Classic Ausangate Trek offers stunning high-altitude Andean landscapes in Peru.
The Classic Ausangate Trek 5 Days in Peru is a 55 km / 34 mile trek in one of Peru’s most impressive high-altitude routes, offering remote wilderness, serene turquoise lakes, and panoramic views of the towering Ausangate Glacier. This trail circles the sacred Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m), an important spiritual symbol for Andean communities.
The Ausangate Mountain has created impressive valleys and picturesque villages. The Andean people tamed the cold wind and the shortage of air above 4,000 meters, which challenges any visitor.
- Overview
- Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Recommendations
- Faqs
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Along the Ausangate Trek 5 Days journey, you’ll encounter alpaca herds, traditional Quechua settlements, dramatic mountain passes, and peaceful campsites surrounded by rugged peaks. Far from the crowds, this trek provides a deep connection to nature and Andean culture. It is an excellent choice for experienced hikers seeking a challenging and authentic adventure in the heart of the Vilcanota mountain range.
Ausangate Trek Highlights
- Stunning High‑Altitude Landscapes: The Ausangate Trek takes you through the Andes mountains, snowy peaks, turquoise lakes, and Andean landscapes.
- Palomani Pass: The trek reaches 5,200 m (17,060 ft) at Palomani Pass on the third day. This is the highest point in the entire circuit.
- Glacial Lakes: Along the route you will pass different crystal-clear lakes reflecting the mountains, some of them turquoise-colored.
- Diverse Wildlife: Hike through herds of alpacas, llamas, and other wildlife native to high altitudes. As well as Andean Quechua communities living in traditional stone houses.
- Quiet, Off-the-Beaten-Path Trek: Unlike the Inca Trail, with fewer tourists, you get a sense of isolation and wilderness. Making it ideal for travelers seeking solitude, nature, and authentic adventure in the Peruvian Andes.
Itinerary at a Glance
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Day01
Cusco - Tinki - Upis village
Explore the incredible landscapes in the Andes Mountains by hiking the in front of the highest peak in Cusco
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Day02
Upis Village - Arapa Pass - Ausangate Pass - Ausangate Qocha
Breathtaking views of crystal lakes, snowy peaks and walk through herds of alpacas
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Day03
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani Pass - Qampa Pampa
Feel the energy of Apu Ausangate, the most holy mountain in Cusco
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Day04
Qampa Pampa - Pachispata - Pacchanta
Discover the flora and fauna in the high-altitude, stunning views of picturesque Andean communities.
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Day05
Pacchanta - Pacchanta School - Cusco
Walk through the Seven Lakes of Ausangate, a beautiful spot to capture the best photos.
Cusco - Tinqui - Upis
Hiking Distance: 8 km / 4.9 miles
Starting Elevation: 3,900 meters / 12,795 feet
Highest Elevation: 4,4OO meters / 14,436 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,400 meters / 14,436 feet
Difficulty: Moderate
Meals: Lunch, Dinner (Snack and afternoon tea)
Accommodation: Camping (tent)
For the Ausangate Trek 5 Days, we depart Cusco early in the morning (5:30am) for a long three-hour ride in a private van to the small village of Tinke (3,800 masl./12,464 feet). We pass through beautiful countryside and several traditional villages, including Urcos, Cattca, and Ocangate. After a short rest in Tinqui, we will continue driving to Rodeana (3,900 m/12,795 ft).
There is the beginning of our hike; the first three hours on the trail are a wonderful prelude to the magnificent scenery of the Cordillera Vilcanota, where we get to the lunch spot at Upis (4,400 m/14,436 ft) with great views of Ausangate. Here you will have the option to enjoy the hot springs, which offer fantastic views of Ausangate at the end of the valley. We will camp here for the night.
Upis -Arapa Pass - Ausangate Pass - Ausangate Qocha
Walking Distance: 12 km / 9.2 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,400 meters / 14,436 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,650meters / 15,255 feet
Maximum Altitude: 5020 meters / 16,469 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
After the delicious breakfast, we will be heading to the first pass of our expedition. During a few hours of trekking, we will cross the Arapa pass (4,850 meters /15,908 feet). It offers a great view of the mountain range and the west face of Ausangate Mountain. From here, we continue down the valley, passing the green lake of Puqa Q’ocha, until we reach the turquoise lake Jatun Puqa Q’ocha, where we will take our lunch with an incredible view of the mountain.
