Embark on the Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek to Machu Picchu, a four-day, three-night journey through some of Peru's most breathtaking landscapes. This adventure provides a unique opportunity to explore the stunning Andean lakes and the vibrant colors of Rainbow Mountain, witness the magnificent Ausangate range, and conclude at the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu.

The Ausangate Trek is ideal for travelers eager to experience a blend of cultural richness and natural beauty, this trek offers incredible views, diverse ecosystems, and a deep connection with Andean traditions. Experience the enchantment of the high Andes in a transformative journey that combines challenging hikes, tranquil landscapes, and profound historical insights.

Trek details

Duration
4 days 3 nights
Activities
38 km - 24 mi
Difficulty
Challenging
Maximum Altitude
5020 m /16433 ft
Destination
Rainbow Mountain - Machu Picchu
Group Size
6 to 10 peoples
Overview

Discover the magic of Peru on Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights that take you through some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world. This journey is perfect for adventurers who want to see pristine Andean Lakes, colorful mountains, and ancient Incan Sites and learn about local culture.

Your trek starts with visiting the amazing Andean Lakes and the Rainbow Mountain, known for its stunning colors that look like a rainbow. You will hike through the breathtaking Ausangate region, which is full of beautiful snow-capped mountains and wide, open fields. The trek is a great way to connect with nature and see wildlife in their natural habitat.

The highlight of your adventure is a visit to Machu Picchu, the famous ancient Inca city. This world wonder sits high in the mountains and is full of mystery and history. Walking through its ruins, you will feel like you've stepped back in time.

This trek is more than just a hike; it's a chance to experience the beauty and culture of the high Andes. You'll meet local people, see how they live, and learn about their traditions. Every step of the way, you'll find stunning views and unforgettable moments.

Join us for this unique and exciting adventure in Peru, where you'll explore amazing places, challenge yourself physically, and make memories that will last a lifetime.

Highlights

  • Get off the beaten path and discover the colored mountains
  • Visit the glaciers and alpine lakes
  • Soak in the natural hot springs at Upis
  • Beat the crowds to Rainbow Mountain
  • Explore Machu Picchu with a private guide

Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu at a Glance

Day 1: Cusco - Tinki - Upis - Hot Springs

  • Hiking Distance and Time: 14 km / 8.6 miles, 6 hours
  • Campsite Altitude: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, dinner
  • Experiences: Scenic drive to Tinki, trek through rolling hills, traditional villages, and pastures, relaxation in Upis hot springs with mountain views
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Day 2: Upis Village - Pucacocha Lake - Ananta

  • Hiking Distance and Time: 12 km / 7.5 miles, 8 hours
  • Campsite Altitude: 4,400 m / 14,435 ft
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, dinner
  • Experiences: Ascend to Arapa Pass with panoramic mountain views, descend to Pucacocha Lake with stunning reflections of Ausangate Mountain, and pass through diverse landscapes.
  • Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Ananta - Rainbow Mountain - Aguas Calientes

  • Hiking Distance and Time: 10 km / 6.2 miles, approximately 4 to 5 hours
  • Highest Elevation: 5,020 m / 16,466 ft
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Machu Picchu Town
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
  • Experiences: Climb through colorful valleys to Rainbow Mountain, enjoy panoramic views and photography, descend and travel to Aguas Calientes
  • Difficulty: Challenging

Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco

  • Activities: Morning bus to Machu Picchu, 2-hour guided tour, free time, or optional Huayna Picchu or Montaña hike.
  • Meals Included: Breakfast at the hotel.
  • Return to Cusco: Panoramic Vistadome train to Ollantaytambo, then vehicle to Cusco.
  • Highlights: Explore Machu Picchu, learn about its history, and panoramic train ride.

Important to know before booking

  • Minimum of two people are required per booking
Full Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco - Tinki - Upis - Hot Springs

Your adventure begins with an early pickup at 4:30 am from your hotel in Cusco. From there, you’ll enjoy a beautiful drive to Tinki, a small village located high in the mountains at about 3,800 meters (12,467 feet). This village is where your trek starts. Here, you will meet the trekking staff who will help you during your hike, including your chefs, porters, and horsemen who carry your camping equipment.

The first part of the hike to Upis takes around 7 hours, including a lunch break. As you walk, you'll see beautiful landscapes filled with rolling hills, farms, and traditional villages. You will also see the tall Mount Ausangate and animals like llamas and alpacas grazing. Once you arrive in Upis, you can relax in the natural hot springs that have stunning views of the snowy mountains around you. This is a great way to rest your muscles after the day’s hike. Your team will set up camp here, and you’ll end the day with a tasty dinner.

