herds of alpacas as we go. This quiet stretch allows us to reflect on the awe of Rainbow Mountain Peru and the raw beauty of the Ausangate region.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Ausangate Cocha, a glacial lagoon resting at the foot of the mighty Ausangate Mountain. It’s a breathtaking place—calm, remote, and surrounded by towering peaks. We set up camp beside the water, enjoy a warm dinner, and watch the sun slowly dip behind the Andean skyline.

As night falls, the stars emerge, brilliant and clear, and we drift off to sleep in one of the most magical corners of Peru—deep in the heart of the Ausangate Trek.

  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
  • Accommodation:Camps
  • Difficulty:Moderate
  • Walking Distance:17 km / 10.56 mi
  • Highest Elevation:5,100 m / 16,732 ft
  • Camp Altitude:4,500 m / 14,763 ft

Day 4Ausangate Cocha – Palomani Pass – Qampa Camp

After an early breakfast at our camp beside the beautiful Ausangate Cocha lagoon, we begin one of the most challenging and breathtaking days of the Ausangate Trek. Today’s goal is to cross Palomani Pass (5,200m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the entire circuit.

The uphill climb is tough, but the views are absolutely worth it. As we ascend, the landscape opens up into dramatic glaciers, colorful valleys, and towering snow-capped peaks—especially the impressive Ausangate Mountain, standing proudly above the horizon. Once at the top of the pass, we’ll take a well-earned break to rest, enjoy the views, and soak in the powerful Andean energy of this sacred place.

We then descend gradually into a quiet valley, where we’ll stop for lunch at a peaceful spot called Hucuy Pinaya. It’s the perfect place to relax and recharge after the big climb.

In the afternoon, we continue our trek along a gentler trail, surrounded by green highland meadows where we often see alpacas, vicuñas, and even wild chinchillas. It’s a more peaceful stretch of the journey, ideal for enjoying the scenery and the silence of the Andes.

By late afternoon, we arrive at Qampa Camp (4,700 m / 15,419 ft), a tranquil campsite nestled in a wide valley surrounded by snow-covered mountains. Here we’ll have a hot dinner and settle in for the night under a sky full of stars.

This is one of the most intense but rewarding days of the Ausangate Trekking experience—full of adventure, beauty, and unforgettable moments in the heart of Ausangate.

  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch, dinner.
  • Accommodation:Camps
  • Difficulty:Moderate
  • Walking Distance:15 km / 9.32 mi
  • Highest Elevation:5,200m / 17,060 ft
  • Camp Altitude:4,700 m / 15,419 ft

Day 5Sorapata – 7 Lagoons Circuit – Pacchanta Hot Springs – Cusco

Our final day is a journey through beauty and healing. After breakfast, we begin hiking through the mystical 7 Lagoons of Ausangate circuit. Each lagoon—Pucacocha, Hatun Pucacocha, Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, China Otorongo, Azulcocha, and Alqacocha—has its own distinct color, energy, and story.

These lakes are a dreamlike setting, with reflections of glaciers and clouds floating above still, turquoise waters. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a painting. This hidden gem is one of the most peaceful and sacred parts of Ausangate Peru.

Afterward, we reach the rural community of Pacchanta, where a soak in natural hot springs awaits. Surrounded by snowy peaks, the warm waters will relax your body and soul, a perfect farewell to your Ausangate Trekking journey.

We enjoy our final lunch together in Pacchanta, then take our private vehicle back to Cusco, arriving around 5:30 p.m. with your heart full of memories, your spirit refreshed, and your life changed by the mountains.

  • Meals:Breakfast, lunch.
  • Difficulty:Moderate
  • Walking Distance:14 km / 8.69 mi
  • Starting Elevation:4,700 m / 15,419 ft
  • Minimum Elevation:4,100 m / 13,451 ft
  • Highest Elevation:5,070 m / 16,633 ft

Trip Info

Inclusions
Packing List
Before You Go
High Quality Service & Safety
  • Pre-departure briefing
  • Experienced Guide speaks English and Spanish
  • A professional cook only for our group
  • Motorola Talkabout Radio, for communication
  • Medical Kit – First Aid Kit
  • One duffle bag per person
  • Customer Service 24/7
  • Extra oxygen
Private Camping Equipment
  • We also include a large tent with table and chairs for you to enjoy your meal without worry-free, and all the cooking equipment, carried by our porters and horses
  • We also included a portable toilet
 
Transportation
  • Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to the start of the trek.
  • Horses, and muleteers horses carry your 8-kg / 16-pound personal items.
  • Private transportation from the end of the trek to Cusco to your hotel.
Meals
  • Meals: 5 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, and 4 Dinners
  • Meals: vegetarian and vegan
  • Water to drink on the trail every day
  • Wake up tea, every morning
  • Tea Time or Happy Hour, every afternoon
Accommodation
  • Personal Accommodation in Private Campsites
  • 3-Person, 4-season tents, destined for 2 travelers
  • 1 Polar sheet per person
  • Pillows throughout the tour
  • Rubber warmers, for the night
  • Classic sponge mattress
 
What Is Not Included?
  • Entrance ticket to Ausangate Trek  S/100 Soles
  • Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain  S/20  soles
  • Entrance ticket to Red Valley  S/10  soles
  • Entrance to the Hot Springs S/10 Soles
  • PRO Air sleeping pad, Therma-Rest brand $25  Dollars
  • Sleeping bag – 20 Degrees $25  Dollars
  • Trekking stick $20  Dollars
  • Horse to ride the entire circuit $100  Dollars
  • Travel Insurance
  • Tips for our staff
  • Additional costs or delays out of control of the management
  • Original Passport
  • Walking boots
  • Waterproof jacket / rain poncho
  • Warm jacket
  • Hat and gloves
  • T-shirts
  • Comfortable trousers
  • Sun hat
  • Sun cream (factor 35 or higher)
  • Insect repellant
  • Toiletries and hand sanitiser
  • Personal medication
  • Camera and film with extra batteries
  • Torch with spare batteries
  • Daypack

Information Before leaving for the Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain

We want to make your trip to Peru as memorable and as easy as possible. In this section, you will find speedy answers to all those questions you had about Ausangate  trek + Rainbow Mountain 5 days in one place. Please read the following information carefully – it will help you with any questions about our services.Has another question that we haven’t answered here? Drop us a line, and we will get back to you asap!

Briefing or informative meeting

All information meetings are held in your hotel at 6:00 p.m., one night before the tour begins. If you cannot attend, you must coordinate another time at the (Peru Hike) offices. These meetings last approximately 30 to 45 minutes and there you will be given a small duffel bag, in which you’ll put all the belongings you intend to bring on the trek that won’t be in your day pack.

Duffel bag or canvas case

ou’ll receive a canvas case or duffel bag during your briefing. The porters will take them on the way and will deliver them to you when you get to each camp. They measure 66 cm / 2 ft. Long x 36 cm / 1 ft. Wide.

A maximum of 5 kg is allowed for each duffel bag that includes the weight of your sleeping bag, mat, clothes and other personal items.

Payment of Trek Balance (in Cusco)

The trek has to be paid for in full by at least 7.30 pm two days before departure. For example, if your tour departs on a Wednesday, then you must come to our office before 7.30 pm on Monday.

It would be much appreciated if you pay the trek balance in cash US dollars or local currency. You can withdraw some money from several ATMs along Avenida Sol (either in US dollars or local Peruvian Soles). You can pay by credit card or PAYPAL online, but you will have to pay an 6% service charge, charged by VISA and PAYPAL. We do not accept bank checks or payment of the balance by traveler’s checks.

Can I store my luggage at your office?

Of course! During the travel, your main luggage can be stored at our office or at your hotel, both free of charge.

Any equipment that you are not going to need on the trek can be stored safely in your hotel. Nearly every hotel will provide this service. Don’t leave items of value with your bags, put them in the hotel safe and obtain an itemized receipt (In the unlikely case of theft many insurance companies require that you have a copy of the receipt itemizing all the items). Best put items such as credit cards inside a sealed, signed envelope for extra peace of mind.

Pick up of guests

Peru Hike Company can pick you up from your hotel, as long as it’s in the Historic Center of Cusco. The pickup time will be coordinated with your guide in the briefing. The pickup time may vary between 30 and 45 minutes due to traffic. Cusco is a very old city, therefore, it has many narrow cobbled streets. Some hotels and Airbnbs may be located on streets without access to cars or on long, steep slopes, making it difficult to transport luggage. We strongly recommend that you book accommodation with good access.

Group tours

Group tours are made up of different types of people. Physical conditions and ages can vary. By agreeing to be part of a group tour, you also accept that some people may be faster or slower than you. Therefore, each person can go at their own pace on the route. It may be the case that a group wishes to modify the tour; however, it will be the guide who decides, after consulting with all the participants, if said modifications can be made.

