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Ausangate Trek To Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights
Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days 3 nights in the Peruvian Andes is an incredible off the beaten path trek! past snow-capped mountains, turquoise lakes, glacial peaks, colorful striated mountains and the famous rainbow mountain or Vinicunca, all ending with a tour of one of the 7 man-made wonders of the world, Machu Picchu.
The journey offers an unparalleled chance to explore the untouched beauty of the Peruvian Andes. Along the Ausangate trek, you’ll experience the stunning diversity of the landscape, from rugged mountain passes to serene valleys, all while immersing yourself in the vibrant Andean culture.
As you approach the final destination, the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu awaits, offering a profound connection to the ancient Inca civilization.
This trek is not just a physical challenge, but a transformative adventure that takes you through the heart of one of the most spectacular regions in the world, providing memories that will last a lifetime.
The Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu offers a rewarding experience through the Peruvian Andes. Trek past snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and glacial mountains. On the third day, enjoy the incredible Rainbow Mountain hike, one of Peru’s newest and most colorful gems. Throughout the trek, you’ll be guided by an experienced guide and supported by a trekking chef preparing delicious Peruvian cuisine. Afterward, travel to Ollantaytambo for a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll relax before visiting Machu Picchu the next morning. By booking the Ultimate Peruvian Andes Adventure with Cusco Journeys, you’re choosing an unforgettable journey. Check our Tripadvisor reviews to see why we’re the top choice for Machu Picchu trekking tours. Pick up from Cusco at 5:00 AM and drive to Upis (3900m). After a local breakfast, trek past the Ausangate Glacier, enjoying breathtaking views of the lakes and wildlife. Arrive at Puca Cocha campsite (4300m), located near the lake, with stunning sunset views. Climb to Alpaca Pass (5100m) with views of the majestic Ausangate Glacier. Continue downhill to Chilca Valley for lunch, then trek to the Vicuña Pass (5300m). Afterward, descend to Yana Cocha Lake (4400m) for a peaceful campsite with starry skies. Hike to Rainbow Mountain (5200m) and Red Valley, taking in the vibrant colors and stunning landscapes. Afterward, drive to Ollantaytambo and take the train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll rest in a comfortable hotel. Early morning bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour of the Inca Citadel. After the tour, return to Aguas Calientes for free time before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus to Cusco.
We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 AM to begin this amazing expedition. You will have private transportation to the trailhead at Upis, a small Andean village located near Ocongate at (3900m/12795 ft). Here, you will meet your horsemen and horses. Afterward, you’ll have breathtaking views of the Ausangate glacier peaks, as you hike nearby. You’ll also encounter lakes, waterfalls, and wildlife—llamas, alpacas, wild vicuñas, and possibly condors soaring above. We will have a 3-hour uphill hike to reach the first pass (5000m/16404ft), where you will enjoy magnificent views of the surrounding area. Depending on the time of year, snow hikes may be possible, but you’ll always get incredible views during the dry season. As you continue, you might spot vicuñas, the most impressive wild animals in Peru, known for their precious fleece. After a few amazing photos, we’ll continue downhill for another 1½ hours to our lunch spot. We will then hike for 2½ more hours to arrive at Puca Cocha (Red Lake) campsite, located at the base of Ausangate Peak and beside the lake, offering stunning sunsets and possibly sightings of condors and eagles. After an early breakfast, we will begin with a 2-3 hour steep climb to Alpaca Pass (5100m/16732ft). Along the way, you will enjoy spectacular views of blue lakes and the majestic Ausangate Glacier surrounding you. Occasionally, you may even witness avalanches as ice crashes into the lakes below. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll be in front of Ausangate, surrounded by grazing alpacas. The views here will make you feel as if you were on the Kilimanjaro Trails in Africa! After taking some great pictures, we will continue with a 2-hour gradual downhill trek to our lunch spot in Chilca Valley, where you’ll be treated to stunning views of waterfalls and snow-capped peaks. After a brief rest and lunch, we will hike another 1½ hours to the second pass of the day: Vicuña Pass (5300m/17388ft). Along the way, we may spot condors and vicuñas. Once we reach the top, we will enjoy a traditional cup of coca tea prepared by the porters. Then, we’ll descend for 1 hour to our campsite beside Yanacocha Lake, where we will enjoy our famous daily happy hour with hot drinks and gaze at the night sky, spotting famous