Seven Lakes Ausangate hike – Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Pacchanta- Seven Lakes – Cusco.

The seven lakes Ausangate journey will begin at 4.15 am, with the pick up from your hotel in Cusco and then take a 3-hour drive towards Pacchanta village. This place is located at 4200 meters above sea level and on the way there you will pass by the Tinke village. The ascent to the high elevation means that temperatures will be lower than Cusco itself. After our arrival to Pacchanta, we will have a hot breakfast served in a local restaurant; a place with awesome views of Apu Ausangate.
After breakfast and a small break, we will start our hike towards the seven lakes in the same area of Mt Ausangate.

The full hike will be for about 5 hours and it will take you along the Ausangate trails, where we will see the different lakes like Azulcocha, Otorongo, Pucacocha, Alqacocha, Q’omercocha and the other smaller lakes. That’s not everything to be seeing on this day hike; we will also view the stunning snowcapped peaks that surround this area. These include the Apu Ausangate (6834 m.), Mariposa or Butterfly (5842 m.), Jampa (5500 m.), Pucapunta (5740 m), and most of Qayangate chain of mountains.

This area forms part of the Peruvian Andes Mountains, which means that weather is very changeable. Expect a bit of everything from cold temperatures to hot sunny moments. For that reason, you should bring a hat or cap and to use a good sunblock to avoid any sunburn and headaches.

Along the path we will have the chance to see the typical flora and fauna of the high mountains. From different kinds of birds to vicuñas and llamas. The views are breathtaking, and you will have the chance to visit all of the different lakes as you return along the pathway. The return is much easier and faster hiking down towards Pacchanta. Once you get to the trailhead, we will have a hot lunch to recover your energies.
Pacchanta has hot springs in the middle of the village, which is optional to use and relax your muscles. After to finish lunch, we will take our transportation back to Cusco and you will be dropped at your hotel.

• Meals included: Breakfast / lunch
• Difficulty of the hike: Challenging
• Hotel in Cusco: not included

Included for Seven lakes Ausangate Tour:

• Private transportation to the trail-head of seven Lakes hike
• Expert mountain tour guide
• Breakfast and lunch served in a local restaurant
• Entrance fees to the Ausangate & 7 lakes
• Oxygen tank
• Transfer back to the hotel in Cusco

Not Included in the Seven Lakes day trip:

• Cold drinks and snacks.
• Tips for the crew (guide and driver)
• ISIC student cards are not accepted for this trek

Recommended things to bring for Seven lakes Peru:

• Water bottle, camera, sun block, hat
• Rain coat or rain poncho
• Hiking poles
• Sun-glasses
• Cash in soles for tips and souvenirs
• Comfortable sturdy walking shoes or runners
• A warm clothes to return to Cusco
• Small or medium size backpack.

Seven lakes Ausangate  Reservations

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Palcoyo Mountain tour – Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Combapata – Palcoyo Mountain – Cusco.

Palcoyo Mountain tour begins with the pick up at 4:30 am from your hotel. Then we will start our adventure driving to the south of Cusco city. After 1hour and 40 minutes of drive, we will stop for a quick breakfast served in a local restaurant. Afterwards we will continue to Palcoyo, passing through valleys, rivers, mountains and some smaller communities.

We will reach the trail-head at 4800 meters above sea level, then we will start walking uphill for approximately 40 minutes to arrive to the highest point of our excursion that is 4950 meters. At this point we will be surrounded by stunning landscapes, which combined with the local culture makes this Palcoyo tour as an exceptional day trip in the Peruvian Andes.

 

The hike goes through incredible rock formations with amazing views of Ausangate mountain in the distance! Once we arrive to the top you will observe the three colorful hills, which people call the three Rainbow Mountains. Then you will have all the time to rest and take amazing pictures. After to enjoyed the beauty of the nature, we will descend for about 30 minutes to the parking place. We will embark in the return drive to Cusco and once we arrive back to the Cusipata Valley there will a short stop for a delicious lunch in a local restaurant and then finally we will return to Cusco.

Included for Palcoyo Mountain Tour:

• Pre-trek Briefing 1 or 2 day before your Palcoyo Mountain tour
• Private transportation to the beginning of Palcoyo Mountain Hike
• Professional Spanish / English speaking tour guide
• 1 breakfast and 1 lunch
• Emergency oxygen bottle for the group
• First aid kit.
• Entrance fee
• Return transportation to Cusco hotel

Not Included for Palcoyo full day trip:

• Dinner in the evening
• Tips for the crew (guide and driver)
• Travel Insurance.
• Any kind of rinks
• ISIC card is not accepted for this tour

Recommended things to bring for  Palcoyo:

• Hiking boots or comfortable shoes
• Waterproof jacket, pants/ rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and gloves
• Sun hat
• Sun cream / sun-glasses
• Snacks as chocolate bars
• Small or medium size backpack.

