Short Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco → Upis
Drive to trailhead → 3-hour hike to Upis → optional Upis Lake hike or hot springs → overnight in cabins with Ausangate views.
Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Upis → Puca Cocha
Hike over Arapa Pass (4,753 m) → pass glacial lakes & wildlife → camp in mountain huts near Puca Cocha.
Difficulty: Moderate–Difficult

Day 3: Puca Cocha → Qeullacocha
Cross Surini Pass (4,981 m) → enter Red Valley → distant views of Rainbow Mountain → camp in tents. Optional sunset hike to Rainbow Mountain.
Difficulty: Difficult

Day 4: Qeullacocha → Rainbow Mountain → Ausangate Qocha
Early hike to Rainbow Mountain summit (5,034 m) → explore Red Valley → long descent to Alqatari → continue to Ausangate Qocha camp.
Difficulty: Moderate (despite early summit)

Day 5: Ausangate Qocha → Palomani Pass → Surapampa
Climb Palomani Pass (5,091 m) – highest point of the trek → panoramic views → descend past red lakes & pampas → camp near viscacha-rock colonies.
Difficulty: Difficult

Day 6: Surapampa → 7 Ausangate Lakes → Pacchanta → Cusco
Hike past the 7 Ausangate Lakes → final views of the glacier → soak in Pacchanta hot springs → farewell to crew → return to Cusco by 6:00 p.m.
Difficulty: Difficult

Detail Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui – Upis

We will pick you up at 6:00 am and travel by private van to the trailhead at the base of the majestic Ausangate Mountain. We start hiking from Upis Pampa, passing through remote villages and crossing several streams until reaching the Upis campsite.

We spend the night in private cabins facing the Ausangate glacier, where you can enjoy a spectacular sunset directly from inside your cabin. Our cook prepares a delicious lunch, and in the afternoon you can either hike to Upis Lake (2 hours round trip) or relax in the nearby hot springs. At night, you will enjoy an unforgettable starry sky.

  • Elevation Gain: 434 m / 1,423 ft
  • Elevation Loss: 154 m / 505 ft
  • Walking Distance (including Upis Lake): 13 km / 8.07 miles
  • Hiking Time (including Upis Lake): 5 hours (approx.)
  • Trailhead Elevation: 4,155 m / 13,632 ft
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Campsite Elevation: 4,425 m / 14,517 ft
  • Highest Point: 4,549 m / 14,924 ft
  • Accommodation: Cabins

Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass – Yanacocha – Puca Cocha

We wake you up at 5:00 am with coca tea or coffee delivered to your cabin, followed by a hearty breakfast. We then hike uphill toward Arapa Pass (4,968 m), observing local farmers, alpacas, and the snow-capped Ausangate to our left.

Along the trail, your English-speaking guide explains the local flora, fauna, and landscapes. With some luck, we may spot condors, chinchillas, and vicuñas. We continue past colorful lakes until reaching our campsite at Pucacocha, surrounded by towering mountains and hanging glaciers. In the afternoon, you may explore the lakes or hike to a viewpoint for breathtaking photos.

  • Elevation Gain: 495 m / 1,624 ft
  • Elevation Loss: 292 m / 958 ft
  • Walking Distance: 10 km / 6.21 miles
  • Hiking Time: 5–6 hours (approx.)
  • Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult
  • Campsite Elevation: 4,613 m / 15,134 ft
  • Highest Point: 4,753 m / 15,593 ft
  • Accommodation: Mountain Huts

Day 3: Puca Cocha – Ananta – Surinicocha – Qeullacocha

Today is a difficult day, we start with Puca Qocha Pass (5051), the very colorful mountains that surround you. Also, we have a spectacular view of Mount Ausangate and colorful glacier lakes then we will enter into the Red Mountain valley, an intact landscape with vivid colors all around, and llamas eating grass right close to you, as you approach the lunch spot we have still wonderful view of rocky mountains and have delicious lunch at Ananta. After our lunch, we start with first uphill until Surini passes (15,090ft-4500m-14,000feet)from where you see this amazing Rainbow Mountain in the distance, but you are not quite there yet! From this place, you go downhill to circle the lake and keep walking a Peruvian flat until we reach our campsite where we have shelter. If you have still energy, you can go to Rainbow Mountain for the sunset.