We then ascend the second pass of Ausangate (5,020 meters / 16,469 feet) with stunning views of the Apu Ausangate. Here you can feel the energy of this Andean deity and understand why it is very important for the communities of this area, and you also will appreciate the lakes located at the bottom of the Apu. These lakes are fed by the melting snow of Ausangate. Afterwards, we continue hiking down to Ausangate Qocha (4,570 m/14,993 ft). We will camp here for the second night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Snack and afternoon tea)
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
Ausangate Qocha - Palomani pass - Sorapata
Walking Distance: 13 km / 8.1 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,650 meters / 15,255 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,700 meters / 15,419 feet
Maximum Altitude: 5,200 meters / 17,060 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
After our breakfast, we begin hiking up to the highest pass in this Ausangate trek. It will take a couple hours to reach the highest point in the trek, the Palomani (5,200 m/16,060 ft). This is the pass where you’ll be as close as possible to the Ausangate Mountain, and here your tour guide will do some ceremony to say thanks to Mother Earth (Pachamama) for these extraordinary adventures. From the pass, we follow the trail into the valley. While you are descending, you can appreciate a nice lagoon and the glacier on your left.
Then we’re going to hike towards our lunch spot and camp for the next night. The trail goes up and down around different lakes and herds of alpacas; you can get nice photos around.
We spend the next night in Sorapata camp at 4,700 meters above sea level.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
Sorapata - Qampa Pass - Pachispata - Pachanta
Walking Distance: 16 km / 9,8 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,700 meters / 15,419 feet
Campsite Elevation: 4,200 meters / 13,779 feet
Maximum Altitude: 5,030 meters / 16,502 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Today our team will wake us up with tea, and once you open your tent, you will see the most fascinating view of some snow peaking in front of us. After an Andean breakfast, we begin the hike ascending to the last pass of this tour. The hike will take about 2 hours to reach Qampa Pass over 5,030 meters (16,502 ft), then the path is easier just going down until the lunch spot.
From here, we will explore the famous Seven Lakes Tour, where we will visit different lakes, and your tour guide will explain how important each of them is for the local people. The last section of the tour will take about 3 hours to reach Pacchanta Village, a picturesque village where you can interact with some locals and children. You will also have the option to join the thermal baths with a spectacular view and relax your muscles.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping
Adventure: Absolutely
Pacchanta - Cusco
Walking Distance: 3 km/ 1.8 miles
Starting Elevation: 4,200 meters / 13,779 feet
Difficulty: Easy
Meals: Breakfast
Adventure: Absolutely
On the last day of this trip, we wake up at about 7 a.m. and enjoy breakfast. Then, we will have a local tradition to say goodbye to our team. Their family will show us how they weave the alpaca wool and make some Andean clothes with their own hands.
Then, we will try a typical local food and begin our hike for an hour. After we are done with it, we will board our bus and go back to Cusco. We will arrive about 3 or 4 p.m. Our Ausangate Trek 5 Days ends with the drop-off at the same place that we picked you up the first day.
Itinerary notes: Ausangate Trek 5 days (Ausangate Circuit) –
The times cited in this itinerary are approximate. Walking times depend on the group, and the guide can change lunch spots and campsites depending on the progress of the group. Each guide has their own preferred route, which might not correspond exactly to the route described here.
The Ausangate region is very high, plus you are close to a snow-covered massif. Temperatures are cold and can fall well below freezing in the nights. You should travel well prepared for cold temperatures. Hire or carry sleeping bags for temperatures less than freezing (minus 15 degrees Celsius or lower).
5-DAY CLASSIC AUSANGATE TREK INCLUSION
At Machu Picchu by Locals we are transparent and provide the specific details of what is included and excluded in the 5-Day Ausangate Trek. We know this is very important so that you know exactly what to bring and you don’t miss anything. We provide this information to ensure that you have an incredible experience during your Classic Ausangate 5-day trek.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
Machu Picchu by Locals Team Provide
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Pre-departure briefing
Once you book the tour with us, you will get a notification about the pre-departure briefing, where you will meet with your trekking guide and the tour group in our office the night before your Ausangate trek departure. During this briefing, you will receive important details of the trek. After this time, you will receive your duffle bag for your extra luggage, which will be carried by the horses while you are hiking
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Professional Adventure Guide
All our tour guides have a great reputation in customer service; our tour guides have graduated with tourism careers from National University San Antonio Abad of Cusco, and they have also studied English in a private language institute. Through their patience, responsibility, knowledge, passion for trekking, and pride in having been born in the land of the Incas, we ensure our guides provide an excellent experience for you when you explore the Andes.
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Accommodations
At Machu Picchu by Locals, we include accommodations for 4 nights along the Ausangate trek, with suitable camping equipment to make sure your trek is an experience of a lifetime. Our tents are Mountain Gear or Doite Pro Aconcagua for 4 people, which will be shared only by 2 people to ensure your comfort and enough place for your luggage. The same way we include an inflatable mattress for your comfort. There will also be a spacious dining tent for you to enjoy each meal along this tour.
