AUSANGATE CIRCUIT 5 DAYS

AT A GLACE

• IMING: 5 days / 4 nights.
• STARTING & ENDING POINT: Cusco Hotel.
• DEPARTURE DATES: Daily Departure group service and private service.
• DIFFICULTY: Does involve some narrow trails, so sturdy footwear is required to help you enjoy it fully. It’s rated as a moderate hike.
• DISTANCE: 75 kms.
• WHEN TO GO: Best from April to October
• ALTITUDE: starting point at 3,800 masl – Maximum at Palomani pas 5,200 masl
• DAY TEMPERATURE: 15 ºC to 25 ºC / Night temperature: 4ºC to -10º C
• REMARK: 2-3 day acclimatization required.
• LOCATION: About 3 hours drive east of Cusco, leaves from the village of Tinki.

GUARANTEED DEPARTURES:

Our 5-Day Ausangate Circuit offers guaranteed departures, ensuring that once you’ve made your booking, you can rest assured that you’re definitely going! This guarantee gives you the peace of mind to finalize all your travel arrangements and anticipate your well-deserved holiday.

SHORT ITINERARY ABOUT 6-DAY AUSANGATE CIRCUIT

Day 1: Travel by bus from Cusco to Tinki, then trek to Upis camp.

Along the way, we’ll visit a local market, stop at Tinki for lunch, and continue to Upis camp.

Day 2: Upis Camp to Laguna Ausangate Camp.

After breakfast, we’ll trek to the Arapa pass at 4,900 masl, descend to Hatun pucaccocha for lunch, and continue trekking over the Pucapunta pass. Finally, we’ll camp next to Ausangate Lagoon.

Day 3: Laguna Ausangate Camp to Hampa Camp.

We’ll ascend to the highest pass of Palomani at 5,200 masl, and then descend towards Finaya farm, surrounded by splendid views and herds of llamas and alpacas.

Day 4: Hampa Camp to Phacchanta hot springs – Cusco.

We’ll ascend to the third and final pass named Hampa pass at 5,000 masl, followed by a descent through Old Moraine to Phacchanta community. There, you can enjoy well-deserved hot springs.

Day 5: Phacchanta hot springs – Tinki – Cusco.

After breakfast, we’ll have a 2:30-hour descent to Tinki. From there, we’ll take a bus back to Cusco.

THE BEST TREKKING ITINERARY ABOUT 6-DAY AUSANGATE CIRCUIT

Day 1: Bus from Cusco to Tinki, then trek to Upis camp.

Embark on an extraordinary trekking journey from Cusco to Upis Pampa, passing through Ocongate and Tinqui. Hop on a private van at 06:00 am and soak up the scenic beauty as we proceed through Urcos and make a stop at Tinqui’s vibrant local market. Once in Upispampa, indulge in a hearty breakfast before commencing our expedition from Quinsapucyu village to Upis Huarmisaya. Along the way, be captivated by awe-inspiring vistas of Mount Ausangate and engage with the local farmers adorned in their traditional attire. Upon reaching the campsite, savor a delicious lunch crafted by our skilled chef and retreat to cozy cabins. In the afternoon, take advantage of the opportunity to hike to Upis Lake, a scenic 2-hour round trip, or unwind in the invigorating hotsprings.

• Distance Covered: 7km/ 4.5 miles.
• Approximate Hiking Time: 3 hours.
• Trailhead Elevation: 4,220 meters / 13,840 feet.
• Difficulty Level: Moderate.
• Campsite Elevation: 4,320 meters / 14,100 feet.
• Accommodation: Comfortable Cabins.

Day 2: Upis – Ausangate Lagoon (4900masl).

Embark on an exhilarating journey with us through the wondrous landscape of Upis to Ausangatecocha. Our adventure starts after breakfast, as we ascend for two formidable hours to reach La Arapa pass, standing majestically at 4850m/15908ft. As we descend towards our lunch spot, keep an eye out for the swift falcons and elusive ¨vizcachas¨ or Andean rodents that call this area home. This route also treats us to a visual spectacle of three stunning lakes, their waters shimmering in hues of reds, greens, and turquoises – Pukacocha, HatunPukacocha, and Qomerqocha. The surrounding snow peaks stand as silent sentinels, adding to the scenic splendor. Post-lunch, we continue our ascent, slowly but steadily. After about two hours, we reach the second mountain pass – the Abra de Apuchata (4900m/16072ft). A half-hour descent from here leads us to our campsite nestled at Ausangatecocha (4440m/14563ft), where the day’s journey comes to a serene end.

