Ausangate
This five-day trek through the Cordillera Vilcanota’s rugged snow-capped peaks offers spectacular scenery and a unique encounter with life in the Andean altiplano.
Hiking completely around the mystical Mount Ausangate (6,380 m.), we camp near hot springs and glacier-fed multicolored lakes inhabited by numerous bird species, including Andean geese and the magnificent Andean Condor. We walk among herds of llamas and alpacas in remote native Quechua villages and appreciate the colorful clothing and daily rhythm of the local inhabitants.
Sections of the high plains in this area also provide the natural habitats for the marmot-like vizcacha and the rare vicuña, a wild relative of the alpaca and llama. With three high passes over 5,000m, spectacular glacial views, and unmolested beauty and solitude, this is a superb trip for seasoned trekkers who don’t mind a challenge and love a true outdoor adventure.
Conditions are tough but the scenery superb; emerald green lakes, creeping glaciers, ice caves and hot springs abound.
Ancient Quechua culture
Because this is a remote area, historically isolated from external influence, it has preserved many pre-colonial customs.
The native inhabitants are Quechua Indians. They wear traditional dress and their livelihood depends on tending herds of alpaca and llama and cultivating potatoes.
Your trek ends in Cusco and you can choose to add on an optional visit to Machu Picchu by train.
This trek requires pre acclimatisation. We recommend spending several days pre-trek at altitude or you can choose to do acclimatisation walks around Cusco. You could extend your trip by trekking the Inca Trail.
Check out our Peru group trips, or our many tailor made Peru options. You can always contact the office for more information on tailor made and group options.
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Itinerary |
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Day 1 |
Cusco- Tinqui - Upis (L/D) |
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Day 2 |
Upis to Lake Pukacocha (B/L/D) |
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Day 3 |
Pukacocha to Uchuy Finaya (B/L/D) |
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Day 4 |
Uchuy Finaya to Lake Minaparayo (B/L/D) |
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Day 5 |
Lake Minaparayoc to Tinqui to Cusco (B/L) |
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Day 6 |
Optional day or overnight trip to Machu Picchu (extra cost) and fully guided tour |
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Included
Transport to and from the trail in private vehicle, all camping and cooking equipment including mats but not sleeping bag, spacious two person tents, dining, cook and toilet tent, first-aid kit including oxygen, professional English and Spanish speaking guides trained in first-aid and C.P.R., mules, cook team, all meals as indicated in the itinerary. |
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Not included
International flights, internal flights, Machu Picchu visit, personal belongings, sleeping bag, personal expenses and tips. |
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