  • Elevation Gain: 714 m / 2342 ft.
  • Elevation Loose: 461 m / 1512 ft.
  • Highest Point: 4981 m / 16,341 ft.
  • Walking Distance: 9 km/ 5,59 miles
  • Campsite Elevation: 4,875 meters / 15,994 feet
  • hiking hour: 7 – 8 hours roughly
  • Difficulty: Difficult
  • Accommodation: Camping in Tents.

Day 4: Qeullacocha – Rainbow Mountain –  Red Valley – Alqatari – Ausangate Qocha.

Today is the day you have been waiting for. We will wake you up at 6:00 a.m. with a cup of coca tea delivered to your tent. Afterward, you will hike for about 45 minutes to reach Rainbow Mountain. Once there, you will have time to explore the area and take photos. We will spend approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour at Rainbow Mountain, depending on your hiking pace and the weather conditions.

After enjoying the beauty of Rainbow Mountain, we will continue to the Red Valley, which takes about 1 hour for the round trip. Following this, we will hike down for approximately 3 hours to Alqatari, where we will have lunch. After lunch, we will continue our trek to Ausangate Qocha, where we will have dinner and spend the night.

  • Elevation Gain: 538 m / 1765 ft.
  • Elevation Loose: 784 m / 2572 feet.
  • Distance: 18 km / 11.18 miles.
  • Campsite elevation: 4664 m / 15,301ft.
  • Highest Point: 5,034 m / 16,515 ft.
  • Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours.
  • Difficulty: moderate.
  • Accommodation: Camping in Tents

Day 5: Ausangate Lake – Palomani Pass – Surapamapa

Today we will get to the highest point of all hikes called Palomani Pass. After your delicious breakfast, you will start to hike to Palomani Pass. Along the way, you pass beautiful colorful lakes, swampy green pampas, small villages, Alpacas, Llamas, and local people wearing their traditional clothes. Once we get to Palomani Pass after 3 hours, we will see the red lake and an amazing view of the Vilcanota chain. Then we hike down to Huchuy Pinaya where we will have our lunch then keep hiking for 2 hours to Surapampa where we will spend the night. This campsite is located close to the rocky place and we will see a lot of viscachas sitting on top of the rocks.

  • Elevation Gain: 595 m / 1952 ft.
  • Elevation Loose: 644 m / 2112 feet.
  • Distance: 11 km / 6.83 miles.
  • Campsite elevation: 4595 m / 15,075ft.
  • Highest Point: 5,091 m / 16,702 ft.
  • Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours.
  • Difficulty: Difficult.
  • Accommodation: Camping in Tents.

Day 6: Surapamapa – 7 lakes of Ausangate – Pacchanta – Cusco

We will wake up early to get back to Cusco. today is another wonderful day, we will enjoy the 7 Lakes of Ausangate and the beautiful landscapes. Once in your life, you can jump in the lakes to cool off. On your left side, the unparalleled Ausangate mount is still visible, today is your last day to enjoy the snow-capped mountain from a near and new angle. Our purpose is to get to the hot springs of Pacchanta where we will enjoy nice hot water and the vistas of the Ausangate Mount above. Today after our last supper we say goodbye to our horseman and the chef and get back to Cusco. We will be back in Cusco at 06:00 pm

  • Elevation Gain: 518 m / 1,699 ft.
  • Elevation Loose: 807 m / 2,647 feet.
  • Distance: 17 km / 10.563 miles.
  • Highest Point: 5,061 m / 16,604 ft.
  • Hiking time: 7 – 8 hours.
  • Difficulty: Difficult.

