Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain 4 Days

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

• Pre-departure briefing, presented by your tour guides
• Duffle bag to get ready 7 kilos of your personal belonging, be carried by horses
• Weight Allowance: 7 Kilograms per trekker (weights to be carried by horses)
• Transportation to Upis, the starting point of the trek.
• We Will take you back to Cusco
• English/Spanish speaker professional guide
• Cook and cooking equipment
• Horses (to carry the tents and cooking equipment)
• Entrance ticket to Rainbow Mountain
• Meals as mentioned in the itinerary
• Vegetarian food available on request with no extra charge
• First Aid equipment and Oxygen bottle for emergencies Personal

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED

• Sleeping bag (you can rent one from our company if you do not have your own)
• Walking Sticks (you can rent one from our company if you do not have your own)
• Last dinner
• Entrance ticket to Ausangate trek
• Personal Hiking Clothing and gear
• Travel Insurance
• Tips for our staff: Tipping is Customary on any excursion to Machu Picchu.
• Additional costs or delays beyond our control

The Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain 4 Days is a high-altitude mountaineering circuit. Since you will spend three consecutive nights camping above 4,500 meters (14,764ft) and cross passes reaching 5,100 meters (16,732ft), this trek is classified as Difficult. Proper physical conditioning and essential acclimatization are non-negotiable requirements for a safe and enjoyable journey.

1. Essential Acclimatization and Altitude

• Mandatory Requirement: You must arrive in Cusco (3,350m / 10,990ft) at least 3 days prior to your trek start date. This is the minimum time needed to allow your body to adjust to the reduced oxygen levels before undertaking the Ausangate Trek 4 Days.
• Altitude Warning: You will be trekking and camping at extreme altitudes, with three nights spent above 4,500 meters. Respect the altitude and pace yourself from the very start.

2. Physical Conditioning & Difficulty

• Fitness Level: A High level of physical fitness and endurance is essential. This is a multi-day hike involving long hours (6-8 hours per day) on challenging, remote terrain.
• Preparation: We highly recommend a fitness regime including long-distance walking, hill climbing, and cardiovascular training for several months before your trip. The better prepared you are for the intensity of the Ausangate Trek, the more you will enjoy the views.

3. Documentation and Logistics

• Passport: You must carry your original, valid passport (the same one used for booking) throughout the entire trek.
• Extreme Cold: Be fully prepared for three nights of high-altitude camping. You will need a high-quality sleeping bag rated to at least -15º (5ºF) to handle the expected sub-zero nighttime temperatures.

Since the Ausangate Trek 4 Days involves three nights of high-altitude camping and sub-zero temperatures, it is critical to pack layers and prioritize warmth for safety and comfort.

🧥 Clothing & Layering (3-Layer System)

• Base Layer (Thermal): 3 sets of thermal tops and leggings (merino wool or synthetic). Essential for sleeping and as the foundation for your daytime hiking.
• Mid-Layer (Insulation): 1 thick fleece jacket and 1 warm down jacket (high fill power) for evenings and camp.
• Outer Layer (Protection): 1 high-quality waterproof and windproof jacket. 1 pair of waterproof trekking pants.
• Additional: 3-4 pairs of comfortable, quick-drying trekking pants.

🥾 Footwear & Accessories

• Trekking Boots: Waterproof hiking boots with excellent ankle support. They must be well broken-in to prevent blisters during the multi-day hikes.
• Camp Footwear: Lightweight shoes, sandals, or crocs to change into at the campsite.
• Socks: 4-5 pairs of thick wool or thermal hiking socks.
• Hands & Head Protection: Very warm hat, waterproof gloves, and a neck gaiter or buff to protect your face from high winds.
• Lighting: Headlamp with spare batteries (critical for early mornings and nights).

⛺ Camping Gear (Personal)

• Sleeping Bag: A high-quality sleeping bag rated to at least -15º (5°F) is mandatory for the extreme cold.
• Trekking Poles: Highly recommended to ease strain on knees during long ascents and descents.
• Day Pack: A small backpack (30-35L) to carry water, camera, snacks, and personal essentials during the day.

💊 Health, Hydration & Documents

• Documents: Original, valid Passport and cash (Peruvian Soles) for tips and minor purchases.
• Sun Protection: Sunglasses (high UV protection), sunscreen (50 SPF or higher), and UV lip balm.
• Hydration: Reusable water bottle or hydration reservoir (minimum 2-3 liters capacity).
• Personal First Aid: Personal medications, blister treatment, and basic first aid supplies.