Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail

5 Days From $ 1400.00
Ausangate - Rainbow Mountain - Inca Trail - Machu Picchu

Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail

Activity Type
Hiking, Camping, Archaeology & Cultural Adventures
Physical Grading
STRENUOUS: Designed for experienced active travelers in excellent physical condition. Full-day hikes (6-9 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 ft) on many hikes. 4-day to 6-day trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 14,500 ft are in this category with some exposed sections.
Strenuous
Service Level
UPGRADED COMFORT: Premium or Comfort trips are led by Peru Summit Adventures experts, an experienced crew at your side, or top trip leaders/guides, and tap into private local experts' resources to allow for in-depth exploration and special access to unique sites that only the local leaders/guides know. Itineraries are carefully crafted and fully planned, with plenty of free time to roam. Camping gears are high-end and accommodations are high-end or best available. Ground transportation and most meals (especially in hikes) and activities are included in the trip price.
Upgraded Comfort
Group Size
Minimum of 02 people is needed to depart. Family groups, couple travelers, friends, or even if you’re a SOLO traveler, you are welcome to our trips. Price is per person, which is based on two people who might share a room/tent. The itinerary is described and based on shared services as well as semi-private service; however, if you are looking for a private service, that would be upon request.
Min 2 ppl, Max 8 ppl
TripAdvisor
5 Days Starting From

$ 1400.00 USD p/p
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Rainbow Mountain Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

The vast Vilcanota Mountain Range was shaped over millions of years, the construction of Inca Trail to Machu Picchu took the Inca Civilization many decades, and we have 5 days to hike through this area’s most awe-inspiring scenery to arrive at the iconic citadel of the Incas–Machu Picchu, a signature 5-day adventure curated by Carlos our veteran in trekking and co-founder of Peru Summit Adventures to immerse in the wilderness of the highland regions of Ausangate and immerse in the archaeology and history of Inca Trail.

Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail is the quintessential destination for anyone who wants to arrive at Machu Picchu differently. With its great snow-clad mountains and lush forest, its great outdoors, and great adventure, the landscape will inspire a sense of exploration in young and old alike. 

Follow in the footsteps of ancient Peruvians on a challenging trek that begins in Upis Village and takes us all the way into a valley dotted with many alpacas, llamas, and other wild animals. Along the way, we move past crystal blue lakes, colored hills, crystal streams, meadows, lush cloud forests, high passes, and fascinating ancient Inca constructions. We keep our eyes peeled for vicuñas, vizcacha (andean chinchilla), and fox, letting the soothing songbirds be the soundtrack to our journey towards Machu Picchu

Our Trek Leaders lead the way, giving us trekking tips and tricks to hone our skills. Each evening after dark, we enjoy the abundant, star-filled skies, reveling in the day’s adventure with our trek mates while enjoying a cup of coca tea.

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime – give us a call at +51 984 464 391 or shoot us an email at info@perusummit.com to learn more or book your spot today!

This trip is officially operated by Peru Summit Adventures, a 100% local tour operator based in Cusco.

Think Green, Think Global for a Better Place for Everyone

Traveling with us you are making a big difference in favor of the environment, our trips are rated as eco-friendly trips to ensure that fragile ecosystems are protected and maintained for future human generations, also maintain ecosystem and environment integrity through considering a sustainable and ethical business model. Making genuine and sustainable itineraries often translates to real costs, with a host of responsible travel practices that underpin our prices.

Trip Details

Upgraded Comfort

UPGRADED COMFORT: Premium or Comfort trips are led by Peru Summit Adventures experts, an experienced crew at your side, or top trip leaders/guides, and tap into private local experts' resources to allow for in-depth exploration and special access to unique sites that only the local leaders/guides know. Itineraries are carefully crafted and fully planned, with plenty of free time to roam. Camping gears are high-end and accommodations are high-end or best available. Ground transportation and most meals (especially in hikes) and activities are included in the trip price.

STRENUOUS: Designed for experienced active travelers in excellent physical condition. Full-day hikes (6-9 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 ft) on many hikes. 4-day to 6-day trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 14,500 ft are in this category with some exposed sections.

Hiking, Camping, Archaeology & Cultural Adventures

While we expect the tour will run as the itinerary describes to Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail. Participants should accept that there is the possibility of changes, being necessary liable to local conditions, eg, strikes, natural disasters, these changes might be at the discretion of your travel company.