  • Includes
  • Satellite Phone: Since Ausangate is a remote area with no mobile reception, our guide carries a satellite phone for emergencies.
  • Cabins and Shelters: You will spend the first night in cabins, the second night in mountain huts, and the remaining nights in tents.
  • English-Speaking Guide: Our professional guides are highly experienced and knowledgeable about the Ausangate region.
  • Pre-Departure Briefing: A mandatory orientation will take place at our office at 5:00 pm, one day before your departure.
  • Private Portable Toilet Tent: Set up at each campsite for your comfort and convenience.
  • Dining Tent: A communal tent with tables and chairs where you can relax and enjoy your meals after a day of trekking.
  • Professional Cook: A dedicated cook will prepare fresh, nutritious meals throughout the trek.
  • Wake-Up Tea: Start your mornings with coca tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or another hot beverage, served directly to your tent.
  • Horses: Pack horses will transport all trekking equipment.
  • Personal Belongings Allowance: Up to 7 kilograms per person (including your sleeping bag).
  • Duffel Bag: Provided by the company for carrying your personal belongings.
  • Safe Drinking Water: Boiled, cooled, and filtered water supplied daily for refilling your bottles.
  • Afternoon Tea (“Happy Hour”): Enjoy hot tea served with popcorn and biscuits every afternoon.
  • Reusable Snack Bag: To reduce plastic waste, we provide a cloth snack bag.
  • Daily Snacks: Supplied for each day of the trek.
  • Entrance Fees: Covers access to private lands in the Ausangate area.
  • 7 Lakes of Ausangate Permit: Included in the package.
  • Kitchen Tent: A designated space where our cook prepares meals.
  • Sleeping Tents: Spacious three-person tents provided for two trekkers, ensuring extra space for comfort and gear.
  • Rainbow Mountain Entrance Fee: Included in your package.
  • Red Valley Entrance Fee: Included in your package.
  • Meals: Six breakfasts, six lunches, and five dinners. Vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options are available upon request.
  • Private Transportation: Round-trip transfers from and to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Foam Mattress: Provided for added sleeping comfort.
  • First Aid Kit: All guides receive annual training in first aid and carry basic medications for altitude sickness, digestive issues, minor injuries, and more.
  • Oxygen Tank: A full oxygen tank is carried at all times for emergencies.
  • Hygiene Supplies: A bowl of water and paper towels provided at every campsite for handwashing.
  • Plastic Poncho: Provided in case of heavy rain.
  • Backpack Rain Cover: To protect your belongings during rain.
  • Radio Communication: Guides and cooks carry radios for coordination and safety.
  • Hotel Pick-Up and Drop-Off: We will pick you up from your hotel or Airbnb in Cusco and return you at the end of the trek.
  • Horseman: Responsible for handling the horses and assisting with tent setup.
  • T-shirt: Receive a commemorative Ausangate trek T-shirt upon completion.
  • Hot Water Bag: Available for your feet at night if you tend to feel cold.
  • Not Included
  • Sleeping Bags. We rent a Mountain Hard Brand sleeping bag. It costs $30 for the entire trip.
  • Trekking poles. We rent Black diamond hiking sticks. They cost $30 for the entire trip.
  • Personal riding horse. Additional horses may be rented according to the needs of the individual and group.
  • Voluntary Tips for Guide, Driver, and Cook.
  • Travel Insurance.

INFO IMPORTANT:

THINGS TO KNOW

  • We don’t organize 6 day Ausangate trek in January and February because the rain is intense everyday. Also the passes are covered with snow so the it is difficult for the horses and hikers.
  • While we expect the hike will run as the itinerary describes to Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek 6 days. Participants should accept that there is the possibility of changes, being necessary liable to local conditions, e.g., strikes, or natural disasters.
  • This hike is not recommended for children because the hike is difficult.
  • If you have medical problems, you should consult your doctor and indicate that you want to or are planning a hike in the Peruvian Andes and the height is 5040 m (16,400 ft) above sea level. If you have medication, you must bring it with you to continue your treatment.
  • This 6-day Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain is not recommended for travelers with back problems
  • Our guide always oxygen tanks which are important as you get over 5040 meters/16,500 feet above sea level! Not all travel agencies offer this, so this is definitely something to look out for when choosing the best Ausangate tour operator.
  • Daily departures with a group of 2 or more.
  • There is no access to a wheelchair for Ausangate trek 6 days.
  • Our pick-up time changed to 5 am from September because the rainy season started and most of the time it rains in the afternoon so It is better to hike in the morning.

