Salkantay Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
From, per person
US$ 750
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- Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 Days
Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 Days
Duration4 days / 3 nights
DifficultyDifficult
Max. altitude5,200 m
Group sizeMax 16
- Tour type
- Adventure and cultural
- Languages
- EN / ES
- Starts in
- Cusco
- Ends in
- Cusco
Overview
Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 days is an unforgettable journey for travelers who want to experience one of the most scenic and remote adventures in Peru. This high-altitude trek takes you through spectacular Andean landscapes filled with snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, traditional communities, and the world-famous Rainbow Mountain.
The Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 days is one of the most visually stunning trekking experiences near Cusco. This route is known for its dramatic glacier views, peaceful trails, and strong connection to the natural beauty of the Vilcanota mountain range.
Unlike the standard one-day visit, this trek allows you to discover Rainbow Mountain in a much deeper and more meaningful way. Along the route, you will hike through remote valleys, pass herds of alpacas and llamas, and enjoy landscapes that feel wild, quiet, and unforgettable. This is the perfect option for travelers who want more than a quick stop and are looking for a complete Andes trekking experience.
The Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain 4 days is ideal for hikers who want a balance of adventure, scenery, and cultural immersion. The altitude makes the route more demanding, and several operators recommend acclimatizing in Cusco before starting because Rainbow Mountain sits above 5,000 meters and the wider Ausangate region is even higher.
The final reward is the incredible arrival at Rainbow Mountain, also known as Vinicunca, one of the most iconic natural attractions in Peru. After days of trekking through majestic mountain terrain, reaching this colorful landscape feels even more powerful and memorable.
- Upis hot springs and glacial lakes
- Arapa and Apacheta passes
- Alpaca-herding communities
- Rainbow Mountain on the last day
Day-by-day itinerary
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Day01
Cusco – Ocongate – Tinki – Upis Lake – Upis
We will pick you up from your hotel at 5.00 am from where you will be transport for about 3 hours in private van until we reach the Trail head, exactly in the beginning (Tinki – 3900 m / 12,480 ft) of our hike our maste…
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Day02
Upis – Arapa Pass – Hatun Puka Cocha
Today your weake up time will be at 5.00 am with coca tea in your tents after 20 to 30 minutes organize your ítems you will start with healthy energetic breakfast provide by our master chef. After that you will be ready…
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Day03
Hatun Pukacocha – Apacheta Pass – Ananta Pata – Surine Pass – Queulla Cocha
Today we will get up early this morning to start on the most beautiful days of the entire journey with coca tea service in your tent, you will be ready in order to hike our day 3. After healthy energetic breakfast we wi…
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Day04
Queulla Cocha – Rainbow Mountain – Llactoc - Return Cusco
Today is great day with coca tea in your tent you will be weake up at 4.30 am and then tasty healthy breakfast in order to make our way to rainbow mountain – 5100 m / 16,732 ft. With 1 hour hike you will be reaching to…
What's included
Included
- Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide throughout the entire trek.
- Official Ausangate Trek permit to Rainbow Mountain.
- Rainbow Mountain entrance ticket.
- Muleteers and horse mules to carry camping equipment.
- Professional trekking chef (Master Chef) during the entire trek.
- Transportation from Cusco to the trailhead.
- Private transportation back to your hotel in Cusco on the last day.
- Healthy organic breakfasts.
- Organic buffet lunches.
- Organic buffet dinners.
Not included
- Trekking poles.
- Sleeping bags.
- Air mattresses.
- Tips for muleteers, trekking chef, tour guide, and driver (optional and voluntary).
- Personal expenses and extra services not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
Packing list and tips
- Original passport (checked at checkpoints, trains and Machu Picchu)
- Broken-in hiking boots with ankle support
- Daypack of 25 to 35 litres
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm layers: fleece, down jacket, hat and gloves
- Sun hat, sunglasses and SPF 50 sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal medication and toilet paper
- Some Peruvian soles in cash
- Swimsuit if hot springs are on the route
Recommendations
Arrive in Cusco at least two or three days before the trek to properly acclimatize to the altitude.
Bring your original passport, as it may be required for permits and checkpoints.
Wear warm, layered clothing suitable for cold nights and high-altitude conditions.
Use well-broken-in hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho at all times.
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
Bring a warm sleeping bag suitable for freezing temperatures in the Andes.
Stay well hydrated and drink water frequently during the trek.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before and during hiking days.
Carry a small daypack for personal items, water, and snacks.
Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for tips and personal expenses.
Consider renting trekking poles for better balance on steep passes.
Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking and outdoor activities.
Respect local communities, wildlife, and follow your guide’s instructions at all times.
Important information and precautions
- This route goes above 4,000 m: spend at least two nights in Cusco before departure
- Tell us about any medical condition when you book; consult your doctor if you have heart or respiratory problems
- Weather in the high Andes changes quickly: the guide may adapt the route for safety
- Pickup is in the historic centre of Cusco; the exact time is confirmed at the briefing
Route map
- 1Cusco
- 2Tinki
- 3Upis
- 4Hatun Pukacocha
- 5Ananta
- 6Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca)
- 7Red Valley
Frequently asked questions
This trek is considered moderate to challenging due to its high altitude, long hiking days, and multiple mountain passes. Some sections reach elevations above 5,000 meters (16,400 ft), which can be physically demanding. It is recommended for travelers in good physical condition with some hiking experience. Proper acclimatization in Cusco is essential, and our guides maintain a steady pace with regular breaks to ensure safety and enjoyment.
The best time to hike the Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, weather conditions are more stable and mountain views are clearer. June to August are the most popular months and require early booking. March and November are good alternatives with fewer crowds, although occasional rain may occur.
You should bring well-broken-in hiking boots, layered clothing for cold and windy conditions, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a warm sleeping bag suitable for freezing temperatures. Trekking poles, sleeping bags, and air mattresses are not included but can be rented locally. A small daypack is recommended for daily essentials such as water, snacks, and personal items.
Yes, all meals during the trek are included and prepared by a professional trekking chef using fresh, organic ingredients. Breakfasts, lunches, dinners, snacks, and drinking water are provided. Muleteers carry the main camping equipment, including tents and kitchen gear. This allows you to enjoy the trek comfortably without carrying heavy loads.
Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation if necessary. While our team carries a first-aid kit and provides professional support, having proper insurance gives you peace of mind during a multi-day trek in remote Andean environments.
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