Our campsite at Ausangatecocha offers an ideal setting to relax and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. The pristine waters of the lake reflect the imposing peak of Ausangate, creating a picture-perfect scene that will leave you in awe.
After a well-deserved rest, our adventure continues as we explore the nearby area. We visit a traditional Andean village where we have the opportunity to interact with locals and learn about their way of life. We also take part in a traditional ceremony to pay homage to the Apus (mountain spirits) and ask for their protection on our journey.

• Meals: B – L – D
• Accommodation: 2 People per Tents
• Maximum Altitude: 5,000masl
• Minimum Altitude: 4,900masl
• Approximate Walking Time: 6 – 7 Hours

Day 3: Ausangate Lagoon – Hampa (5200masl)

Embark on an exhilarating journey through the mesmerizing terrain of the Ausangate Lagoon to Hampa, a day filled with adventure and unparalleled beauty. As we traverse the highest point of our trek, the formidable Palomani Pass at 5200 masl, we pause to pay homage to the Apus, the revered mountain spirits. The reward for our ascent is a breathtaking panorama that stretches out before us, a symphony of nature’s grandeur.

As we descend into the ancient farming area of Finaya, we are embraced by a world where time seems to stand still. Here, the local inhabitants live in harmony with the land, their llamas, and alpacas grazing serenely amidst the fields. Amid the flourishing native crops, we’ll have the opportunity to interact with a warm-hearted family, gaining an intimate glimpse into their daily lives.
Our journey culminates with a leisurely stroll to our campsite in the Hampa community. Like the day before, our trek will span approximately 8 hours, including rests and breaks. This promises to be a day of bountiful experiences, engaging encounters, and awe-inspiring vistas.

As we settle into our campsite, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Andean mountains, we’ll have a chance to reflect on the rich culture and traditions of this region. Our knowledgeable guides will regale us with stories about the history and significance of Ausangate Lagoon and Hampa, adding depth to our understanding of this sacred place.

• Meals: B – L – D
• Accommodation: 2 People per Tents
• Maximum Altitude: 5,200masl
• Minimum Altitude: 4,100masl
• Distance Travelled: 16 Km
• Approximate Walking Time: 6 – 7 Hours

Day 4: Hampa – Phacchanta.

Embarking on the trail, we ascend to the Hampa Pass—our trek’s final high point at a soaring 4800 meters above sea level. This journey provides an opportunity to traverse through an ancient moraine, a rocky sanctuary that serves as a habitat for the unique Mountain Chinchillas, also known as Andean rabbits. As we continue on the Ausangate circuit, we’ll be greeted by a series of stunning, azure lagoons, each one a gem in the rugged Andean landscape. Our endpoint for the day is a vibrant countryside community, nestled amidst this stunning natural beauty. This community lives in harmony with the environment, embodying a lifestyle that truly respects and appreciates nature. Here, the cherry on top of our challenging day’s trek awaits—natural hot springs. These bubbling pools provide the perfect opportunity to soothe and relax your muscles, rewarding your efforts with their warm, therapeutic embrace.

Embarking on the Ausangate circuit is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty and wonder of the Andean landscape. This trek not only challenges your physical abilities, but also offers a unique opportunity to connect with nature in a deeper and more meaningful way.

Throughout the journey, you will encounter diverse flora and fauna, from the elusive Mountain Chinchillas to breathtaking lagoons that reflect the clear blue skies above. These natural wonders serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving our planet’s precious ecosystems.

• Meals: B – L – D
• Accommodation: 2 People per Tents
• Maximum Altitude: 5,000masl
• Minimum Altitude: 4,800masl
• Distance Travelled: 17 Km
• Approximate Walking Time: 7 – 8 Hours

Day 5: Phacchanta – Tinki – Cusco.

Departing from the tranquil hamlet of Pacchanta, we embark on a two-hour walk that leads us back to Tinki. This journey is as visually captivating as it is physically invigorating, taking us through a landscape that whispers the untold stories of the region. As we tread the trail, every step brings us closer to nature and further engrains the memories of this extraordinary expedition. Upon reaching Tinki, we will then board private transport for the journey back to the bustling city of Cusco. Our estimated arrival is post-dusk, allowing us to witness the enchanting evening glow of Cusco’s cityscape. This trip, brimming with adventure and discovery, is an experience that encapsulates the spirit of Peru.

