Overview
Our signature trek of Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain is supported by llamas, providing an exceptional experience in Peru. Peru by Locals is the only company that offers this trek supported by llamas. Our goal is to reintroduce these animals to the mountains and provide a unique adventure experience, as the number of llamas in Peru is decreasing because the mountain people no longer use them as much. In Incan times, llamas were used for transporting loads, but the use of their wool and meat was minimal, which is why mountain people prefer alpacas over llamas. Since we started our operations in Ausangate, the families did not have llamas but alpacas. Then Paulo’s family acquired 10 llamas, and these are the llamas that accompany our guests on this spectacular journey. Being part of this journey with llamas will be a unique, life-lasting experience.
Peru by Locals is always putting together amazing adventures for you. Now you have the chance to experience both Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain in southern Cusco. It is a true paradise filled with cool mountain streams, blue-green lakes, picturesque villages, llamas and alpacas everywhere, snow-capped mountains, and the colorful Rainbow Mountain with its painted hills—a must-see place when traveling. It is one of the most breathtaking places on Earth and the most important trek in Southern Cusco.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Trek with our passionate local guides who love what they do and have guided over 500 treks
- Enjoy our premier camping gear
- Savor Peruvian cuisine prepared by our chefs in the mountains
- Hike around the tallest mountain, Ausangate, and finish your adventure at the iconic Rainbow Mountain
Details
- Type of tour: Hiking, camping, scenic
- Distance covered: 6 miles
- Duration: 3 days / 2 nights
- Lowest elevation: 3,900 m (12,795 feet)
- Highest elevation: 5,010 m (16,437 feet)
Accommodation: Camping. We use 3-season roomy tents for 2 people, with 2 nights camping and 1 night in a hotel. If you are a solo traveler, let us know so we can accommodate you with someone else or provide a private tent upon request.
Our guides: PERU BY LOCALS was a dream realized in 2015 by Jose Condor, who has been guiding treks since 2004 and has been to Machu Picchu over 1,000 times. Now, Peru by Locals has a group of top guides, both men and women, who hold professional degrees and receive refresher training every year with NOLS (National Outdoor Leadership School) in WILDERNESS FIRST RESPONDER. Since our treks venture into the wilderness, your health is our priority. Our guides are trained to assist with any of your needs while you are on vacation. We invest in our guides because we believe they are the main ingredient of any trip.
Peru by Locals is not only a travel company but a group of great leaders who love sharing our culture and being with travelers.
Location: This trip starts in Cusco city or Sacred Valley upon your request. You will need to fly to Lima, the capital of Peru, then to Velasco Astete Airport in Cusco, which is a small domestic airport.
Departures: This hike is operated 100% by PERU BY LOCALS. When you book your hike or take any tour package with us, you go with us directly—we don’t rearrange tours. We depart every day year-round. The group sizes range from 2 to 5 people on average, allowing us to provide personalized service.
We take bookings year-round, and this hike does not need to be booked far in advance. So, whenever you are ready, join us and reach out with any questions via our 24/7 number +51 989585967 or email us at info@perubylocals.com.
Itinerary
DAY 1. CUSCO – UPIS BAJO – ARAPA PASS – PUKACOCHA
We depart Cusco at 4 a.m. for a 3-hour journey to the trailhead at Upis Bajo. Here, we will meet our horse riders to load all equipment and enjoy our first camping breakfast. Our adventure starts with a gradual uphill hike in the direction of Ausangate Mountain through llama and alpaca herds. It will be a gentle hike, though sometimes challenging due to the elevation. Don’t worry—our passionate guides will encourage you every step of the way to reach camp with total happiness.
