Embark on an unforgettable 5-day trek through one of the most breathtaking and sacred regions of the Peruvian Andes. The Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek is a perfect blend of raw adventure, stunning landscapes, and deep cultural connection.
This journey takes you around the majestic Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m / 20,945 ft), the highest and most revered peak in the Cusco region. Along the way, you’ll cross soaring high passes, walk beside vibrant glacial lakes, witness herds of alpacas in their natural habitat, and experience one of the greatest highlights of the Andes: the Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)—a natural wonder with colorful mineral stripes that seem painted by magic.
Each day brings new surprises, from relaxing in natural hot springs and camping under a sky full of stars, to enjoying fresh, gourmet meals prepared by our professional chef right on the trail. You’ll be guided by a team of passionate locals who know every corner of this land, ensuring a safe, authentic, and heartwarming experience.
This trek is ideal for nature lovers, photographers, hikers, and anyone seeking a deep, off-the-beaten-path connection with the Andes. Get ready to walk at the foot of sacred mountains, breathe the purest air, and live an adventure that will stay in your soul forever.
Your unforgettable Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek 5 Days begins early in the morning, around 5:00 am, when our professional guide picks you up at your hotel in Cusco. The crisp Andean air fills you with anticipation as we leave the city behind, ready to immerse ourselves in some of the most breathtaking landscapes of the Peruvian Andes.
The drive takes us through charming traditional villages, where life moves at a gentle pace: women in vibrant textiles walk alongside their alpacas, children wave from the fields, and herders tend to their llamas. As the scenery becomes increasingly dramatic, the towering peaks of the Andes come into view, signaling the start of your Ausangate Peru adventure.
Upon arriving at Upis community (4,250 m / 13,943 ft), a warm and welcoming mountain settlement, we enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared with fresh local ingredients to fuel the day. From here, the trek officially begins across the expansive plains of Upis Pampa, where llamas and alpacas graze beneath the watchful shadow of the sacred Ausangate Mountain (6,372 m / 20,906 ft). The spiritual energy of this Apu is palpable, inspiring every step of your Ausangate Hike.
Along the way, we pause at Upis Lagoon (4,480 m / 14,698 ft), a turquoise glacial lake reflecting the surrounding peaks. It’s an ideal spot to take photos, meditate, or simply absorb the serenity and grandeur of the Andes.
By midday, we arrive at Upis Hot Springs Camp (4,400 m / 14,435 ft), our first campsite. Here, you can enjoy a delicious buffet lunch and relax in the natural thermal springs, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. As evening falls, a hot Andean dinner under the stars completes the day, marking a comfortable and unforgettable start to your Ausangate Trek.
After enjoying breakfast at Upis Hot Springs Camp, we begin our hike through the beautiful highlands of Ausangate Perú, surrounded by wide open landscapes where alpacas graze peacefully and local shepherds continue their traditional way of life.
Our first major challenge is the ascent to Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). Along the way, we are constantly rewarded with impressive views of Ausangate’s towering glaciers, creating a dramatic and unforgettable backdrop. Once at the top, we take time to enjoy the incredible panoramic views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, and colorful mountains stretching as far as the eye can see.
We then begin our descent, arriving at the striking Yanacocha (Black Lake), whose dark waters contrast beautifully with the surrounding landscape, creating a unique and peaceful atmosphere.
Continuing along the trail, we reach the stunning Hatun Pucacocha and Pucacocha Lagoons, one of the most scenic areas of the Ausangate Trek. These lagoons are framed by vibrant red and brown mountains, making this section truly special. Here, we stop to enjoy a well-deserved and delicious buffet lunch while taking in the surreal beauty of the Andean highlands.
In the afternoon, we continue ascending toward Pucacocha Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft). From this spectacular viewpoint, we are rewarded once again with breathtaking views of Ausangate Mountain, its massive glaciers dominating the horizon, while herds of alpacas graze peacefully below on the green pastures.
Finally, we descend toward Anantapata Camp (4,750 m / 15,583 ft), where our team welcomes us with a warm afternoon tea. Later, we enjoy a comforting dinner as we reflect on the incredible landscapes and experiences of the day in the heart of Ausangate Perú.
We wake up very early in the morning, around 4:30 am, and enjoy a light breakfast to prepare for one of the most important days of the trek.
We begin our hike ascending gradually toward Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,354 ft). From this high point, we get our first breathtaking views of the famous Rainbow Mountain Perú (Vinicunca, 5,100 m / 16,732 ft). Arriving early allows us to enjoy this incredible place in peace, before the crowds arrive, making it the perfect moment to watch the sunrise and take amazing photos.
As we walk around Rainbow Mountain, we admire its stunning natural colors layers of red, gold, turquoise, and green formed by mineral-rich sediments over thousands of years. If time and weather permit, we also visit the spectacular Red Valley, where deep red landscapes stretch across the mountains, with llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully an unforgettable and very photogenic place.
After exploring the area, we return along the same trail back to Anantapata, where our trekking team will be waiting with a well-deserved lunch.
