Moderate Trek | Max 8 People | 5,020m at Rainbow Mountain | Camp 3 Nights at ~5000m
Ausangate Trek with Rainbow Mountain hike Included 4-Days
Ausangate Trek with Rrainbow Mountain 4-Days Four Days Above 4,500
You arrive at Rainbow Mountain as the sun hits the ridges. From there, the route continues deeper into the Vilcanota Range for three more days above 4,500 meters, crossing 5,100-meter passes and following the chain of Seven Ausangate lakes as their water shifts from turquoise to deep blue with the light. You camp for two nights at 4,800 meters with Ausangate peak dominating the horizon at dusk and still there at first light, before descending to Pacchanta where the hot springs meet the cold air off the glaciers. Small groups of eight, guides from Cusco, and an itinerary built around acclimatization. You leave the range with color on your boots and quiet in your head.
Highlights
- Sunrise at Rainbow Mountain (5,020 m)
Early access before tour buses. Stand on Vinicunca in clear morning light with no crowds. - Three High Passes Above 5,100 m
Cross Palomani, Q’ampa, and Ausangate Pass over three days. Wide views across the Vilcanota Range. - The 7 Lakes of Ausangate
Turquoise, emerald, and cobalt pools fed by glacial melt. Still water at midday holds the peaks. - 3Nights Camping at High Altiture
Sleep beneath Ausangate glacier. Proper acclimatization so you feel strong, not rushed. - Andean Pastoral Landscapes
High grazing lands with alpacas, llamas, and Quechua communities. Vicuñas on ridgelines. Condors riding the wind. - Pacchanta Hot Springs Finish
Natural volcanic pools on day four with Ausangate in view. Facilities at the trailhead after three days above 4,500 m. - Small Groups, Local Guides
Max eight people. Cusco guides who know the range, the weather, and the pace. - Chef-Cooked Mountain Meals
Fresh meals for energy and recovery at altitude. Cooked in camp, with Ausangate views from the dining tent. - Conditions Day Tours Never Experience
Sunrise on Vinicunca. Passes above 5,000 m. Milky Way over Ausangate. Silence at the lakes. - Return to Cusco by Late Afternoon (Day 4)
Back in time for dinner. Completed Rainbow Mountain, Seven Lakes and Ausangate Base without rushing.
From
$577
/per person
Trip Details
Seven Lakes of Ausangate Expedition
The 2026 Ausangate Circuit, built around early access to Vinicunca and three days deeper into the Vilcanota Range. Designed for fit travelers who want Rainbow Mountain without the crowds, plus the full 7 Lakes of Ausangate and two nights at 4,800 m. Cross three 5,100 m passes, follow glacial lakes as they shift from turquoise to cobalt, and finish in Pacchanta with Ausangate peak still in view. Small groups of eight. Local guides from Cusco. A complete high-altitude circuit in four days, making every meter count.
Why Choose Orange Nation?
Orange Nation Peru is a family-owned travel agency and local tour operator based in Cusco. We are a 100% Cusqueñian Company operating without shareholders. Our dream is to create small, personalized treks operated strictly by local professional staff catering to high-quality service.
We are a responsible & sustainable tour operator. Our staff are our extended family, and we ensure they are supported with fair salaries. Without them, we couldn’t offer the best experiences to our clients.
- Small Groups
The 4-day Ausangate circuit moves through remote terrain above 4,500 m. To ensure safety, pace, and proper acclimatization, group sizes never exceed 8 people. This allows for careful monitoring at altitude and a quieter experience in the range. - Top Tour Guides
Professional, English-speaking guides from Cusco with degrees in tourism or history, specialized in high-altitude safety and deeply knowledgeable about the geology, glacial systems, and Quechua communities of the Ausangate range. - Our Cooks
Even at 4,800 m, fresh meals are prepared for energy and recovery. Expect abundant Peruvian and international cuisine made by professional chefs who accommodate all dietary needs and allergies. Cooked in camp, with Ausangate from the dining tent. - Premium Equipment
Quality gear is essential for safety and rest above 4,500 m.- Tents
We use high-quality 4-season tents designed for 4 people, but shared by only 2, giving you extra space for comfort and gear storage. - Mats
Thick foam mats are provided for insulation. Air mattresses available for rent. - Dining
Weather-ready dining tents equipped with tables and chairs for a proper meal at altitude. - Extras
Includes duffel bags, pillows, rain covers, and portable toilets for added comfort and hygiene.