Palcoyo Mountain Tour  Reservations

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Itinerary for Ausangate Rainbow Mountains tour

Day 1: Cusco – Tinqui – Upis Village – Hot springs

To start this adventure trip, travelers will be collected from their hotels in Cusco. You then have 3 hours of drive to the rural area of Tinqui. On the way you will pass the South valley of Cusco with some picturesque towns as Urcos and Ocongate. There will be some mind-blowing views of the tall mountains, especially Ausangate in the distance.

At your arrival to the trail-head our expert chef will prepare a quick breakfast. While the horseman loads on the horses all the camping gear required for this adventure trip. You begin hiking from Upis Village, with spectacular views of Ausangate in front. The trail goes through the farming fields of the local people. Where you also get to see some cattle and Alpaca herds.

After 3 hours of gentle hike you will stop for a refueling lunch. This section has some houses of the locals, who are farmers and they own many herds of Alpacas. In the afternoon you will hike for another 2 hours until to reach Upis hot-springs (4,200 m / 13,680 ft). You will camp here in front of Mt Ausangate. Optional to enjoy the relaxing hot springs, while the sun downs. A delicious dinner will be served by our expert chef.

• Meals: Breakfast/lunch/dinner & snacks
• Lowest elevation: 3,800 m / 12, 464 ft
• Highest point: 4,200 m / 13,680 ft
• Estimated walking distance: 12 km / 7 ½ miles
• Estimated walking Time: 6 – 7 hours
• Level

Day 2: Hot spring ‐ Pukacocha lake – Ausangate pass – Anantapata

In the morning you will get a cup of hot coca tea to wake up in your tent. After a good breakfast you will leave the camp and continue with Ausangate Rainbow Mountains tour. You will start following a scenic path, hiking 2 hours until to reach Arapa Pass (4,850 m / 15,908 ft.). From here you get a wonderful views of the desert hills around, interesting rock formations, stunning views of Mt. Ausangate, and Ccolque Cruz in the distance. Then you will walk gentle-down to Lake Pukacocha. Hiking 30 minutes further up, you will arrive to the Lunch place. A spot with breathtaking views of Apu Ausangate the back-side.

After lunch you will hike one of the challenging section of this trip. As you gain altitude some turquoise glacier lakes will show up: Pukacocha, Hatun Pukacocha, and Qomercocha. Ausangate pass is the highest point for this day (4950 m /16120 ft). At this place you get breathtaking sights of all the snow-capped peaks. Including the towering Ausangate and some reddish hills in the opposite side. After to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery you will head to Anantapata for the night (4,400 m / 14,435 ft.).

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner + snacks
• Lowest elevation: 4,200 m / 13,680 ft
• Highest elevation: 4,950 m / 16,120 ft
• Estimated walking Distance: 13 km / 8 miles
• Estimated walking Time: 7 – 8 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Anantapata – Warmisaya Pass – Surine cocha – Vinicunca camp

After a delicious breakfast at the camp of Anantapata. You will begin the hike, with 2 hours of uphill to reach Warmisaya Pass (4900 m/ 16110ft.). This will be another great day, if you are lucky you can get to see the Andean Condors gliding on the mountain top. From the pass is also visible the colorful Rainbow Mountain in the distance. There are many stone pails around, as offerings of the locals for the Apus and Pachamama.

Enjoying all the stunning views, you will descent for one hour to Surine cocha for an early lunch. In the afternoon 2 hours of hike will lead you to the famous Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m / 16,469 ft). Taking great pictures from the top, you will walk down to the camp of Vinicunca. Located in the proximity of Rainbow Mountain Peru.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner & snacks
• Lowest: Elevation: 4,400 m /14,435 ft
• Highest: Elevation: 5,053 m / 16,480 ft
• Walking distance: 11 km/ 7 miles
• Walking Time: 6 – 7 hours
• Difficulty: Demanding
• Meals: Breakfast0/Lunch/Dinner & snacks

Day 4: Rainbow Mountains – Red Valley – Llaqto – Cusco

Early wake up! It is time to explore the Rainbow Mountains. You will have chance to arrive to the top for the sunrise. Usually some people plan to get there earliest possible and be the first people at the lookout. After to explore Vinicunca, before the crowds arrive you will head to Red Valley. Enjoying the amazing view for the top, the trail will take you to Llaqto bus stop. Where our chef will await for you with the final lunch of the trip.

