Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days 4 Nights is one of the most remote and scenic trekking routes in Peru, designed for travelers who want to explore the Andes beyond the classic paths, such as the Inca Trail or other popular routes near Cusco.
Over five days, the Ausangate Trek 5 Days 4 Nights leads you through a constantly changing landscape of glaciers, mineral-rich lakes, open valleys, and quiet mountain passes. This journey circles the imposing Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region and a sacred mountain deeply respected by local communities.
You will walk through traditional grazing lands where alpacas and llamas outnumber people, and where daily life continues much as it has for generations. Encounters with local families provide a deeper understanding of Andean culture, where the mountains are not just scenery but part of a living spiritual world.
Ausangate Trek 5 Days 4 Nights – Overview
This 5-day Ausangate route is designed for travelers seeking a high-altitude trekking experience that combines physical challenge with cultural immersion. The circuit follows a loop around the Ausangate massif, gradually gaining elevation while allowing proper acclimatization along the way.
Each day presents a different terrain, from wide open valleys and grazing lands to steep mountain passes and glacier-fed lakes. The route is supported by a full trekking team, including muleteers and horses, ensuring that your equipment is transported safely while you focus on the hike.
Campsites are strategically located near water sources and scenic viewpoints, providing both comfort and access to some of the most impressive landscapes in the region.
⭐Highlights
- Experience a remote and less crowded trekking route in the Andes
- Hike through traditional Quechua communities and local grazing lands
- Enjoy panoramic views of glaciers and snow-capped peaks
- Discover vibrant high-altitude lakes along the Ausangate circuit
- Observe native wildlife such as alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas
- Relax in natural hot springs at Pacchanta
- Cross multiple mountain passes with outstanding views
- Camp in carefully selected scenic locations
Designed for travelers seeking a longer, well-paced trek with varied terrain, gradual altitude adaptation, and fewer crowds, allowing for a more comfortable and rewarding high-altitude experience
Ausangate Trek 5 Days 4 Nights – Itinerary at a Glance
Day 01: Cusco – Upis – Huayna Ausangate Lagoon
Early departure from Cusco to the community of Upis (4,250 m), the starting point of the trek. Begin hiking through wide Andean valleys with the first views of Ausangate Mountain and herds of alpacas and llamas. In the afternoon, enjoy a short hike to Huayna Ausangate Lagoon before returning to camp.
Day 02: Upis – Arapa Pass – Yanacocha – Hatun Pucacocha
A scenic day across high-altitude landscapes. Ascend gradually to Arapa Pass (4,800 m), where you will enjoy panoramic mountain views. Continue descending toward Yanacocha Lagoon and later reach Hatun Pucacocha, where you will camp near impressive glacial lakes.
Day 03: Hatun Pucacocha – Apacheta Pass – Palomani Pass – Sorapata
One of the most demanding days of the trek. Hike over Apacheta Pass (4,750 m) and continue toward the highest point of the route, Palomani Pass (5,200 m). From here, enjoy spectacular views of glaciers and surrounding peaks before descending to Sorapata campsite.
Day 04: Sorapata – Jampa Pass – 7 Lakes – Pacchanta
A diverse and visually rewarding day. Climb to Jampa Pass (5,070 m) and descend through a landscape of vibrant high-altitude lakes. Continue toward Pacchanta, where you can relax in natural hot springs and enjoy the peaceful mountain setting.
Day 05: Pacchanta – Tinki – Cusco
A relaxed final hike through traditional Andean villages toward Tinki. After lunch, return by private transport to Cusco, bringing your Ausangate trekking adventure to an end.
