Ausangate trek 3 days

Price : $390

Ausangate Trek 3 Days

Ausangate Trek 3 Days is for those who have experienced hiking and don’t have plenty of time; basically, you will hike the entire day. You will cross 3 mountain passes, hike through hundreds of roaming alpacas and llamas, and you walk through beautifully diverse views that change daily from snow-capped peaks to neon-red desert mountains, to marshy pampas. The real reward, however, is when you reach the Rainbow Mountain, hidden deep in the Andes. standing for a rainbow, this mountain is so striking. it will blow you away.

AUSANGAT TREK 3 DAYS HIGHTLIGHTS

The Ausangate trek 3 days offers an array of wildlife including soaring condors, Alpacas, Condors, Viscachas, Andean geese, vicuñas, bobcats, and pumas. Our campsites are located with amazing views of Ausangate from different angles and you will also have the chance to take a bath in the hot spring on the first day and enjoy the trek’s signature rainbow mountains! The colorful mountains in the Vinicunca area are probably the most amazing thing you are going to see in Peru!

Why you should book the Ausangate trek 3 days with us?

  • We don’t overload our pack horses. We stand as the only Travel Agency offering Ausangate Trek 3 days, distinguished by our commitment to preventing the mistreatment of animals. In practice, this translates to our pack horses bearing a load that does not exceed 50 kilograms (equivalent to 100 pounds).
  • Our horsemen are treated with respect. They receive all their equipment for free from our Company AB Expeditions to work on the Ausangate trek 3 days to Rainbow Mountain. We provide them a fair salary, a decent tent with a pad, proper meals, trekking shoes, hiking pants, and a Winter hut. We care for their health, well-being, and the health of their families, and we are committed to social projects to improve their lives
  • Small groups.  02 to 08 people maximum. This fact sets us apart from other travel companies that take bigger groups. 
  • Top-notch equipment. We provide Mountain wear Sleeping bags, Black Diamond trekking poles, and sleeping pads. We only use top brands and quality to guarantee ache-less nights up in the mountains.
  • Satellite phones. Our guide brings the satellite phone all the time. We want you to stay in touch with your loved ones at all times.
  • Portable toilets. We provide you with an Eco-friendly, comfortable & clean Toilet.
  • Hotel to Hotel service.  Direct pick-ups and drop-offs from your hotel in Cusco. We will never leave you stranded before or after our Ausangate trek!
  • We are a reliable Travel company, practical, punctual, welcoming individuals or groups. Check out our reviews on Trip Advisor.
  • 100% Local Company. AB Expeditions is A 100% locally owned Travel Company and fully licensed Ausangate operator.
  • Highly Trained Guide. Our Tour Guides pride themselves on being up-to-date and have a comprehensive program of continual professional development. We love showing what a fascinating and amazing Ausangate in Peru is.
  • Ground logistics. Transportation, Private lands permits, Rainbow Mountain tickets, Red Valley ticket.  We book, secure, and deliver all minuscule details of your hike for you.
  • We pay on time. At AB Expeditions, our hormen, guides, driver, and Cooks receive their salaries as soon as they finish their job.
  • We don’t share our group of Ausangate trek 3 days with other companies.
  • Cabins and Huts Included. You will spend the night in our Cabins and Huts.
  • Our itinerary of Ausangate trek 3 Days is specifically designed to get used to the altitude then you start the difficult hike.
  • We offer a group discount. If you are more than 3 people, we will give you discounts. Send us an email.
  • Horses carry all the equipment and supplies so you can travel light.

AUSANGATE TREK 3 DAYS ITINERARY

Day 1- Cusco – Tinqui – Upis.

We will pick you up at 05:00 am from your hotel then we will in our private van for about 2 hours to Tinki where we will get off to stretch our legs and we will see local people wearing their typical dresses and we can visit the local market if it is open. After that, we will keep driving for about 1 hour on a bumpy and dusty road until Upis Pampa, there we will have our breakfast and then start hiking to Upis Campsite.  The Trail is almost flat and some sections are ups and downs. It takes 3 hours roughly to get to the campsite.