- Tents
Orange Nation Peru knows how important it is to trust in a reliable, honest operator to create your adventure of a lifetime. Check out our reviews and certificate of excellence on TripAdvisor to see why our guests highly recommend us for your journey.
4-Day vs 3-Day
4-Day Ausangate Circuit
Duration 4 Days / 3 Nights
Difficulty Challenging / High Altitude
Distance ∼45 km (28 miles)
Best for Fit Travelers / Full Circuit
Lodging Yes 3 Nights Camping
Details Summit Vinicunca at sunrise on Day 1, then continue over Palomani, Q’ampa, and Ausangate Pass. Two nights at 4,800 m. Full 7 Lakes sequence. Finish at Pacchanta hot springs.
Access Complete Ausangate circuit with proper acclimatization and descent time.
3-Day Ausangate Express
Duration 3 Days / 2 Nights
Difficulty Challenging / Compressed
Distance ∼35 km (22 miles)
Best for Time-Sensitive / Strong Hikers
Lodging Yes 2 Nights Camping
Details Covers Vinicunca and portions of the 7 Lakes. Fewer passes. Long days to fit the route. One night at 4,800 m.
Access Abbreviated circuit. Less time at altitude, faster pace.
The main difference is time at altitude, as the 4-day circuit gives you two nights at 4,800 m and all three 5,100 m passes, while the 3-day skips a pass and cuts a high camp to save a day.
Who it’s perfect for
- High-Altitude Trekkers
Who want sustained time above 4,500 m and three 5,100 m passes, not a single day-trip. - Photography Enthusiasts
Looking for empty ridgelines, glacial lakes at midday, Milky Way over Ausangate, and sunrise on Vinicunca without crowds. - Acclimatized Travelers
Who’ve been in Cusco or the Sacred Valley and want to use that fitness for a full mountain circuit. - Quiet-Seekers
Who prefer small groups and remote camps over bus lines and viewpoints.
Other Expeditions to Consider
- Classic Inca Trail
For trekkers wanting the archaeological route to Machu Picchu, the 4-Day Inca Trail remains the only trek that enters through the Sun Gate. - Short Glacial Strike
For limited time, the 2-Day Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain Express covers Vinicunca and the lower lakes with one high camp. - Cultural Trek
For a lower-altitude experience focused on communities, the 4-Day Lares Valley Trek moves through weaving villages and hot springs.
Full Itinerary
Included
- Transit
Private round-trip van transfer from your Cusco hotel to trailhead and back. - Pro Guide
English-speaking mountain specialist trained in high-altitude safety and Andean geography. - Permits
All entrance fees included Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley, 7 Lakes circuit, and Pacchanta Hot Springs. - Portage
Up to 7 kg of personal gear carried by the horse support team. - Gear
Personal duffel bag provided for your luggage on horses. - Sleep
Spacious 4-season tents plus insulated sleeping mats for three nights camping. - Camp
Full camp setup dining tent, kitchen tent, and private toilet tent. - Rescue
Dedicated emergency horse available if you need to ride due to fatigue or altitude.
Emergency oxygen bottle and comprehensive first aid kit on all treks. - Dining
Professional chef-prepared meals using local ingredients 3x breakfast, 3x lunch, 3x dinner. All dietary requirements catered for. - Briefing
Pre-trek briefing in Cusco to review gear, altitude, and route. - Soak
Entrance to Pacchanta Hot Springs included on Day 4.
