Ausangate Trek & Pacchanta Rainbow Mountain
7 days / 6 nights
2026 group departures
may 6 to 12
Soaring glacier peaks scrape the sky to the left. A valley plummets to the right. Front and center is a mound of earth striped with intense turquoise, rust red and golden yellow. The colors flow like a wave so perfectly that you would believe they were painted by the gods. The only way to get to this secret corner of the earth is the Ausangate Trek. This trail is for those who are looking to explore the Andes in the puna areas – exploring the majesty of the Andes and learning about the traditions of the Andean people.
The area is inhabited by traditional Inca animals such as large herds of llamas, alpacas and this is the only area in Cusco region to see the Inkan indigenous habitat of the VICUÑA (which has most expensive wool in the world!). Besides seeing these most impressive views of the glacier peaks and blue lakes, you will enjoy the hike of llamas in the Vilcanota Mountain Range. You will also enjoy the famous Rainbow Mountains in Vinicunca.
ITINERARY
DAY 1 - Arrive in Cusco
You can arrive to Cusco at anytime. There will be a group meeting on the first day to discuss the trek and answer questions. Overnight in a hotel in Cusco.
DAY 2 - Cusco-Tinki/Pacchanta
We’ll pick you up early from your accommodation in Cusco (around 6:30 a.m.) and drive for approximately 3 hours to the small Andean village of Tinki (3,800 m / 12,467 ft), enjoying views of rural landscapes and traditional villages along the way. From Tinki, we continue trekking to Pacchanta (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), a high Andean community known for its natural hot springs and proximity to the Ausangate Glacier. We’ll have lunch here and then take a short, leisurely hike through the area to facilitate altitude acclimatization. In the afternoon, you'll have time to relax in the natural hot springs, a perfect way to rest your muscles and prepare for the trek ahead. Overnight in a tent.
B, L, D / Max altitude: 4,200 m (13,780 ft) / Hiking level: Easy (1—2 hours)
DAY 3 - Pacchanta -Qampa
After breakfast, we begin our hike to Qampa Pass (approx. 5,000 m / 16,404 ft), one of the highest mountain passes on this route. Along the way, we'll pass glacial lakes such as Azulcocha and Hatun Pucacocha, with stunning reflections of the surrounding mountains. The trail traverses the Andean highlands, where we're likely to see llamas and alpacas grazing. With a little luck, we might also spot Andean birds flying overhead.The ascent is steady but rewarding, and once at the top, we'll enjoy panoramic views of the Ausangate mountain range. We’ll camp near the pass, in a quiet and protected area.
B, L, D / Max altitude: 5,000 m (16,404 ft) / Hiking level: Demanding (6—7 hours)
DAY 4 - Qampa-Ausangate-Qocha
This is one of the most impressive days of the trek. We’ll leave early and walk along the base of the Ausangate mountain, considered a sacred Apu by local communities. Along the way, we'll pass glaciers, glacial lakes, and streams formed by melting ice. The terrain is flat with small elevations, but incredibly picturesque. This day also offers the opportunity to connect spiritually with the landscape; locals still leave offerings to the Apu Ausangate. We'll arrive at Lake Qocha, a peaceful high-altitude lake surrounded by mountains, where we will camp for the night.
B, L, D / Max altitude: 4,900 m (16,076 ft) / Hiking level: Challenging (6—7 hours)
DAY 5 - Pukaqocha-Huampococha
After breakfast in the mountains, we continue to Pukaqocha, a beautiful turquoise lake that reflects the surrounding snow-capped peaks. The trail is less demanding than previous days and takes us through peaceful, untouched valleys, ideal for a sense of solitude and connection with nature. Along the way, we'll cross small mountain passes, rocky stretches, and high-altitude grasslands. With a little luck, we might spot vizcachas (Andean rabbits), foxes, and native birds. We’ll arrive at Huampococha, where we'll set up our last camp, next to a tranquil lake.