In the afternoon you will have 3 hours of drive to Cusco hotel. You will arrive back in Cusco around 5:00 pm. The end of Ausangate Rainbow Mountains tour.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch
• Lowest: elevation: 5,020 m / 16,450 ft
• Highest: elevation: 7 km /4 miles
• Estimated: walking time: 5-6 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Included for Ausangate Rainbow Mountains tour:

• Expert mountain tour guide
• Pre-Departure Briefing with the guide 1 or 2 days before the Trip.
• Private transportation from your hotel to Tinqui trail-head of Rainbow Mountain tour
• Transportation from Llaqto to Cusco hotel
• Four person tent for each 2 people.
• Thermarest Inflatable Mattress
• Kitchen tent
• Expert chef to prepare the meals
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Toilet tent to set up at the camp
• Wranglers and horses to carry all the equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc)
• Horse to carry 7 kg of your personal items
• Emergency riding horse in case need it
• Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 3 dinners
• Hot water for washing at every camp
• Daily morning boiled and cold drinkable water
• Emergency oxygen tank and medical kit.
• Admission fee for Ausangate trail and Rainbow Mountain

Not Included for Ausangate Rainbow Mountains tour:

• Sleeping bag (you can hire it in our office)
• Trekking poles (can be rented from us)
• Travel Insurance
• Day 4 dinner
• Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide) are voluntier, but mandatory

Recommended things to bring for Rainbow Mountain tour:

1. Original passport
2. Down sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
3. A change of clothes  for cold and warm weather
4. Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, cleaning towels)
5. Sunscreen SPF 50+ recommended, sun hat and sunglasses
6. Head lamp or flashlight
7. Camera with spare batteries
8. Binoculars (optional)
9. Trekking poles (You can hire it in our office)
10. Insect repellent
11. Little gifts for the local people at the villages.

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Ausangate Rainbow Mountains Tour & Reservations

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Vinicunca Mountain hike – Overview

• 1th day.- Cusco – Cusipata – LLaqtoc – Pukacocha
• 2th day.- Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Llacto – Cusco.

Day 1: Cusco – Cusipata – Llaqto – Pukacoha

We will depart from Cusco around 9:00 am taking the route, which leads to the South valley of Cusco. After 3 hours of drive in our private van, we will arrive to Llaqto.  A beautiful Andean village located above the Cusipata valley. Before we start hiking our expert chef will prepare a delicious lunch. While we enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery and tranquility of this place.

Hiking up-hill we will pass Alpaca grazing places. Great view of mountains around. After approximately 2 hours of walk we will arrive to our campsite at Pukacocha. This place is located in the proximity of the Rainbow Mountains and Red Valley. At our arrival, to the camp our crew will receive us cheering.

• Meals: lunch & dinner
• Overnight at camping

2th day: Rainbow Mountains – Red Valley – Llaqto – Cusco

After an early breakfast we will depart from the camp. It is our chance to see the incredible Rainbow Mountain without many people. Enjoying all the beauty of this natural wonder. You will walk to the Red Valley to see the amazing red color hills. This area is visited by travelers hiking the Rainbow Mountain trek full day Also people from Ausangate Rainbow Mountains 4 day. So we might see some other hikers around us.

After to walk some of the red hills. The trail will lead us through a beautiful little valley. The downhill hike will be for 1 hour to Llaqto village for lunch. In the afternoon we will have 3 hour drive back to Cusco.

• Food: breakfast and lunch
• Hotel in Cusco: not included

Included in the Vinicunca Mountain hike

• Expert mountain tour guide
• Pre-trek briefing at your hotel in Cusco
• Transportation to Llaqto the trail-head.
• Return transportation from Llaqto to Cusco hotel.
• A 4-men tent for every 2 hikers
• Sleeping Mattress
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Professional Chef to prepare the meals
• 1 Breakfast, 2 Lunch, and 1 Dinner.
• Porters to carry cooking and camping equipment plus 5kg of your personal items.
• Duffle bag for your personal gear
• Boiled and cold water on day 2.
• Entrance fee for the Rainbow Mountains Peru
• Emergency oxygen bottle
• First aid kit.

Not Included in the Vinicunca Mountain

• Sleeping Bag
• Dinner on Day 2
• Tips for the crew (Guide, Chef, wranglers)
• A horse for riding
• Travel Insurance
• Transfer in/out from Cusco

You need to bring for Vinicunca Mountain hike

• Original Passport
• Walking boots are required
• A very good sleeping bag
• Waterproof jacket
• Pants and rain poncho
• Warm jacket and clothes
• Hat and gloves
• T-shirts
• Comfortable Trousers
• Sun hat and wooly hat
• Sunglasses
• Sun cream
• Insect repellant
• Toiletries and hand sanitiser
• Personal medication
• Camera and film
• Flash light is recommended
• Spare batteries

Rainbow Mountain Hike – Reservations

Ausangate trek  – Itinerary

First day: Cusco – Tinki – Upis

​​ Your guide will meet you in Cusco at the lobby of the hotel. You then start traveling in a private van to the trail-head at Tinqui. Here you can buy some last minute supplies for the trek, is the last shopping option. Once all the gear for the trip is being loaded onto pack horses the trip starts.