Not Included
- Meals
Breakfast on Day 1 and dinner on Day 4 in Cusco after return. - Sleeping Bag
$20 USD per trek clean, -15°C rated, provided if needed. - Air Mattress
$20 USD per trek Therm-a-Rest upgrade for extra comfort. - Trekking Poles
$15 USD per pair adjustable professional poles available to rent. - Single Tent
$30 USD per trek private tent upgrade for solo travelers. - Insurance
Travel insurance required for all treks above 4,000 m. - Tips
Discretionary tips for guide, cook, horsemen, and support crew.
Pricing
This trek departs any day of the week with a minimum of two people.
2 to 8 people $577 USD per person
Price includes personal pack horse carrying up to 7 kg of your gear. Duffel bag provided.
Large Eureka 4-person tents provided for every 2 trekkers.
Discounts
- Group
$30 off per person for groups of 5 or more when booked together. - Students
$20 off with valid university ID, ages 18–25. - Under 18
$20 off with passport copy.
Upgrades
- Sleeping Bag
-15°C rated sleeping bag rental available for $20 per trek. - Air Mattress
Therm-a-Rest upgrade available for $20 per trek. - Poles
Professional collapsible trekking pole rental available for $15 per pair. - Solo
Private tent supplement available for $30 per trek.
Added Value
- Airport
Private arrival transfer from Cusco airport to your hotel included. - Duffel
Duffel bag and waterproof liner provided for horse transport. - Portage
Up to 7 kg personal gear carried by horse support team included. - Sleep
High-density foam mattresses and camping pillows provided. - Warmth
Thick blanket and hot water bottle provided for sleeping bag. - Water
Boiled drinking water provided daily at camp. - Safety
Emergency oxygen bottle and comprehensive first aid kit included. - Rescue
Dedicated emergency horse on standby throughout the trek.
2026 Ausangate Packing List
Prepare for sub-zero nights at 4,800 m, three 5,100 m passes, and strong high-altitude sun with this essential trekking checklist.
Essentials
- Passport
Original passport must match your 2026 booking details. - University ID
Original card required for student discount eligibility. - Daypack 30L to 40L
With integrated rain cover for daily essentials. - Boots
Sturdy hiking boots with deep-tread ankle support. Must be broken in. - Water
2 to 3 L capacity carried in reusable bottles or hydration system. - Headlamp
Required for early starts and camp use after dark. - Cash
Peruvian soles in small bills for drinks, hot springs, and gratuities.
Duffel Bag Carried by Horse
As a direct local operator we provide you with a duffel bag at your briefing and include a horse team to carry up to 7 kg or 14 lbs including your sleeping bag, mattress, and extra clothing.
- Thermals
Base layers suitable for freezing nights at 4,800 m. - Down Jacket
Rated to -15ºC for high-altitude wind and cold. Essential for nights 1 and 2. - Sleeping Bag
-15ºC rated. Rentals available from us if needed. - Hiking Clothes
2 T-shirts, 2 hiking pants, 4 sets undergarments, 3 sets hiking socks. - Bathing Suit
For Pacchanta Hot Springs on Day 4. - Footwear
Lightweight camp shoes or sandals for evenings. - Winter Gear
Waterproof gloves and insulated warm hat. Temps around 3ºC at high camps. - Toiletries
Personal hygiene items, travel towel, face moisturizer, wet wipes. - Power
High-capacity portable battery bank for charging devices. No electricity on trek. - Towel
Quickdry towel. We provide small ones, you might prefer something larger. - Soap
Small bottle of soap. We provide warm water each day to wash. - Plastic Bags
Large waterproof bags provided at the office for organizing gear. Please ask for them.
Trail Daypack Carried by You
We highly recommend a small backpack 30 to 40 L for hiking in the day. The remainder of your belongings will be in your duffel bag at camp.
