Ausangate Trek Rainbow Mountain

Itinerary

Short Itinerary

• Day 1: Cusco → Tinqui (3 800m)
• Day 2: Tinqui → Upis (4 400 m, hot springs)
• Day 3: Upis → Lake Jatun Puqa Q’ocha (4 700 m)
• Day 4: Jatun Puqa Q’ocha → Pampacancha (5 200 m pass)
• Day 5: Pampacancha → Q’omer Q’ocha (5 000 m pass)
• Day 6: Q’omer Q’ocha → Pacchanta (hot springs)
• Day 7: Pacchanta → Tinqui → return to Cusco

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui (3,800m)

We leave Cusco at 08:00 am. approximately. It is a 4-hour bus trip to the small village of Tinqui, the starting point of the trek. On the way we pass through beautiful scenery and several traditional villages along the route. These include Urcos, Cattca and Ocongate, where we stop for a while to take some beautiful photos.

Overnight near the village of Tinqui.

Day 2: Tinqui – Upis (4,400m)

After packing the equipment and enjoying our breakfast, we start our trek around 8:00 a.m. The first 3 hours before lunch are a great introduction to the magnificent scenery of the Vilcanota mountain range, with the great view of the snow-capped mountain of Ausangate.

After lunch, we walk for two more hours until we arrive to the hot springs of Upis, where we set up our camp for the night. This campsite is almost directly in front of Ausangate mountain. Later in the afternoon, you can enjoy the natural thermal springs.

Day 3: Upis – Lake Jatun Puqa Q’ocha

We start at 7:00 a.m. and after three hours walking we reach the Arapa pass (4,850m). From this pass we continue 4 more hours down the valley until we reach the beautiful green lake of Puqaqocha (Red Lake). Finally, we arrive to our next campsite Jatun Puqa Q’ocha (beautiful turquoise lake).

From the campsite you can climb the small ridge north of the camp to see Lake Vino Q’ocha (named by the locals because it is sometimes the color of red wine due to glacial sediment coming down from nearby red mountains). Camping beside this beautiful lake might keep you awake at night because of the dramatic sound of ice falling into the lake, but don’t worry, it’s safe.

Day 4: Lake Jatun Puqa Q’ocha – Pampacancha

After breakfast, we begin our ascent to the second mountain pass, Apuchata (4,900 m / 16,076 ft). From here, we descend with breathtaking views of the turquoise Ausangate Lake below, fed by the melting glaciers of Ausangate Mountain. We then start another gradual climb toward Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the trek. From the pass, we follow the trail down into the next valley for about an hour until we reach our campsite at Pampacancha.

Day 5: Pampacancha – Q’omer Q’ocha

This day is relatively easy and highly scenic. Along the trail, we enjoy impressive views of the snow-capped peaks of Tres Picos and Puca Punta. This area is an excellent place to spot Andean rabbits—small, charming rodents that resemble a mix between a rabbit and a squirrel, often seen living in groups among the rocks. With a bit of luck, you may also encounter herds of vicunas, considered the most elegant member of the South American camelid family, renowned for their fine golden wool.

After passing through the community of Q’ampa, the trail continues northwest toward Q’ampa Pass (5,000 m / 16,404 ft), the final pass of the trek. From here, we descend while enjoying spectacular views of multi-colored lakes. We camp beside the stunning greenish-turquoise waters of Q’omer Q’ocha Lake.

Day 6: Q’omer Q’ocha – Pacchanta

This is another easy and relaxing day. We hike for approximately 3 hours to the small Andean community of Pacchanta. Upon arrival, you’ll have time to unwind in the natural hot springs for a couple of hours, soaking in the warm waters while enjoying spectacular mountain views. You may also enjoy a cold beer or a soft drink as you take in the atmosphere of this traditional Andean village.

We set up our campsite near the hot springs and the rest of the afternoon will be free for you to relax or explore the surrounding area at your own pace.

Day 7: Pacchanta / Tinqui – Cusco

On the final day, we hike for approximately one hour to reach the point where our bus will be waiting. Here, we say farewell to our arrieros (horsemen) before boarding the bus for our return journey to Cusco, arriving at around 5:00 p.m.

Tour Package Details

Inclusions:

• Private Transportation: Our vans are brand new, fully authorized for tourist use, and equipped with essential safety features, including a first aid kit and an oxygen tank.
• Professional Tour Guide: Our tour guides bring over fifteen years of experience, specializing in this Ausangate Mountain range where Rainbow Mountain is located. Their extensive knowledge ensures that every aspect of the journey is carefully planned, providing travelers with a deeply enriching experience. Driven by their passion for the region, they are dedicated to sharing the beauty and history of this breathtaking destination.
• First Aid Kit: Our tour guides are always equipped with a comprehensive first aid kit to address any potential emergencies that may arise during the trip. This includes treatments for altitude sickness, diarrhea, cuts, and other minor ailments, ensuring prompt and appropriate care for all participants.
• Oxygen Tank: Given that this trek to Rainbow Mountain reaches an altitude of approximately 5,200m /17065ft, where the air is thinner and breathing may become difficult, our guides carry a metal oxygen tank at all times. This precaution ensures the safety and comfort of our visitors, providing immediate assistance if needed.
• Hotel Pickup and Drop-off: We pick you up from your hotel reception and at the end of the tour we drop you off at the hotel.
• Briefing: One day prior to your trip, the guide will meet you at the hotel to give you detailed information and answer any questions you may have.
• Customer Service: We offer you an emergency phone number available 24 hours a day to facilitate seamless communication with the Inka Expeditions team.
• Great Cook
• Camping gear: 2-people tents, mattresses, dining & kitchen tents.
• All meals (6 B, 6 L, 6 D; vegetarian options) Boiled & hot water, hot drinks.
• Muleteers
• Horses & muleteers for equipment
• Private transportation to Cusco

