This 5-day Ausangatate trek with Rainbow mountain combines the untouched wilderness around Ausangate with a peek at the recently uncovered Rainbow Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca. Combine remote, untouched wilderness and stunning high-altitude scenery of the Sacred Apu Ausangate with the world-famous Rainbow Mountain.
Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco, leaving early in the morning and heading towards the quaint village of Checacupe. Traveling on a paved road across the altiplano in the direction of Puno, we make our way through the fertile Vilcanota Valley. In Checacupe, we have a chance to visit the Colonial Church of the Immaculate Conception and the three interesting bridges before we hit the road again, and start our climb out of the Pitumarka Valley. In Pitumarka, we can rest and buy some snacks. As we head out again, we leave the highway and get onto the dirt roads that wind through scenic valleys and canyons until we reach Hanchi Pacha. Along the way, we will stop to take photos of interesting rock formations. After about 4 hours on the road, we’ll have lunch to refresh and refuel before meeting up with our muleteers and beginning our 2h afternoon hike. We will climb steadily until we reach K’airahuiri Bajo (4300m / 14,925 ft) where we will have spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and magnificent valley below. From here, it’s just another 40m to our first Vinicunca trek campsite at K’airahuiri Alto (4400m / 15,420 ft), with views across the verdant valley. It’s going to be a cold night, so make sure you have lots of warm clothes and a high-quality sleeping bag! ( -15˚C /5˚F).
After an early breakfast, we will walk for about 1.5h towards Vinicunca Pass (5040m (16,535ft), the site of the famous Ausangate Rainbow Mountains! Our breathing will become increasingly labored as we gain altitude. Once we arrive at the top of the pass, expect gusts of icy winds, so be sure you are wrapped up warmly and that your head is protected! Here, we are rewarded for all our efforts with the first views of the spectacular Rainbow Mountains, with its vibrant multi-hued layers of rock sediment: turquoise, orange, brown, and red. For an extra treat and if the day is clear, we will also have majestic views of the snow-capped Apu Ausangate Mountain, the tallest and most important mountain in Andean cosmology. After a short rest and time to take photos, we’ll head on to Pucacocha Lake over the 4900m (16,076 ft) Menos Ponco Pass (altitude is approximate). It should take between 4 and 5 hours to get to our campsite where we will rest for the evening.
With the Ausangate Mountain on our left-hand side, we trek past clear glacial lakes, herds of local alpacas and llamas and, if we’re lucky, maybe even some wild vicuña. We will first reach Apacheta Pass (4600m / 15,091 ft) before ascending to Palomani Pass (5200m / 17,060 ft), the highest point on the Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain. As we cross the pass, we will be met with spectacular breath-taking views of the southeast mountain range, including Mariposa (“butterfly”) and Caracol (“snail”) Peaks. From here we follow the trail into the valley where we’ll rest and have lunch. During the afternoon we can enjoy views of the snow-capped Tres Picos and Puca Punta mountains. Then, we will continue through the broad green valley of Pampa Jutunpata and up the Rio Q’ampa Valley, where we will spend the night.
Today we hike through the small community of Q’ampa. We head northwest to the last pass of our trek, the Q’ampa Pass (5000m / 16,400 ft). We will pass by many different colored lakes and enjoy lunch beside the sparkling Q’oma Q’ocha Lake (4704m / 15,429 ft). After hiking for a few more hours several hours through the Andean landscape we reach Pacchanta (4010m / 13,152 ft). This traditional, high altitude herding village has been transformed by tourism in recent years, and has adapted its activities to include various community rural tourism initiatives, including homestays and cultural demonstrations. With incredible scenery all around us, we finish our Ausangate Rainbow Mountain trek, with superb photo opportunities of the Apu Ausangate in the distance. We also have the opportunity to soak in the local hot springs, and even treat ourselves to a well-deserved beer! Tonight, we camp in Pacchanta.
Day 5 is our final day trekking Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca Peru. From Pacchanta, we hike for three hours to Tinke where we will have free time to explore this traditional Andean village before taking our private car back to Cusco. The scenic drive winds up and over a pass for a last glimpse of the imposing Mount Ausangate. Take in the view as you marvel at your accomplishment, having just spent 5 days trekking through the Ausangate region on this incredible, remote trek through the region of the Andes, where few have trekked! We will arrive to Cusco between 4 and 5pm, and leave you at your hotel.
IMPORTANT NOTES
The stated times in this itinerary are approximate and may vary. Hiking times depend on the groups speed and the guide can change the lunch spots and campsites, depending on the hiking speed. Each guide has their own preferred route so may vary from what is written in this itinerary.
The Ausangate region is found at very high altitude, and is close to a snow-covered massif. Temperatures are extremely cold and often reach way below zero in the evenings. You should be well-prepared for the extremely low temperatures. Make sure you bring an appropriate sleeping bag for temperatures below zero (-10 °C or more).
