There’s a very special kind of silence that exists when you trek in the realm of the Ausangate region. An incredible stillness intermingled with the wind, the mountains, the sound of grazing alpacas, and the slow way of life of the rural communities that have lived here for centuries. This 7-day Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek to Machu Picchu is not a “fast” version of anything; it can´t even conceive of a fast way of life! You will leave Cusco behind and walk into a mountain region where the geology pays homage to the ancient apus and the spectacular trekking that will leave you in awe of Mother Nature. You can contemplate a whole different existence… at least for the next few days!
Over seven days, you will navigate the Ausangate circular route, crossing high mountain passes over 5,000 m. You will also sleep right next to turquoise lagoons, and witness Rainbow Mountain, first thing, before anyone else is there. This trip ends with a visit to Machu Picchu, which is in a completely different direction and altitude. This is the short Ausangate trek that cuts out acclimatization days in Cusco, perfect for those who have been in the región beforehand, and therefore don´t need acclimatization days built in. This is the trek for you if you are more concerned about seeing the true Andes far away from the crowds, and looking for Andean remoteness at its very best.
We collect you early and drive from Cusco along a paved road to the Ocongate region. This is where we find the trailhead, just outside the village of Tinqui. Here we will meet tour amazing team of muleteers, mules and cook who will look after us for the duration of this trekking adventure. The hike to Upis is gradual but steady, the perfect introduction to high-mountain trekking and a smoothly paced start to this 7-DAY AUSANGATE AND RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PRIVATE TREK. Along the trail, you’ll pass local family homes on grazing lands, with stone corrals, and and llamas and alpacas who have lived here on these lands for generations. This is a reminder that this route is so much more than a trekking trail, but part of the Andean cultural patrimony. Upis sits at the foot of Ausangate, with vast open skies, which convert into starry heavens as soon as the sun sets. This afternoon is dedicated to acclimatization, and settling into the natural Andean rhythm. This will allow your body to adjust to this sacred mountain environment.
Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours.
Hiking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 miles.
Highest Point: 4,350 m / 14, 272 ft.
Lowest Point: 3,850 m / 12,63 ft.
Today’s trekking day will show you the geological variety that is characteristic of this section of the Andes on this 7-day Ausangate Rainbow Mountain trek Peru. We ascend slowly up to the Arapa Pass (4,800 m / 15,748 ft), where the terrain opens into vast glacial valleys. You can really feel the remoteness of the mountains at this high elevation and the PachaMamas most amazing gifts for us to admire.
We will then descend to the Pukacocha lagoon, where we will stop for lunch beside calm glacial waters that are sacred to local farmers. The final section to Anantapata follows undulating terrain, with Ausangate guiding us at all times. Finally, as we reach the campsite (4,750 m / 15,583 ft), we will enjoy a hot, delicious meal prepared by our chef as we think about the days´hiking and the days that are to come on this remote mountain trek.
Hiking Time: 7 – 8 hours.
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
Highest Point: 4,800 m / 15, 748 ft.
Lowest Point: 4,350 m / 14,272 ft.
We wake before sunrise for the final approach to Rainbow Mountain called Vinicunca by the local people. We will get there early to allow for a quieter, respectful experience of this natural colored mountain of the Andes. This is one of the main reasons many trekkers choose the Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu combo trek from Cusco rather than a crowded day trip, so that you can connect with the land in peace and tranquility. is one of the most outstanding days of your 7-DAY AUSANGATE AND RAINBOW MOUNTAIN PRIVATE TREK. Arriving from this back route is one of the great privileges of this particular trekking route, with no crowds, only the Andean silence and bright colors of Vinicunca beneath you. This is where our guide explains the cultural significance of this mountain for the local Quechua communities. This is responsible travel at its best, being able to visit iconic places in a way that respects the local way of life and cultural patrimony.
After taking photos of the multicolored mountain at 5,040 m / 16,535 ft, we descend through the Red Valley, which is one of the most surreal and unusual sights in the Andes. From here, we will carry on our hike along the trail that continues to Ausangate Qocha (4,600 m / 15,091 ft), a lake worshipped by local llama-farming communities.
Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours.
Hiking Distance: 10 km / 9.32 miles
Highest Point: 5,050 m / 16,568 ft.
Lowest Point: 4,700 m / 15,419 ft.
Today is when we cross the highest point of our trek- the Palomani Pass (5,130 m). This is a spiritual moment for many trekkers as well as locals characterized by a slow ascent where the wind carries only the sound of your breath and the clicking hooves of the mules. Once we reach the top, we can gaze upon a surreal lake and the deep folds of the mountain valleys below…. This region really does have astonishing scenery! We will then descend a few meters to a quiet valley for lunch and continue our hike to Jhampapampa, a naturally beautiful campsite overlooking glaciated peaks , that offer protection from the night.
Hiking Time: 7 hours.
Hiking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles.
Highest Point: 5,200m / 17,060 ft.
