Ausangate Trek 3 days with Rainbw mt + Upis and 7 lakes Hike included

Duration

3 Days / 2 Nights

Type of Tour

Adventure, hike

Difficulty

Challenging

Gruop size

2 min. - max.

Highlights

3 days hiking in one of the most beautiful Mountain Ranges of the World.

Red Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Apacheta Pass, Apu Ausangate, Upis Lake, 7 lakes of Ausangate.

Wildlife featuring: Llamas, alpacas, vizcachas (chinchillas), Andean fox, cara cara falcon and if lucky Andean condor.

2 Campsites above 4000 m / 13123 ft.

43.38 km / 27 mi.

Overview

This 3-day trek connects in a unique route the most stunning landscapes in the Vilcanota Range. Starting from Llacto you will adventure into the Red Valley, the Rainbow Mountain, several mountain passes and mind-blowing lakes with glaciers in the background. Prepare to be amazed by snowcapped peaks, Andean Puna, wildlife and a challenging adventure in the heights of the Andes.

Who is this trek for?

This trek is Challenging, both for the distance and the altitudes along the route. If you are looking to experience the high mountain, the cold air coming from the towering Apus and the challenging terrain, this adventure is for you. We have designed this trek for the seasoned hikers, for those unafraid of pushing physical limits in the search of the beauty the Andes hide in its slopes.

Itinerary

Day 1. Cusco – Llaqto – Red Valley – Rainbow Mountain – Anantapata Campsite

This adventure Ausanagte Trek 3 days is all about long days in the trails. During the first day you will cover a little over 10 km, but from the very first step the landscapes are nothing but mind-blowing.

Leaving Cusco behind.

This journey starts at 6 am. Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, then you will head to the trailhead 3 hours away from Cusco. This part of the day will take you on a scenic ride over the South Valley.

There will be a stop in Cusipata for las minute shopping. If you are missing some snacks or any last-minute items before entering the mountain this is the last chance to get them. From here, the Van will continue to Llaqto, the trailhead.

First segment of the day.

The hike will start at the parking lot before the trailhead to the Rainbow Mountain, but our route is going to take you along an alternative trail to Vinicunca. Surrounding the ridge derived from Hatun Rit’Iyuq, the trail will cover approximately 5 km over the Red Valley.

This first segment starts at 4633 m / 15200 ft and will take you all the way to 4955 m / 16256 ft at the world known Rainbow Mountain. There you will make a stop to enjoy your lunch and refuel for the afternoon. You will have time for pictures and walk around the area to obvserve the magnificent Vilcanota Range.

Afternoon’s goal: to Anantapata Campsite.

5.26 km is the length of the stretch for the afternoon, it features a climb to almost 5000 m / 16404 ft at Warmisaya Pass.

This segment will take about 3 hours and will visit a couple of seasonal lakes coming from the glacier melting of Wasaqucha. From there you will start climbing up to the Warmisaya Pass, summiting this pass Takusiri will reveal in front of you. This massive snowcapped mountain reaches 5350 m / 17552 ft and will be scorting us for the rest of the day’s hike.

Around 4:30 pm you will be arriving to the Anantapata Campsite. There, the expedition team will be waiting with your tent ready. Make sure to add some layers, it will get cold pretty soon. Later in the evening, the expedition chef will call you for a hearty dinner.

Highlights of the day:

Distance: 10.64 km / 6.6 mi.
Maximum altitude: 5000 m / 16404 ft.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner.
Main attractions: Scenic ride from Cusco, Vilcanota Range, Immersion in the Andean Puna, Red Valley, Rainbow Mountain, Warmisaya Pass, Takusiri.

Day 2. Anantapata Campsite – Apacheta Pass – Upis Campsite

After a mild day on the trails, the second day promises to bring even more stunning landscapes, glaciers, mountain passes and challenging conditions on route.

Apacheta Pass.

The morning will start early, with a hot beverage served to your tent. Following, the expedition chef will serve a hearty breakfast to fuel you up for an exhausting day ahead.

The first challenge of the day will take you to the infamous Apacheta Pass at 4903 m / 16086 ft. This will be the highest point of the day and from here you will be able to spot the imposing Apu Ausangate and lakes surrounding the west face.

The next 2 hours you will descend following the valley. Along the trail you will make some stops to capture the best shots of Apu Ausangate and the lakes in its base. After the last lake you will take a break to rest and enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

Upis Lake and Campsite.

The afternoon portion of the day will take you to Upis lake. This stretch covers almost 6 km / 3.7 mi, in the north western face of Ausangate.

After the big push of the morning, the rest of the day’s trail presents mostly flat or descending terrain. This afternoon’s segment has 2 light uphill segments, the first one right after the lunch spot, then the second is a 500 m / 1640 ft to Upis Lake. Which is also a glacier fed lake. You will make a stop for pictures at this unique lake right in the base of the glacier.

