General Description
The Ausangate to Machu Picchu expedition is a demanding multi-day journey that leads travelers from the rugged Ausangate territory in the Andes to the world-renowned Incan sanctuary of Machu Picchu.
This adventure integrates the Ausangate circuit, the trek to Rainbow Mountain, and a train journey to Machu Picchu. It guides participants across secluded mountain gaps, extraordinary high-altitude vistas, frozen glacial lagoons, and peaks draped in snow. Throughout the trip, hikers can observe native animals such as alpacas, llamas, and vicuñas, while gaining insight into the customs and heritage of nearby mountain societies.
The primary attractions of this voyage include reaching the summit of Rainbow Mountain and visiting Machu Picchu, the 15th-century Incan fortress nestled in the heart of the Andes. Explorers will have the chance to tour the archaeological site and discover its intriguing past.
Tour Highlights:
- Venture away from the typical tourist paths to discover secluded peaks.
- Contemplate magnificent glaciers and high-altitude Andean lagoons.
- Relax in the therapeutic geothermal pools of Upis.
- Explore the vibrant Rainbow Mountain, the Red Valley, and the historic Machu Picchu.
- Contribute to our community initiatives by choosing The Andean Way.
Ausangate Trek Summary:
Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Upis – Geothermal Baths
We collect you from your Cusco accommodation at 5:00 am for the drive to Tinki (3,776 m / 12,388 ft), where the expedition begins. Following breakfast, enjoy a 6-hour walk to the campsite situated near the Upis hot springs (4,408 m / 14,458 ft).
Day 2: Upis Village – Pucacocha Lagoon – Ananta
After your morning meal, trek toward the Pucacocha lagoon (4,561 m / 14,963 ft) at the foot of Mount Ausangate. During the hike, you will traverse two mountain passes and witness incredible panoramic views.
Day 3: Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Aguas Calientes
On the trek’s most significant day, you will reach Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m / 16,433 ft) and the Red Valley, before traveling via vehicle and railway to the town of Aguas Calientes.
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Tour the Machu Picchu sanctuary in the early hours to catch the sunrise. In the afternoon, travel back to Cusco on the Vistadome panoramic train.
Complete Itinerary: Ausangate to Machu Picchu Expedition
Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Upis – Thermal Springs
Pickup from your Cusco hotel takes place at 4:30 am, followed by a 3-hour journey to the village of Tinki, arriving at approximately 8:00 am. After a hearty breakfast, the Ausangate expedition commences with a 4-hour uphill walk to our lunch spot at the base of Mount Ausangate, which reaches 6,384 m / 20,945 ft as the region’s tallest peak. After the meal, we walk downhill for two more hours to the settlement of Upis (4,407 m / 14,458 ft). We will camp near the medicinal geothermal pools tonight. Enjoy the opportunity to unwind in the heated waters amidst the cool mountain air.
- Total Distance: 13 km / 8 mi
- Hiking Duration: 6 hours
- Height: 4,407 m / 14,458 ft
- Food: Breakfast, snack, lunch, tea, dinner
- Lodging: Camping
Day 2: Upis – Pucacocha – Ananta
We provide a morning wake-up call with hot coffee or coca tea at your tent before breakfast. The trek starts with a light ascent toward the Pucacocha lagoon, where lunch will be served along the beautiful shoreline. The route offers magnificent views of ice glaciers and herds of alpacas, vicuñas, and llamas, as well as encounters with local herders.
Following lunch, a 2-hour walk leads to Alpaca Pass (4,989 m / 16,567 ft). After admiring the vistas, descend for another hour to reach the Ananta campsite. This spot features incredible views of nearby peaks and spectacular sunsets. On clear nights, it is an ideal location for observing the stars.
