Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain: 4-Day Andean Adventure
Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain 4-Day Trek: Andean Wilderness Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable 4-day Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain private tour, a journey into the heart of Peru’s stunning highlands. This trek, considered the crown jewel of the Andes, leads you through some of the most iconic snow-capped peaks of the Vilcanota Range and the breathtaking Rainbow Mountains. Venture off the beaten path to discover unspoiled natural wonders and immerse yourself in remote Andean culture. Cross four spectacular mountain passes, each offering unique vistas and experiences. At night, gaze up at the star-filled sky, a sight to behold in the pristine wilderness. The highlight of this journey is the awe-inspiring views of the Rainbow Mountain and Red Mountain valleys, natural marvels renowned for their vibrant colors and geological beauty. Experience up-close encounters with local wildlife, including condors, vicunas, and llamas. Revel in the mineral-rich colors of Rainbow Mountain and the serene hues of nearby lakes. This tour also provides opportunities for authentic interaction with local villagers, enriching your cultural journey in Peru.
Highlight
- Marvel at Rainbow Mountain’s Vibrancy: Witness the stunning Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder known for its vivid mineral-rich colors and geological splendor.
- Iconic Ausangate Trek Experience: Embark on the revered Ausangate Trek, journeying through the snow-capped peaks of the majestic Vilcanota Range.
- Authentic Andean Culture Immersion: Immerse yourself in remote Andean culture, engaging with local communities and experiencing their traditional way of life.
- Breathtaking Mountain Passes: Traverse four unique mountain passes, each offering its own spectacular vistas and unforgettable trekking experiences.
- Stargazing in Pristine Wilderness: Enjoy mesmerizing nights under the stars, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Peruvian highlands.
Brief Itinerary
Day 1: Journey to Tinki and Hike to Upis
Your Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain adventure begins with a scenic drive to Tinki, the gateway to the magnificent Vilcanota Range. From Tinki, embark on your first trek to Upis. This hike introduces you to the breathtaking beauty of the Andes, with its snow-capped peaks and serene landscapes.
Day 2: Trek from Upis to Pucacocha
On the second day, the trek leads from Upis to Pucacocha. This route takes you through some of the most picturesque terrains of the Ausangate trail, offering stunning views of the mountainous landscape. The trek to Pucacocha is both challenging and rewarding, showcasing the pristine beauty and remote nature of the Andean highlands.
Day 3: Hike from Pucacocha to Surine Lagoon
The third day’s trek from Pucacocha to Surine Lagoon is filled with natural wonders. As you hike, experience the diverse ecosystems and vibrant colors of the Andes. Surine Lagoon, with its tranquil waters and scenic surroundings, is a perfect spot to relax and reflect on the journey thus far.
Day 4: Sunrise at Rainbow Mountain and Return to Cusco
Your final day starts with an early morning hike to witness a breathtaking sunrise at Rainbow Mountain. The vibrant colors of the mountain at dawn are a sight to behold and a fitting climax to your trekking adventure. After soaking in the beauty of Rainbow Mountain, you’ll transfer back to Cusco.
Prices for this trek
PRIVATE TOUR PRICE | |
---|---|
1 person | US$ 1,774 per person |
2 people | US$ 925 per person |
3 people | US$ 728 per person |
4 people | US$ 607 per person |
5 to 8 people | US$ 547 per person |
9 to 14 people | US$ 454 per person |
More than 15 people | US$ 398 per person |
* Private tour; do not join other travelers; exclusive tour with a private guide and private mobility, whether traveling alone, with family, or with friends.
* Prices are based on the number of people traveling together.
Includes and excludes
Included
- The clients will receive a briefing the night before the trek.
- Pick up from the hotel and transfer to Tinki (starting point of the trail).
- Transfer from Cusipata town to Cusco.
- Entrance fees to Ausangate Circuit and Rainbow Mountain.
- Personal tents accommodate two people for greater comfort and security. Our tents are 4-season and well-maintained for field performance.
- Each individual should bring an inflatable sleeping mat.
- Dining tent with tables and chairs. Kitchen tent.
- Toilet tent with bio-degradable toilet facilities.
- English-speaking tour leader plus an assistant guide for groups of over eight trekkers
- Chef and cooking equipment.
- Campsite fees must be paid to the local community in every camp place.
- Pack animals (to carry tents, food, and cooking equipment).
- Pack animals to carry personal gear up to 7kg per person (including sleeping pad and sleeping bag).
- One emergency horse every six people.
- Horse riders.
- Meals (3 breakfast, 4-lunches, three dinners + daily morning snack + daily tea service except for last day). Vegetarian or special diets are available at no extra cost.