RECOMMENDATIONS

  • Make sure you are acclimatized to Cusco’s altitude before you set off on your hike to the Ausangate. This is by far the best insurance for a smooth and enjoyable trip. We recommend you spend at least 3 days in Cusco prior to the excursion.
  • We recommend you to keep your iphone inside your sleeping bag and during the day in a warned place. Batteries tend to die due to cold.
  • Bring 2 pairs of shoes, one for hiking and the other for the campsite.
  • Make sure that your sleeping has a rating of -15 degrees celsius. We rent Mountain hard wear Brand and they are really good for the Ausangate area.
  • The higher elevation also means colder, nearly freezing temperatures, so be prepared. If you decide to take Ausangate 6 day hike, make sure to wear very warm clothes.
  • Sun glasses are a must. Sometimes it snow and the reflection of the snow damage our eyes and  you might get blind for about 24 hours.
  • The sun is very intense high in the mountain, usually in the dry season(May – October). Unfortutly There are no trees along the Ausangate trek to offer shade, so we highly recommend you to bring Sun hat, and sun cream.

DUFFLE BAG

We will give you a duffel bag at our office at the end of your briefing. Our horses will carry them and you will have access to them only at the campsites. Put your clothes and other personal items that you won’t need hiking. Things like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and rain gear should be in your day pack. The duffel should weigh 7kg.

STRIKES

Strikes and roadblocks are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our Ausangate 6-day trek. We will do our best that your hike to Ausangate continues as planned with some changes.

If the strike happens on the first day of your Ausangate 6-day hike, we will take you to the trailhead the night before your start date.

If the strike happens the day that you finish your Ausangate 6 days. We will send our vans to Pacchanta one night before. So you will get the van at 05 pm because the strike is over after 5 pm. You will arrive at Cusco at 11 pm.

AUSANGATE WEATHER

The weather is unpredictable in the Andes. The dry season in Ausangate is from April to October and the rainy season is from November through March, but this does not stop rain from falling in the dry season or the sun from coming out in the rainy season so just be prepared. No matter what season you are hiking the Ausangate trek, make sure that you get rain gear such as a rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

Ausangate weather changed in minutes. You might experience 4 seasons in only one day too. So you must be prepared. Layers are the key since they are easy to adapt to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a down jacket since the early morning and evening will be very cold.

TRAVEL INSURANCE

We recommend you get travel insurance because if you cancel your Ausangate 6-day tour at the last minute it can reimburse you for your prepaid money. Also when you get sick or hurt while you are far away from home, it can reimburse you for care following a covered medical emergency while traveling.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:

This hike is difficult because of the altitude, it’s highly recommended to be in good physical condition; The classic Ausangate trek elevation changes make the hike tough as there are six passes during your trek.

ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS FOR SOLO TRAVELER

During the Ausangate trek 6 days, solo travelers will be paired to share a tent with another traveler of the same sex and couples will have a tent to themselves.

BEST TIME TO HIKE AUSANGATE

The best time to hike Ausangate is from May to September which is the dry season in Cusco región. So you will have a better chance of having a blue sky and you will see the Andes Mountains in its splendor. You can still hike in April, October, November, and December. But you need to have good rain gear. We don’t recommend hiking Ausangate in January and February because it rains heavily almost every day.

PRE-DEPARTURE BRIEFING

There is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cusco Office one day before your departure to Ausangate at 6 pm. You will meet your guide and He will give you detailed information about your trek, a list of what to bring, rental equipment, or questions in general. Our office is located at: Marquez Street 250, Second Floor. Office 03. Cuzco, Peru.

TIPPING

Tipping is common on the Ausangate trek 6 days. On the last day of the adventure, we will say goodbye to our amazing horseman and professional chefs. This is the time that you will give a tip to all of them, please. Anything extra is always really appreciated. Please know that tipping is not Mandatory and that you should never feel forced into this.

