Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of the Peruvian Andes with our Ausangate Trek 3 Days, a journey designed for travelers seeking raw landscapes and authentic mountain experiences. This immersive 3 day Ausangate trek takes you beyond the typical routes, combining the stunning 7 Lakes circuit, high-altitude mountain passes and a scenic approach to the famous Rainbow Mountain. Along the way, you’ll hike beneath the sacred peaks of Ausangate, surrounded by glaciers, remote valleys and traditional communities. Unlike the standard Rainbow Mountain visit, this Ausangate Trek 3 Days offers a deeper connection with nature, culture and the dramatic beauty of the Andes in a truly all-inclusive trekking experience.
Tour itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Tinki – Pacchanta – 7 Ausangate Lakes – Upis
Your adventure begins early with hotel pickup in Cusco. We travel through scenic Andean landscapes to the village of Tinki and continue to the remote community of Pacchanta, where a nourishing Andean breakfast awaits.
From here, we begin our trek toward the spectacular 7 Lakes of Ausangate, walking approximately 8 km through dramatic highland scenery surrounded by glaciers.
At midday, enjoy a freshly prepared lunch by our Andean chef in the heart of the mountains.
In the afternoon, we continue hiking to Upis, a small pastoral settlement inhabited by local families and surrounded by breathtaking views of the Ausangate massif.
Overnight camp in Upis.
Day 2: Upis – Arapa Pass (4,800 m) – Ananta Pass (5,200 m) – Ananta Camp
After an early breakfast, we begin one of the most challenging and rewarding days of the trek.
We hike approximately 17 km, crossing two impressive high mountain passes:
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Arapa Pass – 4,800 m
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Ananta Pass – 5,200 m
These sections offer panoramic views of glaciers, valleys and untouched landscapes rarely seen by travelers.
After a full day of trekking, we arrive at Ananta Camp in the late afternoon (around 4–5 PM).
Overnight camp in Ananta.
Day 3: Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco
We depart early after breakfast for a 4-hour hike toward one of Peru’s most iconic natural wonders: the Rainbow Mountain viewpoint.
After time to explore, take photos and learn from your guide, we continue toward the surreal landscapes of the Red Valley.
Following this scenic descent, we reach our transport. Lunch is served along the return journey to Cusco, where we arrive around 4:00 PM.
Inclussions
Included on the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 3 Days
- Private transportation from your hotel to Upis.
- Private transportation back to hotel from Qesuyunoc (Rainbow Mountain) the end of our trek.
- PRO4 season tent in SHERPA DOME (04 people tent for 02 people)
- Other camping equipment, a dining tent with table and chairs, and a kitchen tent, manned by a professional cooking staff.
- PRO Air sleeping pads (Therma-Rest brand).
- Entrance tickets to the park and camping site fees.
- Professional Trek Leader.
- Meals: Breakfast (2), lunch (3), dinner (2), with option for vegetarians, gluten free, lactose free.
- A professional chef.
- Horses, and muleteers; horses carry your 5-kg / 11-pound personal items.
- Peru AITA PERU ADVENTURES Duffel bags where to put the personal items.
- Emergency Horse to escort us during the trek, feel free to ride or upload your personal day pack.
- Oxygen tank and first aid-kits.
Not Included on the Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 3 Days
- Sleeping bags (available for renting).
- Hiking poles (available for renting).
- Extra expenditure during the trek, such as soda, alcoholic drinks, extra snacks, etc.
- Tipping for the trek leader, porters or muleteers, and other staff (expected but not compulsory your own appreciation).
- Travel insurance.
What to Pack
What to Pack for the Ausangate Trek 3 Days
Trekking around the high-altitude landscapes of Ausangate requires proper preparation. Weather conditions can vary from strong sun to freezing temperatures within hours.
We recommend bringing the following:
Essential Clothing
Dress in layers to adapt to changing mountain weather.
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Thermal base layers (top & bottom)
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Fleece or insulated jacket
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Waterproof jacket
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Hiking pants
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Warm hat (beanie)
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Sun hat or cap
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Gloves
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Comfortable trekking socks
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Lightweight camp clothing
Footwear
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Waterproof trekking boots (well broken-in)
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Sandals or camp shoes
Daypack Essentials
You will carry a personal daypack during the trek.
Include:
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Reusable water bottle or hydration system
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Sunscreen (SPF 50 recommended)
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Lip balm with SPF
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Sunglasses (UV protection)
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Personal snacks
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Camera or phone
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Power bank
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Personal medications
Cold Weather Protection
Nights can be very cold at altitude.
Bring:
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Down jacket
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Thermal sleepwear
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Extra socks
Personal Items
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Passport (copy recommended)
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Small towel
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Wet wipes
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Hand sanitizer
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Toilet paper
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Basic toiletries
Trekking Equipment (Recommended)
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Trekking poles
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Headlamp with extra batteries
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Rain cover for backpack
Optional but Useful
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Coca leaves or altitude support products
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Energy bars
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Small first aid kit
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Travel pillow
Proper preparation ensures you fully enjoy the journey toward breathtaking landscapes like Rainbow Mountain and the remote Andean wilderness.
FAQs
1. How difficult is the Ausangate Trek 3 Days?
The Ausangate Trek is considered moderate to challenging.
The difficulty comes mainly from:
- High altitude
- Long hiking distances
- Mountain passes reaching up to 5,200 meters
No technical climbing experience is required, but good physical condition is recommended.
2. Do I need previous trekking experience?
Previous trekking experience is not mandatory, but it is helpful.
If you are comfortable hiking 6–8 hours per day and have spent time acclimatizing in Cusco, you can successfully complete this trek.
3. What is the highest altitude reached during the trek?
The highest point is Ananta Pass, located at approximately 5,200 meters (17,060 ft) above sea level.
4. Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes. The trek takes place at very high elevations near the Ausangate mountain range.
We strongly recommend:
- Spending 2–3 days in Cusco before the trek
- Staying hydrated
- Walking at a steady pace
Your guide will monitor symptoms throughout the journey.
5. Is Rainbow Mountain included in this trek?
Yes. This trek includes a visit to the viewpoint of Rainbow Mountain on the third day, followed by a scenic hike through the Red Valley.
6. What makes this trek different from the classic Rainbow Mountain tour?
Unlike the standard day tour, this route allows you to:
- Approach Rainbow Mountain through remote landscapes
- Visit the 7 Ausangate Lakes
- Cross high mountain passes
- Experience traditional Andean communities
This makes the journey far more immersive and less crowded.
7. Are meals included?
Yes. All meals during the trek are included and prepared by a professional Andean mountain chef.
Fresh, nutritious food is served throughout the journey.
8. Do I need to carry my own equipment?
No. Pack horses accompany the group and transport:
- Camping equipment
- Food supplies
- Shared gear
You only need to carry a personal daypack.
9. What is the best time of year to do the trek?
The best season is the dry season:
April to October
During these months, weather conditions are more stable and mountain views are clearer.
10. Where does the trek start?
The adventure begins with pickup in Cusco and continues by road to the highland communities near Pacchanta, where the hike begins.
11. Is this trek suitable for beginners?
It can be suitable for motivated beginners who:
- Are in good physical condition
- Have properly acclimatized
However, this is not a leisure hike — preparation is important.
12. What happens in case of bad weather?
Weather in the Andes can change quickly.
Our guides are trained to adapt routes or schedules when necessary to ensure safety while still delivering the best possible experience.