• Meals: B
• Accommodation: 2 People per Tents
• Maximum Altitude: 4,200masl/16,285ft
• Minimum Altitude: 3,800masl
• Distance Travelled: 12 Km
• Approximate Walking Time: 3 Hours

5-Day Ausangate Circuit Includes

• Pre Trek Briefing
• Collection from your hotel in the morning of trek departure.
• Private transport from Cusco to Tinki (the trailhead) and return at the end of the trek
• Entry fee to the Ausangate Mountain.
• English/Quechua/Spanish speaking professional guide (you will have an assistant guide for groups over 8 people).
• Tents – 2 people in a 4 person tent which allows for greater comfort, and also storage of backpacks.
• Thermarest
• Cook and Cooking equipment (Assistants are provided for larger groups)
• Toilet tent
• Meals as indicated in the itinerary (optional vegetarian food). Our professional cooks prepare meals that incorporate elements of the western diet and also traditional Peruvian delicacies. (Please communicate with your guide/cook during the trek if you have a preference for certain types of dishes). Salads, if served, are washed in boiled water.
• Horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen. They carry camping equipment, food and kitchen utensils. We provide duffel bags at your briefing for your personal items (up to 7 kg/15lbs per person).
• 1 emergency horse which can be ridden if you are feeling ill or if are a little slower
• Dining tent with camp tables and chairs & Kitchen tent for the cook to prepare meals
• Tents for our staff to sleep in, sleeping bags & mattresses plus a budget for their meals.
• First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle – but not blister treatments as known in western countries.

Not Include

• SLEEPING BAG: Can be rented in our office for US $30 for the entire trek.
• Optional Tips for the crew: Guide cook and horseman.

Optional extras

• We can hire the following to you – please contact your Travel Consultant / or our booking forms for the current rates.
• Extra riding mule and muleteer to lead it
• Sleeping Bag suitable for – 10deg
• Deluxe Sleeping Bag suitable for -15deg.
• Walking stick lightweight aluminum – Two sticks are recommended for tough hikes.
• Single tent supplement (if you don’t want to share a tent)

Recommended things to bring for 5-day Ausangate Circuit 

For 5-day Ausangate Circuit you’ll receive a duffle bag one day before the trek, where you can take your personal things including sleeping bag and mattress, which will be transported by the horse. You won´t have access to your duffle bag until the camp.

• Original passport & valid International Student Card (ISIC, if applicable).
• Travel insurance (and some copies).
• Sleeping bag (the recommendation is a rating of at least minus 10°c.)
• Sleeping bag liner.
• Hiking boots (waterproof). Sneakers are acceptable but expect to get wet
• Long-sleeved shirts to prevent sunburn.
• Trekking poles with rubber covers. Without rubber covers, they will be of limited use.
• Comfortable hiking clothes, including warm clothes for the nighttime.
• Toilet paper, and face tissue paper.
• headlamp.
• Water bottle or canteen.
• American dollars and Peruvian soles in cash.
• Sun hat, cap, and warm hat and gloves for the nighttime.
• Hiking trousers.
• Hiking socks.
• Sunblock and sunglasses.
• Deep or mosquito repellent.
• Day Pack: We provide a duffle bag, to put in some personal belonging that will no use during the day, and it will be carried by pack horses, and you will need a small daypack for carrying your water, snacks, camera, rain gear, and layers, sunscreen and bug spray, meds every day.
• Rain gear: (you need to have a rain gear. From April- Oct is dry season and from Nov-Mar is the wet season. Just keep in mind that it can rain anytime of the year in the cloud forest and in the Peruvian Andes the weather is very changeable and unpredictable, it’s also good to have rain pants, as well, as a poncho will not suffice)
• Personal first-aid kit. We recommend you bring. anti-inflammatory tablets (ibuprofen), aspirin for headaches or muscle pain and blister kit.). Also, some recommendations meds of the doctor for parasites and stomach bacterial infections (tablets like Ciprofloxacin for bacteria and Metronidazole, Tinidazole) and for high altitude (altitude sickness) Diamox and Ciprofloxacin.