This region is a lesser-visited and off the beaten track destination. For this reason, the tourism infrastructure is somewhat limited. This hike uses the local services available. Visitors to the region should be aware that things may not go according to plan and can change at the last minute. This is all part of the adventure which is part of the reason why visitors to Peru should come with an open-mind and be flexible to the ways of different cultures.
Share your travel preferences and a local specialist will confirm availability and prepare the best option for you.
This five-day trek Ausangate trek, Peru’s highest sacred peak, then climbs to the multicolored slopes of Rainbow Mountain. You start before dawn in Cusco and drive through tin mining towns to Upis, where mules pack gear.
The trail winds across Andean pastures and sparkling glacial lakes, passes two high passes above 5000 meters, then drops into valleys where traders still chew coca leaves and share simple stews. Nights under canvas bring cold air and bright stars. At some point you wonder if the next pass will end up being the toughest. Suddenly you crest and see white peaks on one side red stripes on the other.
On day four you hit Vinicunca, the famous Rainbow Mountain, before crowds arrive. That giant stripe of yellow and purple feels almost unreal. By midday you’re back near Ausangate’s glacial pools, splashing cold water on your face, then winding toward the final camp. The last morning you’re up at 4 am for a quick ascent to 5200 meters, searching for wild vicuñas near the summit, then back to Cusco by late afternoon. It’s a lot of altitude, some heavy breathing, but each view feels like a reward you’ve truly earned.
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Recommendations
Spend two days in Cusco before departure. Drink coca tea, rest, avoid heavy meals.
Climate
High Andes shifts from –5 °C at dawn to 12 °C midday. Rain likely in afternoons.
Season of the year recommended
May through September for driest trails. October brings fewer people but some showers.
What to wear
Layered clothing: base layer for sweat, mid-layer for warmth, shell for wind and rain.
Physical preparation
Do stair climbs with pack at home. Add long uphill walks every weekend for three weeks.
Local people
Quechua-speaking herders in Ocongate trade wool and coca leaves. They might greet you with hola and a nod.
Who is this for
Active travelers over 12 who can camp four nights at high altitude and handle steep passes.
Food on route
Breakfasts start with oatmeal or eggs and bread. Lunches are rice stews with chicken or veggies plus fruit. Dinners serve quinoa soup, pasta with local cheese, sometimes trout. Meals are simple but refuel you for long days. Water is boiled or treated.
They top at around 5200 meters so prepare for breath loss and slow pace. Guides set breaks every 30 minutes.
If you own one rated under –10 °C bring it. Otherwise rent from us for $20 for comfort.
Only basic pit latrines at some camps. Pack out toilet paper in plastic bags.
Yes on the first day up to Arapa Pass. After that the trail is too narrow.
Look for vicuñas, Andean fox, sometimes condors circling high above.
Some trekkers get headaches or nausea. Chew coca, hydrate, use pills, rest.
Rainbow Mountain permits sell out fast. Buy at least two weeks before travel.
No. The route requires a registered guide and permit at entry point.
Aim under 6 kg. You only carry essentials; porters pack the rest.
Trails get muddy. Rain gear essential. Camps have tarps but expect wet boots.
Only in Cusco and final hotel. No signal on trek.
Possible with private guide upgrade. Add extra rest or acclimatization day.
Early starts between 4 am and 6 am to avoid afternoon clouds.
Guides can arrange horse or mule to carry you up steep sections.
Highly recommended for remote rescues, altitude treatment or trip delays.
Circle sacred Mount Ausangate, pristine turquoise lagoons, and the iconic Rainbow Mountain.
This 5-day Ausangatate trek with Rainbow mountain combines the untouched wilderness around Ausangate with a peek at the recently uncovered Rainbow Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca. Combine remote, untouched wilderness and stunning high-altitude scenery of the Sacred Apu Ausangate with the world-famous Rainbow Mountain.
Rainbow Mountain tour from Cusco, leaving early in the morning and heading towards the quaint village of Checacupe. Traveling on a paved road across the altiplano in the direction of Puno, we make our way through the fertile Vilcanota Valley. In Checacupe, we have a chance to visit the Colonial Church of the Immaculate Conception and the three interesting bridges before we hit the road again, and start our climb out of the Pitumarka Valley. In Pitumarka, we can rest and buy some snacks. As we head out again, we leave the highway and get onto the dirt roads that wind through scenic valleys and canyons until we reach Hanchi Pacha. Along the way, we will stop to take photos of interesting rock formations. After about 4 hours on the road, we’ll have lunch to refresh and refuel before meeting up with our muleteers and beginning our 2h afternoon hike. We will climb steadily until we reach K’airahuiri Bajo (4300m / 14,925 ft) where we will have spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and magnificent valley below. From here, it’s just another 40m to our first Vinicunca trek campsite at K’airahuiri Alto (4400m / 15,420 ft), with views across the verdant valley. It’s going to be a cold night, so make sure you have lots of warm clothes and a high-quality sleeping bag! ( -15˚C /5˚F).