Usually, our customers pool their tipping money together for the chef and horsemen. For your tour guide, you tip once he/she will drop you off at your hotel. You decide the amount of money based on your experience with them. Soles is better for Our Horseman and Chefs. Guides can receive U.S. dollars or Soles without any problem.

  • These are our recommendations below. Sometimes they receive more or less. It is in your heart.
  • Tips could be for our porters:  70 – 90 soles per Horsemen.
  • Tips could be for our Cooks: 120 – 160 soles per cook.

Cancellations And Refunds

Full Refund: If you cancel up to 72 hours before the tour starts, you’ll get all your payment back minus the transaction fee charged by the credit card Company.

Partial Refund: If you cancel within 24 hours but before 7 PM the day before the tour, you’ll lose your deposit.

No Refund: If you cancel after 7 PM the day before the tour, you won’t get any payment back and will lose the full payment.

FAQ´S

To Book The 6-Day Ausangate Trek With Pureq Travel?

To book your 6-day Ausangate trek with us, click the “BOOK NOW” button above, then select your preferred departure date, then complete the personal information for each participant. The final step is payment, which you can do using a credit or debit card or through a bank transfer. To secure your spot, you only need to send us a deposit.

Our booking platform also offers optional add-ons, such as an emergency horse, sleeping bag, and trekking poles. For the emergency horse, a deposit is required at the time of booking. The sleeping bag and trekking poles can be arranged later and booked up to one day before departure at our office, which is located two blocks away from Cusco’s main square.

What About The Remaining Payment?

The remaining balance can be paid in cash (USD or Peruvian soles) one day before your trip. Alternatively, you can pay using a credit or debit card or via bank transfer through our booking platform, WeTravel. If you pay with cash, there is no transaction fee. Please inform us of your preferred payment method in advance.

Note: Cash payments must be made at least one day before the trip.

Is There A Student Discount?

Unfortunately, we do not offer a student discount for our 6-day Ausangate trek.

Are The 7 Lakes Of Ausangate Included In The 6-Day Trek?

Yes, you will visit the 7 lakes on the last day of your Ausangate 6 day trek. If your group maintains a faster pace, it is even possible to camp at the 7 lakes on your final night.

Can I Skip The First Upis Campsite And Camp Farther?

Yes, it is possible to skip the first Upis campsite and camp farther. However, this is not recommended. Our 6-day itinerary is designed to help you acclimate to the altitude by limiting the first day’s hike to just three hours.

Is The Red Valley Included In The 6-Day Ausangate Trek?

Yes, the Red Valley is included in our 6-day Ausangate trek. You will visit the viewpoint, take your classic photo, and then continue along the trail.

Do You Offer The Ausangate 6-Day Trek During The Rainy Season?

We do not organize our 6-day trek during the rainy season because the mountain passes are covered with snow, making it difficult for our horses and challenging for our customers to hike. Our 6-day trek is closed from January to March, which is the main rainy season. If you are interested in hiking Ausangate during the rainy season, we recommend our 4-day Ausangate trek. We still organize the 4-day trek during this time because we have shelters along the route.

Is Water Provided During The Hike?

Yes, we provide water three times a day—after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The water is filtered, boiled, and cooled before being used to refill your bottles, ensuring it is safe to drink. We recommend bringing a 2-liter water bottle. Please note that water is not provided on the first day until lunchtime, so make sure to bring 2 liters of water from Cusco for the first part of the trek.

Can I Change My Departure Date After Booking?

Yes, you can change your departure date. However, you must notify us at least 48 hours in advance. Last-minute changes are not permitted.

Do I Need To Bring My Passport For The Ausangate 6-Day Trek?

Bringing your passport is not mandatory; a photocopy is sufficient. However, if you would like a Rainbow Mountain stamp in your passport, you will need to bring the original. The cost of the stamp is 5 soles.

What Are The Toilet Facilities Like?

