Ausagate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 2D/1N
Duration
2D/1N
Difficulty
Challenging
Language
Español / Ingles
Max. Altitude
5,100 msnm
Ausangate is the tallest mountain of the Cusco region (just under 21,000 ft. elevation) and is part of the Cordillera Vilcanota Range. Refreshingly off the standard tourist path lies mountains – home for this gorgeous spectacle of colored peak, located high above mountains.
This trek will take you about 2 days hike and is still a hidden treasure. Enjoy the amazing colors of the mountains before they are discovered by the public.
Prices
we will pick you up from your hotel at 7:30am and head to the Southeast of Cusco. We will start this journey by visiting one of the most beautiful churches of the andes “Andahuaylillas” considered the sistine chapel of America. It was built at the end of 16th century and is a true gemof baroque art in the andes.
After this we will continue to another attraction on this journey the Pitumarca bridge, made in inca time with Stone.
Arriving time to our trail head will be around midday to the community of Quesheuno, where we will have lunch prepared by master chef, and then we will start the 3-hours walk to our camp located in Ananta at 4715 meters above sea level and 15,469.16 feet. Our hosts will be the inhabitants of this Andean community, who are alpaca and llama farmers and accustomed to the extreme cold and loneliness of the mountain. We will spend the night in our tents. And we finally will enjoy our delicious dinner.
Note: we suggest very warm clothes and sleeping bags suitable for 15 degrees C, as the temperature usually drops to at least – 10 degrees C in this place.
Trek Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Ausagate, Peru
- Hiking time: 3 hours
- Transport time: 4 hours
- Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural – History
- Start/End Time: Pickup is at 6.00 am from your hotel and you will be finishing the Hike at 4.30 pm
- Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
- Starting Altitude: 4515 m /14,812 feet
- Climate: Very Cold
- Total, Walking Distance: 5 km / 3.10ml
- Highest Altitude: 4715 meters / 15,469.16 feet
- Overall Difficulty: Dificult – challeging
wake up time will be at 5:00am we start the day very early, so we can have breakfast and get ready for the 2 hours and half walk up to 5100 meters above sea level, where we will enjoy the impressive view of the rainbow mountain, a marvel of nature. We will take spectacle picture and film the landscape and enjoy the view. Omce we will be ready, we will continue hiking down for another 3 hours to enjoy the the empressive red valley and then continue to the end of our trek, where our transport will be waiting. We will have lunch before returning to cusco we will be at your hotel aproximately 4.00pm.
Trek Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Ausagante, Peru
- Hiking time: 4.30 hours
- Transport time: 3 hours
- Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural beauty – History
- Start/End Time: starting at 5 am and you should be back to Cuzco hotel at 4.30 pm
- Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
- Starting Altitude: 4715 meters / 15,469.16 feet
- Climate: Cold – Wenddy
- Total, Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 ml
- Highest Altitude: 5100 meters / 16,732 feet
- Overall Difficulty: Dificult – Moderate
Included
- Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide throughout the trek.
- Official Ausangate Trek trail permit to Rainbow Mountain.
- Rainbow Mountain entrance ticket.
- Transportation from Cusco to the trailhead.
- Private transportation back to your hotel in Cusco.
- Professional trekking chef (Master Chef).
- Healthy organic and energetic breakfast.
- Organic buffet lunch.
- Organic buffet dinner (when applicable).
- Snacks and drinking water during the trek.
Not Included
- Trekking poles.
- Sleeping bags.
- Air mattresses.
- Tips for muleteers, tour guide, and driver (optional and voluntary).
- Personal expenses and extra services not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Arrive in Cusco at least one or two days before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude.
- Bring your original passport, as it may be required during the trek.
- Wear warm, layered clothing suitable for high-altitude conditions.
- Use comfortable hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
- Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho at all times.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
- Stay well hydrated and drink water frequently during the hike.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before the trek.
- Bring a small backpack for personal items and daily essentials.
- Carry some cash in Peruvian soles for tips and small purchases.
- Consider renting trekking poles for better stability on steep sections.
- Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking activities.
- Follow your guide’s instructions and respect nature and local communities.
The Ausangate route to Rainbow Mountain offers a more scenic and less crowded experience compared to the classic route. It passes through remote Andean landscapes, traditional communities, and high-altitude valleys before reaching Rainbow Mountain. This option is ideal for travelers looking for a more authentic trekking experience, with better views and fewer tourists, while still enjoying professional support and comfort.