We will stop at Upis Camp for lunch, followed by a nap. Then, we will trek towards the first pass called Arapa, which was and still is a sacred spot for our Quechua people. We will perform a small ceremony to honor the mountains, as our ancestors did, especially since we will be close to Ausangate Mountain, the most sacred mountain for the Incas. After this meaningful moment, we head down to a lunch spot next to the beautiful Yanacocha Lake. Following lunch and a proper nap, we will continue our journey to the next camp at Puka Cocha, located right at the base of Ausangate Mountain—a spectacular place to spend the night.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by our amazing chef
- Hiking Time: 7-8 hours
- Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 miles
- Lowest elevation: 3,900 m (12,795 ft)
- Highest elevation: 4,800 m (15,748 ft)
- Accommodation: 2 nights camping and 1 night in a hotel
DAY 2. PUKA COCHA – ANANTA PASS – HUARMISAYA
You will be awakened by our cooks with a nice cup of coffee or tea in the tents, followed by a nutritious breakfast to prepare for the day. After packing, we will start hiking up a steep switchback trail towards the second pass, where we will find a large pile of stones made by the Incas long ago, called an Apacheta, marking along the trails. This area also offers more snow-capped mountain views, red mountains, glassy lands, and perhaps wild vicuñas (similar to llamas). After a good rest here, we will descend to camp for a couple of hours, where our lunch awaits us.
The afternoon hike is towards Huarmisaya Pass, where we will have the first view of the magnificent Rainbow Mountain. From here, it is only a 25-minute walk down to the camp next to Huarmisaya Lake.
- Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner prepared by our amazing chef
- Hiking Time: 7 hours
- Hiking Distance: 10 km / 6.5 miles
- Lowest elevation: 4,500 m (14,763 ft)
- Highest elevation: 5,000 m (16,404 ft)
- Accommodation: Camping
- Level of difficulty: Challenging
DAY 3: RAINBOW MOUNTAIN – CUSCO
We will embark on a very early morning hike to Rainbow Mountain to be among the first hikers arriving there, allowing you to enjoy the place before the day hikers arrive and it becomes too busy.
After spending time here, we will head down to the spectacular Red Valley and another beautiful valley that few hikers visit. Our day will end by 10 a.m. with the last camping meal prepared by our chef, and we expect to be back in Cusco by noon.
- Meals: Breakfast and lunch prepared by our amazing chef
- Hiking Time: 4 hours
- Hiking Distance: 6 km / 3.7 miles
- Lowest elevation: 4,300 m (14,107 ft)
- Highest elevation: 5,010 m (16,437 ft)
Services
SERVICES INCLUDED
- Transport to and from your hotel in Cusco
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners
- Horses to carry the heavy equipment (food, tents, chairs, tables, etc.)
- Chef
- Boiled drinking water every day. We recommend bringing water bottles or camel bags
- Trekking guide, knowledgeable in history, tradition, fauna, flora, etc.
- First aid kit including an oxygen tank carried by your guide
- Equipment (sleeping tent, dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, air mattresses)
- Duffle bag to carry your belongings, transported by horses
- Entrance tickets to the area
SERVICES EXCLUDED
- Appreciations for the crew (15% of the total cost recommended for the entire crew)
- Sleeping bags (can be rented from us for $20 for the entire trek)
Packing list
- Down sleeping bag. You should consider bringing a sleeping bag rated at least to –4°F. If you don’t have one, you can rent one from us for USD 20 (they are washed after each use)
- Trekking shoes should be well broken in. If you have new ones, make sure to break them in before you arrive. They should be comfortable for your feet and preferably offer ankle support.
- Warm fleece and jacket. They must be warm enough for the nights, and a windbreaker or rain jacket is recommended.
- A few t-shirts for hiking. You will sweat, so consider bringing at least 3 or 4: one for hiking, one for the night, and one clean for Machu Picchu
- Socks. Bring at least 3 pairs
- Sun hat. Some days can be hot and sunny. We recommend bringing a sun hat that can protect your face from the sun.