During the 6-day Ausangate trek, there are no permanent toilet facilities along the route. You will need to rely on natural areas, such as behind rocks or patches of grass, for bathroom needs. To maintain cleanliness and minimize environmental impact, it is essential to bring your own toilet paper and use plastic bags to properly dispose of waste. These measures help keep the trail pristine for others.

To enhance your comfort, our team provides a portable toilet at each campsite. This ensures access to a hygienic and private option during your journey, making the experience more convenient and environmentally responsible.

How Many Kilometers Is The 6-Day Ausangate Trek?

The 6-day Ausangate Trek covers approximately 76 kilometers (47.22 miles).

Are There Any Dangerous Animals On The Ausangate Trek?

The area is home to mountain lions, but they are very shy and typically avoid humans. Their population is quite small because local communities often kill them to protect their alpacas and llamas. As a result, mountain lions face the risk of disappearing from the region.

Do I Need Travel Insurance For The Ausangate Trek?

Yes, having travel insurance is essential. Evacuations or medical assistance can be costly, but insurance will cover these expenses. Since the trek reaches altitudes of 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), ensure that your insurance policy includes coverage for high-altitude activities.

How Many People Will Be In Our Group?

Our group sizes are limited to a maximum of 8 people.

Is There Electricity During The Ausangate Trek?

There is no electricity available during the 6-day Ausangate Trek. However, some local homes may have solar panels provided by the Peruvian government, which generate limited electricity.

What Happens If I Get Sick During The Trek?

If you feel unwell during the trek, our team is prepared to assist you. Depending on your location, we will evacuate you to the nearest town. Here are the evacuation points:

  • Day 1: Evacuation will be to Tinki, the nearest town, followed by transport to Cusco.
  • Days 2-3: Alqatari village will be the nearest evacuation point, with transport arranged to Cusco.
  • Day 4: Evacuation will be to Cuispata or Kayrawiri, followed by transport to Cusco.
  • Days 5-6: Pacchanta will serve as the nearest evacuation point, with transport to Cusco.

How Many Days Should I Acclimatize Before The Ausangate 6-Day Tour?

It is highly recommended to spend at least three days acclimatizing to the altitude before starting the 6-day Rainbow Mountain trek. The hike begins at 4,400 meters (14,436 feet) and peaks at 5,036 meters (16,522 feet), making it a challenging high-altitude adventure. Proper acclimatization reduces the risk of altitude sickness and ensures a more comfortable experience.

How Difficult Is The Rainbow Mountain 6-Day Trek?

The Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain 6-day trek is considered difficult and requires good physical fitness. The trek involves hiking at altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), where the thin air makes breathing more challenging. The trail includes steep ascents, uneven paths, and particularly strenuous sections. While the overall distance is not very long, the high altitude, changing weather conditions, and rugged terrain make this trek more demanding than typical hikes.

What Time Will We Reach The Rainbow Mountain Summit?

On the fourth day, we will wake up at 5:30 AM and leave the campsite by 6:00 AM. The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes approximately 45 minutes, so we will arrive at the summit around 6:45 AM.

Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Ausangate Trek (6 Days)?

Staying in the Sacred Valley for your 6-day trek to Rainbow Mountain is not recommended, as it is at a lower altitude than Cusco and does not aid acclimatization. A better option is to stay in the Sacred Valley on your first day and then return to Cusco to prepare for the trek. Note that staying in the Sacred Valley will require an earlier pickup time (4:30 AM) and an additional $30 for the pickup service.

Can I Rent A Horse At The Trailhead For The Ausangate 6-Day Trek?

Horses are not available for rent at the trailhead, as they are usually grazing far away in the mountains. To ensure availability, it is highly recommended to book a horse in advance for your trek.

When Is The Best Time To Hike The Ausangate Trek (6 Days)?

The best time to hike the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, from April to November. This period typically offers clear skies, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant, colorful landscapes. From December to March, the rainy season brings cloudy weather, snow, and mist, which can obscure the views and make the trail muddy and more challenging.

Is It Cold During The Ausangate 6-Day Hike?