To conclude the day, you will descend for another hour to Upis Campsite. There the expedition team will receive you with your tents ready. As soon as you have settled in the Chef will serve a hearty dinner.

Highlights of the day:

Distance: 16 km / 10 mi.
Maximum altitude: 4903 m / 16086 ft.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Main attractions: Apacheta Pass, Pucacocha, Upis Lake.

Day 3. Upis Campsite – 7 lakes of Ausangate – Pacchanta

The last day on this trip will start at 7:30 am. Your guide will bring a hot beverage to your tent as a wake-up call. Following this warm start to the day, the expedition team will serve a nutritious breakfast to fuel you up for the day.

The hike for the day will start around 8 am with the goal to reach Pacchanta after looping the 7 lakes of Ausangate. The first stretch of the day will go around one of the ridges derived from Apu Ausangate. This part of the hike will be the perfect introduction for the day’s theme: lakes. 4 hours over the Andean Puna with a mix of dry desertic landscapes and green swampy depressions filled with small lakes.

Around noon you will finally make it to the 7 Lakes trail, at Azulcocha. Here the expedition team will be waiting with a delicious lunch. Make sure to refuel for the afternoon and rest your legs.

7 Lakes of Ausangate

The next part of the day will be filled with highlights. The valley where the 7 lakes are located, is surrounded by the Apus Ausangate, Jampa and Hatun Punta. Hiking around this valley has a very energetic feeling as the imposing peaks offer the perfect background to the experience.

You will visit:

Male and Female Otorongos.
Azulqocha.
Alqacocha.
Pukaqocha.
Qomerqocha.
Orqoqocha.

Each one of these lakes has a distinctive coloring, due to the minerals in the soil.

Pacchanta Hot Springs

After delving into the unique beauty of the high valley, you will descend to Pacchanta. This tiny town in the base of Ausangate will be the last stop of the trek and the most rewarding one. Upon arrival you will have the chance to take a plunge in the local Hot Springs. They are sourced from naturally heated volcanic underground streams.

To wrap up the day, the expedition team will say goodbye. Perfect moment to show your gratitude to the amazing expedition team, they are the heroes that make these trips possible.

The Van will ride back to Cusco, where you will be dropped in your hotel after a 3-hour drive. You can expect to arrive around 10 pm.

Highlights of the day:

Distance: 16.02 km / 10 mi.
Maximum altitude: 4622 m / 15164 ft.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch.
Main attractions: 7 lakes of Ausangate, Pacchanta Hot Springs.

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What’s included?

Professional Guide

Experienced, English-speaking guides who are knowledgeable about the trail, local culture, and history.

Transportation

Round-trip transportation from Cusco to the start and end points of the trek.

Accommodation

Tents for overnight camping along the trek. These are usually high-quality, weather-resistant tents.

Meals

Our treks include all main meals during the trekking days (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). The food is a mix of local and international cuisine, catered to provide the energy needed for the hike.

Porters and Horsemen

Support staff to carry equipment, food, and personal belongings.

Cooking Equipment and Staff

Includes chefs who prepare meals, as well as all necessary cooking gear.

Entrance Fees

Any required entrance fees to the Ausangate site and other included attractions.

Camping Equipment

Apart from tents, this includes sleeping pads/mats, dining tents, kitchen tents, and toilet tents.

First Aid and Emergency Equipment

Guides carry a first-aid kit for basic medical situations and emergency equipment, if needed.

Water

Provision of clean drinking water for the second day.

Excludes

Travel Insurance: Highly recommended but, not included.
Airfare: Flights are not included.
Accommodation in Cusco: Hotel stays are not included
Meals in Cities: Meals in Cusco or other cities before and after the trek are not included.
Sleeping Bags: You will require you to bring your own or rent one for an additional fee.
Trekking Poles: Available for rent at an extra cost.
Personal Clothing and Gear: Hiking boots, clothing, backpacks, and other personal gear are the responsibility of the trekker.
Tips for Guides and Support Staff: Gratuity for the guides, cooks, and porters is not included and is at the discretion of the trekker.
Extra Snacks and Drinks: While main meals are included, extra snacks, alcoholic beverages, and bottled drinks are not.
Personal Expenses: Any additional expenses such as souvenirs, laundry services, or additional tours are not included.
Emergency Transportation: If you need to leave the trek early due to illness or other reasons, the cost of emergency transport is not covered.
Entrance Fees for Optional Sites: Some side trips or additional archaeological sites do have entrance fees not included in the trek package.

FAQS

What is this trek?

This is a 3-day hiking route starting in the Red Valley and finishing in Pacchanta, covering approximately 43.38 km and taking you through the scenic Upis Lakes, Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley and the Seven Lakes of Ausangate.

