Ausangate Trek

Information

Distance

70.0 km

Duration

5–6 days

Max elevation

5,200 m

Country

Peru (PE)

Difficulty

Strenuous — extreme-altitude trek, several passes above 5,000 m, very cold temperatures

Best Season

May–September (Andean dry season)

Permits & Fees

No national permit required; there is a local community entry fee (boleto) and a separate ticket to Vinicunca/Rainbow Mountain

Description

The Ausangate Trek is a ~70 km high-altitude circuit around Nevado Ausangate (6,384 m), the highest peak in Peru's Cusco Region and a sacred apu (mountain deity) to the Quechua people of the southern Andes. The route crosses a series of passes above 5,000 m — the highest, Palomani, reaching roughly 5,100–5,200 m — making it one of Peru's toughest and highest treks. Hikers pass turquoise and red glacial lakes, hanging glaciers, herds of alpacas and llamas, and traditional herding settlements, often finishing with a soak in the Pacchanta hot springs. Many operators combine the loop with a visit to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain), giving a 5–6 day itinerary. The best season is May to September, with clear skies and dry trails, though night temperatures can fall well below freezing.

Trail Highlights

A circuit around Nevado Ausangate (6,384 m), the highest sacred mountain in Cusco — turquoise-colored lakes, hanging glaciers, alpaca and llama herds, the Pacchanta hot springs, plus optional detours to Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) and the seven lakes of Ausangate.