- Clothes for sleeping, warm long underwear, and gloves, especially for the campsites
- Light long pants and trekking pants that dry quickly
- Sunscreen SPF 35+ recommended
- Headlamp. All the camps are dark, so you will need a headlamp for organizing your stuff in your tent or going to the bathroom at night
- Sunglasses
- Camera with spare batteries (batteries drain faster at high altitudes)
- Book to read. You will have some spare time at every camp to read your favorite book or books about Machu Picchu. We recommend:
Last Days of the Incas by Kim MacQuarrie,
Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time by Mark Adams - Trekking poles. They are highly recommended for uphill and downhill sections. Experts say they can reduce the load by up to 30% of your body weight
- Toiletries – toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel
- Set of clean clothes for Machu Picchu after the night at the hotel
Important information
OFTEN ASKED QUESTIONS
WHAT IS THE TERRAIN LIKE? HOW CHALLENGING IS IT?
The trek is rated as challenging and covers approximately 18.6 miles on uneven terrain with gradual uphill and downhill sections, offering spectacular vistas of glaciers and lakes.
HOW LONG BEFORE SHOULD I BOOK THE AUSANGATE TREK?
The Ausangate trek does not require a permit to be booked far in advance, so we take bookings year-round. You can book up to 1 month before your trip, which gives us enough time to organize everything, especially Machu Picchu permits.
WHAT IS THE WEATHER LIKE ON THE AUSANGATE TREK DURING THE YEAR?
Weather in the region is extremely variable, and you should pack for a variety of conditions. Additionally, our trek passes through high grassy lands. During a sunny day, you can expect temperatures of about 18–25°C (65–77°F).
The Machu Picchu area has a humid climate and tends to be warmer since it is located at a lower altitude and near the Amazon Jungle. The average temperatures in Machu Picchu are between 23°C to 25°C (73°F and 77°F), with the minimum temperature around 18°C (64°F). The Cusco area has only two well-defined seasons: the wet season and the dry season. The wet season starts in November and ends in March. During this period, it rains almost every day for three or four hours, but there are also several sunny days. The dry season begins around April and lasts until October. June and July are the coldest months. Paradoxically, at noon, temperatures can reach 23°C (73°F), the annual highest temperature.
WHAT IS THE ELECTRICAL SITUATION?
There is no electricity while you are on the trek, so consider bringing your phone fully charged. If you enjoy photography and want to capture those great moments, bring extra batteries for your camera. Additionally, all the camps are dark, so you will need to bring a headlamp for organizing your stuff in your tent or going to the bathroom at night.
WHAT AM I GOING TO EAT ON THE TREK?
Our meals are based on organic food, and we pack fresh vegetables from the beginning.
Your lunch will include quinoa, pasta, vegetable soup, and the main course, usually a small version of a buffet including rice, potatoes, white or red meat, and salad such as avocado.
Dinner is usually similar but includes dessert.
Breakfast includes eggs, omelets, pancakes, bread, cereals, oatmeal, and drinks. You will be well-fed and may only need to pack a few snacks, as we provide snacks such as fruit and a cookie for the way.
Note: We have options for vegetarians and vegans too. Please inform us at the time of booking so we can prepare accordingly.
SHOULD I TIP THE CHEF AND GUIDES? IF SO, HOW MUCH SHOULD I TIP?
Our chefs and guides are paid fairly according to Peruvian labor laws, which is why we don’t require our clients to tip the crew. However, most of our clients choose to show appreciation for the work and service they receive. If you decide to tip, we recommend 15% of the total cost.
HOW MANY DAYS SHOULD I STAY IN CUSCO BEFORE THE TREK TO ADJUST TO THE ALTITUDE?
The main cause of altitude sickness is ascending too quickly. Given enough time, your body will adapt to the decreased oxygen levels, a process known as acclimatization, which generally takes one to three days at any given altitude. Cusco is at an elevation of 3,400 meters (11,154 feet), so spending at least 2 days before any trek will help you significantly.
You may also consider taking altitude pills. We often recommend DIAMOX or Acetazolamide, which are used to prevent and reduce the symptoms of altitude sickness. This medication can decrease headaches, tiredness, nausea, dizziness, and shortness of breath that can occur when you ascend quickly to high altitudes (generally above 10,000 feet/3,048 meters). It is particularly useful in situations where you cannot make a slow ascent. (Regarding any specific medications, please check for side effects, precautions, interactions, or overdose, or consult your doctor for advice.)
