BigFoot Machu Picchu

Ausangate Trek 3 Days

ausangate - snowed capped mountain View all photos
upis hot springs of ausangate View all photos
pacchanta - ausangate View all photos
abra arapa - ausangate trek View all photos
ausangate 7 lakes +5 View all photos
lagoon of ausangate View all photos
hatun puka qocha - lagoon of ausangate View all photos
pucacocha lagoon - ausangate View all photos
Rainbow Mountain Photos View all photos
Red Valley - Rainbow Mountain View all photos
Duration

3 Days

Group

12

Max Altitude

4,450 m

Difficulty

Moderate to Difficult

Ausangate Trek 3 Days

The Ausangate Trek 3 Days is perfect for experienced hikers who want a real high-altitude challenge in a short time. Over three intense days, you’ll cross three mountain passes, walk among herds of alpacas and llamas, and witness landscapes that change constantly — from snow-capped peaks to red mountains and wide Andean valleys.

The highlight comes at the end: reaching Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) after days of trekking through remote terrain. Seeing its natural colors up close, far from the crowds and surrounded by towering glaciers, is the ultimate reward.

Challenging, raw, and unforgettable — this is the true Andean adventure, Bigfoot Machu Picchu style.

Ausangate Trek 3 Days Inclusions

What’s Included?

  • Professional English-speaking guide

  • Pre-departure briefing (5:00 pm, day before)

  • Private round-trip transportation from Cusco

  • Satellite phone & radio communication for safety

  • First aid kit + oxygen tank

Accommodation & Camping

  • Cabins (first night)

  • Spacious tents (second night, 2 people in 3-person tents)

  • Foam mattress

  • Private portable toilet tent

  • Dining tent with tables & chairs

  • Hot water bag for extra warmth

Meals & Service

  • 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners

  • Vegetarian, vegan & special diets available

  • Professional cook

  • Wake-up tea delivered to your tent

  • Afternoon tea (“happy hour”) with snacks

  • Daily snacks

  • Boiled & filtered drinking water

Equipment & Logistics

  • Horses to carry equipment

  • 7 kg allowance for personal items (duffel bag provided)

  • Entrance fees (Ausangate private lands)

  • Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley tickets

  • Plastic poncho & backpack rain cover

  • Hygiene bowl & paper towels at camp

  • Souvenir Bigfoot T-shirt

What’s Not Included

  • Sleeping bag rental (Mountain Hardwear – $20)

  • Trekking poles rental (Black Diamond – $20)

  • Personal riding horse (optional)

  • Tips for guide, cook & driver

  • Travel insurance

Ausangate Trek 3 Days - Itinerary

Day 1
Cusco – Tinqui – Upis
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We pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 am and drive about three hours toward Tinqui and then Upis Pampa. Along the way, you’ll see traditional Andean villages where locals still wear their colorful clothing and live much as they have for generations.

After breakfast in Upis, we begin our hike toward Upis campsite. The trail is mostly gentle with some gradual ups and downs, making it a great first day to adapt to the altitude. As we walk, the massive Ausangate Mountain dominates the horizon, and we pass herds of alpacas and llamas grazing peacefully.

After lunch at camp, you can choose to relax in the nearby hot springs or hike to Upis Lake for incredible close-up views of the glacier. We spend the night in comfortable cabins, watching the sunset reflect beautifully over Ausangate.

Day 2
Upis – Puca Cocha – Ananta
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We wake you up with hot coca tea delivered to your cabin before a hearty breakfast. Today is more challenging as we hike toward Arapa Pass, where colorful mountains and vast Andean views open up in every direction.

We continue toward Puca Cocha, passing glacial lakes with Ausangate towering beside us. Wildlife is common here — alpacas, vicuñas, and if we’re lucky, even condors.

After lunch, we cross another high pass with spectacular views of turquoise lakes below before descending to Ananta, where our tents are ready. Enjoy a warm dinner prepared by our chef and rest under a sky full of stars.

Day 3
Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Qesuno – Cusco
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This is the big day. We wake up early and hike toward Warmisaya Pass, where your first view of Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca) appears in the distance.

After descending slightly, we make the final ascent to the viewpoint. Standing in front of the vibrant natural colors of Rainbow Mountain after days of trekking makes the experience even more powerful. You’ll have time to explore, take photos, and optionally visit the Red Valley for even more dramatic scenery.

We then hike down to Qesuno, meet our transport, and drive back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 pm.

Packing List

Clothing

  • Wool hat or beanie for cold mornings

  • Breathable T-shirt (moisture-wicking recommended)

  • Lightweight insulating layer (fleece or sweater)

  • Waterproof jacket or rain poncho

  • Comfortable, quick-drying hiking pants

  • Hiking shoes or sturdy sneakers with good traction

  • Sunglasses with UV protection

  • Gloves (especially during colder months)

Day Pack Essentials

  • Original passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu)

  • Original student ID card (if applicable for discount)

  • Small day backpack

  • Camera or smartphone

  • At least 1–2 liters of water

  • Snacks (energy bars, fruit, chocolate, nuts)

  • Sunscreen

  • Mosquito repellent

  • Rain poncho

  • Cash in Peruvian soles for personal expenses

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Essential Information About Machu Picchu Tour 2 Days

High altitude, cold nights, strong sun — packing smart makes all the difference on this adventure.

Essential Documents

  • Original passport

  • Travel insurance (recommended)

  • Cash in Peruvian soles for small purchases or tips

Clothing (Layering is Key)

  • Waterproof trekking jacket

  • Warm insulated jacket (down or synthetic)

  • Fleece or thermal mid-layer

  • Moisture-wicking base layers

  • 2–3 hiking shirts

  • Trekking pants

  • Warm hat (beanie)

  • Sun hat or cap

  • Gloves (warm and windproof)

  • Neck gaiter or buff

  • Thermal socks (2–3 pairs)

  • Undergarments

Footwear

  • Waterproof hiking boots (well broken-in)

  • Comfortable camp shoes or sandals

Trekking Gear

  • Daypack (20–30L)

  • Refillable water bottles or hydration bladder

  • Headlamp (with extra batteries)

  • Sunglasses (UV protection)

  • Sunscreen (SPF 50+)

  • Lip balm with SPF

  • Personal toiletries

  • Wet wipes

  • Small quick-dry towel

  • Personal medications

Sleeping Gear

  • Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures – can be rented)

Recommended Extras

  • Trekking poles (can be rented)

  • Power bank

  • Camera or smartphone

  • Snacks (energy bars, nuts, chocolate)

Temperatures at night can drop below freezing, so warm layers are essential. During the day, the sun is strong at high altitude — protect your skin and stay hydrated.

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FAQs

How difficult is the Ausangate Trek 3 Days?

It is a challenging high-altitude trek designed for experienced hikers. You will hike several hours per day and cross mountain passes above 4,700 meters.

How high does the trek go?

The highest point reaches 5,034 meters (16,515 ft) near Rainbow Mountain.

How many days should I acclimatize before the trek?

We recommend spending at least 2 days in Cusco before starting to properly adapt to the altitude.

How are the sleeping arrangements organized?

The first night is in comfortable cabins in Upis, and the second night is in spacious tents shared by two people.

How much weight can I pack?

Each hiker has a 7 kg allowance for personal belongings, carried by pack horses.

How are meals handled during the trek?

All meals are freshly prepared by our professional cook. Special dietary requests can be accommodated with advance notice.

How do we manage safety in such a remote area?

Our guides carry a satellite phone, radio communication, a full first aid kit, and an oxygen tank at all times.

How is Rainbow Mountain included in the experience?

The trek ends at Rainbow Mountain, and the entrance fee is already included, along with access to the Red Valley.

How do I rent extra equipment like sleeping bags or trekking poles?

Both sleeping bags and trekking poles are available for rent prior to departure.

How long does it take to return to Cusco on the last day?

After the hike down, we drive back to Cusco, arriving around 5:00 pm, depending on conditions.

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