On the way, we will have sensational views including the spectacular Mount Ausangate, and meet local farmers wearing their costumes. Once we arrive at Upis campsite, we will have our lunch. After our delicious meal, we have a chance to hike to Upis Lake or we can take a bath at the hot spring close to our private campsite. Hiking to upis lake takes 2 hours round trip. The Trail is flat at the beginning and the last portion is gradually uphill. Once we get to the lake, you will see Ausangate from very close and time to take the most beautiful pictures then come back to our campsite where we will have our dinner then we will go to our cabins from where we will see how the sunset reflect the Ausangate Mount.

  • Elevation Gain: 330 m / 1082 ft.
  • Elevation Loose: 56 m / 183 ft.
  • Walking Distance: 8 km/ 4,9 miles.
  • Hiking Hour: 3 hours roughly.
  • Trailhead Elevation: 4,179 meters / 13,710 feet.
  • Difficulty: moderate.
  • Campsite Elevation: 4,432 meters / 14,540 feet.
  • Highest Point: 4,432 meters / 14,540 feet.
  • Accommodation: Cabins.

ausangate trek 3 day from upis school to upis campsite

Day 2- Upis – Puca Cocha – Ananta

We will wake you up at 5 am with coca tea or coffee delivered to your Cabin and you are given a delicious breakfast for the day ahead. In The morning we hike up to Arapa Pass which is at 4989 masl(16567 feet) from where we will have an amazing view of colorful mountains then we will go hiking to Puca Cocha where we will have our lunch. Along the way, we are going to observe Llamas and alpacas, Ausangate snow-capped to your left side, and you will have English speaking guide explaining about flora, and fauna and talking about the landscape along the trail. if we are lucky we might see condor, chinchillas, and vicuñas.

After eating our lunch, we will hike up to Pucacocha Pass, from where we will have an amazing view of Ausangate Mountain with 3 lakes below. Then hike down to our campsite of Ananta where we are going to spend the night in our Mountain Huts.  As usual, tents are going to be set up for us to change, take a nap, and have our dinner prepared by our professional chef.

  • Elevation Gain: 884 m / 2900 ft.
  • Elevation Loose: 567 m / 1,860 feet.
  • Walking Distance: 14 km/ 8,68 miles.
  • hiking hours: 8 – 9 hours roughly.
  • Trailhead Elevation: 4,400 meters / 14,430 feet.
  • Difficulty: Difficult.
  • Campsite Elevation: 4,700 meters / 15,400 feet.
  • Accommodation: Mountain Huts.

ausangate trek 3 day from upis campsite to ananta

Day 3- Ananta –  Rainbow Mountain – Qesuno – Cusco

Today is the day you have been waiting for. We will wake you up at 03:45 am with coca tea delivered to your tent then we start with first uphill until Ananta pass(15,090ft-4500m-14,000feet)from where you see this amazing Rainbow Mountain in the distance, but you are not quite there yet! From this place you go downhill to circle the lake and keep walking a Peruvian flat until we reach the final uphill to Rainbow Mountain then we have 360 views of the spectacular landscape that surrounds you, Soak in the vistas and enjoy as much as possible the place.

After enjoying the Rainbow Mountain, we have a chance to visit the Red Valley. Then we hike down for about 1 hour to the bus station where we will say goodbye to our horseman. Then we drive for about 3 hours and drop you off at your hotel around 5 pm.

  • Elevation Gain: 552 m / 1811 ft.
  • Elevation Loose: 602 m / 1975 feet.
  • Walking Distance: 9 km/ 5.592 miles.
  • hiking hour: 6 hours roughly.
  • Difficulty: Difficult.

