Duration: 2 Days From $ USD 415.00
Ausangate Trek 2 Days – High Andes Short Trek Adventure
The Ausangate Trek 2 Days is the perfect short-term trekking adventure for travelers who want to experience the breathtaking beauty of the high Andes without committing to a longer expedition. Centered around the sacred Ausangate massif, one of the most revered mountains in Andean cosmology, this two-day trek combines dramatic landscapes, pristine glacial lakes, rolling alpine valleys, and cultural encounters that reflect the heart of Andean tradition.
Departing from Cusco early on the first day, you’ll travel through fertile highland valleys before reaching the trailhead. As the trail ascends, you’ll be surrounded by towering peaks, vibrant mineral-rich earth, and sparkling glacial waters. Local guides will provide insight into the region’s geology and cultural heritage, bringing context and meaning to each step of your journey.
The first day of the Ausangate Trek leads you into the heart of the high Andes, passing through pastoral highland villages where llamas and alpacas graze under the watch of snow-capped mountains. You’ll make your way to scenic viewpoints and lakes that mirror the sky, capturing panoramic views of the Ausangate massif rising above it all.
Overnight, you’ll camp in the shadow of the mountains, allowing you to enjoy clear night skies filled with stars and the serene sounds of the highlands. After breakfast on the second day, the trek continues with more breathtaking views and a gradual descent back toward civilization. Along the way, you’ll have opportunities to learn about Andean farming practices, local customs, and the spiritual significance of these mountains to the indigenous communities.
Whether you’re an experienced hiker or a nature lover seeking a deeper connection with Peru’s Andean landscapes, the Ausangate Trek 2 Days offers an accessible and unforgettable trekking experience. With expert local guides, careful acclimatization, and well-paced itineraries, this trek delivers the essence of the high Andes in a manageable two-day format.
Breathtaking high-Andes scenery and panoramic mountain views
Trek through alpine valleys and past glacial lakes
Experience authentic Andean culture with local herders
Expert local guides with cultural and environmental insight
Two-day trekking adventure without the longer commitment
Comfortable camping and scenic night under the stars
Our tour starts with a pickup from your hotel at 6:00 AM in a private minibus that takes us to the beginning of the walk in the municipality of Upis. The journey, which lasts approximately three hours, takes us through the picturesque and vibrant towns of Urcos, Ocongate, and Tinki. Upon arrival in Upis, we’ll have breakfast and meet our muleteer.
We then continue the hike, taking in stunning views of the Nevado de Ausangate, until we reach our campsite with Upis cabins at an altitude of 4200m, where lunch will be waiting, prepared by our cook. After lunch, you can relax in the thermal baths or opt to visit Upis Lagoon to make a ceremony, a two-hour round trip walk. However, it’s best to conserve energy for the next day.
We’ll awaken you early, around 5:30 am, with a traditional coca tea or coffee in your respective huts, followed by breakfast. On our trip, we’ll encounter local alpaca herders and take in the sights of the snowy Ausangate to the left, diverse flora and fauna. If we’re lucky, we may even spot condors, chinchillas, and vicuñas.
In addition, we’ll experience the beauty of the colorful lagoons, After three hours we travel to the different lakes to receive the energies of the sacred mountain through ceremonies and appreciate the colors of the lakes and tune in to the pure energy of nature. These lagoons are fed by the melted snow of Ausangate.
After the ceremony we will have lunch, then we are going to take our car to come back to Cusco. We’ll get at 6 pm Cusco.
This service is an exclusive way to carry out this trip where the service is much more personalized, the prices vary according to the number of people in your group:
| Number of persons | Price per person | |
| 1 Persons | $ USD 415.00 | Inquire Now |
Luggage for the Ausangate Trek
Most tour operators and lodgings allow you to store your luggage while you are on the trek and retrieve it upon your return.