Exclusions

• Sleeping bag: You can rent it in our office for $25 for the entire trip.
• Saddle horse: You can rent it on the way.
• Inflatable mattress: You can rent it in our office.
• Walking sticks
• Personal Snacks: We recommend bringing extra snacks, such as energy bar
• Entrance tickets: US$ 10
• Tips (optional)
• Travel insurance
• Personal expenses

What to bring:

• Hiking boots: This is recommended, as the trail is dusty, grassy and slippery sections.
• Backpack to carry personal items like snacks and water bottle.
• Waterproof Pants (Optional): Useful during the rainy season (November to March).
• Warm Jacket: Temperature at the summit is cold, so a warm clothes is advisable.
• 4-season sleeping bag: You can rent in our office for $25 for the whole trip.
• Rain Jacket and Rain poncho: Recommended all year around because the weather is very unpredictable.
• Wool Hat
• Sun hat
• Sunscreen
• Sunglasses
• Extra Money: Bring cash and small coins for purchasing snacks or drinks from local vendors along the way and to pay the entrance ticket to the Rainbow Mountain.
• Gloves: Help keep your hands warm during windy or cold days, especially when handling trekking poles.
• Basic Medications: Under prescription of your doctor (for headaches and altitude sickness).
• Portable Charger
• Flashlight with extra batteries
• Camera with extra batteries

Price

Private Service:

This is a private tour organized exclusively for you and your family. It includes private transportation and a professional tour guide to provide you with the best experience and a personal touch.

Price 2026 US$:

Booking Information

Choose in the Calendar the date of when you would like to start this Tour -select the month, year and the day, (Starting Date). Fill in your details as requested, and details of the people traveling with you, once you have finished and sent us your reservation, you are registered to pay a booking deposit of US$ 300 + 6% through paypal. Once we receive your payment, we will confirm the tour in your email and send you teh rest of the details.

Booking deposite required – Online payments.

You must pay a booking deposit of US$ 300+6% per person through Paypal.

FINAL PAYMENT: The remaining balance of the tour must be paid in cash upon arrival in Cusco.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

1. You must inform us in advance of any medical conditions, physical limitations, or allergies. Participants must be in good physical health. If you have any health concerns, we strongly recommend consulting a doctor prior to booking.
For travelers aged 70 or older, a current medical certificate is required, as the Ausangate Trail reaches elevations of up to 5,200 meters above sea level. We highly recommend arriving in Cusco at least 2–3 days in advance to properly acclimatize to the altitude.

2. If you wish to leave the group or campsite for independent walks, you must inform your tour guide beforehand. Should you experience any issues with the service during the trek, please notify your guide immediately so the matter can be addressed as soon as possible.

3. Each passenger is entitled to 10 kg of personal luggage to be carried by horses. We will provide a duffle bag for your sleeping bag, mattress, and personal clothing. Any excess weight must be carried by the participant.

4. If you become ill or injured and are unable to continue the trek, a porter and mule will be arranged to escort you to the nearest location with emergency assistance. Any medical treatment, evacuation, or helicopter rescue will be at the passenger’s own expense.
No refunds will be issued for incomplete tours due to illness or injury; however, we will provide a medical incident certificate to support any travel insurance claims.

5. Our company will take all reasonable measures to ensure the safety and well-being of our clients and will employ only qualified and experienced staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our employees; however, we cannot be held liable for unavoidable events, acts of third parties, or improper conduct by clients.
Participants are fully responsible for their personal belongings and any rented equipment at all times.

6. Our travel agency is not responsible for additional costs arising from weather conditions, natural disasters, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, or loss of personal items. All clients are required to have adequate travel insurance covering these situations.
We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.

Cancellation Penalties

• A.- Cancellation of the tour once you have paid a deposit and received a confirmation incurs in the loss of the booking deposit. (US$ 300.00) per person. Non-refundable booking deposit.
• B.- Cancellation of tour within 45 days to 31 days before departure incurs a loss of 70% of total tour cost…
• C.- Cancellation of tour within 30 days to 8 days before departure incurs a loss of 80% of total tour cost…
• D.- Cancellation of tour within 7 days – 48 hours of departure incurs a loss of 90% of total tour cost…
• E.- Cancellation of tour within 48 hours of departure incurs a loss of total tour cost…

Why choose this trekking with Inka Expeditions?

With Inka Expeditions, your hiking to Ausangate will be an unforgettable experience led by an expert local tour guide who will share all his knowledge of this Inca sites and also about the flora and fauna of this region. Our groups are limited to a maximum of 10 participants to ensure a personalized experience, led by professional tour guides fully trained in first aid.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Ausangate Mountain trek:

1.-How do I prepare for the altitude sickness on this trekking?

The trekking to Ausangate and reaches 5200m (17056ft), so it is recommended to acclimatize for 2 or 3 days in Cusco before this tour. Drink plenty of water and avoid alcohol.

2.-How difficult is this trekking?

This trekking is considered moderately difficult, so we recommend to bring hiking boots.

3.-Is it safe to travel to Ausangate Mountain during the wet season?

Yes, it is safe but during the wet season (November to March) the trail can be slippery, so it is recommended to bring waterproof hiking boots and rain poncho. The dry season (April to october) is ideal for this trek because we have clear views but the weather is always unpredictable in the Andes.