TripAdvisorTREKKING AUSANGATE: ESSENTIAL FACTS FOR YOUR UNFORGETTABLE EXPERIENCE THROUGH THE ROUTES OF AUSANGATE TREK AND RAINBOW MOUNTAIN
Important items for trekking through the Andes where the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain is situated
Ausangate Trek, this beautiful route is ideal for lovers of long and short walks (trekking) because it contains in its challenging route beautiful landscapes as well as the gratifying interaction of its inhabitants, locals and its cultural components that easily exceed the highest expectations. of an epic journey.
The particularity of this trek to Ausangate and in comparison, with the other walks or routes that take place in the region of Cusco, include Inca spiritual sites, starting at 3900 meters and ascending to about 5200 meters above sea level, consists of enjoy landscapes, lakes, glaciers, irregular peaks, valleys and colorful mountains throughout the tour that allows deep contact with rugged nature. In addition, there is the opportunity to observe the endemic fauna consisting of 20 species of birds, Andean black-winged geese, the majestic Andean condor, llamas, alpacas, vicuñas (wild relative of the alpaca), and the vizcacha (a type of chinchilla that is similar to a rabbit). This whole set creates a setting that can be described as completely wonderful.
In recent years, the farmers of the Ausangate area charge an entrance fee, thus allowing these investments to give us security measures and the infrastructure that have made the area a much safer place. Although the AUSANGATE TREK is not as well-known as the Inca trail to Machu Picchu or Salkantay Trek. Lately the passionate adventurers who choose their route since their natural environment remains practically intact. This makes the experience in this part of the Andes calm and picturesque.
HOW TO ARRIVE TO AUSANGATE?
It is necessary to take a public transport from Cusco to Tinki. The terminal of these buses is located 10 minutes (by taxi) from the city’s downtown; The buses are leaving every two hours and the prices are reasonable. Make sure the bus destination is Ocongate, which is a larger town than Tinki. Also, check that the bus takes them to Tinki. Travel time by bus is approximately 4 -5 hours along the road that leads to Puerto Maldonado. The town of Tinki is located about 3,575 masl; accommodation and restaurants are scarce. We recommend leaving Cusco at 5:00am and starting the walk the same day to the first camp called Upis.
ON ACCLIMATIZATION FOR THE AUSANGATE TREK
Don’t fly directly to a high-altitude destination, stop somewhere to acclimatize. Ausanate hikers should spend a day or two in Cusco (but beware, it’s still a high altitude). As you hike in the Andes, your tour operator will ensure that you have proper acclimatization before reaching great heights.
The rule for hikers is “climb high, sleep low”. So go up to a new height during the day, but go down a bit to sleep at night. The zigzag path allows your body to adapt to the low oxygen pressure.
Don’t take shortcuts: if a guide suggests that he can walk 8 out of 5 days, it is a sure sign that he is not following the ‘low sleep’ rule. Going straight all day every day is a recipe for disaster. If you don’t have time for a long hike, take the time or choose another hike.
Book Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain
THE BEST TIME TO DO THE AUSANGATE TREK
The best season to hike through the Ausangate region is from April to November because it is the dry season where rain is less or minimum, this to maximize the number of clear days since most of our activities take place outdoors. However, the favorable climate attracts more hikers and if you want to enjoy these beautiful places exclusively, it is recommended to do the walk in the last days of March or in the month of October and November. Keep in mind that you can do the Ausangate Trek at any time of the year (if you do it on your own) and those prices increase (in the agencies that offer the walk) due to low demand as it is more difficult to find outings daily.
The months of January and February are the worst to do Ausangate Trek. Due to the constant rains (which is why the Inca Trail is disabled this season). Hail and thunderstorms are common as well and even become much more intense increasing the chances that the experience will become completely terrifying.
HOW TO MAKE A TOUR AND GO ALONE?
The advantages of scheduling, coordinating a hike in a travel agency stand out at first glance and with a large staff of guiding professionals who safeguard the integrity of the adventurer throughout the tour, as they take care of even the tiniest details, sometimes, difficult for the hiker to only worry about enjoying the entire journey and thus enriching the experience. On the other hand, there is the possibility of doing the walk on your own. To carry out this walk, the necessary requirements are that you have already done walks above 4000 m. have adequate equipment, stock up on sufficient food supplies, and be fluent in Spanish and/or Quechua. In this way you will avoid misunderstandings and bad intentions, which as we know, happen anywhere in the world.
