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Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, & Red Valley Trek

Price: Starts at $550

4 Days

Trekking

Challenging

31 Miles/49 km

5,698 ft/1736 m gain

Book Now

Epic 4-Day, 3-Night Ausangate Trek:
Your Adventure Awaits!

Embark on the ultimate adventure with our 4-day, 3-night Ausangate Trek. Explore stunning glacial peaks, shimmering lakes, and vibrant culture. Create unforgettable memories while trekking through breathtaking landscapes on a journey that’s truly once in a lifetime.

PRICE:

1 Trekker (Private): $1,100 USD per person

2 Trekkers (Private): $700 USD per person
3+ Trekkers (Private) or Group Trips: $550 USD per person

Only your $150 non-refundable deposit is due to reserve your space!

Final payments are due 15 days before your trek.

What to bring for your 4

day Ausangate Trek

Passport: Bring your actual passport. It will be checked at the checkpoint.

Backpack: A 55-70 liter backpack is recommended.

Water Bottle: Bring a reusable water bottle since single-use bottles are not allowed.

Water Purifier: To ensure plenty of water is drank on trail which is very important at high altitude.

First Aid Kit: It’s good to have your own first aid kit, even though our guides will have one. However, they cannot give out medication.

Sun Hat: The high altitude means sun rays can be extra damaging.

Running Shoes: After the hike, you can switch to running shoes for comfort .

Power Bank: Bring a power bank to keep your phone charged for photos and videos.

Trekking Shoes/Boots: Trekking shoes are recommended because the trail is rugged.

Sunglasses: It’s often sunny on the trek so sunglasses will help.

Sunblock: The sun is strong in the Andes, so bring sunscreen.

Hiking Poles with rubber Tips: If you’re not used to hiking or have knee problems, hiking poles can be helpful. Make sure they have rubber tips.

Snacks: Even though snacks are provided, bring extra if you get hungry often, like energy bars or candies.

Electrolytes (Optional): If you need an energy boost, electrolytes can help.

Hand Sanitizer: In some areas, you may need to use the bathroom outdoors, so hand sanitizer will be useful.

Toilet Paper: Toilets on the trail might not have toilet paper, so bring your own.

Long-Sleeve Shirt: Lightweight, breathable long-sleeve shirts are good for sun protection and layering.

Fleece Jacket: A warm fleece jacket is important for cooler temperatures in the mornings or evenings.

Down Jacket: Any sort of insulating jacket will pair well with your fleece jacket for those cold nights and mornings.

Trekking Pants: Trekking pants dry faster than jeans if it rains, which helps you stay warm.

T-Shirts: Bring at least two t-shirts since the trail is hot and you’ll likely sweat.

Rain Jacket/Pants: The weather can change suddenly, so always bring something waterproof.

Camera or Phone: There are lots of great photo opportunities along the trail for unforgettable photos.

Money: Bring some Peruvian soles in case you need to buy something since credit cards may not always be accepted.

Moleskin: Useful for treating blisters.

Binoculars (Optional): If you’re interested in birdwatching, bring binoculars to spot different bird species.

Sleeping Bag (0F / -18C) or (20F / -7C)

Air or foam mattress

Duffel Bag

Day 1: Cusco – Ocongate – Tinqui – Upis Lake – Upis

We’ll pick you up at 6:00 am from your hotel and drive in a private van for approximately 2 hours to Tinqui, where we’ll stretch our legs and visit the village of Tinki, observing locals in their traditional attire. Then, we’ll drive for about 1 hour on dusty and bumpy roads to the starting point of our trek. Upon arrival, enjoy a delicious breakfast and meet our horsemen.

The trek begins from Upispampa, passing remote villages and crossing streams before arriving at the small village of Upis. The trail is mostly flat with occasional ascents and descents. After approximately 3 hours of hiking, we’ll reach our campsite, where private cabins await for your overnight stay. A delicious lunch will be served, and in the afternoon, you’ll have the option to hike to Upis Lake, a 2-hour round trip. The trail to the lake is flat for 40 minutes, followed by a gradual ascent. After returning, relax in your cabin with tea while enjoying breathtaking views of Ausangate through the window. Dinner follows, and the night ends with stargazing under a brilliant night sky.

Elevation gain: 330 m / 1,082 ft
Elevation loss: 56 m / 183 ft
Distance: 8 km / 4.9 miles
Hiking time: 3 hours
Trailhead elevation: 4,179 m / 13,710 ft
Campsite elevation: 4,432 m / 14,540 ft
Highest point: 4,432 m / 14,540 ft
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Cabins

Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass – Yana Cocha – Puca Cocha

Wake up at 5:00 am with coca tea or coffee delivered to your cabin, followed by a hearty breakfast. Begin the trek toward Arapa Pass (4,968 m / 16,295 ft), passing local farmers, alpacas, and the majestic Ausangate Mountain. Along the way, your guide will share insights about the flora, fauna, and landscapes. You may spot condors, chinchillas, and vicuñas if lucky.

After crossing colorful lakes, we’ll arrive at the Puca Cocha campsite, surrounded by towering mountains and hanging glaciers. Listen to the glaciers crashing into the lakes below! Tents will be set up inside mountain shelters for changing, resting, and enjoying lunch. Visit Puca Cocha lagoon in the afternoon to see Andean ducks, geese, and other bird species. Dinner will be served in a rustic dining room built of stone and clay.

Elevation gain: 490 m / 1,607 ft
Elevation loss: 294 m / 964 ft
Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
Hiking time: 5–6 hours
Campsite elevation: 4,577 m / 15,016 ft
Highest point: 4,740 m / 15,551 ft
Difficulty: Moderate/Difficult
Accommodation: Mountain shelters

Day 3: Puca Cocha – Apacheta Pass – Ananta – Surini Pass – Queulla Cocha

Today is challenging. Start with the ascent to Puca Cocha Pass (5,051 m / 16,564 ft), surrounded by colorful mountains. Enjoy spectacular views of Ausangate and vibrant glacial lakes. Enter the untouched Red Valley, a vivid landscape of llamas grazing nearby.

After lunch, climb Warmi Saya Pass (4,500 m / 15,090 ft), offering distant views of Rainbow Mountain. Descend to a plain and continue to Queulla Cocha campsite. If weather permits, visit Rainbow Mountain for a stunning sunset.

Elevation gain: 723 m / 2,372 ft
Elevation loss: 468 m / 1,535 ft
Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles
Campsite elevation: 4,864 m / 15,958 ft
Highest point: 4,918 m / 16,135 ft
Hiking time: 7–8 hours
Difficulty: Difficult
Accommodation: Tents

Day 4: Queulla Cocha – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco

Wake up at 6:00 am with coca tea delivered to your tent. Hike for 45 minutes to Rainbow Mountain, where you’ll have ample time to explore and take photos. Spend 30 minutes to 1 hour enjoying the views (weather permitting).

Next, hike to the Red Valley (30 minutes) for more incredible scenery. Afterward, head to the bus station for a return to Cusco. Bid farewell to your horsemen and chef before arriving at your hotel around 3:00 pm.

Elevation gain: 194 m / 636 ft
Elevation loss: 435 m / 1,427 ft
Distance: 5 km / 3.1 miles
Trailhead elevation: 4,864 m / 15,958 ft
Highest point: 5,040 m / 16,535 ft
Hiking time: 2 hours
Difficulty: Easy

What’s Included:

Your All-Inclusive Ausangate Trek Adventure!

Transportation

Round-trip transportation from Cusco to the trek’s starting point and back. Relax as you’re whisked away to the stunning landscapes that await you, with your transport arranged for a smooth and seamless experience.

Group Camping Equipment

All group camping gear will be provided, including tents, sleeping mats, and cooking equipment. You’ll have everything you need to camp in comfort, surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Professional Guide

An experienced local guide will be with you every step of the way. From the cultural insights to ensuring your safety, our guides are passionate about sharing the magic of the Ausangate region with you.

Support Team & Horse Service

Cooks will prepare your delicious and hearty meals, while Arrieros (muleteers) and horses will carry all expedition gear—as well as personal gear like your extra clothing and camping items. All you need to carry is a light daypack with your essentials.

Meals

All meals from lunch on Day 1 to breakfast on Day 5 are included! Savor traditional Peruvian meals and energy-boosting snacks throughout the trek, giving you the fuel you need to tackle the challenging but rewarding terrain.

Entrance to the Zone & Thermal Baths

Your entrance fee to the Ausangate zone is covered. You’ll also have the chance to soak and relax in the thermal baths near the end of your trek, a perfect way to unwind after your days of trekking.

What’s Not Included: Things to Keep in Mind

Tips (Optional)

Tips for your guide, porters, and cooks are not included in the cost of the trek, but are appreciated for the hard work and dedication of the team that supports you along the way. These are optional and at your discretion.

Dinner in Aguas Calientes

Dinner on the last night in Aguas Calientes is not included. You'll have free time to explore the town and choose from the many delicious dining options available.

With these details in mind, you’ll be fully prepared for an incredible Ausangate adventure with everything you need for an unforgettable experience!

Got Questions?

We’ve Got Answers! Your Ausangate FAQ

How do I book the 4 day Ausangate Trek with Andes & Beyond?

In order to book your 4 day Ausangate Trek with us, click on the BOOK NOW button, then select the day of your departure, then, fill out all your personal information of each participant and the last step is the payment of your deposit of $150 per person.

Once we get your deposit, we will send you a confirmation of your trip and the booking form to fill out. Here is all the detail that you need to send us.

Personal information (your full name, exactly as on your passport):
Nationality
Gender
Passport number
Date of Birthday (dd/mm /yyyy)

How do I pay for the outstanding balance?

We offer many different options to pay for your trip, you can choose the most suitable for you:

Credit Card: we use Stripe, a widely reputed payment processor, to guarantee that your payment will be secure.

We also use PayPal and Venmo.

You can either pay 100% of your trip at once, or pay a deposit and then pay for the rest 30 days prior to the trip’s departure date. We also offer the option of paying in installments.

What if I need to cancel what is your refund policy?

If you book your Tour more than 30 days in advance, you will have a 48-hour span after booking to cancel and receive a full refund without any deductions.

After that period of time, if you decide to cancel the Tour, you will have the possibility to do so in accordance with the following indemnity scheme (refunded or to be paid depending on whether the payment was made and received):

100% refunded (or 0% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to us up to 60 days before the first day of the Tour (minus fees as described below, and the eventual non-reimbursable expenses the Guide paid to organize the Tour);

75% refunded (or 25% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to us between 59 and 30 days before the first day of the Tour (minus fees as described below, and the eventual non-reimbursable expenses the Guide paid to organize the Tour);

50% refunded (or 50% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to us between 29 and 21 days before the first day of the Tour (minus fees as described below, and the eventual non-reimbursable expenses the Guide paid to organize the Tour);

0% refunded (or 100% paid) if the cancellation is notified in writing by email to us less than 21 days before the first day of the Tour

May I change the departure date after the trip has been booked?

Of course! Just let us know what date works best two weeks in advance if possible and we will try and accommodate it free of charge.

How difficult is the 4 day Ausangate Trek?

This trek is classified as difficult, it’s recommended to be in good physical condition with at least a few hikes reaching over 1500 feet of elevation gain with a pack. Acclimatization is also very important. We recommend at least a few days in Cusco before embarking on the journey. Cusco sits at 11,152 feet/ meters. At least having 3 nights in Cusco will help you on the trek.

Do I need to bring my original passport on the 4 day Ausangate Trek?

Yes! You must bring your original passport and it is very important that it should be the same passport you sent us to reserve your 4 day Ausangate Trek. Your passport will be checked at the Ausangate checkpoint park entrance.

UPDATING PASSPORT NUMBERS

If you are renewing your passport, go ahead and email us a copy of your old passport to book your Short Inca trail 1-day permits. If you no longer have your old passport, any government issue ID will be accepted, as long as the name is the same. Once you receive your new passport. Please email us a copy of your new passport ASAP to change the information on your permit.

What time do we depart for our trip and what time do we return?

We look to depart close to 6:30 in the morning. We strive to pick you up around 6:00 am at your hotel in the center of Cusco. We strive to make it back to Cusco after our trek around 3:00 pm to your hotel. All times are dependent on number of people and how fast each person is.

Get Ready for the Ultimate Ausangate Adventure:

Everything You Need to Know Before You Go!

Prepare for the Altitude

The Ausangate Trek reaches elevations over 4,700 meters (15,420 feet), so altitude sickness is a real factor. Make sure to arrive in Cusco at least 2-3 days before your trek to acclimatize. The more time you give your body to adjust, the better your experience will be. Stay hydrated, avoid heavy drinking, and consider taking altitude sickness medication like Diamox—just check with your doctor beforehand!

Pack Smart for the Weather

The weather in the Andes can change in an instant! While you’ll experience some sunshine, temperatures can drop dramatically, especially at night.

Daytime temperatures: Typically range between 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F).
Nighttime temperatures: Can drop to freezing or below!
Pack layers: Wear lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers, a warm mid-layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Don’t forget a hat, gloves, and sunscreen, as the sun at high altitudes is intense.

Get Ready for Some Tough Terrain

The 4-day trek is moderate to challenging in difficulty, with rocky paths, steep inclines, and high-altitude mountain passes. You’ll cover about 50 kilometers (31 miles) in total, so be prepared for long days on your feet.

Day 1: Starts at Cusco, where you’ll travel to the trek’s starting point. The first day involves a gradual ascent with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and mountains.
Day 2: The most challenging day, as you’ll reach the highest point of the trek, Abra Ausangate Pass at 5,000 meters (16,404 feet).
Day 3 & 4: The trek continues with beautiful lakes, glaciers, and unique wildlife, but with less steep terrain.

A Friendly Warning About the Cold

While you’ll love the breathtaking views, be aware that cold nights are inevitable! The higher the elevation, the colder it gets.

Bring a good sleeping bag rated for -10°C (14°F) or colder.
Some treks offer sleeping mats, but it’s best to double-check if you need to bring your own for added comfort.
Coca leaves are traditionally used by locals to help with altitude sickness, so feel free to ask your guide if you'd like some.

Local Culture and Respect

The Ausangate region is home to traditional Andean communities who live a simple life high in the mountains.

Many locals wear colorful traditional clothing, often made from alpaca wool, and you may see them herding llamas and alpacas along the trail.
Respect their way of life—ask before taking photos, and a small tip (about 5 soles/$2) is often appreciated for photos with locals and their animals.
Cultural festivals are common in the area, so if your trek coincides with one, you’re in for a treat!

Fitness Level and Preparation

This trek is not for complete beginners! You should have moderate fitness, with some hiking experience.

Practice hikes: If possible, do some hill climbing or hiking in the weeks before your trip to prepare your body for the tough terrain.
Yoga and stretching can also help to increase flexibility, which will be crucial for the long days of trekking.

Leave No Trace: Respect the Environment

The Ausangate trek is located in a protected ecological zone, and preserving its beauty is everyone’s responsibility.

Stay on the marked trails to minimize environmental impact.
Don’t leave trash behind—carry everything you bring with you.
Avoid disturbing the wildlife, and be mindful of the fragile flora along the trail.

How to Deal with the Group Dynamics

If you’re joining a group tour, keep in mind that everyone’s pace is different.

On flatter sections of the trail, your group will likely stay together.
On steeper climbs, some people may need to go slower, while others may move faster. Be patient, take breaks, and encourage others to keep going!

Prepare for Early Starts

You’ll need to wake up early each morning to make the most of daylight and get through the longer stretches of the hike.
Expect early pick-up times, often around 5:00 AM from Cusco to start your journey to the trek's starting point.
Make sure you’re well-rested before you start—this will make the whole trek much easier!

What’s Included?

Meals: Delicious traditional Peruvian meals are provided along the trek, including hearty breakfasts, lunches, and dinners. Expect warm soup, rice, potatoes, and delicious stews.
Tents and Camping Equipment: Most tours provide 2-person tents, with a mat and sleeping bag (check with your tour provider).
Porters and Mules: Porters will carry most of your camping gear and food, while mules carry heavier loads. You’ll carry only your day pack with essentials like water, snacks, camera, and a jacket.
Guides: Experienced and knowledgeable guides will lead the trek and share fascinating insights into the local culture, flora, and fauna.

Cost for Photos & Tips

If you’d like to take photos with local people, their llamas or alpacas, it’s customary to tip around 5 soles ($2). This small gesture helps support the local communities.

Bonus Tip: If You’re Feeling Nervous…

It’s completely normal to feel anxious before taking on a big trek, especially at high altitudes! But don’t worry, you’re going to be in good hands with an experienced guide and a small group of fellow adventurers. Focus on the incredible scenery, the joy of completing each day, and the satisfaction of reaching your goal!

Now you’re armed with all the info you need for the Ausangate 4-Day Trek! Get ready for an incredible journey through one of the most spectacular regions in the world.

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT

We’re here to make this the ultimate adventure for you. Consider us your adventure buddies—ready to guide, inspire, and share every step of the journey. Are you ready to dive in?

Lifetime Friends

It's more than just an adventure—experience the Andes with a close-knit group where friendships are forged for a lifetime. Share unforgettable moments with fellow travelers and join the founder on future trips to explore more of the Andes.

Small Groups

Enjoy a more personal and immersive experience with our small group treks. Connect with fellow travelers, receive personalized attention, and truly embrace the beauty of the Andes without the crowd.

Passion

Your adventure is our passion, and your safety is our promise. We craft unforgettable journeys through the Andes that are as secure as they are inspiring. Trust us to keep you safe, so you can focus on embracing the thrill of discovery and the beauty of the journey.