Ausangate Lodge-based Trek – detailed itinerary
This stunning Ausangate trek requires you to acclimatise in Cusco or a similar high altitude area for a good 3-4 days before starting off. The hikes are about 6 hours a day, covering 15km or so.
Day 1: Cusco - Chillca
Early morning departure from Cusco (08.30 approx) along the fertile Vilcanota Valley to the town of Checacupe (1.5 hours, 100 km).
After a visit to the colonial temple of the Immaculate, we jump back into the van and start ascending the Pitumarca valley, along the spectacular Japura gorge that leads to Chillca. When we arrive we will be greeted by the community before setting off on a short and easy walk to the first “Tambo”(45 minutes).
Once at the lodge there is plenty of time to relax and enjoy the surroundings to the backdrop of music provided by the local musicians of Chillca. (L,D)
Day 2: Chillca - Machuracay
We wake early for breakfast as our hike begins at 08.30 in the wide valley of Upis. Here impressive glaciated mountains loom above the valley, offering majestic views.
The trail narrows as we make our way towards the waterfalls that tumble from from the Santa Catalina mountain. This path is mostly used by the wandering llamas of the area. When we reach the small Paloma lagoon, the countryside is dotted with these animals, along with a large number of alpacas.
After hiking past a second lagoon and crossing a series of moraines, we reach the Machuracay Tambo, located right at the bottom of the Apu Ausangate, and spend the night.(B,L,D)
Day 3: Machurcay - Anantapata
After breakfast is our first big challenge - a demanding crossing of the Palomani pass which sits at an elevation of 5,200 m. / 17,000 ft. From the top, there are great views, and then we head down to Ausangatecocha.
From here, there are tremendous views of the glaciated south face of the apu. It doesn’t end there as we continue towards the striking red sandstone formations of the Nevado del Inca.
Our Tambo for the night is Anantapata Tambo, where we enjoy a hearty meal.
Day 4: Anantapata - Huampococha
This day is a spectacular part of the trai. We hike between mountains of a myriad of colours, with red, ochre, and blue strata all shining forth.
It is an area of geological wonder and outstanding natural beauty. The fauna doesn’t disappoint either, so be on the lookout for groups of gracious vicuñas as they are frequently spotted in this isolated area.
We sleep this night in the Huampococha Tambo, in the heart of large rock formations near a lagoon where huallatas, Andean geese, make their nests.
Day 5: Huampococha - Cusco
Our last day sees us climb over the Anta pass and gradually make our descent from the mountains.
The landscape changes quickly as the red sandstone formations are followed by limestone, forming a one of a kind stone forest, and a perfect habitat for vizcacha, members of the chinchilla family.
By the time we get down to the valley, our bus will be waiting for our return trip to Cusco.
Included
Bilingual guide, private transport Cusco- Chillca-Cusco, lodging in twin/double rooms with private bathroom, duffle bag (for luggage carried by horse), walking poles, all meals on the trek, first aid.
Not included
International flights, insurance, tips, personal items, laundry
We also have longer, camping-based treks around Ausangate, a Luxury Lodge trek in the Salkantay region which leads to Machu Picchu, and indeed a Luxury Inca Trail among many other Peru treks.
Please contact the office for more information.
|
