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Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 2 Days

Ausangate Trek & Rainbow Mountain 2 Days

Reach Vinicunca before the crowds

Overview

Camp beneath sacred Apu Ausangate and hike to Rainbow Mountain early in the morning, before the day-trip crowds arrive, then continue to the Red Valley. Includes the baroque church of Andahuaylillas on the way.

Highlights

  • Early-morning Rainbow Mountain with few people
  • Red Valley viewpoint
  • Night at the foot of Ausangate (6,384 m)
  • Andahuaylillas, the "Sistine Chapel of the Andes"

Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain 2 days is the perfect choice for travelers who want a deeper and more scenic alternative to the classic day trip. This short adventure takes you into the heart of the Peruvian Andes, where snow-capped peaks, high-altitude landscapes, colorful valleys, and the iconic Rainbow Mountain create one unforgettable experience.

The Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain 2 days gives you more time to enjoy the beauty of the Ausangate region without the rush of a one-day visit. Instead of simply arriving at Rainbow Mountain and leaving, you will experience a more immersive route with dramatic mountain views, peaceful trekking trails, and a memorable overnight stay surrounded by nature. Competitor itineraries for similar 2-day routes emphasize the Vilcanota mountain range, views of Ausangate, and a more complete hiking experience than the standard one-day excursion.

This trek is ideal for travelers who want adventure, beautiful scenery, and a more authentic connection with the Andes. Along the route, you may pass remote highland landscapes, spot alpacas and llamas, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere that makes this region feel far more special than the usual tourist trail. Some operators also highlight overnight camps near scenic high-altitude lakes before the final hike to Rainbow Mountain, which adds a much stronger sense of journey and exclusivity.

The final highlight of the Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain 2 days is reaching Rainbow Mountain after experiencing the surrounding landscape at a slower and more meaningful pace. That difference matters. Instead of treating Vinicunca as a quick stop, this route turns it into the climax of a true Andes adventure. It is a stronger option for travelers who want more scenery, more atmosphere, and a much more memorable experience in Cusco. General operator guidance on Ausangate-based treks also stresses the remoteness, scenic variety, and high-altitude challenge of the region.

Itinerary

  1. Day 1Cusco – Andahuaylillas – Quesheuno – Ananta

    we will pick you up from your hotel at 7:30am and head to the Southeast of Cusco. We will start this journey by visiting one of the most beautiful churches of the andes “Andahuaylillas” considered the sistine chapel of America. It was built at the end of 16th century and is a true gemof baroque art in the andes.

    After this we will continue to another attraction on this journey the Pitumarca bridge, made in inca time with Stone.

    Arriving time to our trail head will be around midday to the community of Quesheuno, where we will have lunch prepared by master chef, and then we will start the 3-hours walk to our camp located in Ananta at 4715 meters above sea level and 15,469.16 feet. Our hosts will be the inhabitants of this Andean community, who are alpaca and llama farmers and accustomed to the extreme cold and loneliness of the mountain. We will spend the night in our tents. And we finally will enjoy our delicious dinner.

    Note: we suggest very warm clothes and sleeping bags suitable for 15 degrees C, as the temperature usually drops to at least – 10 degrees C in this place.

    Trek Overview:

    • Tour Location: Cusco Ausagate, Peru
    • Hiking time: 3 hours
    • Transport time: 4 hours
    • Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural - History
    • Start/End Time:  Pickup is at 6.00 am from your hotel and you will be finishing the Hike at 4.30 pm
    • Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
    •  Starting Altitude:  4515 m /14,812 feet
    • Climate:  Very Cold
    • Total, Walking Distance: 5 km / 3.10ml
    • Highest Altitude:  4715 meters / 15,469.16 feet
    • Overall Difficulty: Dificult – challeging
  2. Day 2Ananta – Rainbow Mountain – Red Valley – Cusco

    wake up time will be at 5:00am we start the day very early, so we can have breakfast and get ready for the 2 hours and half walk up to 5100 meters above sea level, where we will enjoy the impressive view of the rainbow mountain, a marvel of nature. We will take spectacle picture and film the landscape and enjoy the view. Omce we will be ready, we will continue hiking down for another 3 hours to enjoy the the empressive red valley and then continue to the end of our trek, where our transport will be waiting. We will have lunch before returning to cusco we will be at your hotel aproximately 4.00pm.