How long is the trek?

The trek is 3 days in duration, with two overnight stops en route.

What meals are included?

The trip includes 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners.

What is the distance and terrain?

The total distance is about 43.38 km. The terrain is high-Andean, with lakeside trails, moderate ascents and descents, and high-altitude conditions.

What is the best time to do it?

The best seasons are during the dry months in the Andes (typically May to September) when the skies are clearer and the trails are more stable.

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

It’s a moderate trek: you should be physically fit and comfortable hiking in high-altitude terrain, though it does not require technical climbing.

Are permits required?

Entering the Ausangate area has a cost of 20 soles, but it is covered in the price of this tour.

How big are the groups?

On our 3 days hike from Red Valley to Pacchanta the groups go from minimum 2 persons to 8 persons.

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

Client Cancellation:

To cancel, send a written notice to “69 Explorer.” The initial deposit is not refundable. Check your insurance for potential coverage for cancellation reasons.

Cancellations more than 15 days before departure result in a 50% deposit forfeiture. For cancellations between 7 and 15 days before departure, if full payment has been made, 50% of the total cost will be refunded. No refunds are given for cancellations less than 48 hours before departure or for partial tour cancellations.

Alterations/Cancellations by Us:

In the event of unforeseen circumstances such as technical issues, adverse weather, strikes, government actions, or civil disturbances, “69 Explorer” will try to provide alternative arrangements or equivalent trips, without offering refunds. Itinerary adjustments may be necessary, but we will aim to maintain the agreed services.

Significant changes will be communicated before your trip, with comparable alternative plans offered. Any additional costs from these changes are the client’s responsibility. We cannot compensate for expenses like international flights, visas, vaccinations, etc.

If “69 Explorer” cancels a tour, a full refund will be provided.

Who will be guiding?

All 69 Explorer trips are guided by Local Experienced, English-speaking guides familiar with the trail and Incan history.

What is the age group for this experience?

For our Group Experiences we recommend 18 – 45 years old.

Families with kids or seniors can opt for a Private Trip Experience.

Does 69 Explorer offer customized trips too?

Yes, we can arrange customized trips in Peru.

We offer an extensive range of experiences in Cusco, like hikes or treks, Salkantay & Humantay, Machu Picchu, Inca Trail & Alternative Inca Trail, South Valley & Sacred Valley, Ausangate & Vilcanota Range experiences and recently we added E-biking to our brochure.

Is 69 Explorer a licensed & authorized company?

Yes, we count with all the legal permits and the experience to make your dream trip to Peru a reality.

Plus, all of our local guides have degrees in tourism and a minimum of 2 years’ experience. They all speak English and Spanish and many also speak Quechua, the native language of Peru.

Destinations

Inca Trail Treks

Alternatives Treks

Machu Picchu Tours

Package Peru

Tours in Cusco

Ausangate Trek 3 days with Rainbw mt + Upis and 7 lakes Hike included

Highlights

Overview

Who is this trek for?

Itinerary

Day 1. Cusco – Llaqto – Red Valley – Rainbow Mountain – Anantapata Campsite

Leaving Cusco behind.

First segment of the day.

Afternoon’s goal: to Anantapata Campsite.

Day 2. Anantapata Campsite – Apacheta Pass – Upis Campsite

Apacheta Pass.

Upis Lake and Campsite.

Day 3. Upis Campsite – 7 lakes of Ausangate – Pacchanta

7 Lakes of Ausangate

Pacchanta Hot Springs

What’s included?

Professional Guide

Transportation

Accommodation

Meals

Porters and Horsemen

Cooking Equipment and Staff

Entrance Fees

Camping Equipment

First Aid and Emergency Equipment

Water

Excludes

Recommend to carry

Clothing

Footwear

Backpack and Daypack

Sleeping Equipment

Hydration and Snacks

Health and Personal Items

Accessories

Documents

Miscellaneous

FAQS

What is this trek?

How long is the trek?

What meals are included?

What is the distance and terrain?

What is the best time to do it?

What is the difficulty level of the trek?

Are permits required?

How big are the groups?

What is the cancellation or refund policy?

Who will be guiding?

What is the age group for this experience?

Does 69 Explorer offer customized trips too?

Is 69 Explorer a licensed & authorized company?

HAPPY TRAVELERS

Genevieve R

Alison Massey

Lidia Z

Julio P

Luka I

Sintia Páuccar vilca

JOIN 69 EXPLORER FOR AN UNFORGETTABLE JOURNEY

Why Choose us?

Superior Service

Inca Trail Specialists

Local Impact

Small groups

69 Explorer stands out

Food on the Inca Trail with 69 Explorer Team

Our Equipment on the Inca Trail

Safety on the Trek to Machu Picchu

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