  • Hiking Distance: 14 km / 8.6 miles
  • Hiking Time: Approximately 6 hours
  • Campsite Altitude: 4,250 m / 13,944 ft
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, and dinner
Day 2: Upis Village - Pucacocha Lake - Ananta

After having breakfast at the camp, your second day of the Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu begins. You will start by hiking up to the Arapa Pass. This pass is high up at about 4,850 meters (15,912 feet). From here, you can see wonderful views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The hike to the pass is challenging but very rewarding.

Once you reach the top of the pass, you’ll head down towards Pucacocha Lake. This beautiful lake is known for its clear blue waters and the stunning reflection of Ausangate Mountain. It’s a perfect place to take a break, enjoy some snacks, and take pictures of the breathtaking scenery.

From Pucacocha Lake, the trek continues to Ananta, a scenic campsite. The path to Ananta shows more of the region's beauty, passing through grassy areas, wetlands, and rocky sections. During this part of the hike, you might see some local wildlife like llamas, alpacas, and birds called Andean geese. The night will be spent camping at Ananta, surrounded by the peaceful natural landscape.

  • Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.5 miles
  • Hiking Time: Approximately 8 hours
  • Campsite Altitude: 4,400 m / 14435 ft
  • Accommodation: Camping
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea time, and dinner
Day 3: Ananta - Rainbow Mountain - Aguas Calientes

The third day is exciting as you head towards one of the trip’s highlights, Rainbow Mountain. After breakfast, you start the hike, which gradually climbs through valleys and past amazing rock formations. The area is known for its colorful mineral deposits that make the hills look like they’re painted in many colors.

Reaching Rainbow Mountain is a special moment. The mountain’s colors are vibrant and look incredible under the sun. Take your time to walk around, take photos, and enjoy the unique views.

After visiting Rainbow Mountain, you’ll descend to the trailhead, where you will board a private van to Ollantaytambo and then the Expedition Train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a 3-star hotel. Here, you can relax, have dinner, and get ready for the final day of your adventure. 

  • Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
  • Hiking Time: 4 to 5 hours
  • Highest Elevation: 5,020 m / 16,466 ft
  • Accommodation: Hotel in Machu Picchu Town
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, and dinner
Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco

You'll start your day early with breakfast and then board a bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. This UNESCO World Heritage site, often referred to as the "Lost City of the Incas," is an iconic symbol of the Inca civilization and a must-see destination in Peru.

Upon arrival at Machu Picchu, you'll have a guided tour of the archaeological site, which typically lasts around 2 hours. Your guide will walk you through the main areas, such as the Temple of the Sun, the Royal Tomb, and the Intihuatana stone, sharing the history and significance of each. After the guided tour, you'll have some free time to explore the site on your own, capture photographs, or hike up to Huayna Picchu for an amazing panoramic view of the ruins (if time permits and if you have secured permits in advance).

Once you have finished exploring Machu Picchu, you will return to Aguas Calientes and board the Panoramic Vistadome train back to Ollantaytambo. From there, a vehicle will take you back to Cusco on the final leg of your journey. This marks the end of your unforgettable Ausangate Trek and Machu Picchu adventure.

  • Guided tour: 2- 3 hours
  • Highest Elevation: 2430 m / 7972 ft
  • Accommodation: You must book a hotel in Cusco
  • Meals Included: Breakfast at hotel

Included

  • Pre-departure briefing the night before the trek.
  • Collection from your hotel on the morning of the trek.
  • Private transportation for all four days.
  • Duffle bags for your overnight gear, up to 8 kilos.
  • Four-man Eureka tents for every two travelers.
  • Sleeping foam mattresses, pillows, hot water bags, and warm blankets.
  • Dining tent, kitchen tents, and a portable toilet.
  • Professional English-speaking guide.
  • All meals during the trek except for the last day's dinner.
  • First-aid kit, oxygen tank, satellite phones, and emergency horse.
  • Trekking chef, porter, and muleteers.
  • Cargo mule to carry food and equipment.
  • Comfortable camping equipment (tables and chairs).
  • Dietary needs catered for (Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free).
  • Drinkable water provided after the first day's lunch.
  • Warm water provided every morning and evening for hand washing.
  • Entrance to the Ausangate trail and Rainbow Mountain.
  • All taxes and booking fees included.

Not included

  • Sleeping bags, air mattress, trekking poles
  • Lunch & Dinner on the last day
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
FAQs

What is the best time of year to embark on the Ausangate trek to Machu Picchu?

The Ausangate trek to Machu Picchu is best for hiking from May to September. During these months, the weather is mostly dry with clear skies, making it the perfect time for trekking in Ausangate, Peru.