B, L, D / Max altitude: 4,800 m (15,748 ft) / Hiking level: Moderate (approx. 5 hours)
DAY 6 - Vinicunca-Cusco
We begin today's hike early to arrive at Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) before the large crowds. The final ascent to the viewpoint takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, walking through colorful mountain scenery at more than 5,000 m elevation. Once at the top, we'll enjoy spectacular views of this natural marvel, where the minerals in the soil create a vibrant rainbow of colors. There will be time to take photos, rest, and explore the area before starting the descent. We’ll hike down to our meeting point, where our private transport will be waiting to take us back to Cusco, arriving between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. Overnight in a hotel in Cusco.
B, L / Max altitude: 5,036 m (16,522 ft) / Hiking level: Moderate to High (4—5 hours)
DAY 7 - Fly home
After breakfast, we take you to the airport to catch your flight.
Optional Add-on:
Machu Picchu over night tour. Contact us for details.
TREK STYLE
This trek is STRENUOUS given the high altitude, the possible low temperatures, with mountain passes reaching 5000 meters or so. However, this is a supported trek requiring that you only carry a day pack each day. You must be physically fit, in good health, and preferably with recent hiking experience. Consulting with your doctor prior to joining the trip is recommended. It is highly suggested that you familiarize yourself with the hazards and risks of high altitude trekking.
PRICING
$2500 (1 person)
$1900 per person (2-8 people)
Maximum group size: 8
DEPOSIT: $750
A non-refundable deposit is required to book. Balance is due at least 90 days prior to the trip departure.
Single supplement: $80 for 2 nights hotel single supplement
***We currently have a guaranteed departure for MAY 6-12, 2026. Anyone is welcome to join as long as spots are open (maximum of 8 people). Fill out the booking form below to join.***
Private tours with your date of choosing are available upon request. Send us an email via equity@browngaltrekker.com.
Please read the TERMS & CONDITIONS and LIABILITY WAIVER before booking.
Click on BOOK NOW to reserve your spot!
INCLUSIONS
Shared accommodations in Cusco for 2 nights
Service of expert guide
Service of a chef on the trek
Service of horses (and driver) to carry personal belongings
Transportation to and from the trailhead
Water during the trek
All meals as noted in the itinerary - B: breakfast, L: lunch, D: dinner
Dining tent with tables and chairs
Tent, basic sleeping mat and pillow
First aid & oxygen bottlers for emergencies
Duffel and waterproof bags
Government Tax and permits
Trip preparation consultation
EXCLUSIONS
International and domestic flights, travel, medical & emergency evacuation insurance, some meals in Cusco, gratuities, and personal expenses.
FLIGHTS
International flights are excluded. Clients must book their own flights and send a copy of their flight itinerary by e-mail to equity@browngaltrekker.com no later than the trip balance due date.
TRIP DOSSIER & GEAR LIST
Confirmed participants will receive a trip dossier with gear list.
TRAVEL INSURANCE REQUIRED
After making a deposit, you are required to obtain appropriate travel insurance through Global Rescue or other insurance of your choice that should cover at a minimum 100% of the trip cost (land & air), emergency medical and evacuation for high altitude trekking of up to 5000 meters. Proof of travel insurance must be provided via electronic mail to equity@browngaltrekker.com no later than the trip balance due date. Failure to obtain travel insurance by the trip balance due date will result in cancellation and no refund of your trip deposit and/or applicable cancellation fees as noted in the Terms & Conditions.
Note: If you opt to buy your insurance from a company other than Global Rescue, please ensure that the insurance you purchase covers high altitude trekking as there are only a select number of companies that provide such type of coverage.
VISA & COVID-19 RESTRICTIONS
Please check ahead of time as to the visa and Covid-19 requirements for the country of your choosing. You are responsible for securing your tourist visa and any required Covid-19 documents.
TRIP NOTES
Upon booking, you will receive trip notes that include the recommended gear list and specific trek information.