Yes, it is cold during the winter months (June to August), especially before sunrise and after sunset, with temperatures often dropping to 2°C. At night, it can be even colder, sometimes reaching as low as -10°C. It is essential to pack warm clothing to stay comfortable during these colder hours. During the day, temperatures typically range from 15°C to 20°C. In the rainy season, temperatures are generally milder but can still become cold when it snows.

Are There Any Age Restrictions For The 6-Day Ausangate Tour?

There is no official age limit for the tour, but it is recommended that children be at least 10 years old. Younger children may find the trek challenging due to the cold temperatures and the risk of altitude sickness. If you plan to bring a child, ensure they are dressed warmly and spend at least three days in Cusco beforehand to acclimatize.

How Far In Advance Should I Book The Ausangate Trek?

For the 6-day Rainbow Mountain trek, it is advisable to book at least a week in advance. During the busy season (May to August), booking at least a month ahead is recommended, as guides may be fully booked. If you are booking at the last minute, contact us, and we will do our best to include you in an existing group.

Do I Need Extra Money For The Hike?

Yes, it is a good idea to bring cash for the 6-day Ausangate tour. On the first day, local people sell handmade items, and cash is the only accepted payment method. On the fourth day at Rainbow Mountain, vendors sell drinks, snacks, and beer, which also require cash. At the end of the trek, you may choose to tip the horseman, cook, and guide if you wish, though tipping is optional.

Can I Book A Private Tour Instead Of Joining A Group?

Yes, private tours can be arranged for the 6-day Rainbow Mountain trek. Please contact us through the “Contact Us” page to request a quote for a private tour.

Can I Charge My Devices During The 6-Day Rainbow Mountain Trek?

There are no charging stations available during the 6-day Ausangate trek. To keep your devices powered, bring a fully charged portable power bank. The only opportunity to charge devices is in our van, so plan ahead to ensure your devices remain functional throughout the trip.

Is The 6-Day Ausangate Trek Safe?

The 6-day trek to Rainbow Mountain is generally safe for well-prepared travelers. However, the high altitude (up to 5,040 meters or 16,535 feet) can cause altitude sickness. It is important to spend a few days acclimating in Cusco before starting the hike. With proper fitness, gear, and hydration, the challenging trails are manageable.

Can I Still Join The 6-Day Ausangate Trek If I’m Afraid Of Heights?

The first two days of the trek feature wide and safe paths, making them accessible to most people. However, on the third day, after crossing the Warmisaya Pass, the trail becomes narrower and slightly more challenging. While the path may appear intimidating, it slopes gently downward rather than dropping off steeply. If you are afraid of heights, this section may feel daunting, but staying calm and focused will help you navigate it safely. The trails for the remaining days are wider and free of cliffs.

Can My 65-Year-Old Family Members Do This Trek?

We have had clients aged 50 to 65 who are active and healthy successfully complete the trek. However, since the trek reaches a high altitude of 5,040 meters, it is essential to consult a doctor beforehand to ensure fitness for the challenge. If they have prior experience with other treks, such as the Inca Trail or Salkantay, they are likely to complete the Ausangate trek without significant issues. For those seeking a more leisurely experience, we recommend the 4-day Ausangate trek.

Can You Take Me To The Airport After The 6-Day Trek?

Yes, we can drop you off at the airport after the 6-day trek. The airport is conveniently located on the way out of the city, so you will be the first to be dropped off, ensuring a smooth transition to your departure.

Can I Rent A Horse Halfway Through The Trek?

No, it is not possible to rent a horse halfway through the trek because horses are not available along the route. If you wish to have a horse for assistance, you must arrange for one in advance.

Can I Rent A Horse For Just One Day?

Unfortunately, you cannot rent a horse for just one day. Local providers are unwilling to bring a horse from distant locations for such a short duration.

Can I Rent Camping Gear In Cusco If I Don’t Have Good Equipment?

Yes, you can rent camping gear in Cusco, including sleeping bags, on Procuradores Street. Make sure to rent a sleeping bag suitable for temperatures as low as -15°C, as conditions in the Ausangate area can be extremely cold.

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