How difficult is the Ausangate Rainbow Mountain trek?

The Ausangate Rainbow Mountain trek is considered challenging. It involves high altitudes and steep climbs, which makes it suited for those who have some previous experience in trekking Ausangate or similar high-altitude treks.

What should I pack for the Rainbow Mountain Ausangate trek?

For your Rainbow and Mountain Ausangate trek, pack durable hiking boots, thermal clothing for the cold, a waterproof jacket, sun, and wool hats, sunscreen, plenty of water, and energy-boosting snacks. Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning scenery of the Ausangate mountains.

Clothing:

  • Base Layers: Lightweight, moisture-wicking base layers to keep you dry.
  • Insulating Layers: Fleece or wool mid-layers for warmth.
  • Outer Layer: A waterproof and windproof jacket.
  • Pants: Breathable and quick-drying hiking pants; include thermal leggings for cold mornings.
  • Hat and Gloves: Essential warm hat and gloves for early mornings and higher elevations.
  • Socks: Wool or synthetic hiking socks, with spare pairs.

Footwear:

  • Hiking Boots: Waterproof and broken-in boots with good ankle support.
  • Sandals or Camp Shoes: For relaxing at the campsite after hiking.

Backpack and Trekking Poles:

  • Backpack: A comfortable, well-fitting backpack with sufficient space for gear and water.
  • Trekking Poles: Useful for challenging terrain and reducing joint strain.
  • Camera and Power Bank: For capturing the scenery and keeping electronics charged.

Camping Gear:

  • Sleeping Bag: Choose a sleeping bag rated for at least -10°C, depending on the season.
  • Sleeping Pad: Provides additional insulation and comfort.
  • Headlamp and Batteries: Crucial for early mornings or late evenings.

Health and Hygiene:

  • First Aid Kit: Includes altitude sickness medication, bandages, and other essentials.
  • Sun Protection: High SPF sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses.
  • Personal Hygiene Items: Toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.
  • Water Treatment: Water filters or purification tablets.
  • Toilet Paper and Hand Sanitizer: Essential for personal cleanliness.

Nutrition and Hydration:

  • Snacks: High-energy snacks like nuts, dried fruit, and energy bars.
  • Hydration System: Water bottles or a hydration reservoir with at least a 2-liter capacity.
  • Plastic Bags: Useful for keeping gear dry and storing wet clothes.

Documents:

  • Passport, IDs, and Permits: Ensure you have all necessary documents for the trek.

How long does the Ausangate trekking experience usually last?

The most popular Ausangate trek to Machu Picchu takes four days and includes the iconic Rainbow Mountain tour. There are also longer tours of six and seven days, which typically include the Ausangate Seven Lakes tour.

Can beginners participate in trekking Ausangate, or is it for experienced hikers only?

Beginners can participate in trekking Ausangate, but they must be physically prepared and well-acclimatized to the altitude.

What are the highlights of the trek Ausangate itinerary?

The highlights of the trek to Ausangate include visiting the colorful Ausangate Rainbow Mountain, exploring the serene Lagoons, and experiencing the unique culture of the local communities in Pacchanta, Upis in the ocongate district in Peru.

Are there any cultural experiences included in the Ausangate trek Peru?

Yes, the Ausangate trek Peru often includes cultural experiences such as visits to local Quechua communities, where trekkers can learn about traditional weaving and farming practices.

What type of accommodation is available during the Ausangate trek?

During the four-day Ausangate trek to Machu Picchu, you will spend two nights camping in the mountains and one night in a hotel in the town of Aguas Calientes.

What wildlife might I see on the Ausangate Peru trek?

On the Ausangate Peru trek, you will see local wildlife such as llamas, alpacas, Andean condors, and vicuñas roaming freely in their natural habitat around the Ausangate mountain Peru.

How does the Ausangate Mountain Peru landscape change throughout the trek?

The landscape around Ausangate Mountain, Peru, varies from lush green valleys used for agriculture to rugged, snow-covered peaks. The terrain is diverse, offering trekkers a visually stunning journey.

What are the altitude considerations for Ausangate Mountain?

Trekking Ausangate involves high altitudes, often reaching over 5,000 meters. It's crucial to spend a few days acclimatizing to avoid altitude sickness, particularly around higher areas like the Ausangate peak.

What is the summit height of Mt Ausangate, Peru?

The summit height of Mt Ausangate, Peru, is approximately 6,384 meters. It is one of the highest and most revered peaks in the region, often referred to as Apu Ausangate, and is considered a protective deity by the local people.

How is Ausangate affected by climate change?