Lowest Point: 4,600 m / 15, 092 ft.
Today´s hike takes us to the Jampa Pass (5,070 m / 16,634 ft), where the scenery changes from glacial mountains into quiet ravines decorated with humble abodes and corrals for the animals. These ancestral trails are part of Peru’s intangible cultural heritage, and are still used to this day by families who live in harmony with the high Andean environment. We will then begin our descent to Azulcocha (4,650 m / 15,256 ft), where we will camp beside the lake and enjoy one of the clearest night skies of the trek. This area is ideal for the Ausangate Rainbow Mountain photography trek thanks to its other-woldly skyline and mirror-like lagoons.
Hiking Time: 6-7 hours.
Hiking Distance: 12km / 7.45 miles.
Highest Point: 4,850 m / 15,912 ft.
Lowest Point: 5,070 m / 16,634ft.
Today is the day we continue descending toward the village of Pacchanta (4,280 m / 14,041 ft), a welcoming Quechua community known for its traditional textiles and deep respect for the Ausangate as a living Apu. This is an excellent opportunity to connect with local Andean families and see how tourism,when handled responsibly can be helpful in supporting cultural continuity in remote regions.
Pacchanta is also home to medicinal natural hot springs, perfect for soaking in after days of high-altitude trekking. Your body will thank you later! From here, after our final lunch with your wonderful cook, we drive back to Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley, via Cusco to take the train to Aguas Calientes, the town below the Inca site of Machu Picchu.
Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours
Hiking Distance: 9 km / 5.5 miles.
Highest Point: 4,650 m / 15,256 ft.
Lowest Point: 4,280 m / 14,042 ft.
The final day of this best 7-day Rainbow Mountain trek to Machu Picchu, brings the ultimate reward – a Machu Picchu visit! After the remote solitude of the Ausangate region, walking through this UNESCO site feels especially magical- all be it, a lot more touristic! The differences show the rural Andean communiites and one of the ancient Inca cities which back in the day formed part of a civilization to be admired.
Your guide will explain all about the the Inca ceremonies , astronomy and agricultural techniques that shaped Machu Picchu and how things were, back in the day. There are a million and one tales, fables and scientifically proven theories about this iconic site that your guide will be happy to share! As you wind ack down to Aguas Calientes via he included shuttle bus, your mind is sure to wander back in time to a Peruvian history that is marvelled all over the world. Your trip then takes you by train to Cusco once more were we will transfer you to your chosen hotel.



Real experiences from fellow travelers who hiked, explored, and shared moments with us. Honest voices to inspire and prepare your own journey.
Have questions about your tour? You’re not alone. Here we cover the most common topics — from packing tips and safety to transportation and accommodations. Whether you’re heading to Machu Picchu, the Amazon, or beyond, this section will help you feel prepared and confident.
This unique itinerary is a 7-day Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek — seven days and six nights that start on the Ausangate Trail then head to Machu Picchu via Rainbow Mountain!
The 7-day Ausangate itinerary with Machu Picchu day tour includes all meals on the trek, camping equipment, local muleteers, train tickets to Aguas Calientes, Machu Picchu entry and guided visit, and transfers.
No. The terrain and route are the full Ausangate circuit, but this Ausangate short version trek removes the two Cusco acclimatization days — it starts on the trail for travelers who are already acclimatized.
Because the 7-day Ausangate Rainbow Mountain trek elevation and difficulty, level isnt any different from the 10 day trek, fitness, prior acclimatization for a mínimum of 3 days is essential. The only difference is that we do not include hotels and days in Cusco before or after the trek.
Yes, it does! we visit Vinicunca (Rainbow Mountain) early before the crowds arrive, which also offers excellent light for the perfect Ausangate Rainbow Mountain photography trek.
Yes — this 7-day Ausangate trek with local guides includes all meals while on the trek, group camping gear, mules, support staff, and the cook!
Expect to reach up to 5,130 m at the Palomani Pass as well as Rainbow Mountain, found at 5200 m. See our checklist for What to pack for Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain trek and for advice on how to dress for these extremely high altitudes.
May through September (dry season) offers the clearest days, which although it brings colder temperatures, is ideal for the Rainbow Mountain to Machu Picchu trek. This is the same for any the Rainbow Mountain and Machu Picchu combo trek from Cusco. This route cannot be trekked from December to March, which is the rainy season.
We offer high-altitude camping along the trek, with a hotel night in Aguas Calientes before Machu Picchu. The camping is communal, comfortable with all meals and is focused on being close to nature rather than on luxury, but you will be pleasantly surpised at the level of comfort.
Contact our team to secure your preferred dates and Machu Picchu permits for the 7-day Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain private trek. We recommend at least 3 months in advance especially in high season!
We’ll help you find inspiration from history, flavors, and travel tips so you can plan the best trip to Peru tailored to your needs. That’s why we’ve compiled this collection of knowledge so you can take home the best of our land.
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