Ausangate Trek 5 days

AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS – OVERVIEW

The Ausangate Trek is largely known because the Ausangate Mountain as one of the most important sacred mountain peaks in the region. It is considered the bearer of a magical scenario for shaman initiations and pilgrimages. Ausangate trek invites you to easily sincronize with nature and harmoniously commune with the surroundings as you come closer to the Rainbow Mountain, located in the Vilcanota mountain range. A remote and unspoiled high mountain paradise combined with the comfort of cozy, eco-friendly “Tambos” or Andean Lodges to satisfy travelers from all over the world in search of a challenge with comfort and style.

We will walk with the shepherds of the Chillca community, whom will provide the horses and llamas. Proud to share the spirit of this inspiring world. Experienced chefs will prepare delicious meals daily, introducing you to a variety of Peruvian dishes, and for entertainment, authentic, vernacular music from members of the communities will accompany some of your nights in the “tambos.”

DIFFICULTY LEVEL: Challenging. We strongly recommend acclimatizing to the altitude by staying in Cusco Peru for at least 2-3 days prior to the trek.

AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS – ITINERARY

DIFFICULTY: CHALLENGING

DAY 1

Cusco to Chillca (3,800 m/12,500 ft):
We leave Cusco at 08:30hrs by bus, travelling along the Vilcanota Valley, up to Checacupe town (1½ hrs). After a visit at the colonial temple of the Immaculate, we’ll begin climbing through the Pitumarca valley, into the Japura gorge that leads to Chillca, where we’ll be greeted by the community. (1½ hrs). From here, it will be a short and easy walk to the first “Tambo” (45min). Once at the lodge there will be time to relax and enjoy the music of the locals of Chillca.

Overnight at Andean Lodge.

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DAY 2

Chillca to Machuracay:
We’ll start off at 08:30am in the wide valley of Upis where impressive glaciated mountains loom over the valley offering marvelous views. Continuing along a narrow path towards the waterfalls descending from the Santa Catalina Mountain. As you reach the small Paloma lagoon you’ll encounter llamas and a large number of alpacas. After hiking along a second lagoon and crossing a long series of moraines, you will reach the Machuracay Tambo, located right at the skirts of the Apu Ausangate.

Overnight at Andean Lodge.

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DAY 3

Machuracay to Anantapata:
Today we leave Machuracay Tambo and hike our way up to the trying Palomani pass at an elevation of 5,200 m. / 17,000 ft. Great views completely worth the effort! Then we’ll be descending along the Ausangate cocha, a glaciated side of the sacred mountain that will inspire you to continue towards the red sandstone formations on the “Nevado del Inca.

Overnight stay in the Anantapata Lodge.

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DAY 4

Anantapata to Huampococha:
Continue your hike walking through red, ochre and blue earth Rainbow mountains. A stunning geological wonder. Be alert, you might have an exciting encounter with a herd of vicuñas along your way. You will sleep that night in the Huampococha Tambo, in the heart of large rock formation near a lagoon where “huallatas” (Andean geese) make their nests.

Overnight at Huampococha Lodge

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DAY 5

Huampococha to Cusco:
Start off with a good breakfast for your last climb over the Anta pass, and gradually descend until you get the first glimpse of crops and country houses. You’ll notice the landscape rapidly changing as the red sandstone formations are followed by the carsten erosion of limestone, forming a one of a kind stone forest, and a perfect habitat for “Vizcachas” (members of the Chinchilla family). By the time you are in the valley, your bus will be waiting for your return trip to Cusco.

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NOTES:

The Ausangate Trek 5 days is customizable. If you would prefer to add destinations to your trip, please let us know in the Comments Section of the Get Free Quote form. You can also fill out our Design Your Trip form or Contact Us form with your specific needs.

• This Ausangate Trek 5 days is available every day of the year.
• The recommended period to do the Ausangate Trek 5 days is from April to October.
• Private Service Fixed Departures Dates: every day except Friday.
• Group Service Fixed Departure Dates: every Friday from April to October.
• Price does not include local sales taxes; as foreign travelers are sales tax exempt according Peruvian Law.
• For more Andean Trek options go to Peru Treks

Please do not hesitate to Contact Us about customizing this hike.

AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS – PRICES

Ausangate Trek – Mountain Lodges

INCLUDED IN AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS

References:

• Welcome to the Incredible Rainbow Mountains of Peru (Forbes)

Tags: Trek