Mount Ausangate (6,380m) is the highest and most sacred mountain in southern Peru, which for centuries has been central to the religious beliefs of the Andean people who still go on annual pilgrimages to its icy slopes. Hiking completely around this mystical mountain, we camp near hot springs and turquoise lakes inhabited by numerous bird species, including Andean geese and the almighty Andean Condor. We walk amongst herds of llamas and alpacas in remote native Quechua villages. With spectacular glacial vistas, uninterrupted beauty and solitude, this is a spectacular trip for seasoned trekkers who love a true outdoor adventure.

We set off early from Cusco travelling by private or local bus (please see notes dependent on transportation) for approximately 6 hours to reach the small village of Tinqui. We pass through several traditional Andean villages and take time to stop enroute to take some photo’s, have lunch and stretch our legs. We spend the first night in a small hostel in Tinqui. (Lunch, Dinner)

After breakfast we meet our wranglers and arrange our equipment on mules and horses before setting off on our trek which is a gentle climb, crossing a large open plateau covered with ichu grass, the highland vegetation that is used to thatch roofs. After approximately 3 hours of walking we stop and have lunch. From here we take in the beautiful scenery of the Cordillera Vilcanote, with great views of Mt. Ausangate which spectacular 6,372m height and impressive glaciers inspired the locals to worship this mountain as a Sacred God. We continue walking for around another hour and a half until we reach the hot springs of Urpis – a great place to camp for the night. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

We continue our hike today ascending for around two hours to reach the Arapa Pass (4,850m). From this vantage point we can see the contrast in landscapes – dry desert-like hills reach the glaciers of Mt. Ausangate, while below the valley is a bright green. If we are lucky we might even see a condor in the skies! This area also boasts three beautiful lakes with tones of reds, greens, and turquoises (Pukacocha, Hatun Pukacocha, and Qomerqocha). We take lunch closeby and then continue onwards for approximately two hours over our second mountain pass, Abra de Apuchata (4,900m). From here we descend for around an hour and a half towards our campsite at Ausangate Cocha. During the night you may be kept awake by the dramatic sound of ice falling into the lake – don’t be concerned, it is quite safe! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Today we depart early to ascend for two hours to our third mountain pass of Palomani (5,200m) which is the highest point on our trek. The silence of this remote wilderness is inspiring! From here we have an excellent view of the towering Santa Catalina peak (5,800m). Afer the pass we descend for another two hours through an area of llamas, alpacas and vicunas to reach Pampacancha (4,050m). From here we follow an uphill trail of approximately three hours that leads us to our campsite in Q´ampa (4300m). (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

After breakfast we ascend for around 2 hours until we reach the Q´ampa Mountain Pass (5,000m) where we may have the chance to spot the Andean deer. From here we descend towards the Qomerqocha lagoon before arriving at Pacchanta after an approximated five hour walk. Pacchanta is a little community with attractive hot springs where we can enjoy a relaxing dip. We camp and spend the night here. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

In the morning we leave Pacchanta and start to walk back to the village of Tinqui – our trek takes approximately two hours. Once in Tinqui, we board our transportation that will take us back to the city of Cusco, where we estimate to arrive after nightfall. (Breakfast, Lunch)

• Return transportation – please see notes dependent on whether you would prefer local or private transportation.

• Professional English speaking Guide

• Meals: 6 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 5 Dinners (we provide generous amounts of

nutritious meals and beverages and have vegetarian options available)

• Spacious tents (we use 4-man tents, but only put 2 people per tent)

• Sleeping mats

• Dining tent, kitchen tent, latrine tent

• Tables and chairs for the group

• Cook and cooking equipment

• Horsemen and horses to carry the group equipment (food, tents, tables, etc.)

• 1 Emergency horse

• Emergency Oxygen bottle and first aid kit

• Hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes

• Boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night, and at lunch time if requested with enough time ahead

What Is Not Included

• Sleeping Bag

• Extras

• Gratuities

• A backpack with a change of clothes for the whole period of the trek

• Rain jacket or poncho (plastic ponchos can be purchased in Cusco)

• Strong footwear, waterproof trekking boots recommended

• Warm clothes, including jacket, fleece and sweaters. Thermal clothing is also recommended, especially for sleeping. A down jacket is especially recommended for this trek since the temperatures at high altitude may drop below freezing in the evening and at nights.

• Sleeping bag

• Flashlight and batteries

• Camera, film and batteries

• Hat or cap to protect you from the sun, rain or cold

• Sun block

• Toilet paper

• Wet-wipes

• Snacks: biscuits, energy bars, chocolate, etc. Please note that we do also provide snacks.

• Water bottle and sterilising tablets in case you pick up water from streams enroute (e.g. Micropur). We do provide sterilised water however.

• Small towel and swimsuit for hot springs

• Personal medical kit (although we do have our own first aid kit)

• Walking sticks

Important: Before you travel please check your Tour Voucher and Arrival Information for the latest joining instructions. This will be sent to you upon receipt of final payment.

All itineraries are subject to change without prior notice.