Ausangate In February 

Is It Worth Visiting Ausangate In February?

Quick Answer: Although this hiking route remains one of the only ones to stay open during this month, it’s only recommended for those with more hiking experience.

This is because the trails can be covered in snow in random areas, and also as landslides can occur too. For this reason if coming in February, you’ll also want to head with an experienced guide who can lead the way in case the trail isn’t so clear. Here at AB Expeditions our team of head guides know the Ausangate Mountain very well, so rest assured you can head on the hike knowing you’ll be in safe hands.

It’s also good to know that the surrounding scenery during this month will be very beautiful given the extra rains and snow. Of course this means you’ll also want to bring waterproofs and wear quality hiking boots with good tread (in order to avoid getting your feet wet or slipping over).

Important Things To Know

• Ausangate remains one of the only hikeable multi-day circuits of the Cusco region in February. 
• Expect lots of beautiful snowy landscapes and virtually no other tourists around.
• There is a good chance of frequent rains so be sure to bring good waterproofs.

The Pros Of Hiking Ausangate In February

• Great for hikers who want a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience.
• There are very few other hikers along the route during this month.
• Increased rainfall means we will see more beautiful alpine sceneries along the route.

The Cons Of Hiking Ausangate In February

• Although it’s the summer season, temperatures can feel much cooler than usual given the extra rainfall.
• You’ll need advanced hiking experience or to go with a reputable guide given landslides can occur during this month.
• Clouds are more frequent which can diminish visibility and obscure views of the surrounding mountains.

Everything You Need To Know About Visiting Ausangate In February 

Below we’ll now explore what Ausangate in February is like. This includes what the weather will be like, how to get to Ausangate as well as how you can prepare for your trek.

The Weather Of Ausangate In February

As with the other months of the wet season such as January, here in February the weather is quite unpredictable. This means that even if it’s dry when you arrive (or is clear around nearby villages), it doesn’t guarantee the route will necessarily be the same further on.

It’s important to plan well for showers as these are frequent in February, which can arrive suddenly out of nowhere. The good news is that they are often over as quickly too, and at certain times can cause snow to fall which is a beautiful experience.

Generally speaking temperatures are usually hotter in February as it’s a summer month, however if it rains then you’ll feel colder than usual. For this reason it’s important to bring waterproofs and a poncho, and perhaps a spare jumper in your day pack to change into if you get wet.

How To Get To Ausangate In February

Starting from Cusco there are mountain roads that lead to Ausangate which will need to be followed for a few hours. They lead up to the remote settlement of Upis, which marks the official trailhead of the Ausangate trek.

Getting here in the middle of the wet season isn’t the easiest, given landslides and waterlogged roads can sometimes be an issue. However here at AB Expeditions we have a private luxury minivan which we use to get to the trailhead – which is much more comfortable, safe and reliable than public transportation.

Preparing For Your Ausangate Trek

As we mentioned before, we only suggest hiking around Ausangate in February if you already have lots of hiking experience. As well as this it’s important to have already acclimated well in the region before starting the route, given many parts are between 4000-5000+ meters above sea-level. You can do this by spending several days in Cusco prior, as well as doing more gentle hikes beforehand. For more strategies you can read our guide on preventing altitude sickness.

Once you’re properly acclimated, you’ll now need to make sure you have everything you need for your trek. Given rainfall and snowy paths are frequent in February, you’ll want to wear solid hiking boots with good tread, as well as bringing waterproofs and a poncho with you. Other things we recommend bringing (as a starting point) include several hiking layers, jumpers, a coat, gloves, a hat, a torch and medications (if necessary).

Overview Of Visiting Ausangate In February

And that’s all for this guide to visiting Ausangate in February.

Despite other mountain circuits closing during this month, Ausangate remains open for hikers who want a memorable trekking experience. Here we can see mountains and paths covered in snow, and also enjoy the route with virtually no other tourists around.

Here at AB Expeditions we offer various Ausangate hiking treks where you’ll be accompanied by an experienced, professional guide – and also have all equipment, lodging and food included.