Pro 4-season tents in Black Diamond and North Face with Pro Sleeping pads in Therma-Rest and pillows, tents are roomy and cozy designed for 3 people but used only for 2 guests. Our hotel in Machu Picchu town is the Inti Punku Suites & Hotels (or a similar hotel) a lovely hotel for pleasant rest.

Min 2 ppl, Max 8 ppl

Minimum of 02 people is needed to depart. Family groups, couple travelers, friends, or even if you’re a SOLO traveler, you are welcome to our trips. Price is per person, which is based on two people who might share a room/tent. The itinerary is described and based on shared services as well as semi-private service; however, if you are looking for a private service, that would be upon request.

Yes, to protect MACHU PICCHU, the number of people allowed a day is limited to 3044 (spaces may vary depending on new regulations). That is why you should reserve your space as soon as possible. Spaces can be filled up three to four months in advance. Spaces fill more quickly in the high tourist season, from May to September.

It is strongly recommended that participants attend the ACCLIMATIZATION PROGRAM before attending this Adventure or take 2 days at least before the trek in Cusco City.

Why experience the Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail

  • Witness the greatness of Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in Cusco; the fascinating Rainbow Mountain; the Inca Trail, and Machu Picchu; all must-dos in one hike.
  • A signature collection trek curated by our co-founder Carlos.
  • Hike across a total of four stunning mountain passes over 16,000 feet!
  • Search for Vicuñas, alpacas, Andean chinchillas, foxes, condors, and other park wildlife.
  • Hike in the lesser-known trail by tourists the Ausangate and the world’s famous Inca Trail to Machu Picchu.
  • Enjoy a spectacular landscape of tumbling glaciers, sparkling lakes, magnificent snowy peaks, lush forests, and ancient Inca temples along the trail to Machu Picchu.
  • Enjoy amazing campsites and incredible views of glacier-clad mountains.

Trip Itinerary

DAY 1: Cusco - Upis Village - Yanacocha

First views of Ausangate Mountain and Lots of Llamas Alpacas

Picturesque villages, first steps over the highland regions of Cusco, and a bunch of llamas and alpacas will color today’s adventure in the Ausangate Trail and Short Inca Trail.

You will be picked up from your hotel at 5:30 AM by your Trek Guide, you will then drive for about 3 hours to reach the trailhead located in Upis Village (4400 m/ 14,436 feet), at this place, you will meet your muleteers, after a brief introduction, you will make your adventure start. 

The first section of the trail until the lunch spot is gentle uphill, the trail passes through an Andean Valley where is possible to see lots of alpacas and llamas and the massif Ausangate glacier at backdrops.

After 2 hours of hiking, you will arrive at the lunch spot, where you will have a delicious lunch prepared by your cook. Following the lunch break, you will still hike up to the first pass called Arapa at 4800 m/ 15,748 feet for 2 hours, from where you will enjoy stunning vistas of the great highland mountains and valleys. The next trail section to the campsite is downhill for 2 hours. Today, you will camp at 4650 m/ 15,256 feet. Lunch and dinner included.

  • Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours.
  • Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
  • Lowest Point: 4,350 m / 14,272 ft.
  • Highest Point: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft.
  • Physical rating: Moderate
Physical Level

Easiest

DAY 2: Yanacocha - A couple of Summits of 16'404 feet - Qomercocha

The most scenic hiking day: Enjoy!

Cold morning with frosty grass outside the tent and the sun rays hitting the top of the towering glacier peaks.

A hot breakfast prepared by our cook will make you ready for today’s hike, next, you will make your rucksacks ready and start with the adventure, the trail starts from a gradual uphill to a very steep uphill as you get closer to the next pass, after 3 hours hiking you will get to the next pass at 5,000 m/ 16,404 feet.

This section from the last campsite to this pass is one of the most scenic sections of the trail, from the pass, you will soak up mesmerizing views of Ausangate Glacier, reddish valleys, and the massive Vilcanota Mountain Range. After gazing out at the amazing views, you will hike downhill to reach a valley where you will have lunch.

In the afternoon, after lunch, you will hike up again for 2 hours to reach the next pass called Warmisaya located at 5000m / 16,404 feet. This is another amazing spot and you will even see Rainbow Mountain in a far location. You will still walk downhill for 30 minutes from the pass and you will arrive at the next campsite (Qomercocha) located at 4800 m/ 15,748 feet.

  • Hiking Time: 8 – 9 hours.
  • Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
  • Lowest Point: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft.
  • Highest Point: 5,000 m / 16,404 ft.
  • Physical rating: Very demanding.
Physical Level

Easiest

DAY 3: Qomercocha - Rainbow Mountain - Red Valley - Ollantaytambo Town

Be amazed by the colores of Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley

The lively colors of Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley and a long trip to Ollantaytambo Town awaits today.

After enjoying our last breakfast prepared by our cook, you will set off towards Rainbow Mountain, the section from the campsite is a gentle uphill for 1 hour and 30 minutes. After a while, you will reach the top of Rainbow Mountain way before than the crowds and have plenty of time to enjoy this fascinating site.

You will then hike to Red Valley, which is another spectacular place that makes you feel literally in a different world, here you will see reddish pale valleys, hills, and small mountains and the coolest thing is that you will hike through it. After experiencing this gorgeous valley, you will keep walking downhill to the end of the trail where our private transportation will be waiting for you to transfer to Ollantaytambo train station. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo town, you will have a late lunch at a local restaurant and stay at a hotel where you will enjoy a nice shower and deserved rest for the following day.

  • Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours.
  • Hiking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles.
  • Lowest Point: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft.
  • Highest Point: 5,040 m / 16,535 ft.
  • Physical rating: Moderate to demanding.
Physical Level

Easiest

DAY 4: Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

Ancient Inca Temples, Arriving at Machu Picchu Via the Sun Gate

Early wake-up, train journey, Inca Trail, gaze out stunning Inca sites and the unique Machu Picchu will make this first-day hike an unforgettable day.

Today, you will start between 5:20 AM – 6 AM from your hotel, our guide will come to your hotel to pick you up, you will then go to the train station. The scheduled train for this morning is at 6:10 AM or 7:05 AM (depending on the availability and the train is Expedition Class Train), the reason we opt for the earlier schedule is to have enough time for the hike and beat the crowds.

From Ollantaytambo to the trailhead (KM 104) you will have a train ride for 1 hour and 30 minutes, the railway follows the banks of the roaring Urubamba river, from the train, you will scan amazing views of the Urubamba mountain range, Incan ruins, and as you go farther and farther you will reach the high jungle (very lush forest), the views are just stunning! and it’s how we will reach the trailhead where the train will stop briefly to get out.

Once at the checkpoint of KM 104, we will register ourselves and for this, you must bring your original passport as the rangers will review all information on the permits and passports. After this checkpoint, we will begin our hike towards Machu Picchu for about 7 hours, right after the trailhead we will arrive at the first Incan site, which is a small archaeological site whose name is Chachabamba, this is an Inca site from the 15th century that today still showcases great constructions in rocks and sculptures on granite rocks that most likely were religious constructions and other as dwellings for people who lived here. At this place, your guide will deliver great information about the Incas and their development in the Andes of Peru and you will learn a lot about the Inca history through these Inca sites along the trail until Machu Picchu.

After enjoying the history of the Incas at the Chachabamba Inca site, we will continue walking gradually uphill enjoying the spectacular landscape until reaching the Wiñaywayna Incan temple whose meaning is “forever young” where you will have an opportunity to learn more about the Inca civilization. This section of the trail to Wiñaywayna is very scenic, you will soak up stunning vistas of the Urubamba mountain range in further directions, the lush Urubamba Valley with the roaring river, and the trail goes through slope parts of the mountain that makes the hike more challenging and interesting. Wiñaywayna is rated as the most beautiful Inca site along the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu and this place makes justice for it as the site has outstanding constructions, temples, water fountains, terraces, and dwellings, all of these constructions overlooking or oriented to the mountains around.

Walking about 5 minutes from Wiñaywayna, we will arrive at the official campsite for the 4-day Inca Trail hikers where we will have our lunch box (packed lunch) and have a break before heading out to Machu Picchu. From Wiñaywayna, we’ll continue hiking for 1 hour to reach Sun Gate, this part of the trail is mostly flatter and the trail goes through the forest, upon arrival at Sun Gate, we’ll have the first views of the famed Incan city, and you will take your time to make great pictures, this place is very touching and exciting for most hikers since the iconic city of the Incas is finally uncovered after hiking for several hours.

From the Sun Gate, we will still hike for 1 more hour to get to Machu Picchu, this part of the trail is a gentle downhill. Once we arrive at Machu Picchu, we will reach the official viewpoint from where we will have the classic views of this wonder of the world (as seen in the magazines) because the afternoon is usually with fewer people, the visit to this lookout point is a must since the following day you are not going back to this place, otherwise, you will visit the middle part of the citadel. We’ll then take the bus to Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes town) where we’ll have an overnight stay at a hotel, and have dinner at the restaurant (this last dinner is not included).

