Join us on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure through the Peruvian Andes with our Ausangate Trek 3 Days, an epic high-altitude journey that combines raw nature, ancient culture, and jaw-dropping beauty. This trek is perfect for hikers seeking a deep connection with the land, far from the tourist crowds and immersed in the spiritual heart of the Andes.
The Ausangate Trek is one of Peru’s most spectacular and less-traveled routes. Over the course of three unforgettable days, you’ll circle part of the sacred Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m / 20,945 ft), the highest peak in Southern Peru and a revered Apu (spirit mountain) in Andean cosmology. Along the way, you’ll pass through shimmering glacial lakes, dramatic valleys, and remote Quechua villages that still preserve their ancestral traditions.
This Ausangate Trek 3 Days itinerary includes challenging mountain passes such as Arapa Pass, Pucacocha Pass, and Warmisaya Pass, all over (4,985 m / 16,354 ft). The scenery is nothing short of breathtaking — towering snow-capped peaks, herds of alpacas grazing freely, and the serene silence of the high Andes all around you.
One of the most magical highlights of the trek is reaching Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at sunrise. Unlike the typical day tours that arrive when the site is crowded, we hike in the early morning darkness to witness the sun’s first light painting the Rainbow Mountain in brilliant shades of red, gold, and turquoise — a moment of pure wonder and total solitude. It’s the best way to experience one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders.
After that, the trail continues into the Red Valley, a surreal and often-overlooked landscape of deep crimson hills and open skies. The colors here are so intense and otherworldly, it feels like walking on another planet. The Red Valley is a hidden gem that most trekkers miss, and it’s one of the reasons this version of the Ausangate Trek is truly unique.
Our Ausangate Trek 3 Days with Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley includes everything you need: high-quality camping equipment, delicious meals prepared by our mountain chef, professional guides, and private transportation. It’s a short but powerful adventure designed for travelers who want to experience the best of Ausangate Peru in a condensed and meaningful way.
Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a bold adventurer looking for something extraordinary, this trek offers an unforgettable blend of high-altitude challenge and natural splendor. From the sacred peaks of Ausangate, to the stunning beauty of Rainbow Mountain, and the haunting silence of the Red Valley, this is truly one of the best treks in Peru.
We begin our adventure early with a 4:30 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco. As the city still sleeps, we drive southeast through the rolling highlands, passing remote Andean villages and farmlands. After about 3.5 hours, we reach Upis Lake (4,250 m / 13,944 ft), our starting point. Here, surrounded by dramatic peaks and open skies, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared by our trekking chef.
Before hitting the trail, we take time to explore Upis Lagoon, a serene high-altitude lake nestled at the foot of snowcapped Ausangate, the highest peak in southern Peru. The trail then gradually ascends through untouched valleys, leading us up to the impressive Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). From here, take in sweeping views of glaciated mountains, open plains, and the surreal palette of colors across the Andean landscape.
As we descend from the pass, we reach the enchanting Yanacocha Lakes, a series of dark-colored lagoons famous for their mirror-like reflections. We’ll enjoy our freshly prepared lunch here at Yanacocha, with stunning views and pure mountain air—an unforgettable dining experience in the wild Andes.
In the afternoon, we continue hiking through remote highlands until we arrive at our first campsite beside the turquoise waters of Pucacocha Lake (4,500 m / 14,764 ft). Our team will greet you with warm drinks, snacks, and a delicious dinner. Nestled beneath towering peaks and glaciers, this camp offers a peaceful night under a sky full of stars.
After a warm breakfast with stunning alpine views, we begin our ascent toward Pucacocha Pass (4,870 m / 15,977 ft). This section is steep but incredibly rewarding, with panoramic views of rugged cliffs, hanging glaciers, and the mighty Ausangate always looming nearby.
As we descend, we traverse a landscape dotted with wild alpacas and grazing herds. Eventually, we arrive at the secluded valley of Hananta, where we take a break and enjoy a freshly prepared outdoor lunch surrounded by pure mountain silence.
In the afternoon, we tackle one of the highest points of the trek: the Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,354 ft). This summit offers your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain in the distance — a spectacular preview of what awaits on Day 3.
We finish the day with a gentle descent to our remote and peaceful campsite at Surinecocha Lake (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). Nestled in the highlands and far from the tourist crowds, it’s the perfect place to reflect, rest, and enjoy dinner under a breathtaking sky full of stars.
We rise before dawn and, after a warm drink, begin our final ascent under a sky filled with stars. Our goal is to reach Rainbow Mountain (5,100 m / 16,732 ft) just in time for sunrise, when its iconic colors are most vivid and the site is still peaceful and crowd-free.
This magical moment is the highlight of the trek. With the soft golden light illuminating the vibrant mineral layers of the mountain, and the vast Andean ranges stretching in all directions, you’ll experience a rare connection with nature that’s hard to describe.
After exploring and taking photos, we continue on a lesser-known trail into the Red Valley, a surreal, otherworldly landscape where red earth contrasts against deep blue skies. This quiet stretch of trail is a true hidden gem.
We then descend to Llactoc (4,630 m / 15,190 ft), where our final celebratory lunch awaits—lovingly prepared by our chef to mark the end of our journey. From here, we board our private transport back to Cusco, enjoying scenic views during the 3-hour drive.
We’ll drop you off at your hotel in the late afternoon, concluding an unforgettable 3-day journey through some of Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude landscapes.
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 to Rainbow Mountain 3 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!
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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 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.
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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The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain 3-day trek was one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. The landscapes are unlike anything I’ve ever seen—turquoise lakes, glaciers, and colorful mountains. The guide Franklin was so professional and friendly. I felt supported and safe the whole time. Merci beaucoup for such an amazing journey!
This trek was the perfect combination of adventure and natural beauty. The views were constantly changing—mountain passes, turquoise lakes, valleys with alpacas—it was like walking through a painting. Rainbow Mountain was the icing on the cake. Thank you, Franklin, for making this journey so special!
The 3-day hike to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain was pure magic. The landscapes were dramatic and untouched. I’ve never felt so connected to nature. I was a bit nervous about the altitude, but the guide helped me pace myself and I had no issues. This was a once-in-a-lifetime experience I’ll never forget.
An epic 3-day experience in the Andes. I was blown away by the beauty of Ausangate—so remote and peaceful. Rainbow Mountain was the highlight, but honestly, the whole trail was incredible. Excellent food, well-prepared gear, and a really caring guide. I highly recommend Franklin and his crew!
This trek was beyond beautiful. The combination of glaciers, colorful lakes, and Rainbow Mountain made it one of the most unique adventures I’ve ever done. The group was small and intimate, and Franklin’s team was very professional and kind. We even saw wild vicuñas! Truly unforgettable!
