Ausangate Trek To Rainbow Mountain 5 Days

Visit places

Our staff will wake us up early, and we will enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast with stunning views of Ausangate Mountain (6,384 m / 20,945 ft). After breakfast, we begin our hike through the wide and open plains of Upis Pampa. The trail gradually ascends, weaving through valleys where wild llamas and alpacas graze freely. The landscape here is already breathtaking, with distant snow-capped peaks and colorful hills shaping the horizon.

As we continue hiking, we reach the first of the glacial lakes, Yanacocha (Black Lake), surrounded by striking reddish and brown mountains shaped by volcanic minerals. After taking in the serene views and capturing some photos, we proceed to the larger Pucacocha Lagoon (Red Lake). The vivid red and earthy tones of the surrounding mountains create an incredible contrast with the deep turquoise waters, a scene that is truly unforgettable. Here we pause for a freshly prepared buffet lunch, enjoying the flavors while soaking in the highland scenery.

After lunch, we continue our ascent along a winding trail leading to Pucacocha Pass (4,870 m / 15,977 ft). The climb is challenging but rewarding. From the top, we are treated to one of the most spectacular views of the Ausangate trekking circuit: snow-capped peaks stretching in every direction, crystal-clear glacial lakes below, and highland valleys painted in red and green hues. This vantage point offers perfect opportunities for photography and simply enjoying the grandeur of the Andes.

Following the pass, we descend gradually into a beautiful highland valley, walking among grazing llamas and alpacas, and surrounded by untouched landscapes. Finally, we arrive at Hanantapata Camp (4750 m / 15,583 ft), nestled between colorful valleys and towering glaciers. Here we enjoy afternoon tea and a nourishing buffet dinner, sharing stories and resting under the quiet night sky. Tomorrow, we will wake up early to continue our adventure towards the world-famous Rainbow Mountain.

Visit places

This morning, we wake up very early to head out and explore the world-famous Rainbow Mountain Peru (Vinicunca), aiming to arrive before the crowds and enjoy the landscape in peaceful solitude. We only take what we need for the hike. Typically, the sky is clear and full of stars, adding magic to the start of our adventure.

The trail begins with a steady uphill climb, which takes about 50 minutes, leading us to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,354 ft). From this vantage point, we catch the first distant glimpses of Rainbow Mountain, with its vibrant and unique colors.

After Warmisaya Pass, we descend gently for about 30 minutes, followed by a mostly flat but slightly inclined trail for about 1 hour, allowing us to enjoy the scenery and capture photos of the surrounding colorful landscapes.

Continuing our ascent, we finally reach the iconic Vinicunca, also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors (5,100 m / 16,732 ft), located in the Vilcanota range. Here, we take our time to fully immerse ourselves in the incredible views, learning from our guide about the geological and cultural significance that makes these mountains so special. The slopes are painted with vibrant reds, greens, golds, and turquoise hues, creating an unforgettable panorama.

After exploring for approximately 45 minutes (depending on trekking speed and weather conditions), we return along the same path to Hanantapata Camp, passing local farmers who still use llamas as their ancestors did in Inca times. This provides a unique glimpse into traditional highland life.

Once back at the camp, we rest and enjoy a delicious buffet lunch prepared by our professional chef with fresh local ingredients. In the afternoon, we continue trekking for about 3 hours along scenic valleys and the skirts of colorful mountains to reach Ausangate Qocha Camp (4,500 m / 14,763 ft). This camp is set beside a stunning turquoise glacial lake at the base of the towering Ausangate Mountain.

Upon arrival at the camp, we relax with afternoon tea and later enjoy a hearty buffet dinner, surrounded by the serene atmosphere of the high Andes.

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After another wonderful breakfast, we begin a challenging yet incredibly rewarding day. We climb steeply for about 2 hours along the shores of Ausangate Qocha and the glacial moraine toward the highest point of the Ausangate Circuit, the Palomani Pass (5,200 m / 17,060 ft). The trail ascends between the red bluffs of apachetas (mounds of stones) and peaceful mountains, giving us a true sense of the grandeur and serenity of the Andes.

At the highest point of the entire 5-day trek, we pause to take stunning photographs and fully soak in the sense of accomplishment. Looking down, we admire the breathtaking valleys and the majestic Peruvian Andes, a view that will remain unforgettable.

After enjoying the views and capturing memories, we begin our descent along the trail as it loops across steep slopes, passing traditional corrals and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely.

Following the descent, we stop for a nourishing buffet lunch prepared by our professional chef. After lunch, we continue across hilly terrain surrounding the peak of Ausangate, passing a marshy area, until we reach the upper level of the valley where our Qampa Base Camp (4,700 m / 15,419 ft) is located. Upon arrival, we rest and enjoy hot drinks while taking in the peaceful atmosphere of the high Andes.

Around the camp, among rocks and boulders, you may have the chance to see viscachas, small muted-brown rodents resembling rabbits with long tails, which are considered near-threatened species. At dinner, your guide will review the plan for the following day, preparing you for the final leg of the trek.

Visit places

After a hearty breakfast, we depart from Qampa Base Camp, enjoying beautiful views of Huayna Ausangate Mountain and passing traditional Andean houses along the trail. We gradually ascend step by step for about 2.5 hours toward Qampa Pass at an altitude of 5,070 m / 16,633 ft. Along the way, we are awed by towering snow-capped peaks, deep ravines, and, if lucky, glimpses of ice caps shimmering below.

From Qampa Pass, we begin our descent into the valley, following a scenic trail that leads us to the gorgeous Qomercocha (Green Lake), nestled at the base of Puka Moqo (Red Mountain). The reflections in the lake, surrounded by colorful mountains, create a truly mesmerizing panorama perfect for photography.

Continuing our trek, we arrive at the village of Pacchanta, where our professional chef has prepared a final buffet lunch for the group. After lunch, you will have the opportunity to relax and soak in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta, a perfect way to unwind and soothe your muscles after five days of trekking.

Finally, we board our private transport for the return journey to Cusco, bringing our 5-day Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain to a close at your hotel. This marks the end of an unforgettable adventure through the high Andes of Peru, filled with stunning landscapes, colorful mountains, glacial lakes, and rich cultural experiences.