Undoubtedly, the Ausangate trek presents some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the entire Cusco region, featuring abundant bird and wildlife, as well as glaciers and high alpine lakes.
It stands out as one of the most demanding trails in the area, involving three high passes exceeding 5,000 meters or 16,000 feet. On a clear day, the imposing Apu Ausangate dominates the southern skyline of Cusco.
As we approach this massive massif, towering at 6,380 meters or 20,926 feet, one can’t help but be increasingly awestruck, comprehending fully why the ancient Incas held this spectacular mountain in such reverence.
Throughout the entire Ausangate trek circuit, we traverse local villages where inhabitants don their traditional attire, including women adorned with beautiful flat-board hats and llamas grazing freely.
Cusco Hotel Transfer
04:30 AM
Early in the morning, we depart from Cusco for a three-hour journey in private transportation to the small village of Tinqui, situated at an elevation of 3800 meters (12,464 feet).
Tinqui, conveniently located on the new Interoceanic highway, allows for a quicker arrival compared to previous years. The route takes us through picturesque countryside and traditional villages such as Urcos, Cattca, and Ocangate.
Following lunch in Tinqui, the initial three hours on the trail serve as a delightful introduction to the breathtaking scenery of the Cordillera Vilcanota, offering splendid views of Ausangate.
The trek continues for an additional two hours, leading us to the hot springs at Upis, situated at an altitude of 4400 meters (14,432 feet), providing spectacular vistas of Ausangate at the valley’s end. Our camp for the night will be set up here.
Embarking on our morning trek, we’ll traverse the Arapa pass, standing tall at an elevation of 4,850 meters (15,908 feet).
Continuing for a duration of 3½ hours down the valley, our path unfolds alongside the picturesque Puqa Q’ocha lake, leading us to the enchanting turquoise waters of Lake Jatun Puqa Q’ocha.
Subsequently, we ascend the second pass, Apuchata, reaching an elevation of 4,900 meters (16,072 feet), where the mesmerizing turquoise hues of Laguna Ausangate Q’ocha captivate the senses.
This stunning lake derives its source from the melting snow of Ausangate. Our camp will be established at this captivating location for the second night.
Ascending from the lake, we reach the Palomani pass at an elevation of 5,200 meters (17,056 feet), marking the highest point of our trek. Following the pass, we trace the trail into the valley for a lunch break and some rest.
In the afternoon, there’s an opportunity to relish the sights of the snow-capped Tres Picos and Puca Punta. Our journey continues through the expansive green expanse of Pampa Jutunpata and up the Rio Q’ampa valley. Night three will be spent in this serene vicinity.
After passing through the small community of Q’ampa, we will head northwest towards the final pass of this trek, known as the Q’ampa pass (5000 meters/ 16,400 feet).
As we traverse the area, we’ll encounter several lakes with distinct colors and enjoy lunch beside Q’oma Q’ocha.
The hike spans several hours before reaching the quaint village of Pacchanta. Here, we can indulge in the thermal springs for a couple of hours, treating ourselves to a well-deserved beer.
Our camp will be set up near Pacchanta, and you will have the afternoon free to explore this intriguing Andean village. Alternatively, there is an option to stay in a basic hostel on this night.
We’ll embark on a 3-hour trek back to Tinqui, providing an opportunity to explore this traditional Andean village. Following the trek, we’ll take our private car back to Cusco, with an expected arrival around 18:00.
