Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek: The Ultimate Guide

The Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek is a gem in the Peruvian Andes. It uniquely blends breathtaking landscapes, vibrant colors, and rich, centuries-old cultures.

HelloPeruTravel offers a unique tour combining the trek’s wonders with an immersive local culture experience. Our guide provides a glimpse of what awaits you on this incredible journey. Whether you choose to join us or go solo is up to you.

Guide to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek

The trek takes you through stunning landscapes. Snow-capped mountains, glacial lakes, and lush valleys await. It starts in Tinqui, a village surrounded by snow-capped peaks and green valleys. The Ausangate trek leads to the mesmerizing Rainbow Mountain, famous for its vivid hues. It’s a journey that showcases the breathtaking beauty of the Andes.

What is the best time to hike the Ausangate Trek?

The best time to hike the Ausangate Trek in Peru is during the dry season, typically from May to September.

Here’s a breakdown of the pros and cons of each month within the dry season:

• May-June: This is the shoulder season, with fewer crowds and slightly lower prices. However, the weather can still be unpredictable, with occasional rain showers.
• July-August: These are the peak months for hiking the Ausangate Trek, with the best weather conditions. However, it can also be the most crowded and expensive time to go.
• September is another shoulder month, with fewer crowds and more affordable prices. However, the weather can start to become less predictable again, with the occasional rainstorm.

Factors to consider when choosing the best time to hike the Ausangate Trek:

• Experience level: Beginners should avoid July and August when trails are more challenging.
• Interests: Hike during the dry season to see the colorful Ausangate mountains.
• Budget: Peak season may have a higher tour and accommodation prices.

Ultimately, the best time to hike the Ausangate Trek depends on your needs and preferences.

How Many Days Do You Need for the Ausangate Trek?

The number of days you need for the Ausangate Trek depends on your desired itinerary and level of experience.
There are two popular trekking options available:

5-day trek: Covers the classic route, including Rainbow Mountain and Pucacocha Glacier. It offers a good balance of challenge and sightseeing, covering a distance of approximately 42 km (26 miles).

7-day trek: Explores deeper with Ausangate’s highest pass, allowing more time for glacial lakes and local villages. This option is more strenuous, covering a distance of around 62 km (39 miles).
But you can also go for a 3-day or 9-day trek.

3-day trek: Experienced hikers can tackle a shorter, more challenging version focusing on Vinicunca and nearby areas.

9-day trek: For the most adventurous souls, a comprehensive trek delves deeper into the Vilcanota range, experiencing diverse ecosystems and covering approximately 100 km (62 miles).
Factors to consider:
Fitness level: Longer and higher altitude treks require good physical conditioning.

Acclimatization: Allocate 2-3 days in Cusco (11,300 ft) for altitude adaptation.

Desired experience: Longer treks allow for more exploration of the scenery.

Ultimately, the number of days depends on your preferences and capabilities. Research specific itineraries and consult trek operators to find the perfect fit for you!

How Hard Is Ausangate Trek?

The Ausangate Trek offers a challenging and rewarding experience for hikers. With breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion, it is considered a strenuous trek. Here’s a breakdown of the difficulties you can expect.

High Altitude:

• The area’s high elevation, with passes surpassing 16,000 feet (5,000 meters), can cause altitude sickness, even for experienced hikers.

Challenging Terrain:

• The trail is challenging, with steep climbs, rocky sections, and a glacial moraine. It requires good physical fitness and sure-footedness. Be prepared for uneven surfaces, switchbacks, and potentially slippery paths.

Weather:

• Be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather. Pack for all conditions and stay flexible with your plans.

Distance:

• The total distance varies based on the itinerary, ranging from around 42 km (26 miles) for the 5-day trek to 100 km (62 miles) for the 9-day trek. Prepare for long days on the trail with a suitable backpack and proper footwear.

Additional Challenges:

• Limited amenities along the trek include basic campsites and homestays with limited electricity and hot water access. Prepare for a rustic experience and bring necessary toiletries and personal items.

• In remote villages, English may not be commonly spoken. Learning basic Spanish phrases can aid in communication and cultural understanding.

The Ausangate Trek offers breathtaking scenery, cultural encounters, and a sense of accomplishment despite the challenges.

Remember, thorough preparation is crucial for a successful and enjoyable Ausangate Trek. Focus on building endurance, pack the necessary items, and select an itinerary that aligns with your fitness level and experience.

How Long Is the Ausangate Trek?