DO I NEED TO BRING MONEY ON THE TREK?
You should consider bringing money, as you may want to buy bottled water, snacks, Gatorade, beer, etc., from locals along the way, especially on day one. Additionally, if you plan to give appreciation or tips to the porters and guides, you will need money.
The last lunch at Aguas Calientes is not included, so you will need money for that as well. We recommend bringing soles rather than dollars, as there are banks and exchange offices in Cusco where you can exchange any type of currency.
DO I NEED TO CARRY MY OWN MEDICINE OR FIRST AID?
Your guide will have a first aid kit at all times during the trek, which includes painkillers, bandages, blister prevention items, an oxygen tank, pills for diarrhea, and similar supplies. If you need anything, feel free to ask. However, if you require special medication or have a medical condition, please consult your doctor for the best advice before the trek.
CAN I RENT A SLEEPING BAG FROM YOU? WHAT TYPE SHOULD I BRING?
We rent sleeping bags that are specially designed for cold temperatures on the trek. We offer sleeping bags rated for up to -15°C (5°F). When booking your trek with us, please request a sleeping bag and have it ready for the trek for USD 20.
If you have your own sleeping bag, ensure it is down-filled and rated for temperatures up to -15°C (5°F) or colder. You don’t want to be cold.
HOW BIG WILL MY GROUP BE?
We specialize in both small and large groups, but we prefer small groups to provide personalized service, especially when encountering various elements on treks, such as Incan sites, flowers, flora, and fauna. Your guide spends ample time with you, allowing you to learn more about our culture and history.
We limit the size of our groups on treks to up to 8 people. However, if a situation requires more than 8 people in a group, such as a group of friends or family, we are happy to accommodate them in a single group.
HOW DO I GET WATER ON THE TREK?
On the Ausangate trail, you will be provided with boiled drinking water from day 1 until the end of your trek. However, ensure you have enough water for the first day (you can also purchase it on the way to the beginning of your trek). People usually drink about one and a half liters of water per day, sometimes more. Bring water bottles for the first day to refill them. We recommend bringing Nalgene water bottles or camel bags to reduce garbage. Locals sell bottled water along the way, but not everyone is responsible, and many people litter. We need to take care of our environment, so we recommend refilling your bottles whenever possible. Thank you for being part of our green home.
WHAT IS THE TOILET SITUATION ON THE AUSANGATE TREK LIKE? SHOULD I BRING MY OWN TOILET PAPER?
We provide a portable private toilet at each campsite, which is cleaned by our staff after use. It includes a toilet seat.
DO I NEED WALKING POLES?
Walking poles are recommended for everyone as they help significantly on both uphill and downhill sections. Our expert guides say that they can reduce the load by up to 30% of your body weight. A pair per person is recommended. If you don’t have any but want to use them on your trek, you can rent them from us as well—a pair costs US$15 for the four days.
HOW BIG SHOULD MY DAY PACKBACK BE?
A thirty-liter backpack will be sufficient to carry your belongings such as water, rain gear, and extra clothes. If you already have a backpack between 20 and 40 liters, that will work well too.
HOW BIG ARE THE SLEEPING TENTS? HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN SLEEP IN ONE?
Our tents are designed for all four seasons and can accommodate up to 3 people. However, we typically use them for 2 people (2.30 meters in length x 1.70 meters in width).
Please email us if you are a solo traveler and specify whether you want to share a tent or have a private tent to sleep in.
IS THERE ANY PLACE TO WASH ME? ARE THERE SHOWERS?
The Ausangate trek does not have showers. Every morning, you will receive a small bucket of warm water in your tent that you can use for washing your hands, face, or anything else you need. We also recommend bringing wet wipes for personal hygiene.
CAN I PAY THE REST OF THE BALANCE WITH A CREDIT CARD, OR DOES IT HAVE TO BE IN CASH?
We accept the balance of the payment in cash to avoid extra fees. However, you can use a credit card, but you will need to pay the associated fees, which are usually over 4%.
PERUVIAN CURRENCY
The Peruvian sol is the currency of Peru and usually fluctuates between 3.3 to 3.8 Nuevos soles to 1 US Dollar.
LANGUAGE
Spanish is the national language of Peru. Additionally, 20.5% of Peruvians speak Quechua (the Incan language). Our guides are fluent in Spanish and English.
Why Peru by Locals
- Peru by Locals offers tailor-made treks and tours, catering to your interests when planning your tour
- We are committed to providing world-class tours based on exceptional customer service
- We are a locally owned and highly experienced travel company based in Cusco, Peru
- Our staff consists of members with decades of first-hand experience in the Peruvian tourism sector
- All management and staff at Peru by Locals speak English, Spanish, and Quechua (the language of the Incas)
- Our guides and staff members are professionally trained and educated in the history of the Incas, Peruvian history, culture and traditions, wilderness first aid, trek and tour guiding, the fauna and flora of the region, and tourism management
- We are committed to cherishing our environment
- We are committed to creating a great environment for our local people. We practice fair labor practices and honor and treat all our employees with dignity
- We have programs to help with the development of the porters’ families and communities, such as planting trees and buying school books and equipment for poor local communities
- We have also started an Education Fund to support the education of the children of porters. A percentage of income from every tour and trek is allocated to this fund year-round, along with diverse unique itineraries from 1 to 12 days in length. We offer a wide range of tours and treks, all customized according to your needs. We guarantee you the experience of a lifetime!
Peru Small Group Specialists
Our tours are designed for those who love adventure, want to explore new places, experience the local culture, love food, enjoy history, and are of all ages, whether you are traveling alone or with friends.
Small groups are the best, and the average tour or trek group size is around 4 to 7 people. Why is this great? Well, have you ever waited in line while 40 other people get a coffee in the morning? Believe it or not, it is not fun. Taking small groups allows us the flexibility to take you on adventures to places that nobody else goes.
Price
Best Seller
Ausangate Trek + Rainbow Mountain 3D/2N | Peru by Locals
HOW LONG BEFORE SHOULD I BOOK THE AUSANGATE TREK?
Product Brand: Peru by Locals
Product Currency: USD
Product Price: 340
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GROUP SERVICE
Our tour groups are very important. We run tours with groups of 2 to 8 people and open any tour dates with a minimum of 2 guests. This service is considered semi-private for personalized experiences, allowing you to make the most of your time.
Accommodations:
Costs are based on double bedroom occupancy and are quoted in US dollars. For single room occupancy, contact us at info@perubylocals.com or via our 24/7 number +51 989585967 (WhatsApp).
To secure your booking with us, we require a 20% deposit (pre-payment of the total cost), and the remaining balance must be paid 30 days prior to your trip.
Choosing this option:
- Once a tour date is opened with 2 guests, the travel date is unlikely to change later.
- This is a great option to meet other travelers and socialize during the trip.
- The quality of service is the same as with private tours.
- If for any reason you or others cannot continue the tour, the tour will proceed as planned from beginning to end.
PRIVATE SERVICE
Our private service can start with 1 person and accommodate any number you desire, allowing you to choose your travel date.
Accommodations:
We run all our tours with 3-star hotels, but we can customize arrangements with 5-star hotels upon request.
Costs are based on double bedroom occupancy and are quoted in US dollars. For single room occupancy, contact us at info@perubylocals.com or via our 24/7 number +51 989585967 (WhatsApp).
To secure your booking with us, we require a 20% deposit (pre-payment of the total cost), and the remaining balance must be paid 30 days prior to your trip.
Choosing this option:
- We cater to your needs with flexibility.
- Once a tour date is opened, it can still be changed if time allows and upon your request.
- This is a great option to spend time with your parents, family, and friends or to travel for special occasions such as a honeymoon.
- The quality of service is the same as with other tours.