The trail takes you through some farming land and home of alpaca herds, you will get constant views of Mt Ausangate until to reach the first camp. This day we hike only for some hours until we arrive at the village of Upis. Here you can take a soak in the hot springs, while enjoying coca tea, and relax your muscles until dinner.

• Distance: 8km/ 3 miles
• Elevation: 3800m- 4200m
• Hiking time: 2-3 hours
• Camp: 4200m/ 13,780ft

Second Day: Upis – Puccacocha Pass – Anantapata

With two passes to cross today, we wake everyone up with a cup of coca tea brought to your tent. Then after you fuel up with a good breakfast for the day ahead. The morning starts with a hike up Arapa pass (4958m) before a slight decline to our lunch spot near Lake Puma cocha- a deep blue lake and a perfect stop for a break. Along the way you will see local herders of alpacas, Ausangate Mountain to your left, and you will have your expert guide explaining the history of the locals and talking about the landscape along the way.

After lunch we continue uphill for our second pass for the day (Pucacocha pass-5000m) where if you’re lucky you may see condors and vicuñas. Then we have 2 hour gentle hike to our campsite in Anantapata. Where you will be surrounded by reddish mountains and incredible scenery including the view of Apu Ausangate. As everyday camp is set up for you by our staff, at your arrival you can change and rest your weary legs and dinner will be prepared by our expert cook.

• Distance: 15km
• Elevation: 4200m- 4930m- 4700m
• Hiking time:  7 hours
• Camp: 4700m/ 15,420ft

Third day: Anantapata – Rainbow Mountain (5050m) – Lake Ausangate

After an early breakfast we start hiking up to Warmisaya pass (5050m), a very colorful mountain but only a precursor of what is upcoming today. After crossing the pass you enter into a bright red valley, a wildly desert landscape with vibrant colors all around, and llamas roaming the ground below- as you approach the top of the pass you will see the beautiful Rainbow Mountain in the distance.

But you’re not quite there yet! From here you begin descending to a wide valley and continue walking gentle uphill until we are presented with one final climb to the Mt Vinicunca, hopefully arriving before the people coming for one day Rainbow Mountain trek. Soak in the sights and enjoy what you’ve worked so hard for.

You will enjoy lunch by the Surine cocha, and head back to Warmisaya pass to make our way to the stunning Lake Ausangate. Again the camp will be set up by our expert team (optional to go to visit the Lake).

• Distance: 20km
• Elevation: 4700m- 5050m – 4650m
• Hiking time: 7-8 hours
• Camp: 4650m/ 15,255ft

Fourth Day: Ausangate Cocha – Palomani Pass – Suracpampa

After a nutritious breakfast provided by our chef, we will start hiking uphill close to the glaciers visible in the opposite side of Mt Ausangate, the trail from the camp lead us to Palomani pass (5100m), one of the higehst passes in the entire Ausangate trek, we will have beautiful views of the snow-capped peaks around, after a few hour of down-hill hike, we get to Pinaya valley with some lush green pampas, and follow the edge of the river. Today is a great day for spotting wildlife so keep an eye out for vicuñas, Chinchillas and hopefully spotting the majestic Andean Condors. After lunch you will follow the valley upwards for a few hours.

• Distance: 17km (10.5 miles)
• Elevation: 4650m – 5100m – 4600m
• Hiking time: 7-8 hours
• Camp: 4600m/ 15,090ft

Fifth Day: Surapampa – Jampa Pass- Paqchanta (hot springs/ Camping) 

Today we have only one pass to cross, we will take our time to enjoy some of the deep blue lagoons, and alpine glacial colored lakes along the way. If you are brave enough you can even jump in to cool off. Views of the massive Ausangate Mountain are still visible, today you will hiking in the opposite side of Mt Ausangate as we descend along the picturesque trail with views of Pacchanta Valley. Our goal is the hot springs of Pacchanta where we will enjoy a nice soak, by the same token our team will set up the camp here with nice views of Mt Ausangate.

• Distance: 16km
• Elevation: 4600m- 5050m – 4300m
• Hiking time: 6-7 hours
• Camp: 4300m/ 14,110ft

Sixth Day: Pacchanta – Tinqui- Cusco

Today is another great morning as we make our way back to the starting point of Tinqui walking a gentle down-hill and celebrating our accomplishments. Then at our arrival to the village the chef will provide us the final lunch while all our camping equipment is packed up in our private transportation to make our way back to Cusco city, where you will be dropped off at your hotel.

• Distance: 16k
• Elevation: 4300m (descending)
• Hiking time: 3 hours

Note: This itinerary is subject to change without prior notice according to weather conditions, strikes, roadblocks, or other events which are beyond our control. We will always do our best to follow the itinerary as closely as possible.

Included in Ausangate trek:

• Expert mountain tour guide
• Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel 1 or 2 days prior to your Vinicunca Expeditions.
• Pick up from your hotel and transportation to Tinki
• Four person tent for each 2 persons.
• Sleeping mattress
• Kitchen tent
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Toilet tent.
• Wranglers and horses to carry all the equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc)
• Five breakfasts, six lunches, and five dinners
• Daily hot water for washing.
• Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
• Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
• Continental breakfast at the trail head on the first day
• Entrance fee for the Vinicunca Mountain and Ausangate trek

Services Not Included for Ausangate trek:

• Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
• A riding horse
• last day dinner
• Tips for the crew (muleteers, chef and guide)
• Entrance fee to the hot-spring in Upis and Pacchanta
• Transfer in or out from Cusco airport
• Discount for students (ISIC card) or (youth card) are not accepted for this Vinicunca Expedition

What to Bring for Ausangate trek?

• Original passport
• A good sleeping bag (can be rented here)
• Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, warm underwear, light long pants, gloves, rain jacket)
• Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
• Sunscreen SPF 35+ recommended
• Head lamp
• Sunglasses
• Camera with spare batteries (batteries run down faster at high altitudes)
• Binoculars (optional)
• Book to read (you will have some spare time at every camp to read your favorite book)
• Trekking poles (recommended for this Vinicunca Expedition)
• Bug repellent
• chocolate or cereal bars

Ausangate trek Reservation

Vinicunca trek – Overview

• First day.- Cusco – Ocongate – Tinqui – Upis hot-springs.
• Second day. – Upis hot-springs – Puka Cocha- Ausangate pass- Anantapata
• Third day. – Anantapta- Rainbow Mountain- Llaqto – Cusco.

Detailed Itinerary for Vinicunca trek & Ausangate

Day 1: Cusco ‐ Ocongate – Tinqui – Upis Hot springs

Early in the morning of departure for Vinicunca trek. Travelers will be picked up from their hotels in Cusco. We then start traveling in our private transportation through the South valley with direction to Tinqui village. Following the road to Puerto Maldonado on the way we will pass several villages and we also will enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery mixed with homes of the Andean people.

Before to start the Vinicunca trek, breakfast will be provided by our chef, at Tinqui. The horseman will pack and load on the horses all the equipment required for this adventure trek; we will hike gentle uphill for about 3 hours through some farming fields and villages. There will be constant mind blowing views of Mt Ausangate. In the afternoon, after a refueling lunch, the hike will be for another 2 hours to arrive to Upis hot-springs (4,100 m / 13,448 ft). Here we will have chance to enjoy the beautiful thermal baths before dinner, and we overnight here at our camp.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner & snacks
• Lowest point: 3,800 m / 12, 464 ft
• Highest point: 4,400 m / 14,432 ft
• Estimated distance of walking: 12 km / 7 ½ miles
• Estimated Walking Time: 6 – 7 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Moderate

Day 2: Upis Hot springs ‐ Arapa Pass – Pukacocha lake – Anantapata

In the morning hot coca tea will be served in your tent to wake up. After a delicious breakfast we will start the day hiking uphill for 2 hours to arrive to Arapa Pass (4,850 m / 15,908 ft.).From this point there will be a wonderful and breathtaking views of some desert hills, beautiful rock formations, astonishing views of Mt. Ausangate, Ccolque Cruz and some other glaciers around.

Following the trail for Ausangate trek, we will walk down for 2 hours to arrive in the proximity of Puka Cocha Lake for lunch. On the way there will be also some other beautiful lakes as: Pukacocha, Hatun Pukacocha, and Qomercocha. In the afternoon, we will reach Ausangate pass with astonishing views of the glaciers and reddish mountains around. 3 more hours of hike will takes us to our campsite at Anantapata.

Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner + snacks

• Lowest Elevation: 4,100 m / 13,448 ft
• Highest Elevation: 4,950 m / 16,100 ft
• Estimated walking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
• Estimated walking Time: 8 – 9 hours
• Level of Difficulty: Challenging

Day 3: Anantapata– Minasmoqo Pass – Rainbow Mountain – Cusco

Our day starts with early wake up! This portion of the hike is probably the most beautiful part. Today we will get to see the incredible Rainbow Mountain Peru. After breakfast it will take us 2 hours to arrive to Warmisaya pass and then 30 minutes of downhill to arrive to Surine Cocha.

Around 8:30am we should make to our dreamed destination. The Rainbow Mountains Cusco and hoping to beat some of the hikers going for one day. At our arrival there will be plenty of time to enjoy and explore this amazing Rainbow Mountain Vincunca(5,050 m / 16,500 ft.).

Before the masses arrive from the Rainbow Mountain trek, we will start our descent to Llaqto for lunch. In the afternoon there will 3 hours of bus drive to Cusco. At our arrival you will be drop off at your hotel.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch & snacks
• Lowest Elevation: 4,400 m /14,435 ft
• Highest Elevation: 5,050 m / 16,500 ft
• Walking distance: 10 km/ 6.2 miles
• Walking Time: 5 hours
• Difficulty: Demanding

Includes for Vinicunca trek & Ausangate:

• Fluent English speaking tour guide
• Pre-Departure Briefing at your hotel 1 or 2 days before.
• Private transportation from your Cusco hotel to Tinqui (the trailhead of Vinicunca trek)
• Private transportation from Kayrabiry Village to the hotel in Cusco
• Four person tent for each 2 persons.
• Thermarest Inflatable Mattress
• Kitchen tent
• Professional chef to prepare the meals
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Toilet tent and portable toilet
• Wranglers and horses to carry all the equipment (food, tents, chairs, table, etc.)
• Horses to carry 7 kg of your personal gear
• Emergency horse in case we need it
• Meals:3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners
• Hot water for washing
• Daily morning boiled and cold water to fill up the water bottles
• Emergency oxygen bottle and medical kit.
• Admission fee for Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain

Not Included for Vinicunca trek & Ausangate:

• Sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
• Trekking poles (can be rented from us)
• Travel Insurance
• Day 3 dinner
• Tips for the crew on your Vinicunca trek (muleteers, chef and guide)
• Student cards (ISIC) are not accepted for this trek

Recommended things to bring for Vinicunca trek & Ausangate

• Original passport (if you have acquired a new one after you made your booking, bring both)
• Down sleeping bag (can be rented from us)
• Clothes (trekking boots, warm fleece jacket, a few t-shirts, socks, sun hat, warm underwear, light long pants, gloves)
• Rain jacket
• Toiletries (toilet paper, wet wipes, personal towel)
• Sunscreen SPF 35+ recommended, sun hat and sunglasses
• Head lamp is essential for the Rainbow Mountain tour
• Camera with spare batteries (batteries run down faster at high altitudes)
• Binoculars (are optional for the Rainbow Mountain tour)
• Trekking poles (recommended especially for the steep descents, can be rented in our office)
• Insect repellent
• Little gifts for the local people (cookies or cereal bars).

Optional extras for Vinicunca trek

You can hire some additional things with us – please contact your Travel Consultant / or our booking forms for the current rates.

• Extra mule to carry YOUR things
• Extra riding mule and muleteer to lead it
• Deluxe Sleeping Bag suitable for -15deg.
• Walking stick lightweight aluminum – Two sticks are recommended for tough hikes.
• Thermarest Inflatable pillow
• Comforting Camping trek upgrade – bigger tents, camp beds, and walking stick.
• Single tent supplement (if you don’t want to share a tent)

Hire Policy:

• When calculating costs to hire of walking stick, sleeping bag, calculate using the length of the tour. Even though you won’t use the equipment on the final day it will still be ‘on the road’ and ‘occupied.’
• If you hire equipment and break it – you are responsible for price of replacement /or repair. (please do the right thing!

Vinicunca trek booking

Rainbow Mountain trip – Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Llaqto – Rainbow Mountains – Llaqto – Cusco

To begin the trip, we will pick you up from the hotel at 4:30am and then drive through the South Valley of Cusco. The car ride to arrive at Llaqto (4,650 m / 14,889 ft.) is approx. for 3 hours. On the way to the trail-head you will stop for a delicious breakfast. Then you continue to the last bus parking place, moreover at this point there is a very unique mountain scenery.

After our arrival to the bus park, we will take with us some essential items and go to the horse station, a local person will get you on the horse. During the horse ride, you will observe some alpacas and llamas on the hillsides. This area is home of numerous indigenous Quechua people. So they are herders of those animals. As we go to the Rainbow Mountain, we will have some great views of ice-glaciers.

After 1 hours of horseback ride we will arrive near to the spectacular colorful Mountains (5,100 m / 16,500 ft.) Then you need to walk the last 25 minutes to reach out the lookout. Of course, you will have amazing views on the way to the top. As soon as you get the summit there will be amazing views of this natural wonder,  as well as the places around it.

After to enjoy the Majestic of the Rainbow Mountains. You will head back down to the horse station, so you can begin your return to the bus parking place. In the afternoon after having lunch we will drive for 3 hours to come back to Cusco, then we can dropp you off around 4pm.

• Meals: breakfast /  lunch
• Total distance to go: 11 km / 7 miles
• Difficulty: Challenging

What includes in the Rainbow Mountain trip?

• Professional English speaking  guide
• Pre-trek Briefing 1 or 2 days before your trek.
• 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and snacks.
• A chef to prepare the meals
• A horse to ride up and down
• A horseman includes for the Rainbow Mountain Trip
• Transportation the trail-head for Rainbow Mountain trip
• Return drive back  to Cusco hotel
• Emergency oxygen bottle
• First aid kit.
• Entrance fee to the Rainbow Mountain

What is not included in the Rainbow Mountain trip?

