A five-day circuit that crosses the high Vilcanota range, camps below Ausangate and leads to Vinicunca’s layered slopes. Expect high passes, mule support, and vivid mineral scenery.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You rise before dawn in Cusco and the bus pushes east along a road that climbs until the cold air bites at your cheeks. The first sight of Ausangate’s south face—an enormous, wind-polished mass of snow and black rock—fills the windshield; the mountain seems to watch the valley, daring you to cross it. By the time you meet the muleteers at Tinqui the trail has become a conversation of stone, scree and bright textile ponchos as the caravan threads into high puna.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
5 days
Fitness Level
Requires very good cardiovascular fitness and experience with multi-day high-altitude hiking; ability to walk 4–8 hours daily on rough terrain.
Wildlife
History
The Vilcanota range has long been central to Andean communities; Ausangate is honored as an Apu (sacred mountain) in local Quechua cosmology.
Conservation
Trails see increasing visitor pressure; stick to established campsites, pack out waste and use local guides to support community-based tourism.
Reserve your spot on the Ausangate trek and Rainbow Mountain today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Acclimatize in Cusco first
Spend 48–72 hours in Cusco doing light activity to reduce altitude sickness risk before starting the trek.
Pack light, hire a mule
You can walk with a daypack and put your main duffel on a mule—saves energy at altitude and reduces strain.
Sun and wind protection
High UV and fierce winds mean broad-spectrum sunscreen, sunglasses and a windproof shell are must-haves.
Hydrate deliberately
Drink small amounts frequently (electrolytes recommended) and avoid alcohol the day before and during trekking days.
Warm sleeping bag (rated to -10°C)
Cold nights at 3,600–4,500m demand an insulated sleeping bag for comfort and safety.
Trekking poles
Poles help on scree slopes and reduce knee strain on long ascents and descents.
Layered clothing system
Base layers, insulating mid-layer and windproof shell allow fast adaptation to shifting mountain weather.
Sunscreen & sunglasses (Category 3+)
High-altitude UV exposure is intense—protect skin and eyes during daylight marches.