hiking ausangate 3 day from ananta to bus station

INCLUSIONS

Included

  • Satellite Phone. Ausangate is a remote área where you will not find a signal so in case of emergency, our guide uses our satellite phone.
  • Cabins for the first night and mountain huts for the second night.
  • English-speaking guide with radio communication.
  • Pre depárture briefing which will be carried out in our Office 1 day prior to your departure.
  • Portable private toilet tent.
  • Dining room with a sofá where you can rest after a long hike.
  • Professional cook.
  • Wake up tea. It can be Coca tea, Coffee, chocolate, or any type of tea.
  • Mules which carry all of our trekking gear.
  • 7 kilograms of your personal belongings.
  • Large duffel bag provided by the company, for your 7 kg personal belongings.
  • Wáter every day. We boil water and cool down to refill your bottle.
  • Happy hour. Every afternoon our cook will prepare hot tea, and you will drink it with popcorn and biscuits.
  • A cloth bag for your snack. When our AB Expeditions team went to clean the Aussangate área, we found a lot of plastic along the trail so we avoided using plastic.
  • Snacks for every single day.
  • Fees to access private lands of Ausangate trek. .
  • Large Dining tent, table, stools, all cutlery, and kitchen tent.
  • Tents to overnight, and Thermarest. Two-person tents are provided for single people and three-person tents for double people to provide plenty of space for personal gear.
  • Entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain.
  • Meals: 3 Breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners with option for vegetarians, Pescatarian, gluten-free, lactose intolerance.
  • Red Valley ticket.
  • Private transportation to and from your hotel in Cusco.
  • Foam Mattress.
  • First aid kit. Every February our guides receive training about first aid kids. They carry in their backpack basic medications to face diarrhea, altitude sickness, any injuries, etc.
  • A metal tank of Oxygen. Our guide will have a tank of oxygen at all times.
  • Hygiene Product. We will provide you with a bowl a wáter and towel paper to clean your hands at every campsite.
  • Plastic Poncho. When it rains a lot, your jacket will be very wet that’s why we give the plastic Poncho to protect you from the heavy rain.
  • Rain cover for your backpack.

Not Included

  • Sleeping Bags. We rent a Mountain Hard Brand sleeping bag. It costs $20 for the entire trip.
  • Trekking poles. We rent Black diamond hiking sticks. They cost $20 for the entire trip.
  • Personal riding horse. Additional horses may be rented according to the needs of the individual and group.
  • Voluntary Tips for Guide, Driver, and Cook.
  • Travel Insurance.

USEFUL INFORMATIONS

Things To Know

  • Our 3-day Ausangate trek will be closed from November 1st to March 31st. This is because, on the second day, you cross two mountain passes, and the second pass is crossed in the afternoon. During the rainy season, it’s unsafe to be on top of the mountains at that time due to lightning. If you still want to hike during the rainy season, we recommend our 4-day Ausangate trek instead. With the 4-day option, you will hike in the mornings and rest in the afternoons.
  • The Ausangate Trek 3 days is rated challenging because you hike the same distance as the Ausangate 4-day trek. It is better to do it in 4 days so you will hike in the mornings and in the afternoons you will relax.
  • Our pick-up time from Cusco changed after September 01st to 05:00 am, because it usually rains in the afternoon so it is better to hike in the morning.
  • You will cross the Puca Cocha pass in the afternoon on the second day and sometimes the view from the top is not that great like in the mornings.
  • Our guide always oxygen tanks which are important as you get over 5040 meters/16,500 feet above sea level! Not all travel agencies offer this, so this is something to look out for when choosing the best Rainbow Mountain tour operator.
  • The higher elevation also means colder, nearly freezing temperatures, so be prepared. If you decide to take a multi-day tour, make sure to wear very warm clothes. Also, bring coca leaves to fight off altitude sickness and carry the minimum gear possible to ease the hike.
  • Our second campsite is 3 hours away from Rainbow Mountain so We have to wake at 3:30 am to beat the crowd in the Rainbow Mountain.
  • We have huts at every campsite. You will be protected from the rain, snow, and hail.
  • No matter the weather conditions, the scenery is still spectacular.
  • You will cross 3 passes that are above 16,000 feet of elevation. Passes are mostly gradual.
  • temperatures can fall well below freezing at night so be prepared for snow.
  • We expect the tour will run as the itinerary describes to Ausangate Trek 3 days. Participants should accept that there is the possibility of changes, being necessary liable to local conditions, e.g., strikes, and natural disasters.
  • Hiking the Ausangate 3 days, our mandatory first campsite is Upis because you need to get used to the altitude. We saw some companies bring their clients to Yanacocha campsite then their customers get sick and they evacuate them.

Recommendations

  • Make sure you are acclimatized to Cusco’s altitude before you set off on your hike to the Ausangate 3-day hike. This is by far the best insurance for a smooth and enjoyable trip. We recommend you spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the excursion.
  • The cell phone battery tends to die due to cold — keep your phone in your sleeping bag.
  • Bring 2 pairs of shoes, one for hiking and the other for the campsite.
  • Make sure that your sleeping has a rating of -15 degrees Celsius. We rent Mountain hard wear Brand and they are really good for the Ausangate area.
  • Ausangate trek starts at 4,400 meters so it is very cold área that’s why we recommend you wear thermal clothes. They keep your feet warned and they provide cushion for your foot.
  • Sunglasses are a must. Sometimes it snows and the reflection of the snow damages our eyes and you might get blind for about 24 hours.