- A cloth bag for everyday snacks saves plastic bags and decreases waste.
- We will provide boiled water from lunchtime on the first day.
- Bio-degradable personal hand soaps.
- Our kitchen staff uses bio-degradable dishwashing detergents.
- Hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in the water bottle every morning, night, and lunchtime.
- We bring a first-aid kit, including an emergency oxygen bottle.
- 24-hour support by our local staff.
Not Included
- The price does not cover domestic or international flights. Consult a travel agency if necessary.
- VISA procedures, travel insurance, pre, and post-tour accommodation.
- Additional personal costs (alcoholic beverages, laundry).
- The price does not cover gratuities for tour guides, drivers, and support staff.
- Guidance in another language (Germany, French, others), in case you request them, please ask your travel agent.
- Additional items are not included explicitly in the itinerary description.
- Breakfast on the first day.
- Sleeping bag.
Trip code: ARM4D01-PVT
Day 1 – Transportation to Tinki, Hike to Upis
- Pick up from the hotel at 06:00 and transfer to the head of the trail at Tinki (3,800m/12,467ft); the journey takes about 3 hours by car.
- We continue via Urcos, where we may see a magnificent lagoon of the same name, Ccatcca. In this agricultural and cattle-raising hamlet, we can enjoy the beautiful views of the area. The last point was Ocongate, the capital of the same-named district and only half an hour from our final destination.
- We meet our Arrieros “horsemen “and start the hike around 10:00 am.
- We begin our hike with a slight ascent through puna, a high, arid region. After a three-hour trek, we arrive at our lunch destination. We can already see the Ausangate peak (6,372m/20,900ft). After lunch, we hike for another hour and a half to reach our 4400m (14432ft) above sea level campground at Upis. From this vantage point, we can see the region’s snow-capped summits. We pitch our tents and dine just before Ausangate.
- Distance estimate: 11 km (6.84 miles) – Estimated walking time: 5-6 hours
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner.
Day 2 – Hike from Upis to Pucacocha
- After breakfast, We ascend for around three hours to reach Arapa Pass (4,750m/15,560ft). The views of Ausangate from Arapa Step are unquestionably breathtaking and will motivate us to take photographs.
- After reaching this step, we will stop for a light lunch before descending into the valley on a wee-trodden gravel trail. During our descent, we pass by the magnificent black lake of Yanacocha. Once back in the valley, a camp for the night beside the gorgeous lake Jatun Pucacocha. From the campsite, we have the freedom to choose to climb a nearby ridge to view the red-tinged lake of Vinococha. Each lake in the region is colored differently depending on the colored sediment of the nearby mountains.
- Our second campsite is close to the Ausangate glacier at Pucacocha (4,600m/15,092ft).
- Distance estimate: 11 km (6.84 miles) – Estimated walking time: 6-7 hours
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner.
Day 3 – Hike from Pucacocha to Surine lagoon
- After a hearty breakfast and a refreshing cup of coca tea, we will begin our ascent over a meandering trail to the (4,900m/16,076ft), walking time around two hours.
- This pass has magnificent vistas and reaching the summit rewards us with 360-degree views of one of the most spectacular environments on the planet. After crossing the divide, we proceed through a lush green valley teeming with alpacas and llamas, with the occasional sight of an Andean Condor or the endangered vicuña.
- We will start with a gradual descent for one hour and a half to our lunch spot, located in Ananpata (4,650m/15,256ft).
- After lunch, we will keep hiking uphill for another two hours until we reach the Ananta pass (4,980m/16,339ft). From here, we can see Rainbow Mountain farther away, but the views will still be awe-inspiring. The last 30 minutes of the trail go downhill to the campsite at Surine lagoon (4,800m/15,748ft).
- Distance estimate: 12 km (7.45 miles) – Estimated time walking: 7-8 hours
- Overnight in camp.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner.
Day 4 – Sunrise at Rainbow Mountain, Transfer to Cusco
- Beginning after breakfast, we will gradually hike uphill for 2 hours until we reach the famous, magnificent Rainbow Mountain (5,030m/16,498ft).
- The guide will explain what exactly makes these mountains so unique! They are composed of various minerals, which create different colors of stone striations.
- We will beat the crowds and have this place to ourselves for about one hour, which is plenty of time to enjoy the site.
- It is time to descend after soaking in the beautiful vistas. Returning to the trailhead should take lunch before traveling to Cusco.
- We will embark on the 3-hour drive back to Cusco and drop off at the Cusco hotel.
- The approximate arrival time is between 17:00.
- Distance estimate: 8 km (4. 97 miles) – Estimated walking time: 4-5 hours
- Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch.