From Cusco: 3-Day Ausangate Challenge Trek
Embark on a demanding three-day trek through the stunning Ausangate mountain range, a challenge for adventure enthusiasts.
From Cusco: 3-Day Ausangate Challenge Trek
Venture into the Peruvian Andes on the 3-Day Ausangate Challenge Trek, a journey that promises more than just a trekking experience. Traversing the dramatic landscapes of the Ausangate mountain range, this adventure offers an immersive dive into the heart of nature’s majesty. Witness the changing faces of the Andes, from sprawling lagoons to the majestic Rainbow Mountain, each step a new discovery in this land of breathtaking beauty and diversity.
This trek is an invitation to not just explore but to connect with the raw spirit of adventure. As you navigate challenging terrains and witness the vibrant hues of the Rainbow Mountain, every moment is a blend of exhilaration and serenity. With expert guides, the trek is an enriching experience, balanced with the comfort of well-planned campsites and the warmth of campfire stories, leaving you with unforgettable memories and a profound bond with the Andean wilderness.
| Departure & Return Location | Your Hotel in Cusco |
| Departure Time | 3:30 AM |
| Estimated Return Time | 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Guide Languages Available | Guides fluent in English and Spanish |
| Key Attractions | Ausangate Mountain, Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley, Yana Cocha, Comer Cocha, Puca Cocha, Apacheta pass |
Journey from Cusco to the Ausangate Foothills
Our Ausangate adventure begins with an early departure from Cusco, immersing you in a 3-hour scenic drive to Pacchanta. As urban landscapes give way to the wild Andean beauty, the excitement for the trek ahead builds. In Pacchanta, fuel up with a hearty breakfast against the backdrop of the imposing Ausangate mountain, setting the tone for our journey.
As we embark on our trek, our experienced horseman and trusty mules take the lead, carrying all essential gear. This thoughtful arrangement allows you to trek with just a daypack, making your journey more enjoyable and focused on the stunning scenery. Our skilled cook, always a step ahead, ensures that delicious meals await you at each stop.
Today’s hike spans 6-7 hours, offering a kaleidoscope of views of the majestic Ausangate range. By late afternoon, we reach our campsite by tranquil lagoons. Here, under the vast starlit sky, we gather around a campfire, sharing Inca legends and stories of the day’s trek. The night is spent in comfortable tents, lulled to sleep by the gentle sounds of nature.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 6-7 hours, 11 km
From Pucacocha to Ananta
With the first light of dawn painting the sky, we ready ourselves for another day of adventure. The trek begins with a climb to the Apacheta Pass, a challenging ascent rewarded with panoramic views of the Ausangate range. Our mules, carrying our gear, accompany us, ensuring a lighter journey for you.
Descending towards Anantapata reveals a rich tapestry of Andean flora and fauna. Awaiting us is a nourishing lunch, prepared by our cook. As the day winds down, we set up camp, thanks to the efforts of our horseman and the mules. The evening is a time for camaraderie and stories, shared over a meal and under the silent gaze of the mountains.
Accommodation: Camping
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Tea, and Dinner
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 12 km
Ananta to the Rainbow Mountains and Return to Cusco
Before dawn breaks, we depart Ananta, guided by the stars and our headlamps, towards Warmisaya Pass. Our faithful mules ensure a smooth final hike. At the pass, the first light unveils the breathtaking Rainbow Mountain, a natural wonder awakening with colors.
Our arrival at Vinicunca is timed to experience this spectacle in serene solitude. We take a moment to let the beauty of the landscape sink in. As we begin our descent, our horseman and mules head to the rendezvous for a celebratory lunch.
The journey back to Cusco is filled with reflections and shared stories. We express gratitude to our horseman and cook, whose contributions were vital to our trek’s success. As the lights of Cusco come into view, marking the end of our mountain adventure, we carry with us an indelible connection to the Andes, fostered by the land, the people, and the animals that accompanied us.
Accommodation: Not included (return to Cusco)
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Hiking: Approx. 5 hours, 7 km
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Special Discounts
- Group Discount: Automatically applied during online booking.
- Save 5% per person for groups of 5-9 people.
- Save 8% per person for groups of 10-14 people.
- Save 10% per person for groups of 15 or more people.
Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy
Kindly take a moment to read our Payment Terms & Cancellation Policy before booking. Happy adventuring!
Payment Terms
Beginning Your Adventure – Booking Confirmation and Deposit
Your journey starts with a commitment: a 30% deposit of the total tour cost. This initial investment is pivotal in activating the extensive preparatory process, ensuring every aspect of your tour is curated to perfection.
Final Payment: The Last Step Before Your Journey Begins
The remaining 70% of the tour cost is due no later than 48 hours before the commencement of your tour. This timely payment is critical to finalize all logistical arrangements, guaranteeing a hassle-free start to your adventure.
Expansive Payment Options for Ease and Flexibility
In line with our commitment to your convenience, Peru Tripper accepts a variety of payment methods, including bank transfers, credit cards, and PayPal. Please be aware that additional fees may apply depending on the payment method selected. Detailed payment procedures and potential fees can be found on our dedicated payment page.
Implications of Late Payments – Protecting Your Reservation
Adherence to the payment schedule is crucial. Late payments can unfortunately lead to the cancellation of your reservation, with the deposit being retained as a non-refundable fee. We urge you to maintain timely payments to safeguard your tour plans.
Policy for Last-Minute Adventurers
For those inspired to join this tour on short notice, namely less than 15 days before departure, full payment is required at the time of booking. This ensures that we can expedite all necessary preparations for your inclusion.
Cancellation Policy
Flexible Cancellation Options for Clients
We understand that circumstances can change, sometimes unexpectedly. If you find the need to cancel your booking, you have the flexibility to do so up to 30 days before the tour start date. In this case, you will receive a full refund minus a 10% administration fee, acknowledging the efforts and resources already invested in planning your tour. Any additional balance paid will also be refunded, ensuring a fair and transparent process.
Understanding Cancellations Within 30 Days
We wish to draw your attention to our policy for cancellations made within 30 days of the tour departure. Given the advanced stage of preparations and commitments made at this juncture, we are unable to offer refunds. This policy is in place to balance the significant logistical arrangements and reservations made on your behalf.
Navigating Through Force Majeure
In the event of extraordinary and uncontrollable circumstances, such as natural disasters or significant political unrest, Huaynas Expeditions adopts a flexible approach. We prioritize your safety and satisfaction, offering to reschedule your trip or provide a credit for future travel, subject to availability.
Strong Advocacy for Comprehensive Travel Insurance
We cannot overstate the importance of securing comprehensive travel insurance. Such insurance plays a critical role in safeguarding your investment against unforeseen cancellations, emergencies, and other unexpected scenarios. It is a proactive measure to ensure peace of mind throughout your journey. Peru Tripper is not responsible for any expenses arising from incidents not covered by your insurance policy.
Standard Inclusions
All package options include the following:
Exclusions:
Not included in our standard tour packages. Consider additional costs. Deluxe packages may cover some exclusions, as specified in the Additional Inclusions section.
Additional Inclusions
Deluxe Packages Only
Elevate your travel experience with our bespoke Deluxe Package, meticulously designed to offer an array of premium amenities and services.
Deluxe Packages Include:
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Packing List
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