Local Andean herder with llamas walking beneath the snow-covered Ausangate Mountain in the Peruvian Andes.

Ausangate Trek

ausangate trek: complete guide to tours and routes on cusco’s highest mountain

The Ausangate Trek is one of Peru’s most spectacular high-altitude adventures. Encircling the sacred Apu Ausangate Mountain, this five-day remote hike takes travelers through vistas of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, colorful mountain landscapes, and isolated Andean communities deeply rooted in traditional culture. Unlike the more crowded Inca Trail, the Ausangate Trek offers solitude, dramatic alpine scenery, and an authentic connection with the Andes. For travelers seeking a challenging trekking experience beyond Machu Picchu, the Ausangate route delivers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery in South America. In this guide, you’ll learn about Ausangate trek routes, altitude, difficulty, what to expect on the trail, and how to prepare for this unforgettable journey.

By Laurel ThompsonMay 26, 2026

What Is the Ausangate Trek?

The Ausangate Trek is a multi-day hiking route that circles Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in the Cusco region, and the fifth-highest mountain in Peru at approximately 6,384 meters (20,945 feet). Located southeast of Cusco, Ausangate is considered a sacred Apu in Andean cosmology: a mountain spirit that protects the land, people, and animals that live in its shadow. Ausangate plays an important role in local spiritual traditions.

In fact, the famous Qoyllur Rit’i festival, one of the most important religious pilgrimages in the Andes, is held at the base of Apu Ausangate. This festival is attended by some 90,000 people from several Andean communities around the region, who ascend approximately five miles up the mountain to the Sinakara Sanctuary. Also known as the Snow Star Festival, the pilgrimage fuses Andean and Catholic beliefs, celebrating the return of the Pleiades constellation in late May each year.

We begin the five-day Ausangate trekking route near the village of Tinqui. In nearby Q'oñamuro, visitors can get a glimpse into the lifeways practiced in this Andean village of herders and weavers. The pastoral beauty of hillsides dotted with large grazing herds of llamas and alpacas is a sight to behold as the trek begins its approach up the northern face of Mt. Ausangate.

During the entire trek, visitors will camp surrounded by snow-capped peaks, view shining glacial lakes, and experience stunning vistas of mountain and sky. The route is especially popular among travelers looking for:

Remote trekking experiences in Peru
High-altitude mountain scenery and remote glacial lakes
Less crowded alternatives to the Inca Trail
Multi-day camping adventures
Encounters with traditional Andean communities

Hikers crossing a high-altitude valley with grazing alpacas beneath the snow-covered peaks of the Ausangate region in Peru. — Travelers hike through remote Andean landscapes near Ausangate Mountain surrounded by grazing alpacas, glacial valleys, and snow-covered peaks. The Ausangate Trek is known for combining dramatic mountain scenery with traditional Quechua culture. Photograph by Marco Arango

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Why Choose the Ausangate Trek

The Ausangate Trek stands out because of its raw natural beauty and cultural authenticity. While many trekking routes in Peru focus on archaeological sites, Ausangate is primarily about the glories of the landscape and the chance to experience remote high-mountain wilderness.

Here are some of the reasons travelers choose this trek:

Spectacular Mountain Scenery

The trail passes beneath massive glaciers, jagged snow-capped peaks, and turquoise lakes fed by glacial meltwater. The scenery changes constantly, ranging from red valleys and green pastures to icy mountain passes.

Fewer Crowds

Compared to the Inca Trail or even the Salkantay Trek, the Ausangate route remains relatively uncrowded. Many days on the trail feel completely remote.

Cultural Experiences

The trek crosses traditional Quechua-speaking communities where alpaca, sheep, and llama herding remains part of daily life. Travelers often see local families wearing traditional clothing and tending large herds of llamas and alpacas. Trekkers may have opportunities to visit with the folks from these villages and learn about their lifestyle.

Challenging Adventure

The trek’s high elevation and mountain passes make it ideal for experienced hikers seeking a physically demanding route.

Trekkers hiking along a remote mountain road in the Ausangate region of the Peruvian Andes. — Travelers hike through the open highland landscapes surrounding Ausangate Mountain near Cusco. The route offers remote scenery, long hiking days, and a quieter trekking experience compared to more crowded trails in Peru. Photograph by Marco Arango

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Ausangate Trek Routes and Tour Options

There are several ways to experience the Ausangate Trek, depending on your available time and fitness level.