Difficulty of the Ausangate Trek
The high-altitude route of the Ausangate Trek is one reason why it is considered challenging, not suitable for inexperienced hikers. It’s advisable to start with moderate hikes before attempting this trek.
Camping and Nighttime at Ausangate
Local communities established the camping system, creating job opportunities and boosting economic growth through tourism. This makes the Ausangate Trek increasingly popular. Although still basic, the campsites are located in remote areas and lack facilities like shops or services. There are only camping spots and basic sanitary facilities. There’s no potable water available at the camps, and showers must be postponed until the end of the trek. (Note: if on a guided trek, you might get a bowl of hot water for morning ablutions).
Camping Equipment Rental in Cusco
If you prefer to rent gear in Cusco, we recommend renting two sets of camping equipment and walking half a block to the main plaza.
Useful Information
Put your smartphone in airplane mode as there is no network coverage along the trek.
Stay hydrated while hiking at high altitudes by drinking at least two to three liters of water per day. While there are streams and rivers along the way, it’s recommended to bring water purification tablets due to the presence of alpacas and llamas in the mountains.
Be aware of the weather as it can change suddenly in the Andes, especially at high altitudes. Bring warm clothing and waterproof jackets, especially when crossing high passes.
Carry a first aid kit, tool kit for repairs, and blister care kit in your backpack.
Don’t forget sunscreen, lip balm, and sunglasses, and wear a neck gaiter and wind protection to shield yourself from the wind.
Acclimatization for the Ausangate Trek
Since the Ausangate Trek involves daily high-altitude stages, at least three acclimatization hikes are recommended before embarking on the trek. The best way to acclimate is to hike the Cristo Blanco in Cusco (3700m) and the Maras Moray area, both higher than Cusco.
Best Season for the Ausangate Trek
The best time to hike the Ausangate area is from April to November, to maximize the number of clear days. However, the peak season attracts many hikers, so if you want to enjoy the beautiful places, it’s recommended to trek in late March or December. You can trek Ausangate any time of the year (if going solo) but prices for guided treks may be higher due to lower demand and more difficult descents.
Climate of Ausangate
Due to the Andes’ geographical conditions, the weather in the Ausangate area can be unpredictable and fluctuates between 10-20°C during the day and 5-10°C at night. The high-altitude sun is strong, but it’s not hot, making it a challenging condition. The temperature drops significantly in the evening, sometimes to below -10°C in the dry season, so warm clothing is essential for the trek.
The Ausangate Trek 2 Days is a short high-Andes trekking experience near Cusco that explores sacred mountain landscapes, glacial lakes, and traditional Andean communities in a compact two-day itinerary.
The trek takes place in the Ausangate region of southern Peru, passing through areas such as Ocongate, Tinki, Phacchanta, Upis, and scenic alpine lakes like Azul Qocha.
The trek is considered moderate. While the hiking pace is manageable, the high altitude can make it more demanding, so a reasonable fitness level is recommended.
The trek reaches high elevations typical of the Ausangate region, generally above 4,000 meters, which is why acclimatization is important before joining the tour.
Yes. We strongly recommend spending at least 1–2 days in Cusco or another high-altitude destination before starting the trek to reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
Weather in the Ausangate region is generally cold, especially at night. Daytime conditions can vary, with sun, wind, and occasional snow depending on the season.
Bring warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots, gloves, a hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, personal medications, and a reusable water bottle.
Yes, as long as you are in good physical condition and properly acclimatized. No technical climbing skills are required.
Absolutely. You will pass through traditional Andean villages and may encounter local herders with llamas and alpacas, offering insight into high-altitude rural life.
Most Ausangate Trek 2 Days tours include meals and camping accommodation. Please review the specific itinerary for exact inclusions.
The best season is typically May to September, during the dry season, when weather conditions are more stable and views are clearer.
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The best experiences in the Peruvian Andes
Real contact with the people of the Andean region
We believe in respect for the environment and its importance in our travels.
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