✅ Included
- Pre-trek briefing with your guide
- Professional local guide (during the trek)
- Additional guide for groups of 9+ travelers
- Private transportation (Cusco – Upis trailhead)
- All entrance fees and permits for the Ausangate Trek
- Entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- Entrance tickets to the Red Valley
- Horses or mules with local horsemen to carry camping equipment, food, and supplies
- Personal porterage up to 6 kg / 13 lb per person (duffle bag provided)
- 4 nights camping in spacious tents
- Sleeping mat included
- Professional trekking cook
- Meals included: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 23 dinners
(Vegetarian, vegan, and special diets available) - Afternoon tea (tea, coffee, cocoa, snacks)
- Boiled drinking water from Day 2
- Wake-up coca tea each morning
- Daily hot water for washing
- Biodegradable soap and hand sanitizer
- Walkie-talkie communication
- Oxygen tank and first aid kit
- All local taxes
❌ Not Included
- First breakfast and dinner on the last day
- Entrance to Upis hot springs (S/15.00 soles)
- Sleeping bag
- Walking sticks
- Personal expenses
- Travel insurance
- Tips for the trekking team (guide, cook, and muleteers)
Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights – Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Upis – Huayna Ausangate Lagoon
Highlight of the day: Let yourself be captivated by the first views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range.
Your adventure begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a scenic drive through the South Valley to the remote community of Upis. Upon arrival, you will enjoy a nutritious breakfast before starting your hike.
The trek begins with a gentle ascent, allowing your body to gradually adapt to the altitude. Along the way, you will be rewarded with your first breathtaking views of the Ausangate Mountain rising dramatically above the surrounding valleys.
After several hours of hiking, you will arrive at the Upis campsite, where a freshly prepared lunch awaits. In the afternoon, you will head out on a short excursion to the beautiful Huayna Ausangate Lagoon, surrounded by impressive snow-capped peaks.
This first day is designed to help you acclimatize while fully immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the Andes. The peaceful environment, combined with the stunning scenery, sets the perfect tone for the adventure ahead.
Later, you will return to camp to enjoy tea time and a warm dinner before resting for the night.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
- Hiking Time: 5 hours
Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass – Yanacocha – Hatun Pucacocha
Highlight of the day: Conquer your first mountain pass and admire the vast Andean landscapes.
After an early breakfast, you will begin your ascent toward Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). As you climb higher, the scenery gradually transforms into a dramatic high-altitude landscape filled with glaciers, rolling hills, and open valleys.
Once at the summit, you will enjoy breathtaking panoramic views before beginning your descent toward Yanacocha Lagoon, where you will stop for lunch in a peaceful natural setting.
In the afternoon, the trail continues downhill toward Hatun Pucacocha, where your campsite will be set beside the lagoon, offering stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
Throughout the day, you may encounter herds of alpacas and llamas grazing freely, as well as local shepherds maintaining their traditional way of life in these remote highlands.
As the sun sets over the mountains, the changing light creates an unforgettable atmosphere around the лагуна, making this one of the most scenic campsites of the entire trek.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6.83 miles
- Hiking Time: 6 hours
Day 3: Hatun Pucacocha – Apacheta Pass – Palomani Pass – Sorapata
Highlight of the day: Reach the highest point of the trek at the impressive Palomani Pass (5,200 m).
You will begin with a steady ascent toward Apacheta Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), a sacred place marked by traditional stone cairns built in honor of the mountains. After taking in the views, you will descend toward Ausangate Cocha Lagoon, where you will enjoy lunch surrounded by dramatic scenery.
In the afternoon, you will face the ultimate challenge: the climb to Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the entire route. From the top, you will be rewarded with breathtaking 360-degree views of towering peaks, glaciers, and remote valleys.
This section of the trek is where the raw beauty of the Andes truly reveals itself, with vast open spaces, intense silence, and a powerful sense of isolation that makes the experience even more special.
After this incredible achievement, you will descend into the valley toward Sorapata, where your campsite will be ready.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Hiking Distance: 12.5 km / 7.76 miles
- Hiking Time: 7 hours
Day 4: Sorapata – Jampa Pass – 7 Lakes – Pacchanta
Highlight of the day: Discover the stunning 7 Lakes of Ausangate and relax in natural hot springs.
After breakfast, you will begin your ascent toward Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft). As you gain altitude, you will enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding mountains, including the iconic Tres Marías peaks.
From the pass, you will descend through a spectacular landscape dotted with vibrant high-altitude lakes. Along the way, you will explore several of the famous lakes of the Ausangate region, each with its own unique color and character.
During the day, you will also have the opportunity to take part in a traditional Andean ceremony honoring Pachamama (Mother Earth), offering a deeper cultural connection to this sacred land.
