Written by:Claire Dean
Published: 25-10-2022
This impressive 10-day itinerary around the sacred peak of Ausangate (6,385 m/20,948 ft) to the breathtaking “Lost City of the Incas,” including the stunning Rainbow Mountain, is the ultimate program to immerse yourself in local Andean culture and nature, for a genuine experience of high-elevation mountain life. Explore the beauty of the Andes following the deserted Peruvian trail around the base of the highest snow-capped peak in Cusco. This 10-day itinerary brings you to Peru’s iconic landscapes, where you can embrace all the outstanding Ausangate trek beauty with none of the crowds, hike into the remote, untouched wilderness of the Ausangate circuit, and visit the magical, multi-colored Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca), before heading to the epic signature site of Machu Picchu all in just ten days!
Lake on The Ausangate Circuit
If you are of an adventurous spirit and want to get totally off the beaten track but still visit the most important landmarks of the region, this Ausangate trek to Machu Picchu will allow you to enjoy one of the most breathtaking spots on earth, with imposing snow-peaks rising dramatically from the lake’s edge up to the heavens, the colored mountain of Vinicunca, and then explore Machu Picchu. The Ausangate region is well known for its remoteness and hiking through this rarely-visited mountain range, on quiet trails, following trails through alpine valleys that are home to traditional indigenous Quechua farmers, which are also the natural habitat to some of Peru’s most rare and spectacular wildlife, including herds of grazing alpacas and the majestic Andean condor.
Llamas in The Ausangate Region
This 10-day Ausangate trek with Rainbow mountain and Machu Picchu allows time to acclimatize in the Inca capital, Cusco. You can use this time wisely to explore this magical city with its unique combination of Inca and colonial architecture and contemporary cafes and restaurants for a fascinating eclectic vibe.
Cusco City
The trekking begins in the small town of Upis and takes you on a hike with verdant highland vistas and up-close encounters with rare Andean alpacas, llamas, and birds. Witness the snow-topped mountains, glacier peaks, glistening lagoons, craggy rocks, and breathtaking vistas with ample time to take it all in. Enjoy this stunning and remote trek, with spectacular views of glaciers, turquoise alpine lakes with flocks of aquatic birds, and rugged mountains along the Ausangate Mountain.
Llama
Get completely off the beaten path and explore remote mountains along the Ausangate Trail, in a high Andean environment close to llama and alpaca herds, to the mind-blowing Rainbow Mountain. Camp along remote mountainsides, immerse yourself in the rich Andean culture and experience an unforgettable night sky in the Cordillera Vilcanota. The trail has hot springs along the route in the towns of Upis and Pacchanta to relax those aching muscles after this high-altitude hiking, so pack your swimmers and enjoy the stunning views surrounding you.
Rainbow Mountain
Spend the final day at Peru´s signature destination, Machu Picchu, “Lost City of the Incas” Enjoy the full guided tour of the archaeological site learning about the history and seeing for yourself the magnificent Inca construction on the side of the mountain.
Machu Picchu
Contact us for more information about this unique 10-day experience that combines trekking the remote Ausangate Mountain, the stunning Rainbow Mountain, and finally, the magnificent Machu Picchu in its glory!