Climate change has led to significant glacial melting on Ausangate, impacting water resources and local ecosystems. The Ausangate Mountains face environmental challenges that also affect the local communities.

Can I visit Ausangate mountains without a guide?

It is possible to visit the Ausangate mountains without a guide, but having one is highly recommended for safety and navigation and to enrich your understanding of the area’s cultural and natural history.

What are the spiritual or cultural significances of Apu Ausangate?

Apu Ausangate is deeply significant in local culture and is regarded as a sacred spirit that brings water and fertility to the land. Many local rituals and ceremonies are conducted to honor Apu Ausangate.

What is the route like for the Ausangate 7 Lagunas trek?

The Ausangate 7 Lagunas trek takes you around seven stunning high-altitude lakes, each offering unique views and serene environments. The terrain includes rocky paths and occasional grassy areas, challenging but incredibly rewarding.

How is the Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain different from other treks?

The Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain is unique due to its vibrant geology and cultural richness. Unlike other rainbow mountain treks, it offers a deep connection with the natural and spiritual aspects of the Ausangate region.

Can I Visits Apu Ausangate trek as a day trip from Cusco?

The Apu Ausangate trek usually requires several days due to its challenging nature and remote locations. However, shorter treks like the Ausangate trek 1 day are available but won't cover as much ground.

What is included in the Ausangate full day tour package?

An Ausangate full day tour package typically includes transportation from Cusco, a guide, entry fees, meals, and sometimes equipment like walking sticks and waterproof clothing, providing a brief yet immersive experience into the Ausangate trek.

What is the elevation of Ausangate Peak?

The elevation of Ausangate Peak reaches about 6,384 meters, making it one of the highest peaks accessible to trekkers in the region, offering exhilarating views and a challenging climb.

How challenging is the Ausangate Vinicunca trek for amateur trekkers?

The Ausangate Vinicunca trek is challenging for amateurs due to its high altitude and rough terrain. Amateurs wishing to undertake this trek should consider rigorous preparation and possibly joining a guided group for a safer experience.

Is the Ausangate trek 1 day enough to enjoy the scenery?

While the Ausangate trek 1 day offers a glimpse into the stunning natural beauty of the area, longer treks like the Ausangate 5 days provide a more comprehensive exploration of Ausangate's diverse landscapes and cultural sites.

What are the options for extending the Ausangate 5 days trek?

To extend the Ausangate 5 days trek, consider incorporating additional visits to remote areas like the Ausangate 7 lakes or exploring more of the Ausangate mountains for a deeper connection with the region's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

What is the altitude of the Ausangate 7 Lakes?

The altitude of the Ausangate 7 Lakes ranges around 4,500 to 5,000 meters, offering some of the most spectacular high-altitude lake views in the region, perfect for those looking to capture stunning photography or enjoy serene nature walks.

How does the Ausangate 7 Lakes trek compare to similar treks in terms of difficulty?

The Ausangate 7 Lakes trek is considered challenging due to its high altitudes and variable weather conditions. It is on par with other high-altitude treks like the Kilimanjaro trek but offers a unique exploration of glacial lakes and rugged mountain terrains.

What should I expect on the Ausangate 7 Lakes tour in terms of terrain and weather?

On the Ausangate 7 Lakes tour, expect a mix of rocky and grassy terrains, with weather conditions that can change rapidly from sunny to cold and windy. Being well-prepared with appropriate clothing and gear is essential.

How does the Kilimanjaro trek cost compare to the Ausangate trek solo expense?

The Kilimanjaro trek cost is generally higher than the Ausangate trek solo expense, mainly due to the different permit and guide requirements. However, both treks offer unique challenges and rewards, with Ausangate being a more budget-friendly option for solo trekkers.

What are the necessary preparations for the Ausangate trek Rainbow Mountain?

Preparing for the Ausangate trek Rainbow Mountain involves acclimatizing to high altitudes, packing suitable trekking gear, and being physically fit. This preparation helps ensure you can fully enjoy the trekking experience and handle the challenging conditions of the Ausangate trekking Peru.

Are there specific permits required for Ausangate trekking Peru?

Specific permits are often required for Ausangate trekking Peru, particularly for entering certain protected areas. It's best to arrange these through a reputable tour operator who can also guide you through the necessary preparations.

What are some essential tips for first-timers trekking Ausangate Peru?

For first-timers trekking Ausangate Peru, it's crucial to spend time acclimatizing, pack wisely, choose a reliable guide, and ensure your travel insurance covers high-altitude trekking. These steps will help you enjoy a safe and memorable trekking experience in the beautiful Ausangate region.