  • Hiking distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
  • Hiking time: 6 – 7 hours.
  • Lowest elevation: 2,150 m / 7,052 ft.
  • Highest elevation: 2,650 m / 8,692 ft.
  • Physical rating: Moderate.
Physical Level

Easiest

DAY 5: Machu Picchu Guided Tour - Return to Cusco

A day to learn and explore Machu Picchu

Today a nutritious breakfast will make us ready at the hotel for our tour of Machu Picchu, after breakfast and picking you up from the hotel, we will walk to the bus station to take the bus back to Machu Picchu, once at Machu Picchu, we will visit the middle and lower part of this citadel because the Inca Trail ticket allows us to visit this part of Machu Picchu (Circuit 3, see the circuit map here) where our guide will deliver great information of this unique site and you will take plenty of time to enjoy the views and take amazing pictures. The tour will be for about 2 hours, 2 hours of enjoying the history and seeing unique spots like temples, granaries, dwellings, terraces, plazas, aqueducts, and the fascinating views that surround this impressive Inca citadel.

If you have booked an extra ticket for Huayna Picchu Mountain, you’ll climb up the mountain after the tour; however, spaces are subject to availability. In the unlikely event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your tour date, you will climb up Machu Picchu Mountain instead. This hike to the mountain would be unguided.

After having a great time at the Incan emperor’s palace, we’ll take the bus down to Machu Picchu Town (Aguas Calientes Town) where we’ll have lunch (not included). In the afternoon we’ll take the train back to Ollantaytambo train station, where our driver will be waiting for you to transfer back to your hotel in Cusco City. (this transfer service from the train station to your hotel is included).

Physical Level

Easiest

Note on Itinerary

Although we do our very best possible to adhere to the schedule above, this itinerary is subject to change for several reasons beyond our control, including strikes, weather, natural disasters, and terrain conditions. On some occasions, these conditions may demand us to deviate from our original schedule, in which case we will provide the best available alternative options. And we’ll make a great experience of it!

Inclusions

Included on the Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail

  • Private transportation from your hotel to Upis Village (trailhead).
  • Private transportation from the end of trail to Ollantaytambo Town.
  • Private transportation form the train station to your hotel in Cusco City on the last day.
  • Machu Picchu Entrante tickets (the slot will depend on the availability as the tickets are limited to 3500 a day).
  • Round trip train tickets on Expedition Class.
  • Inca Trail Permits and tickets.
  • 2 night lodging at a 3-star hotel in Ollantaytambo Town and Machu Picchu Town.
  • Round trip bus tickets (there is a shuttle service from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu).
  • Camping Equipment 4 season tent in Black Diamond or North Face Summit Series brand (03 people tent for 02 people)
  • Other camping equipment, a dining tent with table and chairs, and a kitchen tent, manned by a professional cooking staff.
  • Inflatable sleeping pads (therma-rest) come with pillows.
  • Entrance tickets to the park of Ausangate.
  • Entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain.
  • Entrance tickets to Red Valley.
  • Experienced on-trail Trek Leader, Our Leaders are equipped and trained to practice First-Aid, administer oxygen if needed, and conduct radio communication.
  • Meals: Breakfast (4), lunch (4, a lunch box for Short Inca Trail), dinner (4), and snacks.
  • A professional Cook.
  • Horses, and muleteers; horses carry your 8kg / 16-pound personal items.
  • Emergency Horse to escort us during the trek.
  • Oxygen tank and first-aid-kit.
  • Duffel Bags to Carr your 8kg/  16 pounds of personal items.
  • Fully supported trek.

Not Included on the Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail

  • Sleeping bag (available to rent).
  • Hiking poles (available to rent).
  • First breakfast on day 1, dinner on day 4, and last lunch on day 5.
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket (at extra cost $80.00).
  • Extra expenditure during the trek, such as: soda, alcoholic drinks, extra snacks, tickets for the hot springs.
  • Tipping for the trek leader, porters or muleteers, and other staff (Not compulsory, personal appreciation).
  • Travel and health insurance (bring copies with you please), we highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation, interruption; an insurance to protect your travel investment, Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance. Any unexpected situations occurred during the journey and which are beyond our control, including changes in scheduling trains or flights, delays, strikes, cancellations, missed connections, etc. it should be covered by the passenger as a whole. Also, if you for physical reasons of health cannot continue the trek or walk, and will need emergency evacuation then all charges incurred such as transportation, hotel, ambulance, doctors, medication, hospitalization, etc. will be at passenger’s expense.

Prices & Dates

Don't see your date? We can open a new departure, we require a minimum of 2 participants.
Don't see your date? We can open a new departure, we require a minimum of 2 participants.
Don't see your date? We can open a new departure, we require a minimum of 2 participants.
Number of participantsPrice per personTotal ($ USD)
1 ParticipantWe have special rates for SOLO travelers. Get started by filling out the inquiry form.Enquire Now
2 Participants $ 2,200.00$ 4 400.00Enquire Now
3 Participants $ 2,000.00$ 6 000.00Enquire Now
4 Participants $ 1,800.00$ 7 200.00Enquire Now
5 Participants $ 1,600.00$ 8 000.00Enquire Now
6+ ParticipantsWe have special rates for groups, which are over 6ppl. Get started by filling out the inquiry form.Enquire Now
#
1 person
(We have special rates for SOLO travelers. Get started by filling out the inquiry form.)
Enquire Now
2 people
$ 2,200.00
Enquire Now
3 people
$ 2,000.00
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4 people
$ 1,800.00
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5 people
$ 1,600.00
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6+ people
(We have special rates for groups, which are over 6ppl. Get started by filling out the inquiry form.)
Enquire Now

Note on Prices

  • A personal porter included to carry your 8kg / 16 pounds personal items.
  • Machu Picchu Tickets are purchased as soon as the down payment is put. Thus the ticket costs are NOT REFUNDABLE due to the regulations of the Peruvian Ministry of Culture.

Prices are quoted in US Dollars and all payments must be made in US Dollars. Prices are per person based on SEMI-PRIVATE service; we depart with 2 ppl as a minimum, 8 ppl as maximum, and an average of 4 ppl in a group. This trek is also based on double occupancy for tents in the trail.

Trip Payment Schedule
  • At time of reservation: 50% of the total balance.
  • 60 days prior to departure: Balance should be paid fully, or once upon your arrival in Cusco the other 50% of final balance must be paid fully.
Cancellation and Transfer Fee Schedule
  • Minimum fee (hike permit fee): $120 per person
  • 61-90 days prior to departure: 30% of trip cost
  • 46-60 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost
  • 45 days or less: 100% of trip cost

What Makes Us Different!… Here’s, Why You Should Book With Us!

Making a choice of your right travel company/ tour operator is the most important decision you will make as you make your plans for a long-anticipated dreamed adventure. At first glance, some companies may seem cheaper. However, when you research a little deeper, you will see why traveling with Peru Summit Adventures assures that you will have the most memorable travel experience possible. In fact, we guarantee it, our TripAdvisor reviews say that.

Making genuine and sustainable itineraries often translate to real costs, with a host of responsible travel practices that underpin our prices, here are the reasons why you should go with us!


Little insignificant details make all the difference to get a successful trip and an unforgettable experience, that’s the point where our tailor-made trip specialists and destination experts work intensely. No stone is left unturned in our quest to deliver exceptional private tours, trekking tours, and expeditions in Peru. With us, it’s all about you and your traveling mates too, for sure! We take your wants, needs, time constraints, budgets, and personal travel style into account to deliver experiences that are far from standard.

Safety is at the core of everything we do at Peru Summit Adventures. There is nothing that we take more seriously. Put away your concerns and start enjoying the trip of your life knowing that you are on safe and sound hands. Peru Summit Adventures is a registered trademark and a licensed company by the Peruvian Ministry of Tourism (MINCETUR).
What an awesome to travel with someone who is from the same destination, a professional expert, it’s how you get the first-hand information. Our Peru Summit Adventures staff are friendly, funny, with deep knowledge on the route and destination, and great storytellers. We love what we do and it’s obvious. A simple concept, yes, but it makes all the difference. The team at Peru Summit Adventures all live and breathe the trip, experience, adventure, (you’ll see this when you arrive!). We love what we do, and it’s obvious. From the moment you arrive, you’ll feel the buzz and excitement that Peru Summit Adventures offers.
Could you imagine trying to hike silently along an isolated trail, carefully not disturbing shy wildlife, with 10 or 20 other travelers? Or walking on a remote area to explore the pristine wilderness with dozens of other tourists at your side? We know meaningful nature encounters must be undertaken in small groups. That’s why our trips come with an average of just four travelers, by far the smallest groups in the tourism industry across the country. This not only guarantees you more personal close-up wildlife experience, but a less-impact presence on the earth’s brittle natural places we love.

