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12 min read
Ausangate Trek Without a Guide
Ausangate Trek Without a Guide Can you do the Ausangate Trek without a guide? Yes. Unlike the Classic…
Read guideTrekking · Ausangate
Ausangate Trek 2 days
2 Days12 travelers maxPhysical rating 2/5
The experience
Why this journey stays with you.
Join Bigfoot Machu Picchu for a two-day adventure to the breathtaking Ausangate, the fifth highest mountain in Peru. This trek is ideal if you want to experience the beauty of Ausangate without committing to a longer expedition.
Duration
2 Days
Group size
12 travelers max
Difficulty
Moderate
Tour style
Trekking
Highlights
We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00… We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 am and drive approximately three hours…
From Tinki, we continue by vehicle to Upispampa, where our chef… From Tinki, we continue by vehicle to Upispampa, where our chef prepares a fresh breakfast before we…
Andean hot springs After about three hours of hiking, we arrive at our cozy cabins in Upis, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Following a delicious…
In the evening, we enjoy a freshly prepared dinner. In the evening, we enjoy a freshly prepared dinner. With minimal light pollution at this altitude, the night sky…
Day by day
Follow the journey.
Choose a day, explore each stop and see the route on the map.
Day 1
Cusco → In the evening,
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We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00 am and drive approximately three hours toward the highland town of Tinki. Along the way, you’ll notice traditional Andean communities where locals still wear colorful ancestral clothing. Your guide will share insights about their lifestyle and connection to the mountains.
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From Tinki, we continue by vehicle to Upispampa, where our chef prepares a fresh breakfast before we begin hiking. The trail gently winds through remote villages, open valleys, and small stream crossings as we make our way toward Upis.
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After about three hours of hiking, we arrive at our cozy cabins in Upis, surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery. Following a delicious lunch, you may choose to hike to the beautiful Upis Lake or relax in the nearby hot springs.
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In the evening, we enjoy a freshly prepared dinner. With minimal light pollution at this altitude, the night sky offers an unforgettable view of the stars. Maximum altitude of the day reaches approximately 4,549 meters. Overnight in mountain cabins at 4,425 meters. Difficulty level is moderate.
Route map
Loading Google Maps…
- 1.We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 6:00…
- 2.From Tinki, we continue by vehicle to Upispampa, where our chef…
- 3.Andean hot springs
- 4.In the evening, we enjoy a freshly prepared dinner.
Day 2
camp → Cusco
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We wake you early with coca tea or coffee delivered to your cabin, followed by a nourishing breakfast. The day begins with a short uphill hike to a viewpoint where Ausangate reveals itself in full splendor.
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From there, we continue along rolling Andean terrain toward the spectacular Seven Lakes of Ausangate. Each lagoon shines in different shades of turquoise and blue, set against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks.
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After exploring the lakes, we descend to Pacchanta, where you can relax in the natural hot springs while enjoying incredible mountain views. We then enjoy lunch before saying goodbye to our horseman and cook.
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In the afternoon, we return to Cusco by private transport, arriving around 5:00 pm. Maximum altitude of the trek reaches approximately 4,600 meters. The second day is considered moderate to moderately challenging due to the elevation.
Route map
Loading Google Maps…
- 1.Arrival at camp
- 2.Ausangate Seven Lakes
- 3.Andean hot springs
- 4.Return to Cusco
Plan with confidence
Everything you need to know.