Duffle Bag

We will give you a duffel bag at our office at the end of your briefing. It includes 7 kilograms of your personal belongings. Our horses will carry them and you will have access to them only at the campsites. Put your clothes and other personal items that you won’t need hiking. Things like water, snacks, a first aid kit, and rain gear should be in your day pack. The duffel should weigh 7kg.

Strikes

Strikes and roadblocks are frequent in Peru and can disrupt our Ausangate 3-day trek. We will do our best that your hike to Ausangate continues as planned with some changes.

If the strike happens the first day of your Ausangate 3-day hike, we will take you to the trailhead the night before your start date. So you will sleep in the tents at the trailhead and the next day you will follow your itinerary as usual.

If the strike happens the day that you finish your Ausangate 3 days. We will send our vans to Kayrawiry one night before. The strikes usually are during the day so around 6 pm you will start driving. You will arrive at Cusco at 10 pm.

Ausangate Weather

The weather is unpredictable in the Andes. The dry season in Ausangate is from April to October and the rainy season is from November through March, but this does not stop rain from falling in the dry season or the sun from coming out in the rainy season so just be prepared. No matter what season you are hiking the Ausangate trek, make sure that you get rain gear such as a rain jacket, rain pants, poncho, and waterproof gloves.

Ausangate weather changed in minutes. You might experience 4 seasons in only one day too. So you must be prepared. Layers are the key since they are easy to adapt to different temperature changes. Be prepared with a down jacket since the early morning and evening will be very cold.

Best Time To Hike Ausangate

The best time to hike Ausangate is from May to September which is the dry season here in Cusco región. So you have a better chance of having a clear sky and you will see the Andes Mountains in its splendor. You can still hike in April, October, November, and December. But you need to have good rain gear. We don’t recommend hiking Ausangate in January and February because it rains heavily almost every day.

Travel Insurance

We recommend you get travel insurance because if you cancel your Ausangate 3-day tour at the last minute it can reimburse you for your prepaid money. Also when you get sick or hurt while you are far away from home, it can reimburse you for care following a covered medical emergency while traveling.

Physical Requirements:

This hike is difficult because of the altitude, and it’s highly recommended to be in good physical condition; The Ausangate trek elevation changes make the hike tough as there are four passes during your 3-day trek.

Accommodation Option For Solo Traveler.

During the Ausangate trek 3 days, solo travelers will be paired to share a tent with another traveler of the same sex and couples will have a tent to themselves.

Pre-Departure Brifing

There is a mandatory pre-departure briefing at our Cusco Office one day before your departure to Ausangate at 6 pm. You will meet your guide and He will give you detailed information about your trek, a list of what to bring, rental equipment, or questions in general. Our office is located at: Marquez Street 250, Second Floor. Office 03. Cuzco, Peru.

Tipping

Tipping is getting common on the Ausangate trek 3 days. On the last day of your adventure, we will say goodbye to our amazing horsemen before we take the van back to Cusco. This is the time that you will give a tip for the Horsemen. The guide and the cook will come back to Cusco with us so we can tip them in Cusco. Anything extra is always really appreciated. Please know that tipping is not Mandatory and that you should never feel forced into this.

Usually, our customers pool their tipping money together for the chef and horsemen. For your tour guide, you tip once he/she will drop you off at your hotel. You decide the amount of money based on your experience with them. Soles is better for Our Horseman and Chefs. Guides can receive U.S. dollars or Soles without any problem.

These are our recommendations below. Sometimes they receive more or less. It is in your heart.

  • Tips could be for our horsemen:  30 – 50 soles per Horsemen.
  • Tips could be for our Cooks: 50 – 90 soles per cook.

Cancellations And Refunds

  • Full Refund: If you cancel up to 24 hours before the tour starts, you’ll get all your payment back.
  • Partial Refund: If you cancel within 24 hours but before 7 PM the day before the tour, you’ll lose your deposit.
  • No Refund: If you cancel after 7 PM the day before the tour, you won’t get any payment back and will lose the full payment.

