Considered by local trekkers to be one of the most stunning and remote treks in Peru, this six day journey makes a complete circuit around the majestic mountain. At 20,900 feet, Mount Ausangate is the highest peak in the Cusco region. Mount Ausangate has long been considered sacred by the Andean people, source of the valuable llamas and alpacas that roam throughout Peru. Along the trek we'll pass rural highland village and stunning glacial lakes. Enjoy soaking your muscles in natural thermal waters.
Tour Itinerary:
Day 1: Arrive Lima
Day 2: Fly Cusco
An early morning flight brings you to the Inca capital of Cusco. Colonial churches sit atop bases of smooth stonework laid centuries before the arrival of the Conquistadors. The church walls have fallen many times throughout the years, but the Inca walls remain steadfast. Quechua speaking descendants of the Incas move back and forth in Cusco's busy plazas and markets.
The morning is yours to explore Cusco at your leisure. In the afternoon, you'll travel through Cusco's traditional markets talking to the women selling natural medicines and charms for curing heartache and other afflictions. Afterwards, you'll head off to the old neighborhood of San Blas and a possible visit to a local artisan's workshop.
Day 3: Free Day Cusco
Today is free to relax and explore on your own. For those bursting with energy, horseback riding, mountain biking, or even whitewater rafting (Class III-IV) can be arranged. Travelers can also go on a city tour of the churches and surrounding ruins, wander through Cusco's busy center, shop in local markets and just people watch in the Plaza de Armas. The night is yours to take in some of Cusco's varied and exciting nightlife.
Days 4-10: Ausangate Trek (6B,6L,6D)
You'll depart Cusco early on Day 4 and travel toward the town of Tinqui, passing several Andean villages, with Inca and Pre-Inca archeology. Tonight, camp close to town and prepare for the journey ahead.
The next morning you'll start your trek by crossing the river Ocongate and hike through the puna (high grasslands) towards the majestic Mount Ausangate. The peak which dominates the skyline at 20,940 feet. You'll pass Andean farmers working their fields with traditional tools and shepherds tending their llamas and alpacas. A visit to a rural school along your route gives you a chance to meet the children and share in their daily lives. The western ice-wall of Mount Ausangate looms in sight of tonight's camp, and as you soak in the rustic thermal baths nearby, you can hear the the deep rumbling of calving ice.
Over the next four days you'll make your way over high mountain passes and through scenic valleys. You'll camp alongside turquoise glacial lakes and natural hot springs. As you hike through the broad valley floors you can scan boulders and scree slopes for the delightful viscacha, a small rodent that looks like a cross between a rabbit and a squirrel. You might also see groups of vicuņa, whose soft golden wool makes them arguably the most beautiful member of the llama family. On Day 7 you'll reach the highest point of your trek, ascending to 16,564 feet as you cross over Palomani Pass.
A breathtaking panorama of the surrounding snow-capped Andes rewards you for this challenging leg of the hike. After a steep downhill stretch you'll settle into camp for a chilly night at high altitude! Another day of gradual climbing lies ahead before you begin your descent toward the small Andean village of Pacchanta, where you can rest and relax in the thermal hotsprings and even enjoy a beer. On Day 10, you'll complete your circuit with an easy walk back to Tinqui. From there you'll head back to Cusco in time for hot showers and dinner!
Day 11: Fly Lima and Return Home
Catch a flight to Lima to prepare for your red-eye flight home (return flights must leave no earlier than 5 PM).
Accommodations: 4 nights comfortable hotels, 6 nights camping
Food Includes: All meals as indicated (B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner); most of our hotels offer free continental breakfast.
Transportation: private van or bus, and your own two feet!
An active itinerary of snowcapped mountains, Andean culture, and a vibrant colonial city. This route is a moderate to difficult 6-day hike, so travelers should be fit.
Weekly departures -- any day of the week
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Single Supplement: US$230
US$ 1465
4 travelers or more
US$1800
3 travelers
US$1980
2 travelers
Note: Roundtrip flight Lima-Cusco-Lima is not included. Please add US$310 (flight cost subject to change).
Personal Budgeting: Allow US$140 for meals not included, US$28 international departure tax, US$10 local departure taxes, US$60 optional excursions in Cusco, money for souvenirs!
Pre & Post Tour Accommodations: Share US$45, Single US$90
Arrival/Departure Transfers: 1 person US$50 each, 2 or more people US$25/person
Prices are based on a 3% cash discount
Also see tour packages in:
South America
Peru
Hiking & Trekking
Cultural Journey
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