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- English
- Spanish
Are you looking for an exciting and challenging adventure in the majestic Cusco? Ausangate climbing is the answer! Despite being one of the most challenging expeditions, the feeling of reaching the summit of the highest peak of Ausangate is an unforgettable and rewarding experience. Imagine the breathtaking views of the Vilcanota mountain range from an altitude of 6384 meters above sea level.
The expedition starts in the Pacchanta community, where you can experience the culture and daily life of the region's inhabitants. From there, climbers head to the Ausangate base camp to acclimatize and prepare for the upcoming challenge. During the expedition, they will face two notable challenges on the route: a 200-meter wall with a 65° incline and the plateau, which sometimes accumulates a lot of snow. But don't worry, with good physical and mental preparation, high-quality climbing equipment, and an experienced and certified guide, you'll be ready to reach the summit.
What's Included
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Meeting and pickup
For the pick-up of each participant, please come to our office located at: Office 24, 157 C. Heladeros Street, Cusco, or let us know which hotel you will be staying at so we can contact you. We kindly ask that you confirm your trip 2 to 3 months in advance so we can organize the logistics.
Itinerary
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1
The Ausangate climbing expedition begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco at 4:30 am, followed by a 3.3-hour drive to Pacchanta (4334 masl). There, the team (guide, muleteers, cook) will welcome us with breakfast at our lodge. Afterward, we’ll prepare logistics and personal gear (harness, boots, crampons, helmet, etc.) to ensure nothing is forgotten. This initial hike focuses on acclimatization, interacting with the environment, and gaining altitude for the climb. The trek starts with a scenic approach to the Ausangate lagoons, offering panoramic views of Pacchanta, known for its hot springs and alpaca breeding. After a 1.5-hour walk, we’ll reach the 7 lagoons of Ausangate, each stunning and colorful. Along the way, we’ll enjoy views of Ausangate’s 6384 masl summit from the north face. The first-day campsite is at Pacchaspata, on the mountain's east side.
9 hours • Admission ticket free -
2
After a restful night at the Pachaspata campsite, we’ll gear up early for the hike to Paso Jampa, one of the trek’s highest points at 5100 meters. The altitude makes this stretch challenging, but the stunning panoramic views at the top are well worth the effort. Descending from Paso Jampa, we’ll reach Surapata campsite for a short rest before continuing to Base Camp. As we approach the region's tallest mountain, excitement builds, and Ausangate's magnificence dominates the view. At Base Camp, we’ll set up our campsite, prepare our equipment, and soak in the breathtaking surroundings. Nearby, we’ll take a light hike to the distinctive Chocolate Lake, with its dark brown waters contrasting beautifully against the mountainous backdrop—perfect for photos. After exploring, we’ll return to Base Camp for a hot dinner and prepare for the next thrilling day of our Ausangate expedition.
8 hours • Admission ticket free -
3
After a nutritious dinner, we retired early to rest before the early morning climb. Sleep can be difficult to achieve due to the excitement and altitude, but it is essential to be in top form for the ascent. We will wake up at 11 pm, preparing for an approximately 8-hour climb to Camp I, where we will establish our high camp. The path to Camp I is steep and rocky, with inclines of up to 70 degrees in some places, and it will require all of our concentration and skill to overcome. We will bring everything we need to establish our camp at Camp I, including tents, sleeping bags, stoves, and food. As we climb, the view becomes more impressive, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and the valley stretching below us. The darkness of the night slowly fades as we approach Camp I, and we can see the sunrise illuminating the landscape. Once we reach Camp I, we will take some time to rest and acclimate to the altitude before continuing with the climb.
8 hours • Admission ticket free -
4
This will be one of the most exciting and challenging days of your life. After a light breakfast at 11 pm, you’ll begin the hike at midnight, guided by expert mountaineers. The trail starts steep and rocky, leading to the glacier, where you’ll put on crampons and rope up for the ascent. Climbing the glacier wall takes two hours of physical and mental effort, rewarded by stunning views at the top. From there, a three-hour hike across the plateau leads to the summit, just 50 meters away. Reaching the summit is unforgettable, offering breathtaking views of the Vilcanota range. After celebrating, you’ll rappel down the glacier wall and hike back to the moraine field for a short rest. By 5 pm, you’ll return to base camp, exhausted but proud, ready to enjoy a hot meal after a day of adventure and achievement.
18 hours • Admission ticket free -
5
This will be one of the most challenging yet rewarding days of your trip. The hike to Rainbow Mountain starts early, taking you through stunning landscapes and steep terrain, guided by experts to assist you throughout. At the highest point, Palomani Pass (5200 m), you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Andes and the Ausangate range. From there, descend to Ausangate Lagoon camp for a well-deserved lunch. The trail continues through valleys and plains, with llamas and alpacas grazing nearby. After a long journey, you’ll reach the Ananta camp, where a hot dinner and a peaceful night in nature await. Under a star-filled sky, you’ll relax to the sounds of rivers and wind, reflecting on the day and connecting with fellow hikers.
7 hours • Admission ticket free -
6
Today marks the final day of our Ausangate climbing expedition, a journey filled with breathtaking landscapes and physical challenges. After an early start, we ascend to Huarmisaya Pass (4977 m), where each step rewards us with stunning views and a sense of triumph. From the pass, we descend into the Vinicunca Valley, home to the famous Mountain of Colors. After a two-hour hike, we reach this incredible destination, where vibrant hues of red, yellow, green, and blue stretch across the landscape. We pause to take in the view and capture unforgettable photos before continuing our descent. As we conclude this remarkable adventure, we reflect on the challenges overcome and the memories made. Heading back to Cusco, we carry with us the pride of completing an unforgettable journey.
9 hours • Admission ticket free
Cusco, Pacchanta Community, Pachaspata
Pachaspata, Ausangate Base Camp
Ausangate Camp Base, Ausangate Morrine Camp
Ausangate morrine Camp, Summit (6,384m/20,939f), Camp Base
Camp Base, Ananta
Ananta Camp, Rainbow Mountain, Cusco
Additional info
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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