Besides, Machu Picchu offers one of the world’s most spellbinding travel experiences. But it’s also a world-renowned destination, and touring the site in a big group with multitudes of tourists shoving for photos, and competing to hear the guide, your once in a lifetime visit to this World Heritage Site may lose its magic. Our Machu Picchu Trips are scheduled with an average of just four travelers, allowing for a deeper exploration of the lost city of the Incas, with our Local Experts / Tour Leaders.

We are very confident the quality of our Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail will get your expectations and that you will savor the best possible of cultural travel experience, nature travel experience, and adventure travel experience if you are dissatisfied, we’ll happily give you credit for an extra trip or for a future journey. It’s, to our knowledge, the best guarantee in the travel business.

We don’t believe any other tour companies make comparable trips when you take into account our unique itineraries and signature itineraries, impressive locations, small groups and quality Trek Leaders / Tour Leaders. But, should you come across a similar itinerary or matching itinerary of our quality at a cheaper price, even within 45 days after booking with us, we will happily refund the difference. It’s how we deliver our promise.
While other tour companies generally cancel their trips due to low participation of travelers or outsource to other big group tour operators for their travelers, we guarantee that we will never cancel a trip because of low signing-up or participation for the departure date neither get our travelers to other tour operators! This makes to our travelers the assurance and peace of mind to know their travel plans are insured and guaranteed.

Probably you will see that most of the tour operators mention it on their websites that are local tour companies, however, if you research a little deeper you will find out that’s not true, they might be although half of the operation is done from here and another half abroad, they even have NorthAmerican phone number or European phone numbers, which is a clue to find out, we are not against the foreigner companies or half foreign companies, what we are against is that they lie.

In Cusco exist just few truly local tour operators. If you did not know, foreign companies come to Peru to get rich without paying a General Sales Tax or Tax Contribution to our country. If you did not know that, according to the United Nations, for every US $100 spent on a tour in a developing country or foreign travel companies, only $5 stays in the local economy. Normally, almost all of the money flows back to large companies operating outside the destination countries. As we are a local family enterprise, we guarantee that your travel expenditures will support the local economy, and improve the lives of Peruvians through contributing to general sales tax. 

Be a responsible traveller! Let’s make this world a better place for everyone and for everyone that lives in it! The natural environments that we travel to are fragile and abundant with beautiful culture and traditions that are often reliant on tourism. We have a responsibility as travelers to minimize the impact of our presence, protect what is delicate, and leave a positive influence everywhere we can.

As a locally owned and based Peruvian tour company, we integrate these practices into our in-country operations we are aiming for a style of travel that makes the world a better place for everyone, and for everyone that lives in it. Since our very first days as a tour operator, responsible business has been at the heart of what we do. Peru Summit Adventures is committed not just to treading lightly, but to making a real difference by helping and investing in local communities, education initiatives, environmental conservation projects. These values are not more than just words, they are ingrained in the culture and philosophy of our crew, daily operations of Peru Summit Adventures trips, and at our office too. 

With Peru Summit Adventures, you will receive our exclusive high-end equipment for camping for the Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu, which will guarantee a comfortable stay every night. We use proper gear for this type of terrain, our gear is thought to resist harsh weather at extreme elevations. Our gear is the best on the trail.

No hidden fees or middlemen, as a local tour operator to Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu, at Peru Summit Adventures we ensure you an exclusive guarantee that clearly says that we will meet the high expectations we set forth on our website or promotional materials because this tour is operated exclusively by us.

Our Flawless Reviews | Your Words -- We Tell It Like It Is!

Experience of a lifetime
We had the most wonderful adventure celebrating our anniversary by hiking the Inca trail for four da
Amanda R from EEUU
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Best trip of my life!
My experience, is an experience that i will cherish for the rest of my life for various reason. The
Michael P from EEUU
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Trekking Machu Picchu
This was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Carlos was our guide and made our experi
Sam E from EEUU
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Custom Salkantay Trek for 13 Plus Wedding!
I cannot even begin to put into words what an amazing experience my group had with Peru Summit Adven
Meridith Craven from EEUU
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Ausengate Trek – Best 5 Days so far!
I did the 5 day Ausengate Trek (including the rainbow Mountain) with a friend, these 5 days were the
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Trip CheckList