The Ausangate Trek’s length varies depending on your chosen itinerary and desired experience. Here’s a breakdown of the different options:

• 5-day trek (42 km/26 miles): This is the most common option, covering the classic route with highlights like Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) and Pucacocha glacier.
  It’s a good balance of challenge and sightseeing, allowing you to experience the best of the trek without getting overwhelmed.

• 7-day trek (62 km/39 miles): This deeper exploration delves further into the Vilcanota range, offering more time for glacial lakes, local villages, and a higher pass. It’s a more strenuous option but rewards breathtaking views and a deeper cultural immersion.
• 3-day trek: For experienced hikers seeking a challenge, condensed itineraries are available on Vinicunca and nearby areas.
• 9-day trek (100 km/62 miles): For the most adventurous, a comprehensive trek explores diverse ecosystems deep within the Vilcanota range. Expect a demanding but truly unforgettable journey.

How Long Is the Trek to Rainbow Mountain?

The trek to Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, can vary in length depending on whether you choose a day trip or a multi-day trek that includes it.

Day trip from Cusco:

The shortest option for hiking to the viewpoint above Vinicunca is about 10 kilometers (6 miles) round trip. It is a good choice for those with limited time or seeking a less challenging option, although the hike is still uphill and at a high altitude. Being in good physical condition and acclimatized to the altitude is crucial.

Multi-day trek:

This is a more immersive experience but also more challenging. These are the most popular treks that include Rainbow Mountain:

5-day Ausangate trek:

This classic route covers approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles), with Vinicunca being one of the highlights.

7-day Ausangate trek:

This more extended option goes deeper into the Vilcanota range, with a total distance of around 62 kilometers (39 miles).
These treks are a great way to experience the Vilcanota range’s beauty and the Quechua people’s unique culture. However, they are also more physically demanding and require good acclimatization.

Regardless of your choice, the trek to Rainbow Mountain will surely be a memorable experience. The views of the colorful mountain are genuinely stunning, and the sense of accomplishment you’ll feel after reaching the viewpoint is unbeatable.

How Difficult Is the Rainbow Mountain Trek?

The difficulty of the Rainbow Mountain trek, or Vinicunca, depends on whether you choose a day trip or a multi-day trek as part of a larger Ausangate circuit. Here’s a breakdown:

Day trip from Cusco:

• Moderately difficult: This is a shorter option with a total hiking distance of about 10 kilometers (6 miles) there and back.
• Uphill and high altitude: The hike to the viewpoint above Vinicunca is around 3 kilometers (1.8 miles) each way, all uphill and at an elevation exceeding 13,000 feet (4,000 meters). This can be challenging for those not accustomed to high altitudes.
• Good physical condition and acclimatization recommended: While not overly technical, the hike requires good physical fitness and proper acclimatization to avoid altitude sickness.

Multi-day Ausangate trek:

• Strenuous: These treks are more physically demanding and require good endurance and surefootedness.
• Longer distances and higher altitudes: The 5-day Ausangate trek covers approximately 42 kilometers (26 miles), while the 7-day trek goes up to 62 kilometers (39 miles), with several passes exceeding 16,000 feet (5,000 meters).
• Challenging terrain: Expect steep climbs, rocky sections, and potentially slippery paths due to weather changes.

How to Get to Ausangate?

Reaching Ausangate, the majestic mountain in the Vilcanota Range, involves a few options depending on your budget and desired travel style:

Public Bus

• Most Budget-Friendly: From Cusco, hop on a public bus heading to Tinqui, the starting point for most Ausangate treks. The journey takes around 3 hours, with buses departing every 20 minutes from the Coliseo Cerrado Casa de la Juventud (closed-door coliseum of the Youth House).
• Local Experience: Immerse yourself in the local atmosphere and witness the scenery unfold as you journey through small towns and villages.
• Limited Comfort: Expect basic amenities and potentially crowded conditions.

Tour With Hello Peru Travel

• Hassle-Free: Book a tour package with transportation, accommodation, meals, and guide services included at Hello Peru Travel. This option takes care of logistics and offers expert guidance throughout the trek.
• Varied Options: Choose from different tour lengths, focuses (cultural, trekking, etc.), and comfort levels.

Private Car

• Flexibility: Enjoy the freedom to set your own pace and stop at any point along the journey.
• Comfortable: Hire a private car with a driver for a more luxurious and convenient experience, especially if traveling in a group.
• Most Expensive: This option comes at the highest cost but can be split among group members.