    Trek Overview:

    • Tour Location: Cusco Ausagante, Peru
    • Hiking time: 4.30 hours
    • Transport time: 3 hours
    • Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural beauty - History
    • Start/End Time:  starting at 5 am and you should be back to Cuzco hotel at 4.30 pm
    • Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
    •  Starting Altitude:  4715 meters / 15,469.16 feet
    • Climate: Cold – Wenddy
    • Total, Walking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 ml
    • Highest Altitude:  5100 meters / 16,732 feet
    • Overall Difficulty: Dificult – Moderate

Included

  • Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide throughout the trek.
  • Official Ausangate Trek trail permit to Rainbow Mountain.
  • Rainbow Mountain entrance ticket.
  • Transportation from Cusco to the trailhead.
  • Private transportation back to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Professional trekking chef (Master Chef).
  • Healthy organic and energetic breakfast.
  • Organic buffet lunch.
  • Organic buffet dinner (when applicable).
  • Snacks and drinking water during the trek.

Not included

  • Trekking poles.
  • Sleeping bags.
  • Air mattresses.
  • Tips for muleteers, tour guide, and driver (optional and voluntary).
  • Personal expenses and extra services not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended).

Recommendations

  • Arrive in Cusco at least one or two days before the trek to acclimatize to the altitude.
  • Bring your original passport, as it may be required during the trek.
  • Wear warm, layered clothing suitable for high-altitude conditions.
  • Use comfortable hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
  • Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho at all times.
  • Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
  • Stay well hydrated and drink water frequently during the hike.
  • Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before the trek.
  • Bring a small backpack for personal items and daily essentials.
  • Carry some cash in Peruvian soles for tips and small purchases.
  • Consider renting trekking poles for better stability on steep sections.
  • Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking activities.
  • Follow your guide’s instructions and respect nature and local communities.

Important information

  • Bring your original passport: it is checked at the Machu Picchu entrance and at train stations.
  • This tour reaches high altitude. Spend at least two nights in Cusco before departure to acclimatize and drink plenty of water.
  • Travel insurance covering trekking and medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
  • Hotel pickup in Cusco historic center. The exact pickup time is confirmed the evening before at the briefing.
  • A pre-departure briefing takes place in Cusco the day before (18:00) to meet your guide and pay any balance.

FAQs

What is the difference between the Ausangate route and the classic Rainbow Mountain tour?

The Ausangate route to Rainbow Mountain offers a more scenic and less crowded experience compared to the classic route. It passes through remote Andean landscapes, traditional communities, and high-altitude valleys before reaching Rainbow Mountain. This option is ideal for travelers looking for a more authentic trekking experience, with better views and fewer tourists, while still enjoying professional support and comfort.

How difficult is the Rainbow Mountain Ausangate trek?

This trek is considered moderate due to the high altitude, which can exceed 5,000 meters (16,400 ft). While no technical climbing skills are required, good physical condition and proper acclimatization are strongly recommended. The pace is gradual, with regular breaks, and our guides provide assistance throughout the hike to ensure safety and enjoyment for all participants.

What is the best time of year to visit Rainbow Mountain via Ausangate?

The best time to hike Rainbow Mountain using the Ausangate route is from April to October, during the dry season. Weather conditions are more stable, and visibility is usually excellent. June to August are the most popular months, so early booking is advised. March and November are good alternatives with fewer travelers, though occasional rain may occur.

What should I bring for the Rainbow Mountain trek?

You should bring warm layered clothing, a waterproof jacket, hiking boots with good grip, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. A small daypack for personal items and water is recommended. Trekking poles, sleeping bags, and air mattresses are not included but can be rented if needed. Carrying some cash for tips and small expenses is also advised.

Is travel insurance required for this trek?

Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, medical assistance, and emergency evacuation. Although our team carries first-aid equipment and provides professional support, having insurance offers peace of mind when hiking in remote mountain areas.

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