This fully supported trek takes you right around the massif of Ausangate, at altitudes of between 3800 and 5100 metres.
You hike 80 km in 7 days and will see large herds
of domesticated camelids (llamas and alpacas) tended by the local
Quechua speaking Indians. For centuries these people have relied on the
camelids for wool, protein, transport and fuel.
As you traverse the wilderness, you may well spot some wild Andean
fauna too: viscacha (large rodent), fox, deer, vicuña (elusive wild
camelid) and the Andean condor, largest land bird in the world.
The week will be spent marvelling at the stunning scenery as you
circumnavigate the massif anti-clockwise; crossing grassy meadows,
passing cascading waterfalls and blue glacial lakes, and negotiating
some demanding high passes.
Outline Itinerary
Day 1
From Cusco we have a beautiful drive of several hours to reach the
starting point of the trek, the small highland village of Tinqui.
Camp the first night near the village, and then head south towards
the imposing form of Mount Ausangate (6372 metres).
Day 2
The second night will be spent camping near the settlement of Upis.
Day 3
On the morning of the third day you ascend to the first high pass,
(4700 metres) on the flanks of Ausangate, affording awe-inspiring
vistas of its glaciated mass.
A major provider of snowmelt waters to
lake Sabinacocha, and thence to the Sacred Valley, this giant snow
peak has for millenia been a highly revered Apu (mountain god).
Indeed, during Inca times, the Emperor would bestow huge offerings
of gold upon it in order to secure its favours. Today it is the
focal point of Qoyllor Riti, the region's foremost Indian festival.
Day 4
Today cross the Palomani Pass (5100 metre).
Day 5
Today you cross the Campa (5000 metre) pass, level with glaciers;
from which it is possible to explore nearby ice caves.
Day 6
As you descend from the heights, you approach the tiny settlements
of Pacchanta and Yanama. Weary limbs can be soaked in thermal
springs before the final night of camping, and return the following
day to Cusco.
Day 7
Trek to Tinqui, bus back to Cusco. Hotel in Cusco.
You could extend your trip by trekking the Inca Trail or visiting the Amazon.
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.
Included Services
All meals from from lunch day 1 to lunch day 7 and cook, private transfer to the trailhead at Tinqui, domestic trasnport as listed, professional trekking guide for the entire trek, full range of equipment inc. mess tent, tables, stools, toilet tent, bi-personal sleeping tent(s), sleeping mats and kit bags, mules and muleteer(s) throughout, walkers carry only daypack
Not Included
International flights (we can look for these for you), insurance, personal items, snacks and other meals not mentioned, soft and alcoholic drinks, tips
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