The Ausangate Trek circles one of the highest sacred mountains in Peru and immerses hikers in otherworldly high-alpine landscapes. Unlike more famous routes, this trek is all about raw nature: glacial lakes in varying shades of turquoise and emerald, striped mineral hills that resemble a painter’s palette, and herds of alpacas and vicuñas grazing under snow-covered peaks. The circuit can also include a detour to Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), whose colourful bands have recently attracted global attention.

Route & Itinerary

Standard circuits take four to six days and cover about 73 km (45 mi). Starting from the village of Tinki or Upis, Day 1 usually ends at the Upis hot springs. Day 2 climbs past Pucacocha lakes to a camp below Ausangate Glacier. Day 3 traverses Palomani Pass at roughly 5,165 m (16,946 ft)—the highest point of the trek—and descends to Ausangatecocha lake. Day 4 crosses another high pass like Abra Jampa to the village of Pacchanta, where hot springs await tired muscles. If you add Rainbow Mountain, you’ll detour on Days 4 or 5 to Vinicunca before finishing back at Tinki.

Highlights

  • Views of Nevado Ausangate, considered an apu or sacred protector of the region.
  • Multicoloured lakes reflecting glaciers and rocky peaks.
  • Wildlife sightings of llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and soaring condors.
  • An optional climb to Rainbow Mountain, whose sediment layers create vibrant stripes of red, yellow and turquoise.

Difficulty & Preparation

Ausangate is one of Peru’s most challenging treks. Altitudes rarely dip below 4,000 m (13,123 ft), and campsites are exposed to wind and freezing temperatures. Some passes rise above 5,182 m (17,000 ft). Prior high-altitude trekking experience is recommended, and a guide is essential unless you’re an expert in navigation and self-rescue.

Altitude & Weather

Expect dramatic temperature swings: mornings may be well below freezing, while midday sun at 5,000 m can feel intense. Carry thermal layers, waterproof outerwear and a down sleeping bag rated at least –15 °C (5 °F). Beware of altitude sickness—descend immediately if you experience severe symptoms.

Best Time to Trek

The driest months from May to September provide the most stable conditions, though nighttime temperatures can plummet. During the wet season (December – March), snow and hail may block passes and colours on Rainbow Mountain are muted by cloud cover.

Planning Tips

No permits are needed, but this trek’s remoteness means you should travel with an experienced guide and pack animals. Bring high-energy snacks, water purification tablets and a first aid kit including altitude medication. Support local communities by hiring licensed arrieros (horsemen) from nearby villages and by purchasing handmade textiles directly from them.