FREQUENT ASK QUESTIONS

How To Book The 3-Day Ausangate Trek With AB Expeditions

To book the 3-day Ausangate trek with us, click the “BOOK NOW” button, choose your departure date, and fill in the personal details for each participant. The final step is payment, which can be made using a credit or debit card. To secure your spot, send us only the deposit.

Our booking platform also offers some optional items, such as an emergency horse, sleeping bag, and trekking poles. For the emergency horse, you need to pay a deposit when booking. The sleeping bag and trekking poles can be decided later and booked up to one day before your departure.

What About The Remaining Payment?

You can pay the remaining balance in cash (USD or soles) one day before your trip. Alternatively, you can pay with a Visa credit card, but a 5% service fee will be added. Please let us know your preferred payment method. Note: Cash payments must be made at least one day before the trip.

Is There A Student Discount?

Unfortunately, there is no student discount available for our 3-day Ausangate trek.

Are The 7 Lakes Of Ausangate Included In The 3-Day Trek?

No, the 7 Lakes are not included in the standard itinerary. However, if you are an experienced hiker, we can include them. Normally, the first day involves a 3-hour hike to help you acclimate to the altitude. Including the 7 Lakes would extend the hike to 7 hours on the first day, with a pick-up time of 3 a.m. Please inform us in advance if you wish to include the 7 Lakes, as last-minute arrangements are not possible.

Can I Skip The First Upis Campsite And Camp Farther?

Yes, you can skip the Upis campsite, but this option is recommended only for experienced hikers. We suggest it for those who have completed treks like Huaras, Salkantay, or the 4-day Inca Trail. The pick-up time for this option is also at 3 a.m. from Cusco. Note: Please notify us in advance if you wish to skip the Upis campsite, as we cannot make last-minute changes.

Is The Red Valley Included In The 3-Day Ausangate Trek?

Yes, the Red Valley is included in our 3-day Ausangate trek.

Do You Offer The Ausangate 3-Day Trek During The Rainy Season?

No, we don’t organize the 3-day Ausangate trek during the rainy season. This is because crossing the Apacheta pass on the second day in the afternoon can be dangerous due to lightning strikes on the mountain. Instead, we only offer the 4-day Ausangate trek during the rainy season, as you hike only in the morning.

Is Water Provided During The Hike?

Yes, we provide water three times a day—after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We filter, boil, and cool the water before refilling your bottles to ensure it’s safe to drink. We recommend bringing a 2-liter bottle. Please note that water is not included on the first day until lunch, so make sure to bring 2 liters of water from Cusco for the first part of the trek.

Can I Change My Departure Date After Booking?

Yes, you can change your departure date, but you must notify us at least 48 hours in advance. Last-minute changes are not allowed.

Do I Need To Bring My Passport For The Ausangate 3-Day Trek?

Bringing your passport is not mandatory. However, if you want a Rainbow Mountain stamp on your passport, you’ll need to bring it. The stamp costs 2 soles.

What Are the Toilet Facilities Like?

During the three-day Ausangate trek, it is important to note that there are no permanent toilet facilities available along the route. As a result, hikers will need to rely on nature for their bathroom needs, typically seeking privacy behind rocks or patches of grass. To maintain cleanliness and minimize environmental impact, it is essential to bring your own toilet paper and carry plastic bags to properly dispose of waste. These precautions help ensure that the trail remains pristine for others. However, to provide greater convenience and comfort during your journey, our team supplies a portable toilet that will be set up at each campsite. This means you will have access to a hygienic and private option exclusively at the campsites, ensuring a more enjoyable and environmentally responsible trekking experience.

How Many Kilometers Is Your 3-Day Ausangate Trek?

You will walk approximately 40 kilometers (24.85 miles) during the 3-day Ausangate trek.

Are There Any Dangerous Animals On The Ausangate Trek?

The area is home to mountain lions, but they are very shy and usually avoid people. There are very few of them because local communities often kill them to protect their alpacas and llamas. Mountain lions are at risk of disappearing in the region.

Do I Need Travel Insurance For The Ausangate Trek?

Yes, having travel insurance is very important. If you need an evacuation or medical assistance, it can be expensive, but insurance will cover the costs. Since you will reach an altitude of 5,000 meters, make sure your insurance policy includes coverage for high-altitude activities.