- Rain Gear
GORE-TEX shell jacket or high-quality waterproof poncho and pants. - Sun Protection
SPF 50+ sunscreen, sun hat, and UV-protective sunglasses. UV is extreme above 4,500 m. - Wool Hat
For early mornings and high passes. - Fleece
Mid layer for variable temperatures during the day. - Trekking Poles
Essential for steep ascents, descents, and three 5,100 m passes. - Headlamp
Required for pre-dawn start to Rainbow Mountain. - Water
Supply your own water until the first lunch spot, then we provide cold boiled water at every meal. - Snacks
Chocolate bars, cereal bars, or dry fruits for energy between meals. - Camera
With extra battery. Cold drains batteries fast. - Medication
Altitude medication and any personal prescriptions. - First Aid
Band aids, moleskin, and blister care. - Sanitation
Hand sanitizer, toilet paper, and small plastic bag for waste - Insect Protection
Light repellent. Minimal bugs at altitude but can be present near Pacchanta.
Trail Tips
- Battery Life
Keep phones and batteries warm in jacket pocket or sleeping bag to preserve charge. - UV Protection
Reapply sunscreen regularly, especially at 5,020 m Vinicunca and on passes. - Hydration
Drink at least 3 L of water daily to prevent altitude sickness. - Layering
Use adaptable clothing for freezing mornings and strong sun by midday. - Dry Bags
Keep clothing in duffel waterproofed against snow, rain, and camp condensation. - Acclimatization
Move slowly on Day 1. Two nights at 4,800 m help, but listen to your body.
Circuits & Safety
The 4-Day Ausangate Trek follows a carefully designed high-altitude circuit through the Vilcanota Range, combining early access to Vinicunca, three 5,100 m passes, two nights of acclimatization at 4,800 m, and the full 7 Lakes sequence.
The route is structured to reduce altitude strain by distributing the trek over four days, allowing the body to adapt progressively before crossing Palomani Pass, Q’ampa Pass, and Ausangate Pass, and sleeping two nights above 4,700 m.
Route Structure
- Day 1 Rainbow Mountain & Red Valley
Pre-dawn transfer to the trailhead for sunrise at Vinicunca 5,020 m with no crowds. Full morning exploration of Red Valley ridgelines. Afternoon trek into the Ausangate valley to camp near Ananta at 4,800 m. The pace is steady and designed for acclimatization, with full support from guides and horsemen. - Day 2 Palomani Pass & Upper Lakes
Ascend Palomani Pass 5,100 m with views of Ausangate glacier. Descend past turquoise lakes including Pucacocha and Patacocha. Second night camping at 4,800 m for continued acclimatization. - Day 3 Q’ampa Pass & 7 Lakes Circuit
Cross Q’ampa Pass 5,100 m and complete the full 7 Lakes sequence between 4,600 m and 4,800 m. Descend through Ausangate Pass 5,100 m to camp near Pacchanta at 4,300 m. Lower elevation for better recovery. - Day 4 Pacchanta Hot Springs & Return
Morning soak in Pacchanta Hot Springs with Ausangate peak in view. Controlled descent and return to Cusco by afternoon.
Safety Management
- Altitude Management
The itinerary is designed for staged acclimatization with two nights sleeping at 4,800 m. This significantly reduces the risk of altitude-related illness compared to compressed tours. We ascend gradually and sleep lower on night three to aid recovery. - Emergency Support
All guides carry emergency oxygen and a comprehensive first aid kit. Staff are trained to respond to altitude-related symptoms, AMS, and basic mountain emergencies. A dedicated emergency horse is on standby for evacuation if needed. - Professional Guide Supervision
Certified English-speaking guides supervise all trekking sections, maintaining group pace, monitoring health conditions, and ensuring safe progression at altitude. Guides are WFR trained and carry satellite communication. - Weather & Terrain Awareness
Routes are continuously assessed based on mountain conditions. The guide may adjust timing, pacing, or route order depending on weather, visibility, and group performance. High passes can close due to snow. - Group Control & Safety Ratios
Small groups maximum 8 travelers allow close supervision and controlled movement throughout the trek, especially during high-altitude sections and pass crossings. - Risk Management Note
This trek operates in a high-altitude environment between 4,200 m and 5,100 m with two nights camping at 4,800 m.