Strikes and demonstrations

Strikes and demonstrations are usually frequent in Peru and this may interrupt some of our tours. Roads can be blocked and train tracks can be taken over. However, we will try to keep your excursion as planned, even if it means leaving the night before the scheduled date. Under these circumstances, tours may also be cancelled. In case of changes or cancellations, all situations will be coordinated with you by our operations department. Your safety is our highest priority and our decisions will be made to protect it.

Lost objects

You’re responsible for your objects during the tour. Please pay attention to where you leave your things and remember to take everything once you leave our trucks, tents, or restaurants.

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15 Reviews
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Anouk Y

Group Traveller

As a university student traveling South America on a tight budget, I always have to watch my spending. When I found this Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 5-day trek at such a great price, I thought it might be “too good to be true.” But it turned out to be the highlight of my 3-month trip.

From the very first day, I felt like I was walking through a dream. Snowy peaks, mirrored lakes, fluffy llamas and alpacas – the landscape looked like something out of National Geographic. Every night, the stars were unbelievable.

Our guide was so kind and funny, and the cook even made me vegetarian options! The group was international and friendly, and the vibe was perfect.

I still don’t know how they can offer so much for such a low price. I’ll be recommending this trek to every traveler I meet.

June 28, 2025

Lukas P

Group Traveller

I had never heard of Ausangate before planning my trip to Peru, but now I honestly wonder how it’s not one of the most famous treks in the world. The Ausangate Trek 5 Days was simply spectacular. Each day was completely different – from turquoise lakes to snow-capped peaks, peaceful valleys with alpacas, and even natural hot springs under the stars.

The highlight for me was Rainbow Mountain on the final stretch. Seeing those unreal colors at over 5,000 meters (16,400 ft) made me feel like I was on another planet. Pictures just don’t capture the magnitude of the moment.

What made this trip even better was the affordable price. In Europe, a tour with this level of service would cost three or four times more. We had horses carrying our luggage, excellent meals three times a day, and a super knowledgeable guide who explained the history, geology, and culture.

Don’t think twice – this trek is the real deal if you’re looking for an epic experience without breaking the bank.

June 27, 2025

Johan N

Group Traveller

I travel with a low budget, so when I saw the price of the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 5D/4N, I booked it immediately. I expected something simple, but what I got was one of the best travel experiences I’ve ever had.

The landscapes are just unreal – glacier valleys, colorful hills, icy peaks. We hiked high passes, drank fresh mountain water, and watched the stars every night. The altitude was challenging, but our guide gave us good tips, and the pace was manageable.

The price was amazing. I paid less than half of what other companies were asking, and I never felt like we were missing anything. In fact, I think we got more – more time in nature, more connection with the locals, and more genuine service.

If you want to see the real Peru without spending all your savings, this is it.

June 26, 2025

Natalia U

Group Traveller

Everyone talks about Rainbow Mountain, and yes – it was spectacular. But the Ausangate Trek was the part that truly touched my soul. The 5-day journey was so peaceful, so colorful, so… alive.

Our group was small – just 6 people – which made it feel intimate and personal. The food blew us away (they even made fresh guacamole and pasta!), and the guide told us beautiful stories about Andean beliefs and Pachamama.

The low price worried me a bit at first – I thought maybe it would be rushed or unsafe. But it was completely the opposite: everything was well-planned, we had safety horses, and the camps were set up when we arrived, even at 4,800 meters.

The Rainbow Mountain on Day 5 was the grand finale, but honestly, the magic started on Day 1 with Ausangate itself. Don’t miss this.

June 25, 2025

Henrik W

Group Traveller

This was my second time in Peru, but my first time going into the Ausangate region, and it felt like entering a completely different world. For 5 days, we didn’t see cars or buildings – only mountains, sky, and nature at its purest.

The trek was intense but doable, and the 5,200-meter (17,060 ft) pass on Day 3 was the most physically demanding thing I’ve ever done… but the view? Worth every breath.

The tour cost was so affordable, especially considering what was included: full meals, trained guides, entrance to Rainbow Mountain, and even a horse for emergencies. I was expecting basic service, but this was above and beyond.

If you want a real adventure and aren’t afraid of a little altitude, this is the best trek I’ve ever done.

June 23, 2025
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