Transportation
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Private Transport
We included all the transportation during your tour. We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and take you to the beginning of the Ausangate Trek. The bus returning from Ausangate to Cusco will drop you off at your hotel.
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Horses
We include horses to transport all the duffle bags and equipment during this tour; also, there will be a horseman. At Machu Picchu by Locals, we know safety is first; for that, we include an emergency horse in case someone feels tired or gets altitude sickness.
Equipment
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Personal Duffle bag
We included a personal duffle bag for your 5-day Ausangate trek. You will get this duffle bag at the Machu Picchu by Locals office during your pre-departure briefing the night before your trek. This bag will be carried by horses during the trek. You will find it in your tent every afternoon you arrive at the campsite. It can be filled with your personal items, sleeping bag, and mattress, but the maximum allowable weight is 7 kg/17 lb. The duffle bag must be returned to our office no later than one day after your trek.
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Medical First Aid Kit
All tour guides of Machu Picchu by locals are very well trained in first aid. They received training courses every 6 months on how to assist someone who is in an emergency situation. Also, they are trained how to supply a balloon of oxygen in the case that someone requires it.
Meals
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Meals
At Machu Picchu by Locals, we know food is such an important part of any vacation and getting the right fuel on an active holiday is crucial… We include 4 breakfasts, 5 lunches, and 4 dinners. And of course, we cater to all dietary restrictions: vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and others. Just let us know. Our chefs are well-trained to prepare the best food you’ve ever had with local and organic ingredients.
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Water
Machu Picchu by Locals will provide you water from the first lunch to the last breakfast. This water will be filtered, boiled, and cooled by our chef. You must bring your own water container, bottle, or CamelBak that can hold water for hiking for a few hours. We recommend a capacity of 2 liters.
WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?
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Sleeping bag
Every trekker along the Ausangate trek needs a proper sleeping bag, which has to be for -10°C / 14° F. We recommend you bring your own, but if you don’t want to bring your own or you don’t have one, you can rent a sleeping bag from us.
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Walking Sticks
Hiking with trekking poles has its benefits: they protect your knees while you are hiking downhill, especially in remote areas, which are many up and downhill. Trekking poles help you during the ascent and increase stability. If you don’t have a pair of trekking poles, you can rent them from our office.
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First Breakfast
We do not provide breakfast on the day of your departure. However, most hotel offers breakfast during your stay there. In case your hotel does not provide breakfast, we will stop at a restaurant near to Ocongate where you will be available to purchase a breakfast.
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Entrance fee to Ausangate Park
The entrance fee to Ausangate Park is not included in our trek; you should pay it at the beginning of the trek S/20 soles per person)
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Hot Springs Tickets
If you decide to join the hot springs, the tickets is S/ 5.00 soles
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Tips for our team
Tips are not included. Tipping the team is usual on any excursion to Ausangate. Although we pay good salaries to our entire team, tips are welcome as a token of your appreciation for the team’s hard work.
AUSANGATE TREK 5-DAY PACKING LIST
At Machu Picchu by Locals, we focus on making your trip an unforgettable experience, and we want to provide all the details that you need to know before you leave your country and start your life experience in Peru.
What do you need to pack?
Essential Items
- Passport
- Valid, STUDENT CARD (if you booked as a student)
- Immigration Card (given on the plane as you enter Peru)
- Good daypack (the smaller, the better)
- Water storage: A Water reservoir like Camelback is encouraged – but enough for at least 2-3 liters.
- Comfortable hiking boots (lightweight with good soles)
- Trekking poles
FOR YOUR DUFFEL:
Horses will carry up to 7 kg of your personal items. This must include your sleeping bag and air matt (if you bring/rent one). From us, these two items weigh 3 kg.
- 3-4 wicking t-shirts
- 3-4 hiking pants
- 3-4 sets of undergarments.
- 1 Fleece
- 1 warm down jacket: gets very cold at night
- 1 Rain jacket and pants
- 1 sun hat
- 1 wool hat
- Bathers/swimsuits for the hot spring
- Small towel
- Headlamp: essential
- Waterproof gloves
- Comfortable shoes for camp or flip-flops
- Walking boots
- Waterproof jacket/rain poncho
Battery Charger:
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- There is no place to plug in while trekking!
Large plastic bags:
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- To help organize and keep clean from dirt.
Sleeping bag:
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- Recommend down bags for -10°C at least
INSIDE YOUR DAYPACKS:
Daypacks can be any size for hiking, but we always say the smaller, the better. If it is larger, try to bring it as light as possible. Water: We supply clean water at each meal. You are responsible for your first morning of water only, as we won’t have time to filter water until your first lunch.
