Classic Ausangate Trek 5 Days

Visit places

We’ll wake up early and savor a delicious breakfast in the middle of the cold, high mountains and then begin walking for about two and a half hours through a beautiful, picturesque Andean valley towards the Arapa pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft). The spectacular Ausangate glacier will be by our side the whole way.

From the top of the pass, the beauty of the landscape multiplies, and you’ll be blown away by the natural beauty of this part of the world. You’ll be able to observe the sheer size of the mountain range and if you’re lucky, the solemn flight of the condor—the largest flying bird in the world. Our guide will explain a little more about the impressive local flora and fauna as you hike this stretch to help you know more about the area you’re walking through.

Then, we will begin a descent to the beautiful crystalline Yanacocha lagoon (black lagoon); afterward, we will follow the trail for another hour until we reach Hatun Pucacocha (4,500 m / 14,763 ft) to appreciate the scenery and enjoy its glistening waters against the snow-capped mountains.

Later, we will explore the surrounding lagoons and relax with a delicious mate. In the evening, a nutritious dinner will be waiting for you to finally head to your campsite to rest and regain your energy.

Visit places

Just like every other morning, you’ll get a fantastic boost of energy to start the day, thanks to a delicious breakfast. Today’s hike begins ascending for two and a half hours to the Ausangate Pass (4,750 m / 15,584 ft). From there, the immensity of the mountains will definitely surpass all your expectations.

We’ll continue the route downhill for an hour to the Ausangatecocha lagoon. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy your lunch in the middle of an immense landscape—not a bad way to spend your lunch break!

Later, we’ll ascend for around two hours until we reach the Palomani pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft), the highest point of the entire route. After a short rest and enjoying some more astounding views, we’ll walk for another hour and a half until we reach the small community of Huchuy Phinaya (4,650 m / 15,256 ft).

We have a lot of respect and consideration for the people of Huchuy Phinaya, who maintain ancient traditions to this day. Learn from them and their admirable lifestyle in complete connection with Mother Nature (Pachamama) and how they respect and live in harmony with her.

Today was the most challenging day, but it was worth it for a real connection with the Andes and Mother Earth. We’ll have a gentle ascend of 2 hours to Sorapata (4,700 m / 15,419 ft), where our camp will be ready and waiting for your arrival. After a delicious dinner, a peaceful night’s rest awaits.

Visit places

After another delicious and revitalizing breakfast, we’ll begin our uphill walk over two and a half hours toward Jampa pass.

We’ll cross the Jampa pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft) from where you can appreciate the detail of several snow-covered mountains. Remember to always have your camera handy. Then we’ll begin our descent for around three hours to our lunch spot at our campsite in Pacchanta. On the way, we’ll connect to the trail of the classical tour of seven lakes.

Next to one of the beautiful and mystical lakes of the place (Qomercocha, Orco Otorongo, or China Otorongo), we’ll have the option to perform a small ceremony on gratitude to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the surrounding mountains, especially the great Ausangate glacier who’s watched us the entire route.

After our lunch, we’ll have the afternoon free and get the opportunity to revitalize and heal our tired bodies in medicinal hot springs.

We’ll finish the day satisfying our taste buds and hungry bodies with another delicious dinner. You really will be astounded by the delicacies our talented chef conjures up in the mountains.

Visit places

The final day is here, and your epic adventure comes to a close today—but not before an optional last visit to the hot springs and a fantastic day on the trail.

After our last breakfast, we’ll start a three-hour walk to the community of Tinke (3,800 m / 12,467ft). On the way, we’ll visit an Andean family’s home to learn about several traditions that have been kept alive for generations in the middle of the mountains.

Once in Tinke, we’ll have lunch and say goodbye to the entire trekking support team. At the end of this stretch, our private transport will be waiting to take us back to the city of Cusco. Enjoy looking out the window at the mountains and lagoons during this final drive. We’ll drop you off at the door of your accommodation around 6:00 pm.