DESCRIPTION – AUSANGATE CIRCUIT

The 5-day Ausangate Circuit is a remarkable seven-day trek that encompasses the majestic Ausangate Mountain. This fully portered trek, starting and ending in the charming village of Tinqui, guarantees your comfort and ensures an enjoyable experience throughout. Prepare to be captivated by the stunning landscapes of the Andes, immerse yourself in the local culture, and uncover the fascinating history of the region.

For this moderately challenging trek, acclimatization is crucial. Therefore, it is essential to spend at least three days in Cusco or at an equivalent altitude. Embark on this epic journey to discover the wonders that surround Ausangate Mountain, including vibrant Andean villages, breathtaking turquoise lagoons, and invigorating natural hot springs.

The trek commences in the village of Tinki and gradually ascends through the “puna” zone, offering mesmerizing views of Ausangate peak. On the first day, we will arrive at the Upis camp. The second day entails a two-hour uphill hike to Arapa Pass, followed by traversing awe-inspiring mountain scenery until we reach our second camp, Ausangatecocha.

As we descend through areas filled with llamas and alpacas, we will arrive at Pampacancha, where the third camp awaits. On the fourth day, we will ascend to the quaint community of Qampa, encountering herds of llamas, alpacas, and possibly even pumas.

From Qampa, we will hike towards the final pass, Qampapass. Descending, we will reach the breathtaking Qomerqocha lagoon before finally arriving at Pacchanta, a picturesque Andean community with rejuvenating hot springs.

The Cost of the tour

PRICE: US$ 640  group service

PRIVATE AUSANGATE CIRCUIT:
2 person US$ 840 each
3 person US$ 760 each
4 person US$ 680 each
5 person US$ 640 each

About Payments.

To secure your spot on our 5-day Ausangate Circuit, we necessitate a non-refundable deposit of US$ 150 per person. This measure ensures that we can prepare the best possible experience for you, reserving accommodations, experienced guides, and other essential services. Making the payment is simple and secure. You can utilize either Western Union or Bank Account money transfers – trusted, fast, and reliable methods here in Peru. Moreover, for your convenience, we also accept payments via PAYPAL, providing an easy and secure online payment solution. Secure your adventure today to experience the majesty of the Inca Highway.

About remining balance About 5-day Ausangate Circuit?

Upon your arrival in Cusco, the remaining balance can be conveniently paid in either US dollars or Soles, the local Peruvian currency, exchanged at the prevailing rate of the day. As an alternative for those seeking other payment options, we proudly offer PayPal and Visa credit card payments. Please note, a service charge of 7% applies for PayPal transactions, and a 5% service charge is applicable for Visa credit card payments. This flexibility ensures that you can focus on your journey, not the logistics of payments.

Eseential info about 5-day Ausangate Circuit.

Arrival in Cusco:

Once you have met with the representative, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city. This transfer should last approximately 20 minutes. Upon arrival at your hotel, the representative will help you check-in and explain all of the details of your trip. Then they will leave you to rest and explore Cusco. We recommend taking this time to explore the city, buy any additional supplies you may need for your trek and make sure that you are prepared for the journey ahead. Cusco is a beautiful city with a lot to offer, so be sure to take some time to wander around and take in the sights!

The briefing:

At the briefing (At 6:30PM in our office or in your hotel), you will receive all the necessary information about the trek and a complete explanation of each day’s route. Your guide will also provide details about altitude levels, basic first aid, and how to protect yourself from mountain sickness. You’ll be informed of what to bring with you on the trek, including clothing and toiletries that are essential for your comfort and safety. You’ll also be given specific instructions regarding the time to get up each morning and when you should eat breakfast as well as lunch and dinner. The briefing is an important step in ensuring that everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience trekking on the Inca Trail. After the briefing, we will provide tips and advice on how to prepare your body for the trek. This includes eating a nutritious diet, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest in order to have the energy to complete the 5-day Ausangate Circuit. If you have any additional questions after the briefing, please don’t hesitate to ask our guide.

About duffle bag for 5-day Ausangate Circuit.

Our all-inclusive package includes a spacious and reliable duffle bag for your convenience. Utilize this essential item to securely store your personal belongings that won’t be needed throughout the day. Rest assured that our diligent team will transport the bag using pack horses, allowing you to comfortably explore the breathtaking beauty of the surroundings. Additionally, we recommend carrying a compact backpack to accommodate your hydration supplies, snacks, camera, rain gear, sunscreen, insect repellent, and medication requirements.

Duffle bag provided at the briefing time, where you’ll put your personal belongings for the 5-day Ausangate Circuit. This duffle bag will be transported by horses from camp to camp.