In case of deciding to make the walk without having the timely provision of a travel agency. The tips to follow are: hire a muleteer and pack the necessary supplies and food in the pack animals. These can be hired while you are in the town of Tinky. The local residents and muleteers of occupation for more than 10 years, are good choice since they know the area like the back of his hand, as well as being fluent in Spanish and Quechua.
THE WEATHER OF AUSANGATE TREK
Due to the geographical conditions of the Andes, the weather here can be, and almost always is, unpredictable and the Ausangate Trek includes a temperature oscillation between 10°-20º C during the day if it is sunny, up to 05-10º during the day if it’s not sunny. Because it is at a high altitude, it is not warm but the sun is intensely strong that makes this condition the biggest battle. On the other hand, the temperature drops significantly in the afternoon and especially at night, reaching -10 ° C or even lower in the dry season. That is why warm clothing is required for this hike.
The repercussions of global warming are not unknown in this area of the Andes, causing unexpected rains in the dry season. Considering this phenomenon, it is suggested the use of waterproof garments and also the use of covers of the same material to cover their belongings (portable electronic devices and other equipment and clothing) that are transported in pack animals, in order to protect and avoid deterioration due to possible downpours. In addition to the use of this material, it is suggested to provide yourself with plastics or several Ziploc plastic bags (the agency that provides the services will be in charge of verifying that all this is done), in this way, taking into account these precautions, the walk will be many more enjoyable.
In case you are hiking on your own, be sure to keep in mind and fulfill the supply of all necessary results to carry out the tour under the unexpected rains.
ADMISSION TICKETS FOR AUSANGATE TREK
On the way to Ausangate you’ll pass through several communities and these are in charge of maintaining the trail, as well as offering camping services, bathrooms and even night guards, for which you have to pay, and they are also already stipulated rates. It is a guided walk that can include the respective payment of such or not. The passenger must be clear about the subject of the contract and also before contracting the tours to the travel agency.
Tickets for Ausangate Trek 4 Days
- Andamayo Community: Passing through the limits of its territory S / 10.00 per person.
- Upis Community: Camping site and passing through its territory S / 10.00 per person.
- Community Huayna Ausangate: Site camping by Puka Cocha S / 10.00 per person.
- Community Chillca: Site camping and passing through its territory S / 10.00 per person.
- Pampa Chiri Community: Visit the rainbow mountain S / 10.00 per person.
- Chilliwani Community: Visit the Red Valley S / 10.00 per person.
- Hot springs: 10.00 per person.
Tickets for Ausangate Trek 6 Days
- Andamayo Community: Passing through the limits of its territory S / 10.00 per person.
- Community of Upis: Camping site and passage of its territory S / 10.00 per person.
- Community Huayna Ausangate: Site camping Puca Cocha S / 10.00 per person.
- Chillca Community: Camping site and passage through its territory
S / 20.00 per person. - Pampa Chiri Community: Visit the rainbow mountain and camp S / 20.00 per person.
- Chilliwani Community: Visit the Red Valley S / 10.00 per person.
- Hot springs: 10.00 per person
IF YOU CHOOSE AUSANGATE TREK
You can choose between the two categories to carry out the wonderful trek to Ausangate, which is a short route (2-4 days) and a long route (5-7 days). In case you have time, we suggest you opt for the route that lasts 5 to 7 days since the itinerary offers views and landscapes that will leave you in awe.
Complete Ausangate Trek (5-7 days)
This route and the charm of long walks, where the complete circuit is covered, is that you can appreciate the variety of high peaks from different angles, as well as walking through mountain passes, at least one and even up to two per day, from altitudes from 4,000 m (13,000 ft) to 5,200 m (17,600 ft). Read More
Ausangate short trek (2-4 days)
This route is the shortest, also known or called as the Mini Ausangate Trek, they have the intention of providing hikers in a good way this famous region the Ausangate in a short and intense period. The adventure and quality of this route focuses on circulating through Lake Puka Qocha, the Ausangate glacier and the mountain of 7 colors. Read More.
DO YOU GET TO SEE AMAZING SCENARIOS EVERY DAY?