• Dinner in the evening of Rainbow Mountain trip
• Tips for the crew (horseman, guide and driver)
• Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for your trip in Peru.
• Cold drinks
• Student cards do not apply for a discount (ISIC)

You need to take for this trip

• Original Passport
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket, pants/ rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and gloves
• T-shirts
• Comfortable Trousers
• Sun hat
• Sun cream
• Snacks

Rainbow Mountain travel Reservations

Rainbow Mountains Cusco – Overview

• Day 1.- Cusco – Quesiuno – LLamachimpana
• Day 2.- LLamachimpana – Rainbow Mountain – Quesiuno – Cusco.

Rainbow Mountain Cusco – Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Llacto – Llamachimpana

At the appropriate time we will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, and then you start traveling through the South Valley. The drive to the beginning of Vinicunca Mountain tour at Llaqto (4,326 m / 14,189 ft) is approx. 3 hours long. Once we arrive to the trail head, our cook will prepare us a delicious lunch.

After lunch, our horseman will load all the gear on the horses and then we will start our trip at Pullawasi Pata, following a picturesque trail; we will be surrounded by lots of alpacas; this region is home of numerous Andean villagers who own those beautiful animals. In our trek, we will have great views of glaciers.  Along the trail we will also walk through reddish hills and you will see local people walking by. If we are lucky enough there will be chances to see the typical birds of the area.

After approx. 1 hour of hike, we will arrive to the campsite of kayrabiri, close by the Vinicunca Mountain. After to set up our camp, we will have the opportunity to enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery. This campsite is quite high so we recommend travelers to get acclimatization, before to come to do the Rainbow Mountain trip. We will sleep only 30 min. away from the famous Rainbow Mountain Peru.

• Meals: Breakfast/Lunch/Dinner / snacks
• Estimate walking time: 3 hours
• Walking Distance: : 4 km / 2 ½ miles
• Level of the hike: Challenging

Day 2: Llamachimpana – Vinicunca – Llaqto – Cusco

We will continue with the Rainbow Mountain Tour in Cusco, waking up with a cup of hot coca tea and the beautiful sunrise. After the delicious breakfast prepared by our chef, we will start the second part of the trek, 1 hour uphill walk will let us to arrive to our dreamed destination at Vinicunca Mountain. It is important to visit this place earliest possible before the crowds.

The Vinicunca Mountain in Cusco (5,100 m / 16,500 ft), is a spectacular geological formation, which is surrounded by a beautiful mountain scenery; after our arrival we will have the opportunity to explore the area and admire this amazing colorful Mountain. We will spend approx. one hour to take pictures and have snacks while we enjoy the view of the whole Ausangate mountain range.

After to admire the Majestic Vinicunca Mountain, we will walk back downhill for approx. 2 hours to the lunch place. In the afternoon to finish the Experience, we will have 3 hour return drive to Cusco, arriving to your hotel around 5pm.

• Meals: Breakfast/ lunch/ snacks
• Estimate walking Distance: Uphill: 1.6 km / 1 miles
• Estimate walking Distance Downhill: 5 km / 1½ miles
• Approximate walking time: 1 hours up; 2 hours down
• Level of the hike: Difficult

 What is Included in the Rainbow Mountain Tour?

• Professional English speaking tour guide
• Pre-trek Briefing 1 or 2 days before
• Transportation to Quesiuno the beginning of the Rainbow Mountain trail.
• Return transportation from Quesiuno to your hotel in Cusco.
• A 4-men tent for every 2 trekkers
• Thermarest sleeping Mattress
• Dining tent with tables and chairs
• Professional Chef
• 1 Breakfast, 2 Lunch, and 1 Dinner.
• Mules to carry cooking and camping equipment plus 7kg of your personal items.
• Duffle bag for your personal gear
• Boiled and cold water to fill the water bottles.
• Entrance fee for the Rainbow Mountain Peru
• Emergency oxygen bottle
• First aid kit.

What is Not Included in the Rainbow Mountain journey?

• Sleeping Bag for the trip (Can be hired from us)
• Dinner on the Day 2
• Tips for the crew (Guide, Chef, wranglers)
• A horse for riding
• Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your trek.
• Transfer in/out from Cusco

You need to take for the Rainbow Mountains Cusco

• Original Passport
• Walking boots are required
• A very good sleeping bag
• Waterproof jacket,pants / rain poncho
• Warm jacket and clothes
• Hat and gloves
• T-shirts
• Comfortable Trousers
• Sun hat and wooly hat is necesary for the tour
• Sunglasses
• Sun cream
• Insect repellant
• Toiletries and hand sanitiser
• Personal medication
• Camera and film
• Flash light is recommended
• Spare batteries

Reservations for trips to Rainbow Mountains Cusco.

