06/10/2017
Partial Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain Trek (4D/3N)
The crown jewel of the Andes. This isn't a trek for all, but those who want to get off the beaten path will find this an experience of a lifetime. You will cross 4 mountain passes, experience diverse landscapes, enter into remote Andean culture and see unforgettable night skys. And of course you will experience the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain and Red Mountain valleys- some of the most beautiful, natural landscapes in all of South America and the world. Come explore the Andes with us!
Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui – Upis
Distance: 7km/ 4.35 miles
Elevation: 4100m/ 13,450ft
Hiking time: 3 hours
We leave Cusco at 6am by private van to the the start of our trek at the base of the impressive Ausangate Mountain. From Tinqui we hike though local villages with several stream crossings until we reach the small settlement of Upis and your first hot springs of the journey (10 soles) Here camp will already be set up and you have the option of soaking your muscles to prepare yourself the the days to come. Our chef will prepare lunch and dinner and you will get your first taste of the Ausangate night sky- a sight you will remember forever.
Day 2: Upis – Puca Cocha
Distance: 15km
Elevation: 4300m/ 14,100ft - 4600m/ 15,90ft
Hiking time: 7-8 hours
With one pass to cross today, we wake everyone up at 5am with coca tea brought to your tent and you will fuel up with a big breakfast for the day ahead. The morning starts with a hike up Arapa pass (4958m) before a slight decline to our lunch spot. After lunch we continue on to Lake Pucacocha- a deep blue lake and a perfect stop for a break. Along the way you will see local herders and llamas, Ausangate mountain to your left, and you will have your expert guide explaining the history of the locals and talking about the landscape along the way. If you're lucky you may see condors and vicuñas at our campsite where you will be surrounded by high mountains and incredible hanging glaciers- watch for the Ausangate glacier crashing into the lake below! As always camp will be set up for you to change and rest your weary legs and dinner will be prepared.
Day 3: Puca Cocha — Ananta
Distance: 14km/ 8.7 miles
Elevation: 4600m/ 15,90ft - 4500m/ 14,760ft
Hiking time: 7-8 hours
Today is difficult but short. We start with a steep ascent of Puca Cocha pass. While difficult, this pass boasts incredible views the entire way. The higher you get the more impressive the lake is below and Ausangate glacier sitting directly across from you. Take your time on this pass and enjoy the beauty around you. You will have plenty of photo opportunities as breaks will be necessary. After conquering the pass we continue through a vivid green valley with llamas grazing everywhere. As you approach our destination for the day we will have camp set up for you to enjoy your surroundings and relax.
DAY 4: Ananta — Rainbow Mountain — Qesoyuno — Cusco
Distance: 14km/ 8.7 miles
Elevation: 4600m/ 15,090ft - 4300m/ 14,100ft
Hiking time: 5-6 hours
Today is the day you’ve been waiting for. We wake you up extra early in the morning so you can be the first people to the top of the Rainbow Mountain. After a hot breakfast, and some coca tea we start with the first uphill climb- Ananta pass. Here you will see the beautiful Rainbow Mountain in the distance, but your not quite there. From here you descend to a large valley and continue walking a Peruvian flat until we are presented with one final climb to the Rainbow Mountain. Soak in the sights and enjoy what you've worked so hard for. If you’re feeling up to it, ask your guide about the Red Mountain Valley. This is an area not to be missed, but you will have to work for it if you want to see it! Located about 20 minutes from the Rainbow Mountain you can enjoy another wild view of the electric reds that make up this area.
From here we head downhill to the village of Qesoyuno where we will have lunch, say farewell to the horseman, and pack up the van before heading back to Cusco with a drop off at your hotel. We typically arrive to Cusco around 6pm.
Note: This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or other events which are beyond our control. We will always do our best to follow the itinerary as closely as possible.
WEATHER:
Weather in the Andes can be unpredictable ranging from hot and sunny to rain, wind and cold. Hikers should be prepared with proper gear and be ready for variable weather conditions throughout the day. Small changes in the itinerary are a possibility as well as trip cancellations due to bad weather. We reserve the right to cancel a trip if we feel conditions are unsafe. If this happens you will be refunded your deposit in full (see full Terms & Conditions), however trips still go out when there is rain, snow or fog. Temperatures can range from 0 degrees celcius in the morning to 15 degrees celcius in the afternoon. The sun does get intense in the afternoon and we highly recommend bringing sun protection.
ITEMS TO BRING:
DAY TREK
Day pack with Rain cover
Trekking shoes (or comfortable athletic shoes)
WARM CLOTHES
- Thermal base layer
- Fleece/ Sweater
- Insulated Jacket
- Stocking hat, gloves, scarf
Rain Jacket or Poncho
Sunhat and sunglasses
Sun cream
Lip Balm
2 Liters of water (per person- atleast!)
Personal snacks (optional)
Personal medications
Toilet paper
Camera!
MULTI-DAY TREK
Day pack with Rain cover
Trekking shoes (we recommend Gortex)
Camping shoes/ sandals- to wear in the evenings
Extra socks (wool is best)
Hiking pants and shirts- layers
WARM CLOTHES- mornings and evenings are cold
- Thermal base layer
- Fleece and Sweater
- Insulated Jacket
- Stocking hat, gloves, scarf
Rain Jacket or Poncho
Rain pants
Camping pillow
Torch/ headlamp
Sunhat and sunglasses
Sun cream
Lip Balm
Reusable water bottle or Bladder
Swimsuit/ towel- if you wish to soak in the hot springs- 10 soles per person 4/6D Ausangate & Salkantay only
Personal snacks (optional)
Personal medications
Camera/ extra battery
Cash (if you'd like to purchase souvenirs
CONSIDERATIONS:
As you embark on a trip of a lifetime, we want to make sure you are fully prepared. Our treks are challenging and often take place in rugged and isolated terrain. Hikers should be reasonably fit and healthy. Remember you are trekking at a high elevation (anywhere between 4200m (14,000ft) and 5100m (17,000ft)), you should be rested up to start this journey. We highly recommend spending at least two to three days in Cusco or similar elevation to acclimatize prior to your trek, and drink plenty of water while in elevation. If you are concerned with the altitude or have never trekked in high altitude before please consult your doctor for proper advice to prevent altitude sickness.
OPTIONAL Items to bring*
Small presents for kids of villages along the trail such as school supplies, second hand clothes, etc. (Please no candies!)