Duffel bag weight:

For your Trekking, you must bring a duffel bag (we’ll provide it) to pack all of your clothes and gear for the next five days. The maximum weight allowed by Peruvian law for this duffle bag is 7 kilograms (15 pounds). Each bag will be weighed prior to being accepted on the trail. If you need more than 7 kilograms worth of items, it will be up to you to carry the additional weight with a small backpack. When packing your duffel bag for the Trekking, remember to include a 2-kilogram sleeping bag and 1-kilogram mattress (foam). To ensure that all porters are able to safely carry their bags on the trail, please adhere to the weight limit. Thanks for your cooperation and have a great Trekking experience!

Store your luggage during 5-day Ausangate Circuit:

To make sure you have an enjoyable and hassle-free trek, we want to take the worry out of storing your luggage. We offer secure, convenient storage for all your belongings during your trekking adventure. Our storage services can be arranged at our office or your hotel, whichever is more convenient for you. For the 5-day Ausangate Circuit specifically, we provide duffle bags to carry everything you need during the trek, so you don’t have to worry about carrying it all in one go. Rest assured that these bags will keep your belongings. You can store your main luggage safely in our office or at your hotel, whichever is more comfortable for you.

About Altitude:

Altitude is an important factor to consider in Peru, as the country has an average elevation of 3,000 meters (9,843 feet) above sea level. Cusco, located at around 3,400 meters (11,154 feet), is one of the highest cities in the world. This means that travelers visiting Cusco will be exposed to a significantly lower concentration of oxygen, which can lead to altitude sickness. Symptoms of altitude sickness can include headaches, dizziness, nausea, loss of appetite and difficulty sleeping.

For this reason, we advise visitors to Cusco to take time to acclimate before undertaking any physical activity. Taking it easy upon arrival is key – it’s best to avoid alcohol and caffeine, as well as taking short walks or just resting. We also recommend drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and eating light meals until you feel more comfortable. As your body adjusts to the higher altitude, these symptoms should start to fade away after a few days.

However, if the symptoms worsen or don’t improve, it’s important to seek medical attention as soon as possible. In extreme cases, altitude sickness can be life threatening, and so seeking medical advice should not be taken lightly.
Altitude sickness can be a minor nuisance for some people, while for others it can cause serious problems. Taking the time to acclimate properly and listening to your body are key steps to avoiding it, so have a plan of action before arrival and enjoy your travels in Peru!

Temperature for trekking:

Given the high altitude of the 5-Day Ausangate Circuit, it is important to be prepared for cold and unpredictable weather. During the nights, temperatures can range from an average low of 20F/-7C to a high of 60-75F/15-24C if the sun is out. However, if it’s cloudy or rainy during the day, it will be colder. Furthermore, the weather can change quickly or become very windy at the top of the passes. To ensure a safe and comfortable trekking experience, it is recommended to bring plenty of layers; this way you can adjust to whatever conditions you may encounter. Additionally, having sun protection and waterproof items such as jackets and pants are important to have. Lastly, it’s important to be aware of the weather forecast before embarking on the trek and take any necessary precautions as needed. All in all, if you come prepared for the varying temperatures and conditions, then you’re sure to have a great time exploring this mountain region!

Travel insurance:

Travel insurance is an invaluable tool when it comes to going on a trip, especially one that involves adventure. It’s affordable and really helps ensure your investment in the journey is protected. With travel insurance, you can rest assured knowing that if something unexpected arises, you are covered.

It’s important to note that travel insurance is not only for the occasional emergency, but also covers lost or delayed luggage, cancelled flights and more. With travel insurance you can have peace of mind during your trip, knowing that if something goes wrong, you will be taken care of.

Tipping the staff:

If you are hiking in Peru with “SUNRISE PERU TREK”, it is customary to tip the staff who have taken care of you during your trek. Tipping is a way of expressing gratitude for excellent service and can go a long way to inspire them to continue providing such wonderful experiences. Although tipping is not compulsory, it is appreciated. The amount you choose to tip should be determined by your perception of the quality and duration of your trip. If you have had a positive experience throughout your trek and want to show appreciation, then tipping is a great way to do so. Remember that the staff members at “SUNRISE PERU TREK” work hard to provide you with the best experience possible, and a tip can help show them how much you appreciated them.

AUSANGATE CIRCUIT TREKKING MAP