- Total Distance: 12 km / 7.5 mi
- Hiking Duration: 8 hours
- Height: 4,300 m / 14,100 ft
- Food: Breakfast, snack, lunch, dinner
- Lodging: Camping
Day 3: Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Aguas Calientes
After an early morning meal, the trek begins with a 3-hour climb toward Vinicunca Mountain (5,020 m / 16,466 ft). During the ascent, we will see classic Andean dwellings and the stunning landscapes of southern Cusco. Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) is a marvelous site that captures the attention of every hiker. After summitting and viewing the vibrant colors, we head down for lunch.
Afterward, we board our private vehicle for a 4-hour trip to Ollantaytambo, where we catch the 7:00 pm train to Aguas Calientes. Once there, you will check into your hotel for a comfortable night’s rest.
- Total Distance: 6 km climb / 3 km descent
- Time: 3-hour climb / 2-hour descent
- Summit Height: 5,020 m / 16,466 ft
- Level: Moderate
Day 4: Machu Picchu (The Hidden Incan City)
On our final day, we rise early to maximize our time at Machu Picchu. We catch the initial shuttles to the fortress starting at 5:30 am. If the weather is clear, watching the sunrise over the Incan ruins is a truly unique experience.
Your professional guide will provide a 2 to 3-hour detailed tour of the sanctuary. Afterward, you may explore independently or climb Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu (advanced booking required). Later, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (not included) before returning to Cusco by train and bus. The Andean Way staff will ensure your safe return to your hotel.
- Tour Length: 3 – 4 hours (guided)
- Food: Breakfast (at hotel)
- Level: Easy
Services Included
- Introductory safety briefing
- Hotel collection on the first morning
- Full transportation logistics for the entire trip
- Qualified regional tour guide
- Admission fees for the Ausangate circuit and Rainbow Mountain
- Duffel bags for 7kg of personal belongings
- Sturdy four-season tents for every two participants
- Sleeping mats, pillows, hot water bottles, and thick blankets
- Professional-grade camping gear
- Mobile restroom and shower facilities
- All meals during the expedition
- Culinary team, support porters, and horsemen
- Support horse available for emergencies
- Mules to transport provisions and gear
- Specialized menus (vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free) available upon prior notice
- Daily provision of boiled and warm water for hygiene
- Medical kit, oxygen supply, and satellite communication
Not Included
- Sleeping bags, inflatable mats, and walking poles (available for hire)
- Final evening meal
- Personal travel insurance (highly suggested)
- Optional tips
Important Notes
- A minimum of 2 participants is necessary for each reservation
Suggested Packing List for Ausangate
Preparing for this trek requires the right gear for high-altitude conditions, cold temperatures, and rugged paths. Here are the essential items to pack:
Necessities
This expedition leads far from urban centers, with no cellular reception or retail shops. Proper gear is vital for a positive experience. Every traveler should secure or rent high-quality, durable equipment.
- Original physical passport
- Cash in Soles (Peruvian currency)
- Sturdy, high-quality daypack
- Water container
- Portable battery (power bank)
- Lip balm
- Sun protection
Clothing Recommendations
Layering is the best approach for the Ausangate region. The weather shifts rapidly between freezing mountain passes and milder valleys. Select lightweight, breathable fabrics that can be layered or removed easily.
- High-top trekking boots
- Specialized hiking socks
- Thermal under-layers
- Quick-drying trekking trousers
- Fleece jacket
Daypack Items
You will carry this bag daily, so ensure it is lightweight and comfortable. We suggest a 25–35L pack with a waterproof cover. Bulky bags are restricted inside Machu Picchu; if yours is too large, it must be left in a locker.
- Waterproof and windproof outer layer
- Hat with neck protection or cap
- Sunglasses
- Warm beanie or chullo
- Gloves
- Neck gaiter or bandana
- Headlamp
- Bug spray
- Camera and spare batteries
- Trail snacks
- Walking poles
- Personal medicines
Duffel Bag Items
The Andean Way provides a duffel for gear you do not need during the day. Our team will transport it. The weight limit is 7 kg (15 lb), which includes your sleeping bag and mat.
