Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek to Rainbow Mountain Adventure 4 Days

Awaken to the soothing aroma of coca tea or invigorating coffee delivered to your tent. Kickstart your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel your energy. Embark on a gentle 3-hour hike across undulating Peruvian terrain, treating your senses to sweeping views of llama and alpaca herds, as well as the elegant flight of Andean geese.

Upon reaching Upis, your lunch spot, take a well-deserved rest. Afterward, delve into the enchantment of Huayna Ausangate Lake, nestled gracefully beneath the monumental Ausangate glacier. Ascend for 2.5 hours to the stunning Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), a vantage point offering breathtaking panoramas of vibrant lakes and picturesque mountains. Descend leisurely to the captivating Pukacocha Lake, where our campsite awaits. Relish hot beverages and delightful popcorn during our cherished “Happy Hour” before dinner, and spend the night in cozy tents under the embrace of the Milky Way.

Awake to the aroma of revitalizing coca tea and bask in the mountainous splendor surrounding you. Relish a delectable breakfast meticulously prepared by our team, gearing up for what promises to be the highlight of your Ausangate trek.

Embark on a 2-hour ascent to Pukacocha Pass (4,870 m / 15,978 ft), where awe-inspiring panoramic views of Apu Ausangate Mountain and its encircling lakes will leave you breathless. Capture this unforgettable moment before descending to the lunch spot at Ananta (4,750 m / 15,584 ft), a leisurely 1.5-hour stroll through undulating terrain. Enjoy a satisfying lunch and rest, preparing for the gentle 2-hour ascent to Warmisaya Pass (4,985 m / 16,355 ft), your gateway to the awe-inspiring Rainbow Mountain and the sprawling red valley. Descend for one hour to SurineCocha Lagoon (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where you’ll slumber under the watchful gaze of the rainbowmountain.

Begin the day with a hearty breakfast, preparing for the climax of your trek. Embark on a gentle 1-hour Peruvian flat walk to Rainbow Mountain, where you’ll be among the first to witness the splendor of this Andean gem as the sunrise bathes the mountains in golden hues. Proceed for 1.5 hours through the captivating Red Valley, where the surreal landscape will captivate your senses.

Your expert Mountain Guide will provide fascinating insights into the Rainbow Mountain formations, answering any queries you may have. A place that feels like another world, this awe-inspiring destination is a testament to the wonders of nature. Conclude your journey with lunch and return to Cusco, brimming with memories of a truly extraordinary experience.

The Ausangate 7 Lakes tour is an incredible experience for adventure and nature lovers, but due to the high altitude (over 4,800 meters above sea level), mountainous terrain, and daily hiking duration (between 5 to 7 hours), it is not recommended for young children or families with very young kids.

However, families with older children and teenagers who are physically fit, used to hiking, and willing to face the challenges of high altitude can consider this adventure, as long as necessary precautions are taken, such as a slow pace, frequent breaks, and proper acclimatization in Cusco beforehand.

It is essential to consult with a doctor before the trip to assess how altitude may affect each family member and ensure everyone can enjoy the tour safely and comfortably.

The hot springs you’ll find during the Ausangate 7 Lakes tour, especially at the Pacchanta Hot Spring, are natural and warm, with temperatures usually ranging between 38°C and 42°C—perfect for relaxing after a long day of hiking.

Bathing in the Pacchanta Hot Spring is highly recommended, as it helps relieve muscle fatigue and stress accumulated during the trek. They also have therapeutic properties thanks to their natural minerals. Additionally, the natural surroundings, surrounded by mountains and with views of the impressive Apu Ausangate, make the bath a unique moment of connection with nature and well-being.

The main difference between the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek and the full Ausangate trek lies in the duration, difficulty level, and the points of interest visited.

The Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek is a 4-day route designed to explore the region’s stunning lakes, combining high mountain landscapes, turquoise lagoons, and spectacular views of Apu Ausangate. This trek is accessible to people in good physical condition who seek a challenging but manageable adventure, allowing a deep nature experience without the extreme demands of the full route.

On the other hand, the full Ausangate trek is a longer and more demanding expedition, lasting between 5 to 7 days. This route includes higher passes, tougher terrain, and requires greater physical endurance and high-altitude trekking experience. The full trek circles the entire Ausangate massif, offering a more extensive and immersive experience of the Vilcanota mountain range, with more varied cultural and natural encounters but also greater physical demands.

Yes, we offer vegetarian and vegan options for the lunch included in the Ausangate 7 Lakes tour. Our team ensures that nutritious and delicious meals are prepared to suit your dietary needs, using fresh and local ingredients. It is only necessary to inform us in advance about any preferences or dietary restrictions to guarantee a satisfying and healthy experience throughout the trek.

Flying drones in the 7 Lakes of Ausangate area is allowed, but with certain restrictions to protect the natural environment and preserve the peaceful atmosphere. It’s essential to respect local regulations and ensure you don’t disturb wildlife or other trekkers during the hike. Flying a drone can provide unique and breathtaking perspectives to capture the beauty of the lakes, mountains, and Andean landscapes—making your experience and memories even more unforgettable.

Before flying a drone, we recommend checking with your guide to understand the specific rules and best practices for ensuring a safe and responsible flight in this protected area.

During the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek, cell phone signal is very limited or completely unavailable throughout most of the route. This remote Andean region is far from communication towers, offering a true digital disconnection. There is no internet or Wi-Fi access, which creates a perfect opportunity to reconnect with nature, the landscape, and yourself—without digital distractions.

We recommend informing your contacts before the tour begins and taking this chance to fully enjoy the vastness and peacefulness of the Andean environment.

On the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek, Andes Peru Expeditions operates with small groups to ensure a high-quality and personalized experience. Each group includes a maximum of 12 people, allowing for better guide attention and a closer connection to nature.

We also offer private group options, perfect for families, couples, or friends looking for a more exclusive adventure. Private tours are available with a minimum of 2 people, providing full flexibility in schedule and hiking pace, fully tailored to your needs and preferences.

Absolutely yes, it’s worth it. Even if you’ve already been to popular sites like Humantay Lake or Rainbow Mountain, the Ausangate 7 Lakes Trek offers a completely different and more authentic experience. This trek takes you through remote, untouched landscapes filled with vibrant turquoise lakes, snow-capped peaks, and herds of alpacas in their natural environment.

Unlike the more crowded routes, here you’ll enjoy a true connection with nature and Andean culture, far from the tourist crowds. You’ll also hike at the foot of the majestic Apu Ausangate, one of the most sacred mountains in Andean cosmology.

With Andes Peru Expeditions, you’ll experience an unforgettable adventure on a lesser-known trail—perfect for those seeking something deeper, more authentic, and visually stunning.