How Many People Will Be In Our Group?

The group size is limited to a maximum of 8 people.

Is There Electricity During The Ausangate Trek?

There is no electricity available during the 3-day Ausangate hike. However, some local homes may have solar panels provided by the Peruvian government, which generate limited electricity.

What Happens If I Get Sick During The Trek?

If you feel unwell while trekking, our team is ready to help. Depending on your location, we will evacuate you to the nearest town. For instance, if you get sick on the first day, we’ll take you to Tinki, the closest town, and then arrange transport back to Cusco. On the second and third days, Alqatari village will be the nearest evacuation point, and we’ll then proceed to Cusco.

How Many Days Should I Acclimatize Before The Ausangate 3-Day Tour?

It’s highly recommended to spend at least three days acclimatizing to the altitude before starting the 3-day Rainbow Mountain trek. The hike begins at 4,400 meters and reaches a peak of 5,036 meters, making it a tough high-altitude challenge. Proper acclimatization reduces the risk of altitude sickness and helps you enjoy the trek more comfortably.

How Difficult Is The Rainbow Mountain 3-Day Trek?

The Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain 3-day trek is challenging and requires good physical fitness. You’ll hike at altitudes above 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), where the thin air can make breathing harder. The trail includes steep climbs and uneven paths, with some sections being particularly tough. While the distance isn’t very long, the high altitude, changing weather, and rough terrain make this trek more demanding than usual hikes.

What Time Will We Reach The Rainbow Mountain Summit?

On the third day, we’ll wake up at 4:00 AM and leave the campsite by 4:30 AM. The hike to Rainbow Mountain takes about three hours, so we’ll arrive around 8:00 AM. Faster hikers might reach by 7:30 AM, while a slower pace could extend the arrival time to 8:30 AM.

Can I Stay In The Sacred Valley For My Ausangate Trek (3 Days)?

It’s not recommended to stay in the Sacred Valley for your 3-day trek to Rainbow Mountain because it is at a lower altitude than Cusco and won’t help you adjust to the elevation. A better option is to stay in the Sacred Valley on the first day and then return to Cusco to prepare for the trek. Staying in the Sacred Valley also means your pickup time will be earlier, at 3 AM, and you’ll need to pay an additional $30 for pickup from this location.

Can I Rent A Horse At The Trailhead For The Ausangate 3-Day Trek?

You cannot rent a horse at the trailhead because the horses are usually grazing far away in the mountains. It’s highly recommended to book a horse in advance to ensure it’s available for your trek.

When Is The Best Time To Hike The Ausangate Trek (3 Days)?

The best time to hike Ausangate is from April to November during the dry season. This time of year usually offers clear skies, allowing you to enjoy the vibrant, colorful landscapes. From December to March, the rainy season brings cloudy weather, snow, and mist, which can hide the views and make the trail muddy and harder to hike.

Is It Cold During The Ausangate 3-Day Hike?

Yes, it can get very cold, especially before sunrise and after sunset, with temperatures often dropping to 2°C. At night, it can be even colder, sometimes reaching -7°C. It’s essential to pack warm clothing to stay comfortable during these colder hours.

Are There Any Age Restrictions For The 3-Day Ausangate Tour?

There’s no official age limit for the tour, but it’s recommended that children be at least 8 years old. Younger children may struggle with the cold and altitude sickness. If you plan to bring a child, make sure they dress warmly and spend at least three days in Cusco beforehand to acclimatize.

How Far In Advance Should I Book The Ausangate Trek?

For the 3-day Rainbow Mountain trek, it’s best to book at least a week in advance. However, during the busy season (May to August), you should book at least a month ahead, as guides may be fully booked. If you’re booking at the last minute, contact us, and we’ll do our best to include you in an existing group.

Do I Need Extra Money For The Hike?

Yes, it’s a good idea to bring cash for the 3-day Ausangate tour. On the first day, local people come to sell handmade items, and cash is the only payment option. On the third day at Rainbow Mountain, you’ll find vendors selling drinks, snacks, and beer, which also require cash. At the end of the trek, you can tip the horseman, cook, and guide if you wish, though tipping is optional.

Can I Book A Private Tour Instead Of Joining A Group?

