A six-day circuit that pairs the Ausangate highlands with Rainbow Mountain’s famous colors. Expect high passes, glacial lagoons, Quechua culture and camping at altitude—prepare to acclimatize and move at a steady, conservative pace.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Dawn breaks cold and blue on the high puna as your minivan drops you at Tinqui; the road ends and the trail begins. Thin air tightens your breath while peaks peel back into the distance—glacial arms, rust-colored moraines and pockets of electric lakes. Over six days you move from valley villages and steaming hot springs to the sweep of Ausangate's glaciers, finishing with the riotous bands of color at Rainbow Mountain.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
6 days
Fitness Level
Good cardiovascular fitness and prior day-hike experience at altitude; ability to hike 6–8 hours on steep, uneven ground
Wildlife
History
The trail follows ancient Andean pathways used by local Quechua communities for grazing and religious offerings to Ausangate, an Apu (sacred mountain).
Conservation
The puna grasslands and glacial lakes are fragile; tours limit group size, use pack animals and emphasize waste carry-out to reduce human impact.
Reserve your spot on the 6 day Rainbow Mountain x Ausangate Trek - FlashpackerConnect today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco
Spend 48 hours in Cusco doing light activity to reduce risk of altitude sickness before the trek.
Layer for big temperature swings
Bring breathable base layers and a warm insulated jacket—the high puna warms quickly in sun and chills rapidly after sunset.
Use trekking poles
Poles reduce knee strain on long descents and aid balance on rocky passes above 4,800 m.
Pack light daypack
Pack water, snacks, rain shell and camera; pack horses carry larger gear but you’ll move more easily with a light bag.
Insulated down jacket
Keeps you warm at camp and during early-morning summit pushes above 4,500 m.
Sturdy waterproof trekking boots
Support and traction for rocky passes, moraine and potentially wet trails.
Warm sleeping bag (rated to -10°C)
Nighttime temperatures on the puna can drop well below freezing.
Trekking poles
Help preserve energy and stability on long ascents and steep descents.