Ausangate Trek 4 Days/3 Nights

Exploring Peru’s Andes on the Ausangate Trek 4 Days/3 Nights

If you’re craving an adventure that combines breathtaking scenery, authentic mountain villages, and the chance to see rare wildlife, the Ausangate Trek is a standout. This 4-day journey takes you through the rugged Cusco Region, with dramatic views of gigantic glaciers, shimmering lagoons, and vibrant mountain stripes that rival a painter’s palette. Guided by friendly experts in small groups, you’ll experience Peru far from the crowds—an authentic trek that leaves you feeling connected to the land and its people.

Two things we particularly like about this trek: first, its focus on stunning natural features—from crystalline lakes to the striking Rainbow Mountain Range—and second, its excellent balance of challenge and comfort, with tents and meals included. A minor consideration might be the altitude, which can be intense, so proper acclimatization is wise.

This adventure suits travelers who are reasonably fit, eager to explore off the beaten path, and excited by scenic mountain hikes that combine natural beauty with local culture. It’s perfect for those wanting more than just a day trip, but not a week-long expedition.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: Marvel at glaciers, lagoons, and Rainbow Mountain’s distinctive stripes.
• Wildlife Encounters: Spot llamas, alpacas, and other native animals along the way.
• Authentic Experience: Walk through traditional Andean communities and high-altitude landscapes.
• Comfort and Convenience: Tents, meals, and transportation are included, making logistics easier.
• Small Group Atmosphere: Limited to 15 participants for a more personal journey.
• Value for Price: At $454, it offers a substantial, immersive experience in Peru’s wild mountains.

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An In-Depth Look at the Ausangate Trek Experience

Starting Out in Cusco and Heading to Upis

The adventure begins early, with a 5:00 a.m. pickup in Cusco. The private drive takes about three hours, giving you a chance to relax while soaking in the scenery of the Peruvian highlands. We like this setup: it avoids the fatigue of a long early-morning start, and you arrive refreshed, ready to begin.

Upon reaching the small town of Upis, you’ll meet your team of cooks and horsemen—an essential part of the experience, since their expertise keeps things running smoothly. The trek starts with a gentle ascent along wide paths, where farm fields and traditional houses set a picturesque scene.

What truly makes this part enjoyable is the sense of stepping into an authentic rural world, away from tourist hotspots. After about three hours, you arrive at the Upis campsite, nestled among sacred mountains that seem to watch over you.

Day 1 Highlights: Glaciers and Lakes

Lunch awaits at the campsite, and there’s an optional two-hour walk to Wayna Ausangate Lake. We loved the chance to stretch our legs and take photos of this serene, crystalline water—it’s a quiet moment of beauty before the trek intensifies.

Day 2: High Passes and Crystalline Lagoons

Day 2 kicks off with a two-and-a-half-hour walk up a high valley toward the Arapa Pass, where the Ausangate glacier dominates the skyline. The scenery here is jaw-dropping—think towering ice formations and sweeping mountain vistas.

Descending from the pass, you’ll come across Yanacocha, a lagoon with dark waters that reflect the sky and mountains. Later, camp at Hatun Pukaqocha, a high-altitude site where you can explore nearby lagoons and relax with traditional mate.

This part of the trek really highlights the variety of landscapes, from snowy peaks to tranquil waters, all packed into a day’s walk.

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Day 3: Crossings and Rainbow Views

The third day is a bit more challenging, with a 2-hour ascent to the Puka Pass at nearly 16,000 feet. The views are worth every gasp—panoramas of glaciers, deep valleys, and the beginning of the iconic Rainbow Mountain Range.

After a descent and lunch, you’ll climb again to Warmisaya, with its own stunning vistas, and descend to Surineqocha lagoon. Here, the serenity of the water and the surrounding peaks make for a perfect setting to rest and enjoy the landscape.

Day 4: Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

The final morning begins at 4:00 a.m., as you head towards Rainbow Mountain to catch the sunrise. The mountain’s colorful stripes, explained thoroughly by your guide, will impress even seasoned travelers. We loved how this early start pays off—seeing the mountain bathed in golden light is a memory you’ll cherish.

