Description
Venture into the high Andes on an unforgettable journey that blends breathtaking landscapes with ancient Andean spirit. The Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain will take you across remote trails surrounded by towering glaciers, shimmering turquoise lakes, and traditional villages where time seems to stand still.
In just 3 days and 2 nights, you’ll discover some of Peru’s most stunning natural wonders, where majestic snow-capped peaks, turquoise glacial lakes, and herds of alpacas create a landscape like no other.
This adventure takes you around the sacred Ausangate mountain, one of the highest in Peru, revered by local communities as a powerful spirit of the Andes. Along the way, you’ll camp under star-filled skies, soak in the serenity of remote highland valleys, and connect with the traditions of the Andean people.
The highlight of the trek is reaching the world-famous Rainbow Mountain, or Vinicunca, a geological masterpiece of vibrant colors that stretch across the horizon. Standing at over 5,000 meters, the panoramic views from the summit are an unforgettable reward for your effort.
Perfect for adventurers seeking a short but immersive high-altitude experience, this trek combines physical challenge, cultural encounters, and the awe-inspiring beauty of the Peruvian Andes.
Itinerary
Día
1
Day 1: Cusco – Tinki - Upis
- To begin the 3-day Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour, we leave the city of Cusco at 7:00 a.m., then travel in private transport towards the south of Cusco. During this 3.5-hour journey, we will pass through the beautiful and colorful small towns of Urcos, Ocongate, and Tinki, finally arriving at the community of Upis, located on the slopes of the Ausangate glacier.
- After the first lunch at the Upis campsite, you will have free time to take a walk around Ausangate Qocha (Ausangate Lagoon), a beautiful freshwater lake formed by glacial melt. You will also enjoy the impressive panoramic view of the fifth-highest mountain in Peru, Ausangate (6,385 m / 20,948 ft). If you are lucky, you may witness an icefall.
- Later, relax in the Upis hot springs and enjoy dinner (6:30 p.m.) prepared by our local cook.
Día
2
Day 2: Upis – Puka Qocha – Chillca Pass – Ananta
- Today will be the challenging day of the 3-day Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour, as you will hike more than 20 kilometers and also cross 2 of the highest passes: Arapa Pass at 4,980 m (16,338 ft) and Chillca Pass at 4,995 m (16,385 ft).
- To start today’s activity, you will wake up at 5:00 a.m. with coca tea served in your tent, and at 5:30 a.m. you will have an energizing breakfast. Then, begin hiking uphill towards Puka Qocha (Red Lagoon), where you will enjoy a healthy lunch with beautiful views: stone forests, small freshwater streams, picturesque lagoons, and snow-capped mountains.
- After your delicious lunch, continue the journey towards the Ananta campsite (4,710 m / 15,452 ft), where you will spend the second night of the 3-day Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour. This part of your adventure will also be unique, as you will cross the second highest point, Chillca Pass, from where you will witness the splendid beauty of nature. You will also see hundreds of South American camelids (vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas) before finally arriving at the Ananta campsite.
Día
3
Day 3: Ananta – Rainbow Mountain– Red Valley – Chilliwani – Cusco
- Today is the last day of the 3-day Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain Tour. However, it is one of the most anticipated days, as you will visit one of the most popular and touristic places in recent years: Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley.
- To be among the first to arrive at Rainbow Mountain, have breakfast at 5:30 a.m., then cross the Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,354 ft). From here, you can already see Rainbow Mountain, also known as the Mountain of 7 Colors, on the horizon.
- Try to reach Rainbow Mountain before 9:00 a.m., and before the crowds arrive by bus from Cusco. Once you reach the viewpoint, take amazing photos without the crowds. After 9:00 a.m., this place becomes packed, with more than a thousand tourists visiting daily. By then, you will already be heading toward the Red Valley, another fantastic destination.
- After admiring the natural beauty, you will begin to descend to the community of Chilliwani, where your private transport will be waiting to take you back to the city of Cusco.
- Before starting the 3.5-hour journey to Cusco, enjoy your last lunch and say goodbye to the adventure team (horsemen and cook).
Arrival in the city of Cusco – hotel at approximately 5:00 p.m.
Includes
- Briefing about the hike one day before the trek
- Tourist transportation from Cusco – Upis / Chilliwani – Cusco
- Professional guide who speaks English, Spanish, and Quechua
- Local cook and 1 assistant for groups of more than 8 people
- Local horsemen to handle the horses that will carry the camping equipment
- Horses to transport camping gear and each passenger’s duffel bag
- Meals: 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, snacks (vegetarian option available at no extra cost)
- Dining tent and kitchen tent
- Dining chairs and table
- 1 four-season tent for 2 people plus sleeping mats
- First aid kit
- Oxygen bottles
- Hiking radio communication
- Entrance to Ausangate Natural Park, Rainbow Mountain, and Red Valley
Does not Include
- Sleeping bags (If you do not wish to bring your own, we have them available for rent)
- Trekking poles (If you do not wish to bring your own, we can provide them for rent)
- Travel insurance: it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance for the duration of your trip
- All flights
- Accommodation in Cusco
- Personal items and medications (exclusively altitude sickness pills)
- Breakfast on the first day, dinner on the last day
- Tips for the guide, cook, and horsemen (optional)
What to bring
- Spend at least 2–3 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Be in good physical condition, as the trek involves long walks and high-altitude passes (almost 5,000 m / 16,400 ft).
- Wear proper clothing: thermal and waterproof layers, gloves, hat, scarf, rain poncho, and resistant waterproof trekking boots.
- Bring a small backpack for daily essentials.
- Trekking poles are highly recommended, especially for descents.
- Sleeping bag rated to -10°C (can be rented if needed).
- Headlamp with extra batteries.
- Carry altitude sickness medication (consult your doctor before the trip).
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm with SPF.
- Carry water purification tablets (optional).
- Bring cash in Peruvian soles (PEN), preferably in small bills, for personal expenses or tips.
- Stay well-hydrated with a water bottle or Camelbak, and pack energy snacks (nuts, chocolate, granola bars).
- Respect local culture, traditions, and the Andean ecosystem—leave no trash behind.
Book Now
Booking in advance is recommended.
Ausangate Trek and Mountain 7 colors 3D/2N
3D/2N
