Ausangate Trek 5 Days: Cusco’s Most Remote High-Altitude Hiking Adventure

Cusco 5 Days / 4 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) — Palomani Pass m.s.n.m.

Summary
Itinerary
Inclusions
Recommendations
FAQs
Reviews
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About this activity

Itinerary

Day 01

Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Upis – Huayna Ausangate Lake

Early hotel pickup at approximately 4:30 a.m. The drive passes through Huaro, Piquillacta, and Andahuaylillas before arriving at Tinki. From there, the trek begins toward Upis, following trails along the base of Ausangate Mountain. After lunch, a short afternoon hike leads to Huayna Ausangate Lake, an excellent spot for sunset photos, before your first overnight camping.

Day 02

Day 2: Upis – Yanacocha – Hatun Puca Cocha

Continue climbing around the Ausangate Glacier toward Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). The descent to Yanacocha (Black Lake) offers chances to spot chinchillas, vizcachas, deer, and soaring Andean condors. Lunch and overnight near Hatun Puca Cocha Lake.

Day 03

Day 3: Hatun Puca Cocha – Ausangate Cocha – Palomani Pass – Sorapata

The most challenging day: hike to Ausangate Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft) before descending to Ausangate Cocha Lake for lunch. Continue climbing toward Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the trek, then descend toward Huchuy Finaya for a traditional offering ceremony to Pachamama. The day concludes at Sorapata Camp.

Day 04

Day 4: Sorapata – Jampa Pass – Pacchanta

Today's hike crosses Jampa Pass (approximately 5,100 m / 16,732 ft) with views of Callangate Glacier. After crossing the pass, descend through part of the famous Seven Turquoise Lakes Circuit. The day ends in Pacchanta, renowned for its natural hot springs, with dinner and overnight there.

Day 05

Day 5: Pacchanta – Cusco

A short walk back toward Tinki to learn about traditional farming practices, followed by private transportation back to Cusco, arriving at approximately 6:00 p.m.

What's included

Inclusions

Included
- Round-trip tourist transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Tinki.
- Entrance fee to the Ausangate Trek route.
- Professional bilingual trekking guide (English and Spanish).
- High-quality camping equipment, including shared two-person tents, sleeping pads, a dining tent, and a portable toilet tent.
- All meals during the trek, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks (vegetarian meals available).
- Professional cook and kitchen staff.
- Horsemen and pack mules to transport camping equipment and up to 8 kg (17.6 lbs) of personal luggage.
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen tank.

What's Not Included

Not included
- Breakfast on Day 1.
- Sleeping bag (available for rent, including a fleece liner).
- Trekking poles (available for rent).
- Any services not specifically mentioned in the itinerary.

Recommendations

Trekking backpack with a waterproof rain cover.
Sleeping bag suitable for cold, high-altitude conditions.
Clothing for both warm daytime temperatures and cold mountain nights, including a waterproof jacket, rain pants, and lightweight hiking pants.
Sturdy hiking boots plus sandals for the Pacchanta Hot Springs.
Wool or synthetic hiking socks and a warm fleece or insulated sweater.
Rain poncho, sun hat, and warm beanie.
Sunscreen, insect repellent, and hand sanitizer.
Reusable water bottle and water purification tablets.
Camera protected in a waterproof bag and a headlamp with spare batteries.
Energy snacks such as chocolate, trail mix, or dried fruit.
Original passport and extra cash in Peruvian soles.
Important altitude note: this trek reaches elevations of up to 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). Proper acclimatization, good physical fitness, and overall health are essential.

Frequently Asked Questions

How difficult is the 5-Day Ausangate Trek?

It is considered a very challenging high-altitude trek. Much of the route stays above 4,500 meters (14,764 feet) and reaches a maximum elevation of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet).

What are the famous Seven Lakes of Ausangate?

A collection of stunning turquoise glacial lakes surrounded by snow-capped mountains, mostly visited on Day 4, between Jampa Pass and the community of Pacchanta.

Do I need previous trekking experience?

Not required, but highly recommended given the high altitude and physically demanding terrain.

How is the Ausangate Trek different from the Salkantay Trek or the Inca Trail?

Unlike routes that finish at Machu Picchu, the Ausangate Trek follows a spectacular loop around the sacred Apu Ausangate, far less crowded, with closer contact with remote Andean communities and wildlife.

Are there hot springs along the trek?

Yes. On Day 4, you'll arrive at Pacchanta, where you can relax in its famous natural hot springs.

When is the best time to hike the Ausangate Trek?

The dry season, from April to October, offers the clearest skies and best trail conditions.

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