Looking for a complete Ausangate trek itinerary 5 days? You’ve found it. This challenging and spectacular high-altitude route in Peru takes you deep into the heart of the Vilcanota Mountain Range, offering close encounters with glaciers, turquoise lagoons, alpaca herds, and the famous Rainbow Mountain.
This blog breaks down the full 5-day Ausangate trek itinerary, with key details like distance, elevation, daily campsites, and what to expect each day. Whether you’re hiking with a guide or independently, this route will help you prepare.
Overview of the 5-Day Ausangate Trek
Before diving into the day-by-day itinerary, here are some quick facts about the 5-day Ausangate trek.
- Total duration: 5 days / 4 nights
- Distance covered: Approx. 60–70 km
- Highest point: Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft)
- Elevation range: 4,200 m to 5,200 m
- Difficulty: Challenging (due to altitude)
- Best season: May to September (dry season)
Day-by-Day Ausangate Trek Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Pacchanta – Upis Camp
- Early departure from Cusco (3,400 m)
- Drive to Pacchanta (4,300 m), starting point of the trek
- Hike begins with a gentle ascent to Upis Camp, nestled beneath the snowy Ausangate massif
- Option to enjoy nearby thermal baths
Distance: 7 km
Elevation: 4,300 m → 4,400 m
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Camp: Upis (4,400 m)
Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass – Ananta Camp
- Hike up to Arapa Pass (4,850 m) with incredible mountain views
- Descend through colorful landscapes with green, red and ochre hills
- Pass several small lakes before reaching Ananta Camp
Distance: 13 km
Elevation: 4,400 m → 4,850 m → 4,700 m
Trekking time: 6–7 hours
Camp: Ananta (4,700 m)
Day 3: Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Ausangate Lagoon
- Early departure to visit Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) at sunrise
- Cross Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m)
- Descend briefly before ascending to Rainbow Mountain (5,030 m)
- After photos, continue toward Ausangate Lagoon
Distance: 14 km
Elevation: 4,700 m → 5,030 m → 4,600 m
Trekking time: 7–8 hours
Camp: Ausangate Lagoon (4,600 m)
Day 4: Ausangate Lagoon – Palomani Pass – Huchuy Phinaya
- Toughest day of the Ausangate trek itinerary 5 days
- Cross Palomani Pass, the highest point of the trek at 5,200 m
- Views of glaciers, high peaks, and valleys
- Long descent to the quiet Huchuy Phinaya valley
Distance: 12 km
Elevation: 4,600 m → 5,200 m → 4,300 m
Trekking time: 7–8 hours
Camp: Huchuy Phinaya (4,300 m)
Day 5: Huchuy Phinaya – Cusco
- Easy last hike along flat valleys and highland farms
- Arrive at the trailhead where vehicle transport awaits
- Return to Cusco in the afternoon, ending the journey
Distance: 7 km
Elevation: 4,300 m → 4,200 m
Trekking time: 3–4 hours
Return: Private vehicle to Cusco (4–5 hrs)
What to Expect Each Day
Weather and Altitude
- Cold mornings (below freezing)
- Strong sun during the day
- Frequent wind at high passes
- Altitude effects vary – allow proper acclimatization
Terrain
- Mix of rocky trails, glacial valleys, mountain passes
- No technical climbing, but good fitness is essential
- Mules or horses carry gear on guided treks
Campsites and Meals
Each night you’ll stay in remote campsites with mountain views:
- Upis: Hot springs nearby
- Ananta: Beautiful starry skies
- Ausangate Lagoon: Scenic turquoise lake
- Huchuy Phinaya: Quiet and peaceful
If trekking with a guide, hot meals and tea time are provided daily.
Is the 5-Day Ausangate Trek Right for You?
The Ausangate trek itinerary 5 days is ideal for:
- Trekkers with prior high-altitude experience
- Those looking for a challenging, uncrowded alternative to the Inca Trail
- Nature lovers who want glacier views, lagoons, and wildlife
It’s not recommended for first-time trekkers or travelers without prior acclimatization.
Final Thoughts
This Ausangate trek itinerary 5 days offers a perfect mix of adventure, scenery, and challenge. Whether you’re hiking independently or booking with a local agency, this journey through Peru’s Vilcanota range is an unforgettable experience.
Still need help organizing your trek?
Contact The Ausangate Trek for custom tours, local guides, and gear rental options.