Yes, private tours can be arranged for the 3-day Rainbow Mountain trek. Contact us through the “Contact Us” page to request a quote for a private tour.

Can I Charge My Devices During The 3-Day Rainbow Mountain Tour?

There are no charging stations available during the 3-day Ausangate trek. To keep your devices powered, bring a fully charged portable power bank. The only chance to charge devices is in our van, so plan ahead to ensure your devices are functional throughout the trip.

Is The 3-Day Ausangate Tour Safe?

The 3-day trek to Rainbow Mountain is generally safe for prepared travelers. The high altitude (up to 5,040 meters or 16,535 feet) can cause altitude sickness, so it’s important to spend a few days acclimating in Cusco before the hike. With proper fitness, gear, and hydration, the challenging trails are manageable.

How Many Days Should I Acclimate Before Hiking The Ausangate Trek?

Spend at least three days in Cusco before starting the 3-day Rainbow Mountain hike. This allows your body to adjust to the high altitude, reducing the risk of altitude sickness and ensuring a safer experience. Even if you’re coming from a high-altitude location, one rest day in Cusco is still recommended to help you recover and prepare for the trek.

Can I Still Join The 3-Day Ausangate Trek If I’m Afraid Of Heights?

On the first two days, the paths are wide and safe, so it’s easy for everyone. On the third day, after crossing the Warmisaya Pass, the path gets narrower and can be tricky. Although the trail looks scary, it doesn’t drop straight down; it slopes down gently. Still, if you’re afraid of heights, this part can be scary, so it’s important to stay calm and careful.

Can My 65-Year-Old Family Members Do This Trek?

We’ve had people aged 50 to 65 who were active and healthy do the trek. However, if your family members don’t usually hike, we recommend the easier 4-day Ausangate trek. They should also check with their doctor before going, especially since the trek reaches a high altitude of 5,040 meters.

Can You Take Me To The Airport After The 3-Day Trek?

Yes, we can drop you off at the airport after your 3-day trek. The airport is on the way out of the city, so you’ll be the first to be dropped off, making it easy for you to go straight to the airport.

Can I Rent A Horse Halfway Through The Trek?

No, you can’t rent a horse halfway through because there are no horses available there. You’ll need to arrange to rent a horse in advance if you want one.

Can I Rent A Horse For Just One Day?

Unfortunately, you can’t rent a horse for just one day. The local people don’t want to bring a horse from far away for such a short time.

Can I Rent Camping Gear In Cusco If I Don’t Have Good Equipment?

Yes, you can rent camping gear in Cusco, including sleeping bags, on Proveedoras Street. Make sure to rent a sleeping bag that can handle temperatures as low as -15°C, as this is what you’ll need for the Ausangate area.

AUSANGAT TREK 3 DAYS PACKING LIST

Essentials

  • Passport: You can bring a photocopy if you want to travel light, but carrying the original is recommended if you wish to get a Rainbow Mountain stamp as a souvenir.
  • Backpack: A 21-35 liter backpack is ideal for carrying essentials during the trek. Ensure it has compression straps to minimize weight stress and improve comfort.
  • Waterproof Backpack Cover: Protects your backpack and its contents from rain and moisture, keeping everything dry during the trek.

Clothing

  • Underwear: Bring 3 pairs of breathable, sports-style underwear for comfort and hygiene during the trek.
  • Bathing Suit: Necessary if you plan to enjoy any thermal springs or water activities on the first day in Upis campsite.
  • Sports Bra (for ladies): Provides support and comfort during physical activity and long trekking days.
  • Base Layer: Lightweight, moisture-wicking tops and bottoms for warmth and comfort as the first layer.
  • Trekking T-Shirt: Lightweight, quick-drying shirts, ideally made of synthetic or merino wool material.
  • Rain Jacket: A waterproof and windproof jacket to keep you dry in case of sudden rain.
  • Insulated Jacket: Essential for cold mornings and evenings; a down or synthetic insulated jacket works well.
  • Fleece Jacket: A mid-layer to provide additional warmth during colder parts of the trek.
  • Trekking Pants: Comfortable, breathable, and durable pants designed for hiking. Convertible pants (with zip-off legs) are useful for variable weather.
  • Pajamas: Comfortable sleepwear for overnight stays, ensuring rest after a long day of trekking.
  • Gloves: Insulated gloves to keep your hands warm in cold conditions, especially at high altitudes.
  • Sun Hat: A wide-brimmed hat to protect you from intense sun exposure at high altitudes.
  • Headband or Beanie: A headband for warmth and a beanie for cold weather to keep your head and ears warm.
  • Neck Gaiter: Versatile protection for your neck and face from cold, wind, or sun.