Rainbow Mountain trek – Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Llaqto – Rainbow Mountains – Llacto – Cusco

To begin the full day hike to Rainbow Mountain, trekkers will be picked up from Cusco hotels at 5:00 am and then the car drive is for 3 hours  through the south valley of Cusco, until you reach out the trail head at Llaqto (4,626 m / 14,650 ft). On the way to Llacto village, we will stop and have a delicious breakfast.

After our arrival to the bus parking place, we take some essential things like a jacket, hat and gloves with us. Then start this exceptional hike uphill on a beautiful gentle path; we will be able to see Llamas and Alpacas. This region is home of some indigenous people who own those beautiful animals. On the way to the Peru colored mountains, you will get some spectacular views of the glaciers. Besides our group there will be a good number of people hiking like us to the Rainbow Mountains Peru.

The hiking time to arrive to the famous Winicunca Mountains is  approx. 2 hours (5,100 m / 16,400 ft); after we reach the lookout point, there will be plenty of time to explore the area and admire this spectacular Mountain set up between other colorful hills .

After to enjoy a memorable time at the Majestic Apu Vinicunca Peru, you will walk back down to the car parking. In the afternoon after a delicious lunch, you will drive back to Cusco the same way you came, arriving to your hotel around 4pm. But in case you want an easier option check out our Rainbow Mountain trip by horse.

• Meals: Breakfast /  lunch
• Total distance to walk: 8 km / 5 miles
• Estimate walking time: 2 hours up; 1 hour down
• Difficulty of the hike: Challenging

Inclusions for  Rainbow Mountain trek:

• Professional English speaking  guide
• Pre-trek Briefing 1 or 2 day before your Rainbow Mountain trek
• 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, and snacks.
• Transportation to Llaqto the beginning of the Rainbow Mountain Hike
• Return transportation to Cusco hotel
• Emergency oxygen bottle for the group
• First aid kit.
• Entrance fee

What is not included for the Rainbow Mountain trek:

• Dinner in the evening
• A horse for riding cost $35.00 per person
• Tips for the crew (guide and driver)
• Travel Insurance – you are strongly recommended to take out travel insurance for the duration of your Rainbow Mountain trek.
• ISIC card is not accepted for this hike

What you need to take for the Rainbow Mountain trek?

• Original Passport
• Walking boots
• Waterproof jacket, pants/ rain poncho
• Warm jacket
• Hat and gloves
• T-shirts
• Comfortable Trousers
• Sun hat
• Sun cream
• Insect repellant
• Snacks as chocalate bars

How to get to the Rainbow Mountain Cusco?

To travel to the Rainbow Mountains of Peru. You can book through a travel agency, an authorized tour guide or at least you need to get a transportation to take you to the end of the road. The journey to get to the trail-head takes almost 3 hours starting from Cusco. The hike itself is approximately 2 hours up and another 2 hours down to the end of the road. Then you drive back to Cusco the same road you came.

What is the altitude of Rainbow Mountain Peru?

The altitude where you start the day hike is 4530 m / 14860 ft. after the 2 hour hike up you will reach the lookout of Winicunca, which has an altitude of 5050 m / 16560 ft. with a breathtaking views of the whole area. Remember Cusco has an elevation of 3400 m / 11010 ft. So you should get acclimated to the altitude before to travel to Winicunca Peru.

The difficulty of the Rainbow Mountain hike Peru

The difficulty of the Rainbow Mountain tour is cataloged as challenging or difficult. Due to its high elevation (16560 ft) this hike needs special attention and preparation before the trip. The area of Rainbow Mountains Cusco is totally isolated cautions should be taken. Especially with people coming from the sea level or lower altitude places.

How is the weather for the Rainbow Mountain hike?

The weather on the mountains is very difficult to predict. But is very well known that the Peruvian Andes gets two big seasons called dry and wet. Depending on the season you plan to visit the colored mountains. The dry time is from May to October, with very minimum chance for showers. Wet season goes from November to April, usually cloudy and rainy days. But the Rainbow Mountain trip is still open. You should check out the weather forecast if you want to plan a good trip.

What is the length of the Rainbow Mountain hike?

The total distance for the rainbow trail is 8 km / 5 miles round trip. The elevation change is 530 m / 1700 ft from the start point at Llaqto all the way to the top of Mt Winicunca. The length of this day hike is not very long. But the trek in the high altitude is always difficult for everybody. That is why many people take the option of riding a horse instead of hiking.

Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca

If you look for the best hike options to arrive to the Rainbow Mountains Cusco. The suggested hiking trips are: Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain tour 4D and the Ausangate with Vinicunca expedition 6D. Both are stunning and unique treks with mind-blowing scenery. You can also request 3D or 2D Rainbow Mountain travel option.

Rainbow Mountain trek – Reservations