Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek 4 Days in Peru

Your journey begins with a 4:30 AM pickup from your hotel in Cusco, followed by a 3-hour drive through the Andes to the trailhead at Pukutuni School (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). Along the way, you will pass traditional villages and highland landscapes.

Upon arrival, meet your trekking team, including guides, chef, and horsemen, and enjoy a freshly prepared breakfast with views of the Andean landscape. This marks the official start of your Ausangate trek.

Begin your hike with a gradual ascent to Upis Village at the base of Ausangate Mountain. This section takes about 3 hours and features views of valleys, alpacas, and snow-capped peaks. Your guide will highlight the region’s flora, fauna, and traditions.

Arrive in Upis for lunch prepared by your trekking chef, with Ausangate Mountain as your backdrop.

In the afternoon, continue with a steady climb to Vicuña Pass (4,850 m / 15,912 ft). The ascent offers views of glacial valleys and herds of wild vicuñas. At the pass, rest, hydrate, and take in panoramic views of the high Andes.

Continue for about 3 hours to your campsite at Pucaccocha (4,600 m / 15,091 ft), passing glacial lakes, waterfalls, and ice-covered peaks. Upon arrival, your team will have tents set up, hot drinks ready, and a warm meal prepared. Relax and enjoy your first night in this remote region of Peru.

• Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Start Elevation: 4,200 m / 13,779 ft
• Highest Point: 4,850 m / 15,912 ft (Vicuña Pass)
• Camp Elevation: 4,600 m / 15,091 ft
• Weather: Cold, especially at night
• Meals: B-L-D

Begin your day in the quiet of the high Andes with a hot drink and a nutritious breakfast prepared by your trekking chef. Today will be both challenging and rewarding.

Start with a steady two-hour ascent to Condor Pass (4,900 m / 16,076 ft). The route offers glacier views of Ausangate, deep valleys, and pristine lagoons. Watch for alpacas and llamas grazing in this remote landscape.

Condor Pass offers panoramic views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks, making it a highlight of the trek. Descend gradually for about two hours through a scenic valley with streams and high-altitude wildlife, arriving at your lunch spot. Enjoy a freshly prepared meal in this remote setting.

In the afternoon, take a short, steady climb to Alpaca Pass (4,950 m / 16,240 ft), the highest point of the day. From here, you may see your first distant view of Rainbow Mountain.

After enjoying the views, begin a final one-hour descent to your campsite at Sororni Lake (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), an alpine setting surrounded by rugged peaks. Upon arrival, your trekking team will have camp prepared. Enjoy hot drinks, relax, and appreciate this peaceful and remote campsite.

• Distance: 8 km / 5 miles
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Highest Point: 4,950 m / 16,240 ft (Alpaca Pass)
• Camp Elevation: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft
• Weather: Cold, especially at night
• Meals: B-L-D

Start your day early in the Andes with a hot drink as the sun rises over the peaks. After breakfast, begin your gradual 2-hour climb to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), one of Peru’s most famous natural wonders. Your remote campsite ensures you arrive before the crowds, allowing you to experience the landscape in tranquility. Watch for wild vicuñas, among the rarest animals in the Andes.

Arriving at Rainbow Mountain (5,030 m / 16,502 ft) is an unforgettable experience. The bright mineral colors, including reds, yellows, and deep earth tones, create a landscape that feels otherworldly. Your guide will share the geological history and cultural importance of this special place.

Take your time to explore, enjoy the panoramic views, and capture some of the best photos of your trip without the usual crowds. Afterward, make a 1-hour descent to Kayrawiri, where you’ll say goodbye to the trekking team that supported you during your journey. If you want to give some tips for them, you can do here.

From Kayrawiri, take a scenic 4-hour drive through the Andes and Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo. This marks your transition from the remote mountains to one of Peru’s most historic Inca towns.

In the evening, have dinner in Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Once you arrive, check into your hotel, relax, and enjoy a hot shower and a good night’s rest.

• Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
• Difficulty: Challenging 
• Highest Point: 5,030 m / 16,502 ft (Rainbow Mountain)
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (3★ or similar)
• Weather: Cold in the morning, milder in the afternoon
• Meals: B-L-D

• Activity: Guided visit to Machu Picchu
• Tour Duration: 2.5 hours guided
• Optional Hike: Huayna Picchu (extra)
• Return: Train + private transfer to Cusco
• Arrival: Evening around 7.30pm
• Meals: Only breakfast at the hotel
• Hotel in Cusco: Book on your own

Important: Machu Picchu Circuits

• Circuit 2 (Recommended)
  This route is the most complete and scenic, taking you to all the famous viewpoints and areas of Machu Picchu.
• When you book, our team will see if Circuit 2 is available.
• If Circuit 2 is not available, we’ll offer you:
  ✔ Circuit 3 + additional Circuit 1 ticket
  ✔ This combination lets you fully experience the citadel
• Additional Cost: $45 USD (for the extra Circuit 1 ticket)