- Sun hat
- Rain gear
- Fleece
- Camera
- Music (iPhone)
- Hand sanitizer
- Toilet paper and small plastic bag for waste
- Extra Money for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips
- Earplugs
- Some snacks (Chocolate, fruits, energy bars, etc.)
TOILETRIES:
- Sunscreen
- Face moisturizer
- Bug spray
- Hand sanitizer
- Wet wipes
- Small towel
- Toothbrush and paste
- Toilet paper
- Personal medication
- First aid kit: band-aids, moleskin, etc.
Classic Ausangate Trek 5 Days FAQs
Get crucial details on Ausangate’s extreme altitude, remote logistics, best season, and difficulty to plan your trek.”
How difficult is the Ausangate Trek 5 Days?
The Ausangate Trek 5 Days in Peru is considered a moderately challenging to difficult high-altitude trek. Most of the route is above 4,000 meters (13,123 ft), with passes reaching over 5,000 meters (16,400–17,000 ft). Trekkers should expect 6–7 hours of hiking per day on uneven mountain terrain with steep ascents and descents.
How should I acclimatize before the 5-Day Ausangate trek?
Proper acclimatization is essential before starting the Ausangate Trek 5 Days. It is recommended to spend at least 2–3 days in Cusco (3,400m / 11,155 ft) or the Sacred Valley. During this time, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol, and take light walks to help your body adjust to the altitude.
When is the best time of year to go?
- The dry season is the best time: May to September.
- This period offers the most stable weather, with sunny days and clear skies.
- Nights are very cold, often dropping below freezing
The shoulder months of April and October have mixed weather (some rain/snow) but fewer crowds. The rainy season (November to March) is generally avoided due to very muddy trails and snow.
What is the highest point on the Ausangate 5 Day trek?
The highest point on the classic circuit is typically the Palomani Pass, which reaches approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 feet). This is one of the most physically demanding sections.
Will I need to carry all my gear?
No. If you book with a tour operator, your main luggage will be carried by pack animals (horses or llamas). You will only need to carry a small day pack with essentials like water, snacks, extra layers, sun protection, and a camera.
Is it possible to rent a horse for riding?
Yes, in most areas, you can arrange to rent a riding horse from the local communities for certain sections of the trail, either through your agency or directly from the local horsemen. This can be helpful if you are struggling with altitude or fatigue.
What are the typical weather conditions?
- Daytime: Can be sunny and pleasantly warm for trekking, but the sun is intense due to the high altitude.
- Nighttime: Temperatures drop dramatically, often falling well below freezing (down to or colder in the dry season). Layered, warm clothing and a quality sleeping bag are essential.
Is water provided and safe to drink?
Yes, if trekking with a reputable agency. They provide boiled, filtered water for you to refill your reusable bottle or hydration bladder at meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). You should carry enough water to last you between these stops.
Do I need a permit for the Classic Ausangate Trek?
No, unlike the Inca Trail, there are no official permits needed to hike the Ausangate Trail. However, local communities along the route will charge a small entrance or access fee, which is typically covered in your tour package price.
How remote is the trail, and is there Wi-Fi or phone service?
The Ausangate Trek is significantly more remote and less crowded than the Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek. There is no phone reception or Wi-Fi access along the route. You should inform family and friends of your itinerary before starting, and most tour groups carry a satellite phone or radio for guide-to-base communication in case of emergency.
5-DAY AUSANGATE TREK PRICE
From: USD 480.00 per person
- Additional single tent: $30 USD
- Sleeping bag -15°C / 5°F for the entire trip: $25 USD
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Prolongacion Av. Grau L-8, Santiago - Cusco
5 Days / 4 Nights
Classic Ausangate Trek 5 Days
What's it like!!
Map of Classic Ausangate Trek 5 Days
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT?
At Machu Picchu by Locals we offer the best service for all our customers and here is what makes us different than others.
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Small groups: Along our excursion group size is a capped at 8 people. This guarantees that you will enjoy every step of our excursion
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Hotel: During our excursion to Machu Picchu, we offer a private hostel stay for the last night. This ensures you are well rested and ready to explore Machu Picchu.
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Local Tour guides: Our team consists of 100% local tour guides, who have expert knowledge in our ancient culture.
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Best Camping Equipment: We have the state-of-the-art camping equipment for our excursion. The equipment is thoroughly cleaned and sanitized before and after every excursion.
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Best Trekking team: At Machu Picchu by Locals we focus to create the best experience during our excursions. Our team that consists of tour guides, cooks, porters, horse drivers are handpicked. We train our team to offer you the best service. We take care of our team by providing them with good equipment and paying them fairly.
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