The satisfaction and joy that Ausangate grants every day and throughout its journey, is above the tree line, panoramic views of the beautiful mountainous landscapes are appreciated. Clearly a splendid opportunity for those who love taking pictures
LEAVE YOUR LUGGAGE DURING THE TREK
In the vast majority of hotels, travel agencies will allow you to leave your large suitcases or luggage in their storage during the time you are doing the Ausangate Trek and then, you can pick them up once you return.
HOW DIFFICULT IS THE AUSANGATE TREK?
One of the main reasons why the trek to Ausangate is considered difficult is precisely the trail at high altitudes. Probably not suitable for hikers who recently decided to opt for this activity. So it is recommended that you have had moderate walks in advance.
AUSANGATE TREK CAMPSITES AND SLEEPING ARRANGEMENTS
You will pass through four local communities, who manage the camps along the hiking trails to Ausangante. Before, hikers could set up their camps in the place of their choice and for free. Seeing that their properties were affected by hikers leaving waste, this affects health and the environment. The local people established a system of camps, as well as generated several jobs and the possibility of economic growth thanks to tourist activity. In this way, mutualism makes hiking an increasingly attractive activity on this circuit.
Because it is a relatively new system; campsites are still basic and located in remote areas, so the confidence of finding stores (minimarkets) or other services must be abandoned. In general, there is a place to set up the tents and the toilets are totally rustic. There is no drinking water in the campsites and taking a shower will have to be postponed until the end of the hike (Note: if you are on a fully supported hike, you will likely be provided with a container of warm water in the morning for your quick wash)
The most common practice for this hike is tent camping along the Trail. However, SUNRISE PERU TREK is the only company that offers guided tours as a hike from cabin to cabin, allowing you to stay in basic shelters each night. You can even go with them in the rainy season because they have shelters in each camp.
USEFUL INFORMATION
- Put your phone in airplane mode. There is not connectivity along the hike.
- Drink enough water, it is important when we are walking at high altitude. It is recommended to drink at least two or three liters per day. There are many streams and rivers on the route, we recommend to bringing water purification tablets. Due to the large numbers of alpacas and llamas throughout the mountains, it is not known how clean the water is. Nothing could be much worse than getting sick at high altitude or having a malfunctioning stomach.
- Be hyper-vigilant of the weather. Conditions in the Andes, and especially at high altitudes, can change at any time. Always have your warm clothes and waterproof jackets easily accessible. This is especially important when climbing and going through high passes.
- Have a first aid kit, equipment repair kit, and blister treatment kit ready to carry in your backpack.
- Have your sunscreen, sunglasses, and wear head and neck protection to help block the wind.
- This tour is not recommended for children because they may have trouble walking. But if your child enjoys high-altitude walking, then he can.
- If you have medical problems, you should consult your doctor and indicate that you want or are planning a hike in the Peruvian Andes and the altitude is 5040 m (16,400 feet) above sea level. If you have medications, you should take them with you to continue your treatment.
- Higher altitude also means cooler, almost freezing temperatures, so be prepared. If you decide to go on a multi-day tour, be sure to wear very warm clothing.
WHAT TO BRING TO AUSANGATE TREK:
|
|
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FROM THE AGENCY
- Every minor must be accompanied by her parents or otherwise with a notarized document.
- The tour service are shared services, maximum 10 passengers.
- You will receive your confirmation when your reservation is made.
- In order to make your reservation carry the original ID.
- Luggage allowance must be 7kg / 14 pounds for the duffle bag. The rest of your belongings you can store in your hotel.
- Your valid passport is needed for the trip.
- It is not adapted for people in wheelchairs.
- The tour will be carried out by SUNRISE PERU TREK.
- Any material loss or accident is under the responsibility of the client.
- Any cancellation of service for the reasons indicated, no refund applies.
* PRECAUTIONS FOR ACTIVITY
- COVID PROTOCOLS – 19
- Protection measures in force
- Surfaces in contact with passengers are cleaned frequently.
- Limited passengers to avoid crowding of people.
- Passengers wear their own masks.
- Their temperature is obligatorily taken.
CANCELLATION POLICY
In case of an emergency, you can reschedule your Ausangate Trek at no cost with a 60% refund up to 72 hours before the start of the service. After that, it will not be possible to make changes or cancellations within this period.