  • Original passport and some copies.
  • Travel insurance and some copies.
  • Sleeping bag (or you can rent one from us).
  • Backpack to carry your personal items.
  • Camera and its charger and adapter.
  • Torch or headlamps with extra batteries.
  • Hiking poles (or you can rent one pair from us).
  • Rain gear (especially if traveling in the wet season, from October to March).
  • Comfortable hiking clothes, including warm clothes for the nighttime.
  • Good hiking boots with protector ankle or similar, and one pair of flip-flops or light sandals.
  • Sunblock and sunglasses.
  • Deet (40%) or bug spray.
  • Hiking long sleeve T-shirts.
  • Hiking trousers.
  • Ear Plugs.
  • Hands sanitizer
  • Thermal underwear.
  • Hiking socks.
  • Water bottle or canteen.
  • American dollars and Peruvian soles in cash.
  • Sun hat, cap, and warm hat and gloves for the nighttime
  • Toilet paper and face tissue paper.
  • Credit or debit card.
  • Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Diamox (Acetozolamide), Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen), Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may take).

Whats the Trip Like

Average daytime temperatures in and around Cusco generally range from 55º – 75º F with evenings cooling down into the 40º and 50º. Much of this itinerary takes place in the mountains, where weather can change very quickly and evening temperatures regularly drop into the 30º and 40º. As our treks are planned during the “dry season”, days are typically clear and pleasant, with afternoon clouds occasionally building and leading to small amounts of rainfall, and morning temperatures usually range from 35º and 45º with some frost on the tents, and frosty plains in some locations. While April and November departures may experience slightly higher amounts of rainfall, all-day rain is unusual. We will be hiking over multiple mountain passes which are over 14,104 ft, so should you be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather.
This Trek has a distance of 44 km – 27,34 miles from the trailhead located in Upis town to the end of the trail (parking area) after Rainbow Mountain and the Short Inca Trail section.
Since the number of tickets a day to Machu Picchu has been reduced a couple of years ago only to 4500 tickets per day (from which only 3500 for the public), tickets have been selling out 3 – 4 months in advance, that’s why we strongly recommend booking this trek 5 months in advance to secure the entrance tickets. And if expecting to find a ticket in Aguas Calientes town at the last minute, unfortunately, that’s not a guarantee, and we do not recommend it as things are very crazy and chaotic.
The best month to hike the Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail is June, this month coincides with the typical celebrations due to the anniversary of Cusco, after the second week of June there are typical lively celebrations in Cusco city (shows, colorful dancers, local musicians, food exhibitions, etc) that are worth enjoying while scanning the city downtown. Besides June is a month within the dry season so the weather is perfect for any hike (blue sky and starry nights). We also recommend any time between May through August, these months are within the dry season.
Our recommendation is to book this trek at least 5 – 6 months in advance, all multi-day hikes need to be arranged with a reasonable time in advance and to secure the Machu Picchu tickets.
You will visit Rainbow Mountain on day 3 in the early morning, the night before we will stay just 1 hour away from this place, so the following morning we will start our hike very early to beat the crowds, you will be arriving at the place by 7:00 AM and very likely you will be one of the first ones in reaching this unique place.
Yes, there is a place for hot springs close by to the first lunch spot, however, the hot springs are not well maintained and it’s not recommended to use them, any updated information about this place will be provided during our welcome meeting in Cusco city, a day before the trek begins.
In comparison with other treks in the area, this 5 day tour is demanding. *It is strongly recommended that participants attend the ACCLIMATIZATION PROGRAM before attending this Adventure or take 2 days at least before the trek in Cusco City.
Yes, we are. Peru Summit Adventures is a reputable tour operator for Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain, we have been the first ones in creating Ausangate Trek that includes Rainbow Mountain, and we always strive in making the treks a little different that the conventional operators.
All costs will depend on the type of service you will receive, this includes the type of gear, trek leader, muleteers, cook, wages, transportation, and support from your tour operator if unexpected things happen during the trek. The costs range from $990.00 USD to $1500.00 USD for this 5 day Ausangate Trek, any price under this rate may be suspicious and please check the tour operator’s reputation before making your decision.

Trip Leaders

Trek Leaders or Guides Are Part of the Core of Peru Summit Adventures and Your Perfect Local Companion

The perfect custom-made private tours, adventure tours, or expeditions don’t just happen. It takes a team of talented, knowledgeable, passionate, and experienced professionals to bring it all together and possible. Our team of Peru Summit Adventures Leaders is comprised of local trip veterans, seasoned tour veterans with rich backgrounds on history, archaeology, culture, cuisine, geology, biology, and more.