Incan constellations. After breakfast with your trekking team and traditional warm drinks like coca tea, we’ll start with a gradual 1½ hour uphill trek to the famous Rainbow Mountain and the Red Valley (5200m/17060ft). Your guide will take you to the best spots for postcard-perfect pictures of these incredible mountains. Your guide will also explain why these mountains are so special, with their striking colored stone striations, created by various minerals. Rainbow Mountain is one of South America’s top tourist highlights and is definitely one of the most beautiful natural attractions in Peru. Once ready, we’ll descend for 1 hour to the end of the trail, where you’ll bid farewell to your trekking team. From here, we’ll take a 4-hour drive to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll enjoy dinner before boarding your 7 PM train to Aguas Calientes. You’ll have the chance to take a hot shower and rest in a comfortable bed at a local hotel. Begin the day with an early breakfast before boarding one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, allowing entry to the citadel during the early morning hours. The guided visit covers the most important sectors of the site, including the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, Sacred Plaza, Inca Palace, and agricultural terraces. These areas demonstrate the advanced stonework, urban planning, and spiritual significance of the Inca civilization. During the tour, the guide explains the historical role of Machu Picchu, its strategic location, and the theories surrounding its construction and abandonment, providing context to what is seen on site. After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes for free time before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo, traveling along the Urubamba River through the Sacred Valley. From there, continue by tourist bus back to Cusco, where the journey concludes. Important Note: The Machu Picchu archaeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These hikes require separate permits. Please let us know in advance if you wish to add one to your visit.
We offer flexible departure dates and operate the Ausangate Trek 4 Days 3 Nights trek daily, subject to availability. ✔ Small-group experience for greater comfort and personalized service ⚠️ Limited availability due to Machu Picchu Fee. Early booking is highly recommended. To confirm your reservation for the Ausangate Trek 6 Days, a deposit is required in advance. We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer another payment method, feel free to contact us for assistance. Hotel Upgrades: Train Upgrades: The Ausangate Trek is a 4-day adventure through the Peruvian Andes, offering spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and Rainbow Mountain. It concludes with a visit to Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World, giving you a chance to immerse yourself in Andean culture. The trek is considered moderate to difficult because of the high-altitude environment and long hiking days. While not a technical climb, it requires good physical fitness and stamina. Acclimatization in Cusco is important to prevent altitude sickness and ensure a smoother trek. Essential items include trekking boots, rain gear, warm layers for cold nights, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle. Don’t forget a camera, personal medications, and a sturdy backpack to carry your belongings throughout the trek. Yes, the trek is manageable for novice hikers as long as you are in good physical condition and can handle long days of walking. Acclimatizing to the altitude before the trek is crucial. If you train and prepare, you’ll be ready for the challenge. The best months are from April to October, during the dry season. These months offer more stable weather, with clearer skies and less rain, making the trekking conditions ideal for the challenging landscapes of the Peruvian Andes. Yes, a moderate level of fitness is required due to the high altitudes and challenging terrain. Training with some hill hikes and cardio will prepare you. However, the trek can be done at your own pace, and acclimatization to altitude is key for success. Yes, an experienced guide will lead you through the trek, providing historical insights and safety. You’ll also have a trekking chef preparing delicious meals along the way, and porters will carry your camping equipment to ease the load. The trek features camping at picturesque spots like Puca Cocha and Yanacocha Lake, with incredible views of the mountains and lakes. On the final night, you’ll stay in a comfortable hotel in Aguas Calientes, where you can relax before visiting Machu Picchu. Expect to encounter breathtaking landscapes like snow-capped peaks, turquoise lakes, and glacial valleys. You’ll also visit Rainbow Mountain, home to vibrant mineral formations, and enjoy encounters with wildlife like llamas, alpacas, and vicuñas. After completing the trek, you’ll board a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, relax in a hotel, and then take an early bus to Machu Picchu. After your guided tour of the site, you’ll return to Ollantaytambo by train, then back to Cusco by bus.
