Leaving Cusco, the morning will be spent on a scenic 5-hour bus ride as far as the village of Tinqui, where our mule drivers will be waiting for us. Our trek begins with a gentle ascent as we head around the base of Mount Ausangate (6372 meters / 20,900 feet). After a good lunch, we will hike for another 3 or 4 hours, gaining altitude and covering a total distance of approximately 10 kilometers. As we walk, we will encounter local farmers working their crops using traditional methods, and pass herds of alpaca and vicuña in their natural habitat. By mid-afternoon, we will arrive at our first camp, close to the natural hot springs of Upis.

Camp at Upis

Today's hike will take us close to the majestic glaciers of the sacred peak of Ausangate, as we ascend to Arapa Pass (4700 meters). From the pass, we will descend to the high plateau and the lakes of Pucacocha, Vinacocha, and Hatuncocha. Today’s hike offers spectacular views of the summit and its glaciers. In the afternoon we will cross Apacheta Pass (5050 meters), where we will be met by truly stunning views of the nearby glacier. We will camp for the night on the shores of Lake Ausangatecocha.

Camp at Ausangatecocha

After enjoying a breakfast surrounded by fantastic scenery, we will begin our ascent to the highest point of the trek at Palomani Pass (5100 meters). This is a strenuous climb, but our efforts will be rewarded by the panoramic views of Lake Ausangatecocha and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. After lunch, we will descend into the valley before climbing once more for about an hour to the grasslands at Champa Pampa. Here it is possible to view large herds of alpacas and observe vizcachas (a rabbit-like animal related to the chinchilla) among the rocks.

Camp at Chilcapinaya

In the morning we will climb to the fourth and final pass on our route, at 5050 meters. On the way, we will be able to enjoy fantastic views of the surrounding snow-covered mountains. After stopping to rest and enjoy the scenery from the pass, we will embark on the long, gradual descent. During this descent, there will be plenty of time to enjoy the high Andean landscapes, as we pass beautiful glacial lakes and herds of alpacas, on the way to our final camp at Pachcanta. Arriving at the campsite, there will be time to relax in the natural hot springs, from where there are splendid views of majestic Mount Ausangate. In the evening, our meal will consist of a traditional Peruvian “pachamanca”; typical local ingredients cooked in the earth.

Camp at Pacchanta

After an excellent breakfast, we will begin the undemanding 3-hour hike to the village of Tinki, where we will say goodbye to our mule drivers before boarding our bus for the return journey to Cusco. In the city you will be escorted to your hotel.

2024 cost per person in US dollars

Departure on Mondays