After an early breakfast, we will walk for about 1.5h towards Vinicunca Pass (5040m (16,535ft), the site of the famous Ausangate Rainbow Mountains! Our breathing will become increasingly labored as we gain altitude. Once we arrive at the top of the pass, expect gusts of icy winds, so be sure you are wrapped up warmly and that your head is protected! Here, we are rewarded for all our efforts with the first views of the spectacular Rainbow Mountains, with its vibrant multi-hued layers of rock sediment: turquoise, orange, brown, and red. For an extra treat and if the day is clear, we will also have majestic views of the snow-capped Apu Ausangate Mountain, the tallest and most important mountain in Andean cosmology. After a short rest and time to take photos, we’ll head on to Pucacocha Lake over the 4900m (16,076 ft) Menos Ponco Pass (altitude is approximate). It should take between 4 and 5 hours to get to our campsite where we will rest for the evening.
With the Ausangate Mountain on our left-hand side, we trek past clear glacial lakes, herds of local alpacas and llamas and, if we’re lucky, maybe even some wild vicuña. We will first reach Apacheta Pass (4600m / 15,091 ft) before ascending to Palomani Pass (5200m / 17,060 ft), the highest point on the Ausangate trek to Rainbow Mountain. As we cross the pass, we will be met with spectacular breath-taking views of the southeast mountain range, including Mariposa (“butterfly”) and Caracol (“snail”) Peaks. From here we follow the trail into the valley where we’ll rest and have lunch. During the afternoon we can enjoy views of the snow-capped Tres Picos and Puca Punta mountains. Then, we will continue through the broad green valley of Pampa Jutunpata and up the Rio Q’ampa Valley, where we will spend the night.
Today we hike through the small community of Q’ampa. We head northwest to the last pass of our trek, the Q’ampa Pass (5000m / 16,400 ft). We will pass by many different colored lakes and enjoy lunch beside the sparkling Q’oma Q’ocha Lake (4704m / 15,429 ft). After hiking for a few more hours several hours through the Andean landscape we reach Pacchanta (4010m / 13,152 ft). This traditional, high altitude herding village has been transformed by tourism in recent years, and has adapted its activities to include various community rural tourism initiatives, including homestays and cultural demonstrations. With incredible scenery all around us, we finish our Ausangate Rainbow Mountain trek, with superb photo opportunities of the Apu Ausangate in the distance. We also have the opportunity to soak in the local hot springs, and even treat ourselves to a well-deserved beer! Tonight, we camp in Pacchanta.
Day 5 is our final day trekking Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca Peru. From Pacchanta, we hike for three hours to Tinke where we will have free time to explore this traditional Andean village before taking our private car back to Cusco. The scenic drive winds up and over a pass for a last glimpse of the imposing Mount Ausangate. Take in the view as you marvel at your accomplishment, having just spent 5 days trekking through the Ausangate region on this incredible, remote trek through the region of the Andes, where few have trekked! We will arrive to Cusco between 4 and 5pm, and leave you at your hotel.
IMPORTANT NOTES
The stated times in this itinerary are approximate and may vary. Hiking times depend on the groups speed and the guide can change the lunch spots and campsites, depending on the hiking speed. Each guide has their own preferred route so may vary from what is written in this itinerary.
The Ausangate region is found at very high altitude, and is close to a snow-covered massif. Temperatures are extremely cold and often reach way below zero in the evenings. You should be well-prepared for the extremely low temperatures. Make sure you bring an appropriate sleeping bag for temperatures below zero (-10 °C or more).
This region is a lesser-visited and off the beaten track destination. For this reason, the tourism infrastructure is somewhat limited. This hike uses the local services available. Visitors to the region should be aware that things may not go according to plan and can change at the last minute. This is all part of the adventure which is part of the reason why visitors to Peru should come with an open-mind and be flexible to the ways of different cultures.
Travelers to Peru require a passport valid for at least 6 months from entry. Most nationalities (USA, Canada, EU, UK, Australia, Brazil) do not require a tourist visa for stays up to 90 days. Comprehensive travel insurance covering high altitude is strongly recommended.
Hotel nights feature comfortable 3-star boutique hotels in private en-suite rooms. On mountain treks, we provide premium 4-season Eureka tents (2 persons in a 4-person tent), foam sleeping mattresses, spacious dining tents with tables and chairs, and clean portable toilet facilities.
Your tour begins in Cusco, Peru. We include airport arrival transfer to your hotel. An informative briefing with your professional trekking guide takes place at your Cusco hotel at 6:00 PM the evening before your tour begins.
We had great tours with them! Rosa Guide very good and with a lot of information!
We had an incredible experience with the tours! Everything was very well organized, from the schedules to the support during the trips. The guides were very attentive, helpful, and gave us a lot of interesting...
A wonderful experience, very punctual, capricious, service at all times, no doubt was the best choice, me and my friends felt very safe.
The Yacana was our best choice of trip. Always inquisitive and ready to serve us. Super we indicate!