This is one of the most visually rewarding days of the trek, combining breathtaking scenery with meaningful cultural experiences in a truly remote setting.
In the afternoon, you will arrive at Pacchanta, where you can relax in the natural hot springs—an ideal way to soothe your muscles after several days of trekking. Dinner and overnight stay in the village.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Hiking Distance: 15 km / 9.32 miles
- Hiking Time: 7.5 hours
Day 5: Pacchanta – Tinki – Cusco
Highlight of the day: Enjoy a peaceful final hike and connect with local Andean communities.
On your final day, you will enjoy a relaxed hike back to the community of Tinki, passing through picturesque landscapes and traditional villages.
Along the way, you may have the opportunity to interact with local families and observe their daily life, deeply connected to nature and ancestral traditions.
After arriving in Tinki, you will enjoy a farewell lunch with your trekking team before boarding your private transport back to Cusco.
This final stretch offers a moment to reflect on the journey, the challenges overcome, and the unforgettable landscapes that made this experience truly unique.
This marks the end of your unforgettable Ausangate Trek experience.
- Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
- Difficulty: Easy
- Hiking Distance: 7 km / 4.34 miles
- Hiking Time: 3 hours
💰 Prices
We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights any day of the week, subject to availability.
Price: USD $539 per person
✔ Small-group experience (maximum comfort and personalized service)
Booking and Payment
To confirm your reservation for the Ausangate Trek 5 Days / 4 Nights, a deposit is required in advance.
- Deposit: $200 USD per person (to secure your spot)
- Balance: The remaining amount can be paid online or at our office in Cusco
We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer a different payment method, feel free to contact us for alternative options.
Rentals:
- Hiking poles – US$20.00.
- Sleeping bag – US$25.00.
- Private Tent – US$30.00.
- Inflattable mattress: US$ 20.00
🎒 What to Bring
Hiking the Ausangate Trek 5 Days requires proper preparation for high-altitude conditions and changing weather. It is important to pack efficiently and carry only what you will need during the trek.
🧳 Essentials
- Original passport
- Travel insurance
- Good daypack (to carry personal items)
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack (water provided from Day 2)
- Extra cash for personal expenses
👕 Clothing
- Lightweight trekking boots (with ankle support)
- 2–3 pairs of trekking pants (no jeans)
- 4 shirts (including 2 long-sleeve)
- 4 pairs of underwear
- Warm layers for cold temperatures
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Warm jacket (for cold nights)
- Thermal wear (socks, gloves, hat, scarf)
🛏️ Sleeping & Personal Gear
- Sleeping bag (or rental)
- Sleeping bag liner (recommended)
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Flip flops (for campsite use)
- Plastic bags (for wet or dirty clothes)
🧴 Toiletries & Health
- Sunscreen (SPF 35+)
- Insect repellent (30% DEET recommended)
- Personal toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, wipes, sanitizer, etc.)
- Personal medication (including altitude sickness tablets)
- Basic first aid items (bandages, moleskin)
🧃 Extras
- Snacks or energy bars
- Camera
- Tissues and wet wipes
- Reading material (optional)
Travel Information
At Info Machu Picchu, we want you to be fully prepared for your trekking experience. This guide provides essential information to help you get ready for your Ausangate Trek 4 Days, including logistics, acclimatization, and practical travel tips.
Pre-Trek Briefing
All briefings are held at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 PM, one or two days before your trek. The session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
During the briefing, your guide will explain the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any questions to ensure you are fully prepared. This is also a great opportunity to review your packing list and confirm final details before departure.
Acclimatization in Cusco
Proper acclimatization is essential before starting your trek. Cusco is located at 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level, and adjusting to the altitude will significantly improve your trekking experience.
We strongly recommend arriving at least 2 to 3 days in advance. During this time, it is important to stay hydrated, avoid heavy meals, and take it easy while your body adapts to the altitude.
Recommended Activities Before Your Trek
During your acclimatization days, you can enjoy light tours in the region while gradually adapting to the altitude:
- Cusco City Tour (Main Square, Cathedral, Qoricancha)
- Sacred Valley Tour (Pisac, Ollantaytambo, Maras Salt Mines)
- Moray and Maras Tour
- Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour
- Rainbow Mountain Tour
These activities offer a perfect balance between exploration and acclimatization, helping you prepare physically for the trek.