You will receive this bag at the briefing before the trek. If required earlier, you can pick it up at our Cusco office.
- Athletic trousers
- Insulated down coat
- Toiletries
- Sleeping bag
- Mattress
We Provide:
- 7kg / 15lb Duffel Bag
- Raincoat
- Official Andean Way T-shirt
- Backpack rain cover
Rental Equipment:
The following are available for an additional fee:
- Walking poles
- Sleeping bags
- Inflatable air mattresses
Packing efficiently is key. We offer a duffel bag for up to 7 kilos of your belongings, including rented sleeping gear.
Travel Details
The Ausangate trek, including Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu, is a secluded adventure in Cusco. It showcases some of the most dramatic high-Andean scenery: ice glaciers, peaks exceeding 6,000 meters, geothermal pools, and mountains tinted with mineral colors.
Geography
The expedition takes place in the Vilcanota range, approximately 110 km southeast of Cusco.
This 4-day plan begins with a drive from Cusco to Tinki (3,776 m), then traverses mountain paths to Upis (4,408 m) and Pucacocha lagoon (4,561 m), concluding at Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m). Afterward, you transfer via vehicle and train to Aguas Calientes for the Machu Picchu tour.
Historical Background
For the local herding communities, Ausangate (6,384 m) is more than a peak; it is a sacred «Apu» or protective spirit.
The area is also linked to the Qoyllurit’i pilgrimage, which UNESCO recognizes as Intangible Cultural Heritage. During the hike, you will pass through remote territories home to llama and alpaca herders, where traditional Andean life remains very much intact.
Climate
At these altitudes, weather is highly unpredictable; you may encounter intense sun, wind, and sudden cold in the same day. Nights are consistently freezing at these heights.
- Premier trekking months: Usually May through September (dry season).
- Wetter season: Typically November through April, with more frequent rainfall.
Even in the drier months, it is vital to pack layers and waterproof gear as conditions can change rapidly.
Difficulty Level
This journey is classified as Moderate to Challenging, primarily due to the high elevation and duration. You will reach 5,020 m at Rainbow Mountain, and the path crosses a pass at ,5,200 m. Prior acclimatization in Cusco is highly recommended. It is best suited for travelers with good fitness levels who are comfortable with several hours of high-altitude walking.
Ausangate Trek – Common Questions
What exactly is the Ausangate Trek?
It is a high-elevation trekking circuit through the Vilcanota mountains. The approximately 70-kilometer route traverses steep passes, glacial lagoons, and isolated Andean settlements.
How many days does it take?
The duration varies from 4 to 7 days based on the route and pace. Most travelers complete the expedition in about 5 days.
When is the ideal time for the trek?
The dry season, from May to September, is best. These months usually offer clear and dry weather, facilitating mountain travel.
What is the maximum height reached?
The trek reaches 5,200 m / 17,060 ft at the Ausangate Pass. Because of this, it is demanding, and we suggest acclimatizing in Cusco for a few days before starting.
What should I pack?
Pack warm layers, a high-quality sleeping bag, sturdy boots, a hat, sun protection, a water container, and a backpack. Headlamps and walking poles are also strongly suggested for this terrain.
Is it a safe route?
The trek is generally safe but physically demanding, requiring high-altitude experience and good health. It is vital to follow your guide’s advice and adhere to safety protocols.
Is a guide mandatory?
While independent hiking is possible, a guide is strongly recommended. A The Andean Way professional will provide route knowledge, ensure safety, and manage logistics for your comfort.
How do I reach the trailhead?
The starting point is usually Tinki village, about 3 hours from Cusco. The Andean Way provides private transport from your hotel to the trail.
How difficult is the trek?
It is considered a challenging route due to the high elevation and rocky, steep paths. Good physical fitness and prior high-altitude experience are necessary for a safe journey.