At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. This brief guide includes the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour — from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry and health tips. Take a moment to read it careful ly; it will help you get ready and experience the magic of the Andes with comfort and confidence. All pre-trek briefings are personally conducted at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 pm, one or two day before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and is an essential part of your preparation. During this session, our guide will go over the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any final questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure. It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before starting any trek. Cusco lies at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the thinner air. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to prevent altitude sickness and to enjoy your trip without discomfort. During your acclimatization days, take it easy and explore some nearby attractions: These short tours are perfect for getting used to the altitude while discovering the region’s rich history. If you have an outstanding balance, please make the payment at least two days before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed. Whenever possible, we kindly ask you to settle the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing session. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw both currencies. You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person; however, please note that a 5% service fee will be applied by our payment gateways (Niubiz and PayPal). You’ll receive a duffel bag or canvas case during the briefing. Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm (23.6 × 9.45 × 8.66 in), Maximum weight: 6 kg / 13 lb, including clothes and personal items. Our team of porters will carry your bag throughout the trek and hand it back to you at each camp. Remember that this limit includes your sleeping bag and any personal belongings you wish to take. Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge. Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss. For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope. Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entries and fixed circuits to preserve the site and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors. Main Circuits For our Inca Trail groups, the standard visit is usually Circuit 3, around 8:00 or 9:00 a.m., depending on ticket availability and government regulations. After completing your route, park rangers will guide you toward the exit — re-entry is not allowed. If you wish to explore another route or stay longer, you can request an additional entrance ticket (subject to availability and extra cost). All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations. Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience. Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis). From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure. The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City. Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In these cases, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it. You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property. The Uyuni Salt Flats Tour 3 Days 2 Nights is one of the most incredible travel experiences in South America, especially in Bolivia. This tour… Step into a world of luxury and wonder with our Luxury Machu Picchu Tours 4 Days 3 Nights. Immerse yourself in the grandeur of the…Overview
Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu Overview
Highlights of the Ausangate Trek
Ausangate Trek at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Upis – Puca Cocha
Day 2: Puca Cocha – Chillca – Yana Cocha
Day 3: Yana Cocha – Rainbow Mountain – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Itinerary
Ausangate Trek 4 Days Itinerary
Day 1. Cusco – Upis – Puca Cocha
Day 2. Puca Cocha – Chillca – Yana Cocha
Day 3. Yana Cocha – Rainbow Mountain – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Day 4. Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Includes
What’s Included in the Ausangate Trek
✔️ Included
❌ Not Included
🎒 What we recommend that you bring
Prices
💰 Prices
Price: USD $689 per person
✔ Professional guides and full trekking logistics included
Booking and Payment
Discounts:
Optional Extras (Need to Book in Advance):
Upgrades:
Rentals:
FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions About Ausangate Trek
1.- What is the Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu?
2.- How difficult is the Ausangate Trek?
3.- What should I bring for the trek?
4.- Can I do the trek if I’m not an experienced hiker?
5.- When is the best time to do the Ausangate Trek?
6.- Do I need to be physically fit for this trek?
7.- Will there be a guide and support staff on the trek?
8.- What kind of accommodation will I have during the trek?
9.- What can I expect to see on the trek?
10.- What happens after the trek?
Before You Go
Travel Information – Ausangate Trek 4 Days
Briefing Before the Trek
Acclimatization in Cusco
What to Do Before Your Trek
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments.Duffel Bag or Canvas Case
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule
Pick-Up of Guests
Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco
Strikes and Demonstrations
Lost Objects
Contact Us
Book Now
Map
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