The Ausangate trek, another off-the-beaten-path trek, is said to be the shortest trek to Machu Picchu. It is a circuit trek that goes around the dominant peak in the Cordillera Vilcanota mountain range–the Ausangate Mountain.
The locals call it “Apus” since they consider it a most sacred peak. A small church is found high up on this mountain and has seen pilgrimages during the annual Qoyllority festival.
Highlights of the Ausangate Trek:
- Stunning views of the valleys, waterfalls, and glacier peaks
- Encountering ice formation on Ausangate’s north face
- Camping right beneath the seracs and crevasses of the glaciers
- The turquoise waters of the Ausangatecocha (Ausangate Lake)
- Majestic views of the triple-summits (Nevado Pico Tres) of Jatun Punta, Puca Punta, and Collque Cruz
- Sightings of Andean flora and fauna
Notable Stops/Destinations
Upis – a village at the foot of the Ausangate Mountain that is the first campsite of an Ausangate trek; home to weavers who are impeccable artisans
Pacchanta – a community known for its traditional weaving, traditional farming, and natural hot springs
Queullacocha Valley – one of the trail stops that showcase rocky crags, waterfalls, and lakes that are home to a variety of bird species
Palomani Pass – the highest point of the Ausangate trek
Tinki – (Tinqui) is a small village that serves as the trailhead to Ausangate
Soraypampa – serves as a base camp for various treks in Peru
Lake Yanacocha (Black Water) – the lake’s dark waters are due to the presence of volcanic soils
Lake Sibinacocha – ranked as the 22nd highest lake in the world at approximately 4,873 meters above sea level and drains into the Amazon River
Modes of Travel:
Trekking, bus, train
It is important to remember that trek stops vary, depending on the itinerary of your chosen trek operator. Some Ausangate treks are combined with a hike to Rainbow Mountain.
Tour Operators Offering This Tour:
Alpaca Expeditions
We have been rated #1 out of almost 1000 tour agencies and outdoor activities in Cusco, with 97.5% of our ratings being 5-star. Most of our staff work along the treks to guarantee your best and safest experience of our region.
Apus-Peru
Our mission? To whisk you away on an authentic Peruvian Adventure deep into the rugged embrace of the Andean mountains. Discover the true heart of Peru and let's create memories that echo through time!
Apu Andino
We believe in creating authentic, personal experiences. Whether it’s a classic tour of Cusco or the Sacred Valley, or trekking to Machu Picchu via the Salkantay or Inca trail, we will make sure that you experience an unforgettable journey.
Machu Picchu Peru Tours
Traveling with us is a luxury experience, quality, real and unique. Our guests are our priority, and our ultimate goal is customer satisfaction. This is why we provide the best quality service to guarantee your stay is truly unforgettable.
Come See Peru
Do you value your privacy, the flexibility of the tours and are you looking for deeper travel experiences? Look no further. We are one of the top-rated tour operators that offer private tours only for guaranteed personalized and flexible itineraries.
Llama Path
Experience top-notch service and personalized attention with every tour you book with us. We're backed by 15 years of experience in navigating the Inca Trail and more than 5,000 five-star ratings and positive reviews of satisfied guests.
Minka Peru Expedition
If you're looking for an authentic, once-in-a-lifetime experience in Peru, Minka Peru Expedition is the right company for you. We believe travel is a way of life, and you only live once. Our planet offers endless marvels you should experience with us
Sam Travel Peru
We are a 100% Peruvian-owned tour company providing tours to the popular destinations like Machu Picchu, Rainbow Mountain, Cusco and the Sacred Valley, as well as treks to the off the beaten track destinations like Salkantay, Lares, and Ausangate.
Vidal Expeditions
We create unforgettable experiences in Peru for you. Our goals are to promote responsible tourism with foreigners and local communities and to support the future of our country. With us, you'll experience exceptional hospitality and attention.