Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below
Overview
Discover Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain in just 3 unforgettable days. This trek takes you beyond the classic day trip, through turquoise lagoons, glacier views, red valleys, and remote Andean landscapes with fewer crowds.
You’ll hike near the sacred Ausangate Mountain, visit the iconic Rainbow Mountain, and experience the culture of local Andean communities along the way. It’s the perfect short trek for active travelers who want adventure, nature, and authenticity in one powerful experience.
Highlights
- Trek through the Vilcanota Mountain Range
- Visit Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca
- Hike near the sacred Ausangate Mountain
- See turquoise lagoons, glaciers, red valleys, and alpacas
- Enjoy a less-crowded route through remote
What's included
Pre-departure briefing
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Entrance fee to the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain
Experienced Mountain Guide
Lunch
Backpack rain cover and Sleeping pillow
Dinner
Breakfast
Private transport and transfers during the tour
Walkie-talkies, satellite phone, oxygen, and first-aid kit available at all times
Morning tea service and afternoon happy hour
Porter team and pack mules
Personal duffel bag (up to 5 kg / 11 lb)
Basic personal hygiene items (soap and small towel)
Day 1: Cusco – Upis – Arapa Pass – Hatun Pucacocha
Cusco
3h
The adventure begins with early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 a.m. We travel approximately three hours to Upis
Pass by · Admission ticket included
In Upis, you'll have breakfast and catch your first glimpse of Ausangate before setting out on the trek.
After breakfast, we begin hiking with a gradual ascent through valleys and high-altitude landscapes, always accompanied by views of the Ausangate glacier.
15h
We’ll stop along the way for a hot drink and lunch before continuing toward the highest point of the day.
In the afternoon, we reach Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where you’ll enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains. We then descend past Yanacocha and Hatun Pucacocha lagoons to our campsite at the foot of Ausangate. Upon arrival, hot drinks and dinner will be served before a well-earned rest.
Day 2: Hatun Pucacocha – Puca Pass – Anantapata – Warmisaya Pass – Surinecocha
5h
The day begins with a hot cup of coca tea to aid acclimatization, followed by a hearty breakfast. As you step out of your tent, you’ll witness a spectacular sunrise illuminating the Ausangate glacier an unforgettable high-mountain moment before starting the hike.
We begin with a two-hour ascent to Puca Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft), crossing valleys, mountains, and glacial lagoons such as Huchuy Pucacocha and Hatun Pucacocha. With some luck, you may spot the majestic Andean condor. We then descend to Anantapata, where lunch is served surrounded by stunning scenery.
Nevado Ausangate
12h · Admission ticket included
In the afternoon, we climb to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), offering breathtaking views of Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and the Vilcanota Range. From there, we descend to Surinecocha, where hot drinks and dinner await before a restful night.
Day 3: Surinecocha – Rainbow Mountain – Llacto – Cusco
2h
After an energizing breakfast, we begin a two-hour ascent to the highlight of the trek: Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca). Upon reaching 5,100 m / 16,732 ft, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views of this natural wonder and its vibrant mineral-colored layers.
Accompanied by your guide, you’ll learn about the cultural significance and geological formation of this unique landscape, shaped by natural erosion over millions of years. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, take photos, and connect with the powerful energy of the Andean mountains—far from the crowds.
1h
We then descend for about one hour to Llacto, where a delicious lunch awaits.
Cusco
2h
Finally, we board our private transportation back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel in the afternoon and concluding this incredible Andean adventure.
Meeting and pickup
Pickup details
We recommend booking hotels in the center of Cusco.
The pickup time is between 04:30 and 05:00 am.
Additional information
Service animals allowed
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
It's recommended to arrive in Cusco at least 3 days before the trek to adjust to the altitude.
Passport name, number, expiry and country is required at time of booking for all participants
Please ensure your passport is up to date and ready for use on your travel day
Children aged 12 and over may participate and must be accompanied by a responsible adult at all times.
Solo travelers are welcome and can join shared groups. No minimum participants required. Most departures are guaranteed.
Keep in mind this hike is a challenging trek. travellers have to be in good health and physical shape to fully enjoy every moment of this adventure.
Vegetarian or, vegan options are available, please advise at time of booking if required
Cancellation policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.