This trek is considered moderate due to the high altitude, which can exceed 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). While no technical climbing skills are required, good physical condition and proper acclimatization are strongly recommended. The pace is gradual, with regular breaks, and our guides provide assistance throughout the hike to ensure safety and enjoyment for all participants.
The best time to hike Rainbow Mountain using the Ausangate route is from April to October, during the dry season. Weather conditions are more stable, and visibility is usually excellent. June to August are the most popular months, so early booking is advised. March and November are good alternatives with fewer travelers, though occasional rain may occur.
You should bring warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots with good grip, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A small daypack for personal items and water is recommended. Trekking poles, sleeping bags, and air mattresses are not included but can be rented if needed. Carrying some cash for tips and small expenses is also advised.
Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, medical assistance, and emergency evacuation. Although our team carries first-aid equipment and provides professional support, having insurance offers peace of mind when hiking in remote mountain areas.
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Posted on Bowen OVerified Recomiendo Sara y Machulas Journey. Mi guía, Sara, es muy paciente, conocedora y divertida. Ella fue muy comprensiva con todos en nuestro grupo y se aseguró de que todas nuestras solicitudes fueran atendidas. Por ejemplo, cuidó a una persona que tenía problemas estomacales: le proporcionó sales de hidratación, se aseguró de que tuviera comidas alternativas y permaneció con ellas durante todo el viaje. También le encanta bromear con todos, incluyendo el grupo, chefs y porteadores, lo que hizo que la experiencia fuera muy memorable y divertida. También evaluó bien nuestras habilidades grupales y manejó las expectativas a lo largo de todo el año. Recomiendo Sara y Machulas Journey.Posted on Caitlyn KVerified Inka Trail 4d/3n con Sara Sara una guía increíble. Ella es increíblemente conocedora de la historia, la naturaleza, la cultura y más, y respondió a todas las preguntas que hicimos. Además de eso, era amable, comprensiva y muy divertida. Ella ayudó a d con cada pregunta y problema antes de que nos dimos cuenta de que el problema estaba allí. ¡Cualquier excursión con Sarah será increíble!Posted on chapelhill2004Verified More than guiding—LIFE SAVING David was the most incredible guide. I was very ill prepared for this trek. David set a pace I could manage; and he made accommodations for transit while still pushing me to challenge myself. He basically carried me (and my bag) up the first part of the mountain because I was struggling to keep up. He didn’t shame me or rush me. He just adjusted to ensure that me and other members had a good trek. He knew the whole path and town of Cusco like the back of his hand. I’ve told several of my friends to consider him for their upcoming trips.Posted on Cam ClarkVerified Diversión y aventura con un verdadero experto regional Tuve un tiempo INCREÍBLE con Davíd. Él es tan, tan conocedor de la zona — sus plantas, historia y gente — y realmente apasionado por el desarrollo de la región de Cusco también. Es hilarante, amable, paciente y un gran guía en general. Habla muy bien Inglés, y está muy contento de enseñar quechua también. Lo recomiendo altamente!Posted on G SVerified Caminata fenomenal a Salkantay inkachiriaska pass Increíble experiencia con el equipo de Machulas. Sara nuestro guía y su equipo, incluyendo Sekar y Félix hicieron que nuestra caminata fuera muy agradable. Contrataría a su equipo para futuras excursiones en Perú.Posted on Vibhas DVerified Increíble caminata por el sendero inca! Acabo de regresar de la caminata de 4 días por el sendero inca con nuestra guía Sara (Sarita). Ha sido una experiencia absolutamente increíble, ha sido todo lo que esperábamos y mucho más. El sendero en sí, las montañas, las vistas, y finalmente llegar a Machu Picchu como la niebla de la mañana temprano se levantó para revelar la ciudad perdida! Caminar por el sendero con Sara fue súper. Sara es una guía muy conocedora - ha crecido a lo largo del sendero, caminado por el sendero cientos de veces, y después de haber estudiado historia, fue una gran fuente de información y orientación en el sendero. Sara gestionó todo el grupo súper bien - nosotros los visitantes y el equipo de apoyo: gestión de horarios, coordinación de actividades y gestión del grupo de senderismo