In the afternoon, we continue hiking toward Ausangate Cocha Camp (4,500 m / 14,763 ft), passing through beautiful green valleys and highland landscapes, always surrounded by impressive views of the glaciers of Ausangate Perú.
Upon arrival at camp, we relax near the stunning turquoise glacial lake, a perfect place to unwind and connect with nature. We end the day with a delicious dinner under the clear, starry Andean sky an unforgettable experience after such an incredible day.
After a nourishing breakfast at Ausangate Cocha Camp, we begin what is considered the most challenging and rewarding day of the entire Ausangate Trek.
We start a steady and demanding ascent toward the legendary Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the trek and one of the highest trekking passes in Perú. As we gain altitude, the landscape becomes increasingly dramatic massive glaciers hang from the mountainsides, herds of alpacas dot the valleys below, and the silence of the high Andes creates a truly powerful atmosphere.
Reaching the summit is an unforgettable moment. From the top of Palomani Pass, we are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of towering snow-capped peaks, vast glacial fields, and endless Andean landscapes stretching in every direction. This is one of the most iconic viewpoints of the Ausangate Perú region and a true highlight of the Ausangate Trekking experience.
After taking time to rest, enjoy the views, and capture incredible photos, we begin our descent into the beautiful valley of Huchuy Finaya, where the scenery transforms into greener and more sheltered terrain. Here, beside a peaceful stream, we stop to enjoy a well-deserved and relaxing lunch.
In the afternoon, we continue hiking through a wide alpine valley rich in wildlife. This area is known for spotting chinchillas, vicuñas, and a variety of native plants traditionally used by Andean healers for medicinal purposes, adding a cultural dimension to the journey.
A final gentle uphill hike brings us to Jampa Camp (4,700 m / 15,419 ft), a tranquil and scenic campsite surrounded by snow-capped peaks and vast open skies. Upon arrival, we are welcomed with a warm afternoon tea, followed by a comforting dinner as we reflect on one of the most epic and unforgettable days of the Ausangate Trek.
Our final day of the Ausangate Trek 5 Days begins with an early breakfast, followed by a gentle but rewarding ascent toward Jampa Pass (5,050 m / 16,568 ft). From this high vantage point, we enjoy one last breathtaking view of the majestic Vilcanota Mountain Range, a perfect farewell to the towering peaks that have accompanied us throughout this unforgettable journey in Ausangate Perú.
From the pass, we begin our descent into a hidden valley that reveals one of the most beautiful surprises of the trek the famous Seven Lakes of Ausangate. These stunning lagoons, with shades of turquoise, emerald, and deep blue, are fed by glacial meltwater and reflect the surrounding mountains like mirrors. This peaceful and scenic area is a true paradise for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts, offering a final moment to fully connect with the magic of Ausangate Trekking.
Continuing downhill, we arrive at the traditional Andean community of Pacchanta (4,100 m / 13,450 ft). This charming village is well known for its natural hot springs, located at the foot of the Ausangate Mountain. Here, you will have time to relax and soak in the warm waters while enjoying a direct and unforgettable view of the snow-capped peak of Ausangate a perfect and well-deserved reward after days of trekking.
While you enjoy the hot springs, our trekking team will prepare a delicious final lunch made with fresh local ingredients. It’s a special moment to share together, reflecting on the incredible experience and the unforgettable landscapes of the Ausangate Trek.
After lunch, we board our private vehicle for the return journey to Cusco. The drive takes approximately 3 hours, and we will drop you off at your hotel, arriving between 4:30 and 5:00 pm.
We finish this incredible adventure filled with unforgettable memories, a deep connection with nature, and the true spirit of the Andes that makes the Ausangate Trekking experience so unique.
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!
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 5-day Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain trek was simply breathtaking. Our group had amazing chemistry, and the guides made sure everyone felt safe and motivated. Camping at the foot of Ausangate was magical — waking up with that view was unforgettable. Highly recommend this trek for serious adventurers!
I ve done some serious treks before, but Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain 5 Days is on another level. It’s challenging, yes, but so worth it. The night skies were unreal — I saw more stars than ever in my life. Our cook made amazing meals, even at over 4,500 meters! Totally exceeded my expectations.
The Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain 5 Days trek was the most stunning and soul-refreshing experience I’ve ever had. From massive glaciers to colorful mountains, hot springs, and high alpine passes — it felt like walking through another planet. The team was professional, kind, and incredibly organized. I’ll remember this forever!
The Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain 5 Days trek was a true journey into the heart of the Andes. Each day brought dramatic scenery — glaciers, colorful valleys, waterfalls, and wildlife. It felt remote, peaceful, and authentic. Our guide was not only knowledgeable but genuinely passionate about the mountains. A once-in-a-lifetime adventure!
This was hands down the best multi-day trek I’ve done in South America. Ausangate to Rainbow Mountain 5 Days is challenging but insanely beautiful. The campsites, the meals, the attention to detail — everything was top quality. Seeing Rainbow Mountain after so many days in the wild felt like the ultimate reward.