Inclusions
What's included
- Satellite phone carried by the guide, as the Ausangate region has no mobile signal
- One night accommodation in comfortable mountain cabins
- Professional English-speaking guide with extensive knowledge of the Ausangate area
- Pre-departure briefing at our office the day before the trek
- Private portable toilet tent set up at camp
- Dining room tent with tables and chairs for meals and relaxation
- Professional cook preparing fresh meals daily
- Wake-up tea served each morning with coca tea, coffee, hot chocolate, or tea of your choice
- Horses to carry trekking equipment
- Up to 7 kg allowance per person for personal belongings, including sleeping bag
- Large duffel bag provided for your personal items
- Boiled, filtered, and cooled water provided daily to refill bottles
- Afternoon tea with hot drinks, popcorn, and biscuits
- Reusable cloth snack bag to reduce plastic waste
- Daily snacks during the trek
- Entrance fees to private lands in the Ausangate area
- 7 Lakes entrance fee included in the package
- Meals included with 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, with vegetarian, pescatarian, gluten-free, and lactose-free options available upon request
- Private round-trip transportation between your hotel in Cusco and the trailhead
- Foam mattress for added sleeping comfort
- First aid kit carried by the guide, who is trained annually in first aid
- Oxygen tank carried at all times
- Basic hygiene setup at camp with water and paper towels for handwashing
- Plastic poncho in case of heavy rain
- Rain cover for your backpack
- Radio communication between guide and cook for coordination and safety
- Hotel or Airbnb pick-up and drop-off in Cusco
- Horseman responsible for handling the horses and assisting with camp logistics
- Hot water bag provided at night if needed for warmth
What's not included
- Trekking poles available for rent at 5 USD for the entire trip
- Personal riding horse available for rent if needed
- Sleeping bag
- Voluntary tips for guide, horsemen, driver, and cook
- Travel insurance
Packing list
- Original passport
- Small to medium backpack for daily essentials
- Comfortable hiking boots with good ankle support
- Warm layers including thermal base layer and fleece jacket
- Insulated jacket for cold mornings and evenings
- Waterproof jacket or rain poncho
- Hiking pants
- Hat, gloves, and warm beanie
- Sun hat or cap
- Sunglasses with UV protection
- Sunscreen and lip balm
- Reusable water bottle or hydration system
- Personal snacks
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items
- Swimsuit and small towel for the hot springs in Pacchanta
- Sleeping bag suitable for cold temperatures
- Cash in soles for personal expenses and tips
- Personal medication if needed
Important information
Location
This trek takes place in the highlands southeast of Cusco, around the majestic Ausangate, one of the most sacred mountains in Andean culture and the fifth highest peak in Peru.
Altitude
The route reaches elevations of approximately 4,600 meters above sea level. Spending at least one or two days in Cusco before the trek is strongly recommended to acclimatize properly.
Difficulty Level
The trek is considered moderate to moderately challenging due to the altitude. While distances are manageable, hiking at high elevation requires good physical condition and steady pacing.
Accommodation
You will spend one night in comfortable mountain cabins in Upis. Even with cabins, nighttime temperatures can drop significantly, so warm clothing and a proper sleeping bag are essential.
Meals
All meals during the trek are freshly prepared by a professional cook. Special dietary requirements can be accommodated with prior notice.
Weather
Weather in the Ausangate region changes quickly. Mornings and evenings are cold, midday sun can be intense, and rain is possible at any time of year. Layered clothing is highly recommended.
Best Time to Visit
The dry season from April to October offers clearer skies and better mountain views. The rainy season from November to March brings greener landscapes but more unpredictable weather.
Cultural Experience
This trek passes through remote Andean communities where traditional lifestyles are still preserved. You will gain insight into local farming practices and the spiritual importance of Ausangate in Andean tradition.
Hot Springs
At the end of the trek, you will have the opportunity to relax in the natural hot springs of Pacchanta, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery.
FAQs
Do I need prior trekking experience?
Previous trekking experience is not mandatory, but you should be in good physical condition and comfortable hiking at high altitude.
How high does the trek go?
The highest point reaches approximately 4,600 meters above sea level, so proper acclimatization in Cusco is important before starting.
Where do we sleep?
You will spend one night in comfortable mountain cabins in the Upis area, surrounded by incredible Andean scenery.
Are the hot springs included?
Yes, you will have time to enjoy the hot springs in Pacchanta at the end of the trek.
What meals are provided?
The tour includes 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner, all freshly prepared by our cook. Dietary restrictions can be accommodated with advance notice.
How cold does it get at night?
Temperatures can drop below freezing, especially during the dry season. Warm layers and a proper sleeping bag are essential.
When is the best time to do this trek?
The dry season from April to October generally offers clearer skies and better mountain views.
Is altitude sickness common?
Some travelers may feel mild symptoms due to the elevation. Spending time acclimatizing in Cusco beforehand greatly reduces the risk. Guides carry oxygen and a first-aid kit for safety.
How many people are in a group?
Group sizes are kept small to ensure a more personalized and safe trekking experience.
Why Big Foot Machu Picchu?
- 100% licensed local tour operator
- Excellent reviews on TripAdvisor and Google
- The best experiences for your vacation
Prepare for this journey
A little knowledge goes a long way.
Local stories and practical guides selected around this tour, its destinations and its trekking route.
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