With the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the travel industry, our Trip Leaders safely deliver your trip-of-a-lifetime to maximize your Peru journeys and adventures every step of the way. Our Tour/Trek Leaders have worked extensively in the Peru isolated mountains, archaeological sites, hiking the Inca Trail (at least 150 times), Amazon jungle, and being at Machu Picchu for over 400 times at least, this guarantees your trip a unique and memorable experience.

Extend your Experience

Extended Sacred Valley Tour Cusco
Extended Sacred Valley Tour Cusco
1 Day from $ 150.00
Pisac Ruins Hike in Sacred Valley
Pisac Ruins Hike in Sacred Valley
1 Day from $ 150.00
Urquillos Hike in Sacred Valley
Urquillos Hike in Sacred Valley
1 Day from $ 150.00
Cusco City Tour and Surroundings
Cusco City Tour and Surroundings
Full Day from $ 125.00

Lodging

Camping Equipment: Great gear is a key part of every great journey, so we’ve made our gear warehouse featuring top-performing brands like Black Diamond, Patagonia, North Face Summit Series, Therma Rest, Marmot, Leki, this is a fantastic collection of our outdoor gear, accessories, which are offered in all trekking adventures, expeditions, and Peru Summit Adventures Logo items.

In all hikes, you’ll enjoy Pro 4-season tents in Black Diamond and North Face with Pro Sleeping pads in Therma-Rest and pillows, tents are roomy and cozy designed for 3 people but used only for 2 guests.

Hotels: We select carefully our hotels in each destination all over the country. And we select our accommodations for how well they represent the distinctive character of the destination you’re in. Some of these rooms and cabanas draw their inspiration from history and others from the views they offer. What’s consistent, however, is that we stand by each and every one of these for what they’ll add to your experience.

BEST FOOD IN OUR TOURS & TREKS

Make the most of Peru’s natural beauty with succulent meals on each adventure tour, and Discover the delights of Peruvian cuisine in each tour destination and trek. So the food is awesome!

A new introduction to holistic food, which is Natural Food in all our tour adventures (Treks, Picnic Trips, Amazon Jungle Trips, and Expeditions Trips). In a holistic diet, you eat natural food, avoid highly processed foods, and eat in moderation foods high in fat and sugar. Natural foods that are included in our holistic diet include vegetables, whole grains, fish, fowl, meats, fresh juices, local fruits, herbal teas, and coffee substitutes.

Freshly prepared foods provide more energy and are better for your well-being than previously prepared foods. Our Peru Summit chefs are to Food what Leonardo da Vinci is to Art, so we rely on really experienced chefs who were trained and chosen to make this food in the mountains, and they are our stars.

In addition, making the right food choices can help prevent future health problems on your trip, so because of that we introduced this service in each of our Treks.

Suggested Reading List

We have created a custom comprehensive listing of Ausangate Trek and Short Inca Trail, Machu Picchu and Peru, Machu Picchu, and Peru travel books for this trip. Our reading list Peru is custom-designed to complement specific Peru Summit destinations. We feature a handpicked selection of travel guides, maps, literature, books on art, cuisine, nature, and culture, designed to help you get more out of your travels to Machu Picchu & Peru.

Peru Summit
Peru Summit Activity Type:
Hiking, Camping, Archaeology & Cultural Adventures
Peru SummitPhysical Rating:
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Peru SummitService Level:
Upgraded Comfort
Peru Summit
Peru Summit Activity Type:
Hiking, Archaeology & Cultural Adventures
Peru SummitPhysical Rating:
Strenuous
Peru SummitService Level:
Upgraded Comfort
Peru Summit
Peru Summit Activity Type:
Hiking, Archaeology & Cultural Adventures
Peru SummitPhysical Rating:
Strenuous
Peru SummitService Level:
Upgraded Comfort

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Award-winning Tour Operator

Peru Summit Adventures has been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for the past five years in a row.

Start Planning Here

The experts at Peru Summit Adventures specialize in crafting highly-customized trips. We look forward to answering your questions about your upcoming travel plans. Get started by filling out the information below.

Modal form

Prefer to speak with a local Expert?

CALL US TODAY
+51 984 464 391
Call us today until 8:00 pm

OFFICE HOURS
Monday - Sunday | 8am - 8pm GMT
(excluding national holidays)

EMAIL

ADDRESS
Asociacion Manahuañuncca II, C-5, Distrito Santiago, Provincia Cusco
Award-winning Tour Operator

Peru Summit Adventures has been awarded the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence for the past five years in a row.

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$ 1400.00 USD