según las habilidades de cada excursionista. Sara claramente es muy popular en el sendero también - por lo que muchos de los lugareños parecían conocerla. También es divertida y llena de bromas. Los niños disfrutaron mucho caminando con Sara. ¡Recomiendo Sara como guía para tu caminata por el sendero Inca!Posted on nickfellowVerified Notable ruta fuera de la red a Machu Picchu Este tour único “Salkantay Plus” fue una experiencia extremadamente memorable. La caminata es físicamente exigente, pero el resultado es altamente gratificante. Sara, nuestra guía, era conocedora y profesional. Ella adaptó la experiencia a las necesidades y habilidades de nuestro grupo. Trabajó en estrecha colaboración con César, el maestro chef, y Félix, el luchador de caballos. Una vez que llegamos a Machu Picchu, Sara demostró ser extremadamente conocedora de la historia del sitio. Recomendaría esta aventura a cualquiera que busque un camino único, fuera de la red a Machu Picchu.Posted on Cameron BVerified Salkantay Trek Experience julio 2025 David era un guía excepcional, increíblemente conocedor de la historia inca y apasionado por compartir su cultura con nosotros. Las habitaciones eran excelentes, y aunque la caminata fue un desafío, las impresionantes vistas y la gran compañía hicieron que valiera la pena. Recomendaría encarecidamente este viaje!Posted on girl81408Verified El Camino Inca a Machu Picchu vale la IT David fue un excelente guía que hizo que toda la caminata por el Camino Inca se sintiera segura y agradable. Sus explicaciones del ITes fueron detalladas y minuciosas, y siempre se tomaba el tiempo para responder a cada pregunta — nos encantó cuando dijo: “¡Las preguntas están incluidas en este tour!” 🤣Más allá del itinerario, la interacción con David fue fantástica. Nos divertimos charlando, jugando y compartiendo una experiencia de senderismo realmente memorable juntos. Si planeas visitar IT Machu Picchu, te recomiendo hacer el Camino Inca — es increíblemente gratificante llegar a Machu Picchu a pie. ¡Y tener a David como guía es algo que recomiendo encarecidamente!Posted on floorioVerified Wij hebben de Lares trek gedaan en het was een geweldige ervaring. Ayde Carrion was een sterke,zorgzame,aardige en enthousiaste gids. Zij had veel kennis over de trektocht en de historie van de incacultuur en queasy gebruiken. Zij hielp waar nodig en was altijd stipt op tijd aanwezig en betrokken.Zij stond met haar team klaar toen mijn vrouw last had van hoogteziekte. Zelfs midden in de nacht kwam Ayde Carrion uit haar bed om te helpen met een Peruaans geneesmiddel wat hielp. Ook het eten werd er geheel op aangepast dankzij haar en haar team. Het was bijzonder om te zien hoe zij haar team aanstuurde en hoe alle mannen naar haar luisterden. Ook was zij een prima motivator tijdens de tocht.Wij hebben genoten van de fijne gesprekken, de spellen, het tekenen en wat er op ons pad kwam. Het was een onvergetelijke trekking.
Posted on Michael STrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. It was a pleasure having David as our guide through Machu Picchu. He was very attentive and funny. There was a lot we learned from this once and a life time trip, and we were very fortunate to have David lead us.Posted on Logan HartrumTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. The tour guide made this trip. I would say that Aydee is the best guide in all of Peru. Truly an incredible experience because of her and the poters. Machu Picchu would not have been the same. Ayden really gave us the energy to wake up everyday exited for the new journeys .Posted on Kainoa HartrumTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Aydee was the best!! Best tour guide EVER! I not only had a great time on the hike, but I learned a lot as well. Aydee was kind, helpful, and externally knowledgeable about everything along the trail. 1000% recommend.Posted on Aaron SpringerTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. Beste tour wij ooit hebben gedaan dankzij Aydee!Posted on Jessica CalvanoTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. If you are looking for a custom trip then look no further! We went with Machulas Journey for a truly customized trip and it was Epic! I will return soon to enjoy so much more of Peru!Posted on Diana PervanTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David and his staff were AMAZING!!!Posted on Matt MTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. AMAZING. Thank you David for the best trip of my life. Would highly recommend to anyone wanting to see this great place.Posted on Joey DeeganTrustindex verifies that the original source of the review is Google. David was an amazing guide! We had a great time.