Footwear

  • Trekking Boots: Sturdy, waterproof, and broken-in boots with good ankle support for the rocky and uneven terrain.
  • Camping Shoes: Lightweight and comfortable shoes to wear at the campsite after trekking.
  • Hiking Socks: Moisture-wicking socks, preferably merino wool, to keep your feet dry and prevent blisters.
  • Gaiters: Protect your lower legs and boots from mud, water, and debris on the trail.

Sleeping and Camping Gear

  • Sleeping Bag: A high-quality, insulated sleeping bag rated for sub-zero temperatures to ensure warmth at night.
  • Trekking Poles: Adjustable and lightweight poles to provide stability and reduce strain on knees during steep ascents and descents.
  • Camping Pillow: A compact, inflatable, or compressible pillow for added sleeping comfort.

Accessories

  • Sunglasses: UV-protective glasses to shield your eyes from the intense high-altitude sun.
  • Headlamp: A hands-free light source for early morning or evening activities. Bring extra batteries.
  • Water Bottle or Camel Bag: A refillable bottle or hydration system with at least a 2-liter capacity to stay hydrated.
  • Camera: To capture the breathtaking scenery and memories of the trek.
  • Trekking Towel: A quick-drying microfiber towel for personal hygiene or cleaning purposes.
  • Cash: Small denominations of cash (Peruvian Sol) for tips, snacks, or souvenirs.
  • Portable Power Bank: A reliable power source to recharge electronic devices, such as your phone or camera.
  • Waterproof Ziplock Bag: Protects important items like electronics, documents, or food from getting wet.

Health and Hygiene

  • General Medication: Personal prescription medications, pain relievers, anti-diarrheal tablets, altitude sickness medication, and any other specific needs.
  • First Aid Kit: A compact kit with bandages, antiseptics, pain relievers, and any personal necessities.
  • Blister Plasters: Essential for preventing or treating blisters caused by trekking boots.

Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and Toothpaste: Travel-sized toothpaste for portability. Consider a compact toothbrush with a protective cover.
  • Biodegradable Soap and Shampoo: Small, travel-sized bottles or solid soap bars to minimize waste. Use products safe for the environment.
  • Sunscreen (High SPF): Broad-spectrum sunscreen to protect against strong UV rays at high altitudes.
  • Lip Balm with SPF: To prevent chapped lips caused by cold and sun exposure.
  • Deodorant: Opt for a small, travel-sized stick or cream.
  • Moisturizer: A small, all-purpose moisturizer for face and hands.
  • Wet Wipes: Biodegradable wet wipes for quick cleaning, as showers may not be available.
  • Toilet Paper: A compact roll or tissue pack. Be prepared to pack out used toilet paper where required.
  • Hand Sanitizer: A travel-sized bottle for maintaining hygiene.
  • Feminine Hygiene Products (if applicable): Include menstrual cups or tampons, and bring disposal bags.
  • Small Towel: Quick-drying microfiber towel.
  • Comb or Hairbrush: A compact option.
  • Mirror: Optional but useful.
Our Ausangate trek 3 day video

Here are our full 3 days/2 nights Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain video, with unseen footage! Hope you enjoy…

ausangate trek 3 day video
what makes us different
Satellite phone included

The Ausangate region is a remote place with no signal, so we chose to buy a satellite phone. For our 3-day trek in Ausangate, our guide will have a satellite phone with them to guarantee communication if there are any emergencies.

ausangate trek 3 day mountain cabin
Cabins and huts included

In the Ausangate area, it gets very cold with strong winds, rain, and snow. Especially in the rainy season, there’s daily rain and snow. That’s why we have cabins and Mountain Huts at the camp to keep you warm and comfortable during meals, ensuring safety from the cold.

ausangate trek 2 day storage
we store your belongings

We provide a place where you can leave your extra bags safely during the 3-day Ausangate trek at no cost. Our storage area keeps your things safe, so you can relax and enjoy your trip without stressing about your belongings.

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