Additional Tips

• Book in advance: During peak season (June-August), secure your transportation and accommodation well before your trip.
• Consider acclimatization: Spend a few days in Cusco (11,300 ft) to adjust to the high altitude before heading to Ausangate (13,000 ft+).
• Pack appropriately: Bring layers for varying weather conditions, sturdy hiking boots, and essential gear for your trek.

No matter which option you choose, getting to Ausangate is an exciting part of the adventure. Embrace the journey, enjoy the scenery, and prepare for an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Peruvian Andes!

Should I Take a Tour or Go Solo?

Choosing between a tour and going solo for the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek depends on convenience, safety, flexibility, and cost.

Tours provide ease and less freedom but are more expensive, while solo trekking offers cost savings and independence but requires more experience and responsibility. Consider your budget, experience, and desire for solitude to make the best choice for you.

How We Rank the Ausante Trek?

We rank the Ausangate Trek as a moderately challenging trek with stunning scenery and plenty of opportunities for cultural immersion. It is a great option for hikers looking for a challenging but rewarding trek off the beaten path.

Physical Difficulty: Moderate to challenging.
The trek is 63 kilometers long with an elevation gain of over 5,000 meters. The trail is well-maintained but has some steep sections, and the altitude can be challenging.

Technical Difficulty: Easy to moderate.
Some sections have scrambling and loose rocks, but nothing too technical.

Altitude:
The maximum altitude reached on the trek is 5,200 meters. Altitude sickness is a common risk, so it is important to acclimatize properly before starting the trek.

Landscapes:
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most scenic treks in Peru. The trail winds through the Ausangate mountain range, home to snow-capped peaks, colorful rock formations, glacial lakes, and alpine meadows.

Flora and Fauna:
The trek is home to various plants and animals, including llamas, alpacas, vicuñas, and condors.

Cultural immersion:
The trek passes through several traditional Quechua villages, where you can learn about the local culture and way of life.

Accessibility:
The trek starts in the town of Checacucho, which is a 4-hour drive from Cusco.

Camping or Accommodation:
The trek can be done either as a camping or homestay trek. There are several campsites and homestays along the trail.

Should You Leave Your Luggage Behind the Trek?

Leaving your luggage behind during the Ausangate Trek isn’t generally recommended for safety and convenience.
Here’s why:
Security: While theft is not rampant, leaving your luggage unattended for days increases the risk of valuables being misplaced or tampered with.

Accessibility: Carrying only daypacks allows for easier movement and flexibility on the trail, especially on challenging sections. Less weight improves agility and reduces fatigue.

Weather: Mountain weather can be unpredictable, and sudden rain or snowfall could damage your unattended luggage. Carrying essentials keeps them readily accessible and protected.

Necessities: Imagine needing a change of clothes, medication, or a headlamp after reaching camp. Bringing a daypack ensures you have immediate access to essential items.

Accommodation: Homestays or campsites on the trek usually offer secure storage options for your main luggage. Utilizing these facilities provides peace of mind and keeps your belongings safe.

Or you can go for these alternatives:

Porters: Consider hiring porters to carry your main luggage, freeing you to focus on the trek and the stunning scenery.

Luggage storage: Some tour operators or accommodation providers offer luggage storage services in Checacucho, the starting point of the trek.

A successful trek prioritizes safety, comfort, and enjoying the experience. Bringing only essentials in a daypack ensures a smoother journey on the Ausangate Trek. Leaving luggage behind isn’t ideal; consider helpful alternatives for a wonderful and safe trek!

Things to Know Before You Start Trekking

Now that you have chosen your trek and planned your transportation, there are a few things you should know before starting your journey on the Ausangate Trek:

• Permits: A permit is required to enter the Ausangate area. This can be obtained through a tour company or in person at the Cusco Regional Government office.
• Recommended trekking season: The best time to trek the Ausangate is from April to November, with May to September being the peak season.
• Trail conditions: The trail is well-defined and maintained, but be prepared for steep ascents and descents, rocky terrain, and varying weather conditions.
• Altitude sickness: Acclimate properly before the trek to avoid altitude sickness. If symptoms do arise, descend immediately and seek medical attention.
• Communication: There is limited cell phone reception on the trail, so be sure to inform loved ones of your itinerary and check in with them when possible.
• Hydration and nutrition: Stay hydrated and well-fed throughout the trek to maintain energy levels and avoid altitude sickness.
• Responsible trekking: Respect the environment and local culture by leaving no trace, supporting sustainable practices, and being mindful of cultural norms.