Classic Ausangate Trek (5 Days)

The traditional circuit typically lasts five days and encircles the mountain completely.

Typical highlights include:

Pacchanta Hot Springs, natural volcanic thermal baths located in Pacchanta Village
Glacial lakes of various hues
High mountain passes above 5,000 meters (16,000+ feet)
Andean hospitality in remote mountain villages
Campsites surrounded by snow-capped peaks

This option provides the most complete experience of the region.

7 Lakes of Ausangate Route

The 7 Lakes route is a shorter day hike or overnight excursion near Pacchanta. It visits a series of vividly colored glacial lakes surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. This route is ideal for travelers who want to experience Ausangate without committing to a multi-day trek.

Custom and Luxury Treks

Some guided tours offer upgraded camping equipment, private chefs, horse support, and customized itineraries. These options make the trek more comfortable while still maintaining the adventurous spirit of the route.

Highlights of the Ausangate Trek

The Ausangate Trek is filled with unforgettable landscapes and unique experiences.

Turquoise Glacial Lakes

One of the trek’s defining features is its vibrant lakes, whose colors range from pinkish-red to bright turquoise depending on the minerals and sunlight.

Popular lakes include:

Pucacocha, with its reddish hue from minerals in the water
Azulcocha, a striking sapphire lake located at 4,850 masl (15,900 fasl)
Otorongo (twin cerulean lakes, named Otorongo Macho and Otorongo China)
Comercocha, with its tranquil turquoise and blue-green waters that mirror the encircling mountain peaks

Mountain Passes

Most itineraries cross several high passes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), offering panoramic views of glaciers and valleys.

The most famous passes include:

Arapa Pass- at 15,912 feet, reached on Day 2 of the trek, offering spectacular views of Mt. Ausangate’s snowy peak.
Palomani Pass – reached on Day 3 of the Ausangate trek, a challenging climb leading to amazing views of Caracol and Mariposa peaks, mountain glaciers, and far-off glacial lakes
Jampa Pass- reached on Day 4, this pass is the highest yet, at 16,076 feet, offering panoramic views of glaciers and remote mountain terrain.

Hot Springs in Pacchanta

After several days of hiking, the natural hot springs in Pacchanta provide a relaxing finish to the trek.

Wildlife and Alpacas

Trekkers regularly encounter alpacas, llamas, vicuñas, Andean geese, and occasionally, the magnificent Andean condor.

Qoyllur Rit’i Festival

The region surrounding Ausangate hosts the annual Qoyllur Rit’i pilgrimage, a spiritual celebration that blends Catholic and Andean traditions.

Pack horses crossing a remote valley beneath the snow-covered peaks of the Ausangate region in Peru. — Pack horses and trekkers move through the dramatic alpine landscapes surrounding Ausangate Mountain in the Cusco region. The Ausangate Trek passes through isolated valleys, glacial scenery, and traditional high-Andean terrain. Photograph by Marco Arango

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Difficulty and Altitude on the Ausangate Trek

The Ausangate Trek is considered one of the more difficult trekking routes in Peru due to its extreme altitude.

How Hard Is the Ausangate Trek?

The trek is physically demanding because hikers spend several days above 4,000 meters (13,100 feet), with mountain passes often exceeding 5,000 meters (16,400 feet).

Challenges include:

Thin air and reduced oxygen
Steep ascents and descents
Cold nighttime temperatures
Long hiking days
Remote conditions

However, no technical climbing experience is required.

Altitude on the Ausangate Trek

Typical elevations include:

Cusco: 3,400 m (11,152 ft)
Trailhead: Around 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
Highest passes: Over 5,000 m (16,400 ft)

Proper acclimatization is essential before beginning the trek. Travelers should spend at least 2–3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before hiking.

Activities such as:

Exploring Cusco
Visiting the Sacred Valley
Short acclimatization hikes with a daypack for a bit of weight can help prepare your body for the altitude.

Trekkers and pack horses crossing colorful high-altitude valleys on the Ausangate Trek in the Peruvian Andes. — Trekkers and support horses move through the colorful mountain landscapes surrounding Ausangate Mountain near Cusco. The route combines remote wilderness, dramatic Andean scenery, and physically demanding high-altitude hiking. Photograph by Marco Arango

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What to Expect on an Ausangate Trek Tour

Most Ausangate trekking tours include transportation, meals, camping equipment, guides, and pack animals.