Following Rainbow Mountain, the route leads through the Red Valley, another vibrant landscape of red and ochre hues. The descent through ancient villages and grazing llamas gives you a sense of real life in the Andes before returning to Cusco.

Comfort, Food, and Practicalities

Throughout the trek, you’ll stay in 4-season tents with mattresses, and your meals are prepared by a professional chef. We found the vegetarian and vegan options to be thoughtful and flavorful, adding to the overall value. The inclusion of a canvas bag for your belongings and horses to carry your gear makes packing and logistics manageable, even at high altitude.

The tour’s small group size—limited to 15—creates an intimate atmosphere, where your guide can give personalized attention. The transportation is private, ensuring comfort and efficiency. The price of $454 includes almost everything except entrance tickets, a sleeping bag, and canes, which you might want to bring or rent locally.

Authentic Encounters and Wildlife

While the trek is primarily about scenery, we appreciated the chance to see llamas and alpacas grazing near traditional communities. These animals add an extra layer of authenticity. Reviews mention enjoying the delicious food and “happy hour” tea time, which helps recharge after a day of hiking.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Altitude can be a challenge—up to nearly 16,000 feet—so consider acclimatization before starting the trek. The early start on Day 4 means you’ll need to be prepared for a cold morning, but the effort pays off with spectacular sunrise views.

While the trek is well-equipped and thoughtfully planned, bringing your own sleeping bag is recommended if you tend to be cold at night. The included meals are hearty, but packing some extra snacks might be wise if you’re a big eater.

Transport and logistics are straightforward, but be aware that entrance tickets are not included, so budget accordingly. The group size ensures a more personal experience, but it also means you should book in advance to secure your spot during busy seasons.

Who Would Love the Ausangate Trek?

This tour is best suited for adventurous travelers who are comfortable at high altitudes and enjoy scenery that rewards those who love mountains, lakes, and vibrant landscapes. If you seek an authentic cultural experience combined with outdoor adventure, this trek delivers. Travelers who appreciate well-organized logistics and small group dynamics will find it especially appealing.

It’s also ideal for those wanting a balance of challenge and comfort—with tents, meals, and transportation included, it’s a hassle-free way to explore some of Peru’s most stunning mountain scenery.

The Sum Up

The Ausangate Trek 4 Days/3 Nights offers a fantastic opportunity to experience Peru’s wild, majestic highlands. With jaw-dropping glaciers, colorful lagoons, and the chance to see traditional communities, it’s a genuine adventure with plenty of comfort and convenience.

For travelers craving an authentic mountain experience that’s more than just a day hike, this trek provides the perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural insight, and manageable challenge. The small group size and included amenities make it a memorable journey that feels both personal and well-organized.

And, of course, the chance to witness Rainbow Mountain at sunrise is worth every penny—an unforgettable highlight in a trip full of stunning moments. If you love mountains, wildlife, and vibrant landscapes, this trek is a worthy investment in your Peruvian adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of the Ausangate Trek?
It costs $454 per person, which includes guide services, meals, tents, transportation, and horses for luggage.

How long is the trek each day?
The daily walks vary, with some days involving around 2-3 hours of walking, including ascents to high passes, and some optional side walks like to Wayna Ausangate Lake.

What should I bring?
You should bring a sleeping bag (not included), possibly hiking poles or canes, and appropriate clothing for high-altitude mountain weather.

Are vegetarian or vegan options available?
Yes, the tour provides vegetarian and vegan meal options at no extra charge.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, private transportation from Cusco to the trailhead and back is included.

How many people are in the group?
Groups are limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are the tents and camping equipment provided?
Yes, high-quality 4-season tents and mattresses are included for comfortable camping nights.

What about altitude sickness?
Given the high elevations—up to nearly 16,000 feet—you should be prepared for altitude and consider acclimatization before the trek.

Do I need entrance tickets?
Entrance tickets are not included, so you should budget for these, depending on the sites you wish to visit.

In summary, if you’re after a challenging, scenic, and culturally rich adventure in Peru’s Andes, the Ausangate Trek is a rewarding choice. It balances natural splendors with the comfort of included meals, tents, and transport, making it an excellent option for those seeking a genuine mountain experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby