Ausangate Classic Trek - 5 Days / 4 Nights

Region: Cusco, Peru
Difficulty: Moderate → Challenging
Best Season: April – October

The classic Ausangate Trek takes you around the sacred peak of Ausangate (≈ 6,300 m) — one of Peru’s most remote and majestic high-Andean circuits. Over five days you journey through wild glacial valleys, high passes, sparkling turquoise lakes and pastoral Quechua communities, deeply immersed in tradition and nature.

This route is perfect for experienced trekkers who want to explore off-the-beaten-path Andes, and for those seeking a high altitude challenge with serene campsites, dramatic landscapes and a strong sense of wilderness. Inkaland Treks provides premium logistics, expert guides and small-group service to ensure your trek is safe, inspiring and unforgettable.

Quick Facts Ausangate Classic Trek

Location: Ausangate Range, Cusco Region, Peru
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Max Altitude: Approx. 5,200 – 5,300 m (or higher depending on pass option)
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (high altitude, remote terrain)
Best Season: April – October (dry season)
Start / End: Cusco ↔ Tinki (or alternate trailhead)
Group Size: Small groups or private departures
Highlights: Glacier views, high Andean lakes, pastoral villages, fewer crowds

📩 Ready for the Ausangate Adventure?

Trek around the sacred peaks of the Andes with Inkaland Treks — immerse yourself in wild landscapes, Andean culture, and high-altitude adventure. We’ll guide you with confidence, comfort and professional service.

🌄 Book your 2026 departure now and step into one of Peru’s most iconic mountain circuits.

Highlights Ausangate Classic Trek

Trek around the majestic Ausangate massif with views of snow-caps, glaciers and wild alpine lakes.
Cross high Andean passes, encounter vicuñas and llamas and sleep under the stars in remote camps.
Visit Quechua-speaking communities, learn about pastoral lifestyles, and experience real Andean culture.
Optional add-on: Visit the famed Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) or Red Valley (extra day).
Guided by certified and local Inkaland Treks mountain professionals, with full expedition support.

Join Group 2026

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Route	Max Altitude	Trek Time	Highlights
1	Cusco → Tinki / Trailhead → Camp 1	~4,300 m	3-4h drive + ~2-3h hike	Arrival, warm-up trek, camp in Andean valley
2	Camp 1 → High Pass → Camp 2	~4,900 – 5,200 m	~5-6h	High pass crossing, alpine lakes
3	Camp 2 → Glacier lake valley → Camp 3	~4,500 m	~6-7h	Wild landscapes, otter mountains, vicuñas
4	Camp 3 → Ausangate base / lake hike → Camp 4	~4,600 m	~4-5h	Leisure day or short hike to iconic lakes
5	Camp 4 → Trailhead → Return to Cusco	~4,300 m → Cusco	~5h descent + transport	Descent, celebration and arrival back

(Times and altitudes approximate; subject to weather, group pace and trail condition.)

Day 1 – Cusco → Tinki (or trailhead) → Camp 1 (~4,300 m)

Pick-up in Cusco early morning. Drive across high plateau landscapes, passing the village of Tinki. Begin your trekking from the trailhead and spend 2-3 hours hiking to your first camp, nestled beside glacial streams under towering peaks. Evening briefing with your guide, gear check, and acclimatisation.

Overnight: Camp 1 (~4,300 m)

Day 2 – Camp 1 → High Pass → Camp 2 (~5,200 m)

After early breakfast, ascend steadily to the high pass of the route (approx. 4,900–5,200 m). From the top you’ll witness panoramic views of Ausangate’s glaciers and alpine lakes. Descend into the next valley and set up Camp 2 in a wild, remote location.

Overnight: Camp 2 (~5,200 m)
Trek approx. 5-6 h

Day 3 – Camp 2 → Glacier Lake Valley → Camp 3 (~4,500 m)

Today’s hike descends into a broad glacial lake valley. Enjoy the reflections of snow-peaks in turquoise lakes, spot vicuñas and enjoy the silence of the Andes. After lunch you arrive at Camp 3 located in a scenic valley among llamas and wild terrain.

Overnight: Camp 3 (~4,500 m)
Trek approx. 6-7 h

Day 4 – Camp 3 → Ausangate Base or Lake Hike → Camp 4 (~4,600 m)

Use this day for short hikes to iconic lakes or viewpoints around Ausangate. Practice alpine skills such as glacier approach walking, observe local herds of llamas and vicuñas and immerse yourself in Andean environment. Evening celebration at camp.

Overnight: Camp 4 (~4,600 m)
Hike approx. 4-5 h

Day 5 – Camp 4 → Trailhead → Return to Cusco (~3,400 m)

Early breakfast and we start descending through high Andean meadows, across streams and traditional villages until we reach the trailhead. Private transport brings you back to Cusco where services end in the early evening.

Trek approx. 5 h | Drive to Cusco
End of expedition.

Departure

📅 Departures & Pricing

Season: April – October
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Service Type: Private or small-group expeditions
Price: Available on request (dependent on group size & service level)

FAQ

Good to Know

How fit do I need to be?
Good fitness and acclimatisation at altitude are key—the trek reaches over 5,000 m. Previous trekking experience is highly recommended.
What time of year is best?
April to October is ideal (dry season). Heavy snow or rain may affect access outside these months.
Are the camps comfortable?
Yes — we provide high-quality camping equipment and support crew; you only carry your daypack.
Group size & guide ratio?
Small groups or private departures. Typical ratio 1:8 guide:trekkers for personalised service.

What to bring

Waterproof, broken-in trekking boots
Warm layers + down jacket + wind shell
Rain jacket or poncho
Sun hat, gloves, sunglasses & high-SPF sun-cream
Daypack (30–35 L) + refillable water bottle (1.5–2 L)
Headlamp + spare batteries
Personal toiletries, first aid items, power bank
Passport for logistic checks

INCLUSION

✅ Included

Professional bilingual mountain guide (English / Spanish)
Private transport Cusco ↔ trailhead & back
4 nights camping (4-season tents, mats)
All meals on trek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner + snacks)
Support crew (mules/horsemen) for gear transport
Duffel bag transport (up to 7 kg)
First Aid kit, oxygen bottle & radio communication
National park / trail permits where applicable

❌ Not Included

Sleeping bag rental (available)
Personal trekking gear (boots, poles, clothing)
Travel & cancellation insurance (mandatory)
Tips for guide & support staff

Tours