Ausangate Trek 2 Days

Overview

The 2-day Ausangate Trek offers a condensed yet stunning adventure through the Andean highlands, with breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and traditional Andean villages. The trek starts with a drive from Cusco to the trailhead, followed by a moderate hike to the base of Mount Ausangate (6,384 meters), one of Peru’s most sacred peaks. Along the way, you’ll pass colorful lagoons like Puca Cocha, experience local culture, and enjoy panoramic views from the Arapa Pass. This short but rewarding trek is ideal for those seeking an active yet manageable hike with dramatic landscapes and cultural immersion.

Included/Exclude

Permits & Entrance Tickets: Entrance to the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain.
Pre-Departure Briefing: Attend an in-person briefing at the Sap Adventures office or schedule a virtual briefing via WhatsApp (+51960827076) at least 48 hours in advance.
Experienced Guides: Bilingual (English/Spanish) certified guides, licensed by the Peruvian government and trained in tourism.
Medical Kit: Guides are trained in first aid and CPR, with a full first aid kit for altitude sickness, diarrhea, and injuries.
24/7 Customer Service: Accessible via WhatsApp and phone, with satellite communication for emergencies.
Accommodation: One night in a shared tent with a sleeping mat (2 people per tent).
Camping Equipment: Dining tent, kitchen tent, and all necessary camping gear provided.
Muleteer and Horse Team: Horses and muleteers transport all equipment, food, and your 6kg personal belongings to each campsite.
Meals: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 1 dinner, plus wake-up tea provided by the team.
Transport: Pickup from your accommodation at 4:00 a.m. on Day 1, and private transport back to Cusco on Day 2.

Sleeping Bag: Available for rent at US$ 10 per person.
Walking Sticks: Available for rent at US$ 10 per person.
Entrance Fee to “Ausangate Hot Springs”: 5 Soles.
Hiking Gear & Clothes: Not provided (bring your own).
Travel Insurance: Not included.
Tips for Staff: Optional.

Tour Plan

Day 1: Cusco | Pitumarca - Quesiuno - Puka Pass - Anantapata - Warmisaya Pass (Minasniyuc Pass) - Surineqocha

This amazing adventure begins early in the morning. We’ll pick you up from your hotel at 4:00 a.m. and drive for about two hours to Pitumarca, followed by another hour and a half to Quesiuno, the starting point of the trek. Upon arrival, our chef will prepare a healthy and energizing breakfast to get you ready for the day. Before we start, your guide will provide a detailed briefing about the itinerary and safety tips for the trek. Once you're all set, we’ll begin our hike through a beautiful valley, with stunning views of the Ausangate Glacier, the highest peak in the Cusco region. We’ll continue on to the first pass, Puka Pass (4,870 meters), where you’ll be rewarded with incredible views of Pukaqocha Lagoon and the massive Ausangate glacier. After a short break, we’ll descend for about an hour and a half to Anantapata, where we’ll stop for lunch. Refreshed, we’ll begin the ascent for another two hours to reach Warmisaya Pass (4,955 meters), the highest point of the trek. From here, you’ll get your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain, with its striking colors and surreal landscape in the distance. Finally, we’ll descend for 45 minutes to our campsite near Surineqocha Lagoon. Upon arrival, we’ll treat you to a warm snack and drinks to recharge. Then, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner before resting for the night, ready for another exciting day ahead.

Day 2: Surineqocha | Rainbow Mountain, Vinincunca - Red Valley - Llactoc - Cusco

We’ll wake you up early at 4:00 a.m. with a hot cup of coca-leaf tea delivered right to your tent. Then, enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared by our chef to fuel you for the day ahead. Get ready to explore the stunning Rainbow Mountain and the dramatic Red Valley! We’ll begin our hike with a two-hour journey to the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint (5,100 meters), where you’ll have time to explore and take in the breathtaking views of the colorful mountain, the massive Ausangate Glacier, and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. After soaking in the beauty of the Peruvian Andes, we’ll continue our trek to the awe-inspiring Red Valley (5,050 meters), a less-visited gem that feels like stepping onto another planet. The landscape is strikingly unique, and the tranquility of the area adds to its magic. A short 30-minute walk will take you to the best lookout, offering panoramic views of this incredible valley. Finally, we’ll descend for two hours, passing through historic Andean villages and seeing herds of llamas along the way. If you're lucky, you might spot some vicuñas, the graceful, wild animals that have lived in the Andes since pre-Incan times. After a farewell lunch, our private transportation will meet you and drive you back to your accommodation in Cusco.

Recommended To Carry

Passport or identity document (current)
Small backpack (water bottle, snacks, and more).
Extra cash (Soles) to buy souvenirs (optional).
Hat or cap for the sun and sunglasses.
Sunscreen.
Comfortable sneakers for the visit.
Light and warm clothes.
Waterproof jacket/rain poncho if your visit is between October to March.
Camera and extra batteries.