Description
The Ausangate Trek (5 Days) is undoubtedly one of the most scenic trails in Cusco, offering an off-the-beaten-path experience. The Ausangate Glacier towers as the highest peak in Cusco, standing at an impressive altitude of 6,372 meters above sea level.
Locally known as “Apus,” Ausangate was sacred to the Incas and continues to be revered by the Andean population today. Every year, thousands of pilgrims hike to the small church in the Sinakara Valley. On clear days, the sacred peak of Ausangate dominates Cusco’s southern skyline.
The Ausangate Trek (5 Days) is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, leading you through untouched nature. The trail offers captivating views from the start, guiding you through high mountain passes adorned with glacial lakes and hot springs. This journey also provides the opportunity to witness the lifestyle of remote Andean communities, where people maintain a pastoral way of life, herding alpacas and llamas.
These communities still practice “Ayni,” meaning reciprocity in Quechua. This concept extends to their relationships with both people and nature. To ensure a good harvest, they make offerings to the “Apus.”
While the trail does not lead to Machu Picchu, it may be even more intriguing than the Inca Trail.
Difficulty of the Ausangate Trek:
The Ausangate Trek is classified as a challenging experience, with high passes ranging between 4,700 meters and 5,200 meters above sea level. The trek involves crossing two high points: the Apara Pass at 4,850 meters and the Palomani Pass at 5,165 meters. Altitude sickness is a serious concern here. It is strongly recommended to spend at least 3–4 days acclimatizing in Cusco before embarking on the trek.
We also suggest consulting your doctor about using Diamox, an effective medication for combating altitude sickness. Here, locals often chew coca leaves, which might seem unusual but act as mild stimulants to alleviate thirst, hunger, pain, and fatigue without the psychoactive effects of cocaine.
Best Time for the Ausangate Trek:
Ausangate is the highest mountain in Cusco and part of the Vilcanota Mountain Range in the Andes. This region experiences two distinct seasons: a dry season and a wet season. The Peruvian highlands receive rain from December to March, making trails slippery. Therefore, the ideal time to do the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, which runs from April to November.
Why Choose Tayra Tours Cusco?
Tayra Tours Cusco is a trusted adventure tour operator in Cusco. We provide specialized guides for all our high-altitude treks. Our guides are local experts born and raised in Cusco. They possess deep knowledge of customs, traditions, and first aid practices.
