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Ausangate Trek 2 Days – Espiritual Hiking

Ausangate Trek 2 Days – Espiritual Hiking

Duration: 2 Days From $ USD 415.00

Ausangate Trek 2 Days – Espiritual Hiking

2 Days from $ 415 | Ausangate Trek 2 Day

Tripadvisor | Min Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl) | Max Altitude: 2200msnm (3545 fasl)
Price From
$ USD 415.00
Duration
2 Days
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 10
Physical Level
Demanding

Introduction

Ausangate is a mountain in the Vilcanota mountain range. It is the highest snow-capped peak in Cusco, reaching 6,384 meters above sea level. The Inca consider this mountain to be “Apu,” which means the mountain has a spirit and is alive. Apu Ausangate is the most important – past and present – mountain and guardian of the ancient Inca empire, called Ausangate. 

This mountain is home to the Q’ero, the last Inca community. Declared a Peruvian cultural heritage site, the Q’ero preserve our ancestral customs that reflect our way of life and the techniques present in spirituality, traditional agriculture, and textiles.

The classic 41.5-mile walk is a spiritual and adventurous excursion, immersing you in the Andean past. The visual splendors on this majestic path include camelids, glaciers, and colorful lakes, each connecting you to personal healing. You will also witness Inca traditions, customs, gastronomy, and hospitality of the Andean communities of Cusco, Peru. The wisdom and knowledge of Andean priests of the Q’ero Community will share Inca techniques that lead to deep reflection and personal healing. 

AndeanSpirit shows our relationship to Pachamama (Mother Earth) and the Apus (protector spirit that lives in the sacred mountain). A pilgrimage to the sacred mountains such as Ausangate, Qoyllurriti, and/or Huamanlipa is part of the daily practice of the Q’ero Community.

Trip Details

  • Location: Peru
  • Duration: 2 days
  • Type: Ceremony, Hiking & Adventure Tours
  • Destinations: Cusco, Ocongate, Tinki, Phacchanta, Upis & azul Qocha lake.
  • Difficulty: Moderate
  • Weather: Cold

Highlights

The Ausangate Trek is a challenging and breathtaking trekking adventure located in the Cusco region of Peru. This four to five-day hike offers an incredible opportunity to explore the towering snow-capped peaks of the Andes, stunning glacial lakes, and the vibrant culture of the local Quechua people.

The trek begins and ends in the small town of Tinqui and takes hikers on a circular route around the majestic Ausangate Mountain. The trek’s highest point is the Palomani Pass, which sits at an altitude of 17,060 feet (5,200 meters), providing stunning views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

One of the most memorable aspects of the Ausangate Trek is the chance to encounter local Quechua communities along the way. These communities have preserved their traditional way of life for centuries and are known for their stunning textiles and intricate weaving techniques. Hikers can visit local villages, learn about their way of life, and even purchase handmade souvenirs to take home.

The trek is challenging, with steep ascents and descents, high altitude, and often unpredictable weather. However, the effort is well worth it for those seeking an unforgettable adventure and a unique cultural experience. It’s important to note that due to the high altitude and rugged terrain, the Ausangate Trek is best suited for experienced hikers who are in good physical condition.

Overall, the Ausangate Trek offers a rare opportunity to experience the beauty of the Peruvian Andes while also immersing oneself in the rich culture of the Quechua people. It’s an adventure that’s not to be missed for those seeking a true off-the-beaten-path experience.

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ITINERARY

DAY 1

CUSCO - OCONGATE - UPIS LAKE

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.

DAY 2

UPIS LAKE - ARAPA PASS - AZUL COCHA - PACCHANTAN - CUSCO

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.

What to Bring

  • Backpack with rain cover
  • Headlamp
  • Extra socks (preferably wool)
  • Hiking pants and multiple layers of shirts
  • Waterproof rain pants
  • Camping shoes/sandals for nighttime wear
  • Waterproof hiking shoes
  • Warm clothing (such as thermal underwear, fleece, hat and gloves)
  • Waterproof clothing (poncho)
  • Breathable clothing (cotton or synthetic pants, shorts, and T-shirt)
  • Sun hat and sunglasses
  • Sunscreen
  • Lip balm to protect from the cold
  • Extra camera and battery
  • Reusable water bottle (such as Nalgene)
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Personal items.
  • Don’t forget your medications and essential personal items.
  • Bring your camera.Be sure to bring small bills in dollars, euros or soles.

Recommendations

  • If you have symptoms of altitude sickness, descend as soon as possible. There is no need to complicate your life.
  • Our guide always has oxygen tanks, which are important as you go above 5040 meters/16,500 feet above sea level. Not all travel agencies offer this service, so it is something to consider when choosing the best Rainbow Mountain tour operator.
  • Make sure you are acclimatized to the altitude of Cusco before setting out on the Rainbow
  • Mountain trek. This is by far the best insurance for a smooth and enjoyable trip. We recommend that you spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek.
  • Batteries tend to die due to the cold – keep them in your sleeping bag.
  • The higher elevation also means colder, near-freezing temperatures, so be prepared. If you decide to hike for several days, be sure to pack very warm clothing. Also, carry coca leaves to combat altitude sickness and carry as little equipment as possible to make the hike easier.
  • It is easy to rent equipment, if you need anything, in Cuzco for a few dollars a day per item.
  • We have cabins at all camps. You will be protected from rain, snow and hail.
  • Regardless of the weather conditions, the scenery is still spectacular.
  • Although we expect the excursion to run as described in the itinerary up to the 3-day Ausangate
  • Trek. Participants must accept that there is the possibility of changes, being necessary due to local conditions, e.g. strikes, natural disasters.
  • You will cross 3 passes that are above 16,000 feet in elevation. The passes are mostly gradual.
  • Temperatures can drop well below freezing at night and be prepared for snow.

Pricing List

Private Service

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

Travel Guide

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.

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Reasons why you should choose Andean Spirit for your next adventure

  • WHY TRAVEL WITH US

    The best experiences in the Peruvian Andes

  • OUR TREKKING TEAM

    Real contact with the people of the Andean region

  • SOCIAL PROJECTS

    We believe in respect for the environment and its importance in our travels.

  • OUR CAMPING TEAM

    Our trips offer you much more, they seem the same, but read on and you will enjoy many more activities.

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