Ausangate & Rainbow Mountain Trek – 3-Day

We begin with early pick-up in Cusco at 6:30 a.m., heading southeast by private transport on a scenic 3.5-hour drive through rural highland villages and valleys to Pacchanta (4,334 m) — a traditional Quechua community at the foot of Ausangate.

After a nourishing breakfast prepared by our trekking chef, we meet the local muleteers and begin our gradual ascent to Upis, a remote camp with direct views of the Ausangate Glacier. Along the trail, we pass herds of alpacas, glacial streams, and colorful high-Andean flora.

In the afternoon, we settle into our campsite and enjoy the optional experience of soaking in the natural Upis hot springs, surrounded by towering snow-capped peaks.

• Starting altitude: 3,400 m (Cusco)
• Highest point: 4,550 m (on the way to Upis)
• Ending altitude: 4,438 m (Upis Camp)
• Distance: ~6 km hike + 3.5-hour drive
• Trekking time: 3 to 4 hours
• Accommodation: Campsite at Upis (4,438 m)
• Highlights: Ausangate Glacier views, Pacchanta village culture, optional Upis hot springs, scenic alpine trail

Today we enter the heart of the Ausangate trekking circuit, crossing two spectacular high passes with breathtaking alpine views. After coca tea and breakfast, we start with the ascent to Arapa Pass (4,738 m), offering panoramic views of glaciers and alpine valleys.

We descend into a vibrant valley filled with turquoise lakes like Pucacocha, home to Andean birds and herds of alpacas. After a well-earned lunch, we begin the challenging climb to the second and highest pass, Apacheta (4,917 m). This is one of the best viewpoints of the trek, with unobstructed vistas of the Vilcanota range.

By late afternoon, we descend into the peaceful valley of Ananta (4,700 m), where we camp for the night and share stories over a hot dinner.

• Starting altitude: 4,438 m (Upis Camp)
• Highest point: 4,917 m (Apacheta Pass)
• Ending altitude: 4,700 m (Ananta Camp)
• Distance: ~15.2 km
• Trekking time: 7 to 8 hours
• Accommodation: Campsite at Ananta (4,700 m)
• Highlights: Arapa and Apacheta passes, Pucacocha Lagoon, high-Andean valleys, alpacas, glacier landscapes

We wake early to begin the final ascent to Warmisaya Pass (4,960 m), arriving just in time for sunrise over Vinicunca Rainbow Mountain (5,034 m). This strategic route allows us to arrive before the crowds, capturing the iconic colorful ridges in peace and silence.

After exploring the viewpoint and taking plenty of photos, we continue on a lesser-known trail into the Red Valley, a surreal landscape of deep crimson earth, layered cliffs, and panoramic ridgelines. This hidden gem is often a highlight for hikers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience.

Our descent leads us to Kairahuiri, where our private vehicle awaits. After lunch, we return to Cusco around 4:00 p.m., completing a short but unforgettable trek through the Peruvian Andes.

• Starting altitude: 4,700 m (Ananta Camp)
• Highest point: 5,034 m (Rainbow Mountain)
• Ending altitude: 3,400 m (Cusco)
• Distance: ~9.1 km hike + 3.5-hour drive
• Trekking time: 5 to 6 hours
• Accommodation: Not included (return to hotel in Cusco)
• Highlights: Early arrival to Rainbow Mountain, Warmisaya Pass, Red Valley extension, private transfer to Cusco