Camping Experience

The trek is usually fully camping-based. Campsites are remote and surrounded by mountain scenery. At night, temperatures can drop below freezing, especially during the dry season.

Daily Hiking Distances

Typical hiking days range from:

10 to 18 kilometers (6–11 miles)
5 to 8 hours of walking

Distances vary depending on the itinerary.

Food and Support

Guided tours generally provide cooked meals, snacks, and mule or horse support for carrying camping gear.

Is It Possible to Do the Ausangate Trek Without a Guide?

Yes, independent trekking is possible for experienced hikers with strong navigation skills and proper equipment. However, many travelers choose guided tours for safety, logistics, and cultural insights.

A guide can also help with:

Altitude management
Campsite organization
Transportation
Local communication
Emergency support

Best Time to Do the Ausangate Trek

The best season for the Ausangate Trek is the dry season, which generally runs from May to September.

Dry Season (May–September)

Advantages include:

Clear mountain views
Less rain
Better trail conditions
Colder nights

This is the most popular trekking season.

Shoulder Season (April and October)

These months can offer:

Fewer crowds
Mixed weather conditions
Greener landscapes

Rainy Season (November–March)

Heavy rainfall can make trails muddy and difficult. Snow and storms are also more common at higher elevations.

While trekking is still possible, weather conditions can be unpredictable.

Trekkers walking beside a dark alpine lake reflecting the mountains of the Ausangate region in Peru. — Hikers explore the remote high-altitude landscapes of the Ausangate Trek beside a calm mountain lake reflecting the surrounding peaks. The route is known for its glacial lakes, isolated scenery, and dramatic Andean terrain. Photograph by Marco Arango

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How to Get to the Ausangate Trek Starting Point

Most treks begin with transportation from Cusco to the trailhead.

From Cusco to Tinqui or Pacchanta

The journey usually takes approximately 3–4 hours by vehicle.

Many guided tours include:

Hotel pickup in Cusco
Private transportation
Return transfer after the trek

Independent travelers can also reach the area using public transportation combined with local taxis.

Tips for a Successful Ausangate Trek

Preparing properly can make a major difference on this high-altitude trek.

Acclimatize Before the Trek

Spend several days adjusting to the altitude before beginning the hike.

Pack for Cold Weather

Essential gear includes:

Warm layers
Waterproof jacket
Gloves and hat
Sleeping bag rated for freezing temperatures
Hiking poles

Stay Hydrated

Drinking enough water is especially important at high altitude.

Train Before Your Trip

Cardiovascular fitness and endurance training can help prepare for long hiking days.

Choose a Responsible Tour Operator

Look for companies that prioritize:

Fair treatment of guides and support staff
Sustainable tourism practices
Respect for local communities
Small group experiences

With over fifty years of experience assisting trekkers, and a strong set of ethical standards that protect land, communities, and wildlife, Explorandes is a superb choice among tour operators for an amazing experience on your Ausangate trek.

Ausangate Trek vs Other Treks in Peru

Travelers often compare the Ausangate Trek with other famous routes in Peru. Here is a chart to help you decide which is right for you.

Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek

Comparison table between the Ausangate Trek, Inca Trail, and Salkantay Trek showing differences in scenery, altitude, difficulty, permits, and cultural experiences. — This comparison table highlights the main differences between three of Peru’s most popular trekking routes: the Ausangate Trek, the Inca Trail, and the Salkantay Trek. It compares altitude, scenery, difficulty, permits, accommodations, and overall trekking experience.

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Which Trek Is Right for You?

Choose the Ausangate Trek if your priority is spectacular mountain scenery, remote wilderness, glacial lakes, and a less-traveled route.
Choose the Inca Trail if you want the iconic trek to Machu Picchu and are interested in Inca archaeology.
Choose the Salkantay Trek if you want a diverse trekking experience that combines high mountain landscapes with a visit to Machu Picchu without requiring permits far in advance.

With over fifty years of expertise, Explorandes will be delighted to make all of the arrangements for you to experience the marvels of the Ausangate trek. Reach out to us here.