By keeping these things in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable adventure on the Ausangate Trek. Now it’s time to lace up those hiking boots and hit the trail for an unforgettable experience. Or read on for even more tips and advice to make the most of your trek!

Ausante Rainbow Mountain Trek Campsites and Sleeping Arrangements

Choosing the right campsites is vital for a comfortable trek. Research reputable sites along the route, ensuring essential amenities and responsible tourism practices. Consider proximity to landmarks and overall experience.

Acclimatization

When doing the Ausangate trek, it’s important to slowly get used to the high altitude. Take rest days at higher elevations to let your body adjust. Drink plenty of water and pay attention to any signs of altitude sickness. Adjust your plans if necessary.

Dogs on the Trek

Dogs join trekkers on the Ausangate trail as friendly guides. Be respectful to the local community and wildlife. Don’t feed them to keep their natural behaviors and avoid dependency.

The Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain Map

Ausangate Climate & Weather?

The weather around Ausangate can change unexpectedly due to altitude and time of year. It can get freezing, especially at higher elevations. Bring layers of clothing to adapt to changing weather conditions and have waterproof gear to protect against rain.

Trekking Fees

Know the costs of trekking to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain. This includes fees for permits, entrance, and tours. Plan your budget accordingly and be mindful of any rules for a smooth and compliant journey.

Ausangate 4-Day Trek Ending in the Rainbow Entrance Free?

For a shorter adventure, you can do a 4-day Ausangate trek that ends at Rainbow Mountain. It’s a condensed but fulfilling experience. Check if your trek package includes the entrance fees to Rainbow Mountain, as this can vary among tour operators.

Ausangate 6-Day Trek Ending in the Rainbow Entrance Free?

Interested in a 6-day Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain? Make sure the tour package includes entrance fees. This longer journey lets you fully enjoy the stunning nature and rich culture.

Short Ausangate Trek (2-4 Days)

If you’re short on time, a 2-4 day Ausangate trek gives you a taste of the region’s beauty. Focus on the best parts, like stunning landscapes and cultural experiences, and maximize your limited time. Double-check the itinerary and what’s included with your tour operator.

Full Ausangate Trek (5-7 Days)

The 5-7-day Ausangate trek offers a complete exploration of the region for those with enough time. This longer journey allows for a stronger connection with the landscapes and communities. Confirm your itinerary details, including fees and entrance costs, for a well-prepared and enriching adventure. Renting Trekking and Camping Gear for Ausangate Trek in Cusco.

Cusco offers rental services for trekking and camping gear. Ensure you book in advance and thoroughly check the condition of the equipment.

What We Recommend Bringing?

You’ll need sturdy boots, layered clothes, a good backpack, water purification tools, and a camera for hiking. Contact us if you want to specifically ask for something.

Spiritual Significance of Ausangate

Ausangate is a special mountain for the local communities. It’s considered sacred and has a strong connection to Andean beliefs. It’s important to respect its cultural and spiritual significance.

Ausangate Trek Difficulty

The difficulty varies depending on the chosen route and the trek’s duration. Generally, it is considered challenging due to high altitudes and rugged terrains. Adequate physical preparation is advised.

Guided vs Independent Trekking

While experienced trekkers may choose independent journeys, a guided trek is recommended for most. Guides provide valuable insights, ensure safety, and enhance the overall experience.

Geography of The Ausangate Region

The Ausangate region boasts diverse landscapes, including high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and meandering valleys. Expect a stunning interplay of natural elements throughout your trek.

Machupicchu Extension

Extending your adventure with a Machu Picchu extension is possible. Plan accordingly, considering transportation logistics and additional permits required for Machu Picchu.

Altitude Sickness

Prioritize acclimatization, stay hydrated, and consider medications as preventive measures. Know the symptoms and seek medical attention if necessary.

Packing List for the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek

Essential items include clothing suitable for various climates, a sleeping bag, trekking poles, a first aid kit, and high SPF sunscreen. Refer to our detailed packing list for a comprehensive guide.

Tipping During the Trek

Tipping is appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for guides, cooks, and porters. Check with your tour operator for recommended tipping practices.

Daily Itinerary Breakdown

The daily itinerary breakdown will vary depending on the duration of your chosen trek. Stay tuned for a detailed breakdown of a sample itinerary in the next section.

Conclusion

The Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain offer adventurous hikers a unique and unforgettable experience. With proper preparation, respectful behavior, and a sense of adventure, this trek will surely leave you with lasting memories.
Remember to plan according to your abilities and preferences, and don’t forget to take in the breathtaking scenery along the way. Happy trekking