Ausangate Trek 4 Days: Rainbow Mountain Hiking Adventure

Cusco 4 Days / 3 Nights

Availability Daily departures
Transport Hotel pickup
Languages Spanish, English
Service type Not specified
Cancellation policy Not specified
Maximum altitude 5,200 m (17,060 ft) — Rainbow Mountain m.s.n.m.

Summary
Itinerary
Inclusions
Recommendations
FAQs
Reviews
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About this activity

Itinerary

Day 01

Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Upispampa

Early hotel pickup in Cusco at approximately 6:00 a.m., followed by a scenic drive of about two and a half hours to the village of Tinki, where the trek begins toward Upispampa Camp. After lunch, continue hiking about two more hours to Upis Lake before returning to camp for dinner and your first night camping. Approximate hiking distance: 10 km (6.2 mi).

Day 02

Day 2: Upispampa – Arapa Pass – Puca Cocha

After breakfast, continue climbing toward Arapa Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft), one of the trek's best viewpoints for panoramic views of Ausangate Mountain, then descend to Puca Cocha Camp (4,100 m / 13,451 ft) for lunch, dinner, and your second overnight.

Day 03

Day 3: Puca Cocha – Warmi Saya – Surine Cocha

The most challenging day of the expedition: ascend to Pucacocha Pass (4,930 m / 16,175 ft), the closest point to the Ausangate Glacier, then descend to Alccatauri Camp for lunch and continue across Warmi Saya Pass to Surine Cocha Camp (4,800 m / 15,748 ft) for your final night.

Day 04

Day 4: Surine Cocha – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco

Early breakfast and farewell to the trekking staff. Arrive at Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) early in the morning, long before the large groups from Cusco, with the Red Valley of Pitumarca just one kilometer away. Continue hiking to Phulawasipata for the transport back to Cusco, with a lunch stop in Cusipata, arriving at approximately 5:00 p.m.

What's included

Inclusions

Included
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and all tourist transportation throughout the trek.
- Entrance fees to all attractions included in the itinerary, including Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
- Freshly prepared meals by professional chefs: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners (vegetarian and vegan options available).
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.
- 3 fully equipped camping nights.
- Horse porters to carry the group's camping equipment and luggage.
- Professional English-speaking trekking guide throughout the expedition.

What's Not Included

Not included
- Airport pickup and drop-off.
- Trekking poles.
- Additional snacks during the trek (beyond the afternoon tea provided each day).
- Breakfast on Day 1.
- Dinner on Day 4.
- Sleeping bag.

Recommendations

Warm clothing: nighttime temperatures at high-altitude camps can drop to 0°C (32°F) or lower.
Waterproof rain poncho: mountain weather can change quickly, even during the dry season.
Sturdy hiking boots essential for rocky and uneven high-altitude trails.
Sleeping bag and trekking poles are not included — bring your own or ask about local rental options.
Swimsuit, towel, and sandals, useful if your itinerary includes a stop at nearby hot springs.
Cash (Peruvian soles) and passport or ID.
Acclimatization: spend at least 1–2 days in Cusco (3,399 m / 11,152 ft) before starting the trek.
Good physical fitness, especially for those without pre-existing heart conditions.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many kilometers will I hike during the 4-Day Ausangate Trek?

The complete route covers approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) through breathtaking high-altitude landscapes.

Does the tour include Rainbow Mountain?

Yes. The itinerary includes an early morning visit to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) on Day 4, before the arrival of most day-trip visitors from Cusco.

What is the highest and lowest elevation of the trek?

The highest point is Rainbow Mountain, at 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). The lowest point is Cusco, at 3,399 meters (11,152 feet).

Is the Ausangate Trek safe?

Yes. The route follows well-established mountain trails. Participants should be in good physical condition and complete an adequate acclimatization period.

What is included in the tour package?

Hotel pickup, tourist transportation, professional guide, entrance fees, 3 nights of fully equipped camping, and all meals. Trekking poles and sleeping bags are not included.

Can I change my tour date after booking?

In most cases, yes, subject to the tour operator's booking policies and advance notice. Change fees may apply depending on timing.

Is the Ausangate Trek available year-round?

Yes, although the dry season (April to October) offers the best hiking conditions.

What is the difference between the 4-Day Ausangate Trek and the 5- or 6-Day versions?

The 4-Day Ausangate Trek focuses on the region's highlights — alpine lakes, spectacular mountain scenery, and Rainbow Mountain — ideal for travelers with limited time.

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