Apu Ausangate Trek

A fabulous high altitude trek circumnavigating the highest mountain of the Cusco region, Mount Ausangate (6,348 m) in the Cordillera Vilcanota, South East of Cusco. A high level of fitness and pre-trek acclimatization is necessary, this trek is not for the fainthearted. Ausangate is the largest and one of the most spectacular mountains in Southern Peru. In total there are three high passes of or above 5000m (16404ft), making it an excellent expedition for those looking for a challenge. Enjoy unforgettable views of the glaciers and soak in hot natural thermal springs under the stars. Private service.

Day 1
We leave Cusco early in the morning and drive for three hours through highland scenery to the Andean village of Tinqui at the foot of the Cordillera Vilcanota. This is the starting point of our trek. This afternoon we will walk as far as the thermal springs of Upis, where we set up our camp. If you wish, you may go for a dip in the warm water.

Maximum Altitude: 4447m / 14589ft
Minimum Altitude: 3778m / 12395ft
Distance Travelled: 10 km / 6.21 ml
Approximate Walking Time: 5 hours
Meals: B, L, D

Day 2
Today we will pass two high passes. After walking approximately 2.5 hours we reach our first pass, Arapa at 4850m (15255ft). We begin our circuit around the glacier, passing Lake Jatun Puqa Q’ocha. From here we ascend again until climbing our second pass, Apechata at 4900m (16,076ft). We move through a landscape dotted with turquoise lagoons which are fed from glacial waters. Finally, we will descend to our campsite, near the turquoise Laguna Ausangate Q’ocha.

Maximum Altitude: 4850m / 15255ft
Minimum Altitude: 4447m / 14589ft
Distance Travelled: 16 km / 9.94 ml
Approximate Walking Time: 9 hours
Meals: B, L, D

Day 3
We awake to amazing views of the mountains bathed in early morning light. Today we conquer the Palomani pass, the highest of the trek with an altitude of 5200m (17,060ft). The ascent is relatively steep and the altitude can affect the pace. On reaching the summit, spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains of Puka Punta and Tres Picos are a gracious reward for our strenuous efforts. Descending through the valley of Finaya Pampa makes for a long downhill day leading us to our next camp at Jampa. Today we should walk amongst free roaming alpacas and llamas grazing on the mountainside.

Maximum Altitude: 5200m / 17056ft
Minimum Altitude: 4447m / 14589ft
Distance Travelled: 10 Km / 6.21 ml
Approximate Walking Time: 9 hours
Meals: B, L, D

Day 4
Today we follow a mountain stream towards the Q’ampa Pass 5,000m (16,404ft), where you may have sightings of Vizcachas. From the summit, you can often see Mount Salkantay, the second highest peak in the Cusco region (6,272 m). Tonight’s campsite will be in the community of Pacchanta, where once again you may enjoy the benefits of hot springs.

Maximum Altitude: 5000m / 16100ft
Minimum Altitude: 4447m / 14589ft
Distance Travelled: 16 Km / 9.94 ml
Approximate Walking Time: 10 hours
Meals: B, L, D

Day 5
We hike back to Tinqui in the morning (around 4 hours) and take leave from our trek team before we drive back to Cusco.
Meals: B, L
Distance Travelled: 10 Km / 6.21 ml
Approximate Walking Time: 3 hours

Included:

• Briefing one day before the trek.
• Collection from your hotel the morning of the trek departure.
• 3 nutritious meals per day (vegetarian options available, please specify when booking).
• Drinking water along the trek.
• Bilingual guide (Assistant Guide for groups over 6 passengers).
• Chef (assistant chef for larger groups).
• Quadruple tents to be used by two people, allowing more comfort and more space to store backpacks.
• Mules (for equipment and luggage) and muleteers.
• Inflatable mattresses.
• Sleeping liner and pillow.
• Saddled horse in case of emergencies or if you are making very little progress (this horse is with the group at all times).
• First aid kit and oxygen bottle.
• Kitchen tent and dining tent with camp tables and chairs.
• Toilet Tent.
• Duffel bags (up to 7Kg/15lbs per person). This will be provided by your guide at your briefing.

Services not included:​

• Breakfast on the first morning.
• Dinner on the last night.
• Sleeping bag. If you don’t want to bring your own, we can hire this for you.
• Tips for guides and field staff.

Prices are in USD per person:

2 people USD 1,585.-

3 people USD 1,115.-

4 people USD 985.-