Balance Payment in Cusco
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 1 or 2 days before your trek.
We recommend payment in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing. ATMs are available along Avenida Sol for your convenience.
Credit/debit cards and PayPal are also accepted, with a 5% service fee applied. Please note that bank checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted.
Duffel Bag Information
You will receive a duffel bag during your pre-trek briefing.
- Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm
- Weight limit: 6–7 kg (including personal items)
Your duffel bag will be carried by mules throughout the trek, allowing you to hike comfortably with just a daypack. We recommend packing only essential items to stay within the weight limit.
Luggage Storage
You may store your main luggage at your hotel or coordinate storage with us during your briefing.
We recommend keeping valuables in the hotel safe and requesting a receipt if needed for insurance purposes. This ensures your belongings remain secure while you are on the trek.
Pick-Up Information
All pick-ups are arranged directly from your hotel in Cusco. For your convenience, we recommend staying within the historic center, where access and coordination are easier.
Your exact pick-up time will be confirmed one day before your trek, as it may vary depending on logistics and group arrangements. Our team will ensure timely coordination to guarantee a smooth start to your adventure.
If your hotel is located on a street with limited vehicle access, we will organize a nearby meeting point and provide clear instructions in advance.
Weather Conditions
Weather in the Andes can vary significantly throughout the day. Mornings and afternoons are often warm, while evenings and nights can become quite cold, especially at higher elevations.
It is also possible to experience light rain, even during the dry season. For this reason, we recommend bringing layered clothing and proper rain protection to stay comfortable throughout the trek.
Strikes and Demonstrations
Occasionally, local strikes or demonstrations may occur and could affect transportation schedules or access routes.
In such situations, Info Machu Picchu will make all necessary adjustments to the itinerary, always prioritizing your safety and ensuring the best possible experience under the circumstances.
Personal Belongings
You are responsible for your personal belongings at all times during the trek.
We recommend keeping important items such as your passport, money, and electronics secure and within easy reach. Always double-check your belongings before leaving each campsite or rest stop to avoid any inconvenience.
Ausangate Trek 5 Days 4 Nights – FAQs
Yes, the Ausangate Trek is absolutely worth it for travelers looking for a more remote and authentic trekking experience in Peru. Unlike more crowded routes, this trek offers quiet landscapes, fewer tourists, and a deeper connection with Andean nature and culture.
The combination of high mountain scenery, traditional communities, and varied terrain makes it a highly rewarding journey.
This trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the high altitude and long hiking days. Some sections involve steep ascents and high mountain passes, which require good physical condition. However, the itinerary is designed with gradual altitude gain to help with acclimatization.
Previous trekking experience is recommended but not strictly required. What is most important is having a good level of fitness and being prepared for hiking at high altitude. Training before your trip will make the experience more enjoyable.
The highest point of the trek is Palomani Pass, which reaches approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). This is one of the most challenging but also most rewarding parts of the journey.
It is highly recommended to spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding alcohol can also help your body adapt better to the altitude.
Most tours include transportation from Cusco, professional guides, meals, camping equipment, horses or mules for carrying gear, and a trekking team. Exact inclusions may vary depending on the operator.
Yes, the natural hot springs in Pacchanta are part of the experience and are usually visited on the fourth day of the trek. After several days of hiking at high altitude, soaking in these warm waters is an excellent way to relax your muscles and recover. The mountain setting also makes it a memorable moment of the journey.
Accommodation is in camping tents set up at designated campsites along the route. These locations are selected for their scenic surroundings and access to water sources. The trekking team takes care of setting up camp, allowing you to rest comfortably after each day of hiking.
The best time to do this trek is during the dry season, from May to September, when weather conditions are generally more stable and skies are clearer. However, temperatures can still be cold, especially in the early mornings and at night, so proper clothing is essential.
You should bring warm layers, waterproof clothing, sturdy hiking boots, a sleeping bag, sunscreen, a hat, gloves, and personal items. Weather conditions can change quickly at high altitude, so it is important to be prepared for both cold temperatures and strong sun exposure.
Starting From: USD 529 per person
Trip details:
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