Private : Walk to Ausangate + Rainbow Mountain for 2 Days

Embarking on a private two-day journey to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain offers travelers a chance to enjoy Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. With professional bilingual guides, the tour provides an intimate exploration of historic sites, cultural heritage, and the stunning natural wonders that await. From witnessing the impacts of climate change on the Ausangate glacier to marveling at the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain, this adventure promises an unforgettable experience. Meticulously planned with hotel pickup, transportation, meals, and camping gear, the tour ensures a comfortable and seamless journey. Yet, the true draw lies in the opportunity to connect with the region’s captivating beauty and uncover its secrets.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best 2 Day Tours In Andes Mountains Peru.

Key Points

• This 2-day private tour provides an opportunity to explore the Ausangate glacier and trek to the iconic Rainbow Mountain (Vinicunca).
• The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, meals, camping gear, and a professional bilingual guide with first aid support.
• Highlights of the tour include observing the effects of climate change on the Ausangate glacier and enjoying the region’s breathtaking landscapes.
• Participants will hike to viewpoints overlooking the glacier, Inca and colonial bridges, and reach an elevation of over 5,000 meters.
• The tour is designed for adventurous travelers and requires proper preparation and a good fitness level due to the high-altitude hike.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This two-day private walk takes participants to the majestic Ausangate mountain and the famous Rainbow Mountain in Peru’s Cusco region.

Priced from $415 per person, the tour lasts 2 days and is offered in both Spanish and English. It’s a private group experience with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour includes hotel pickup, transportation, a professional bilingual guide, meals, entrance fees, camping gear, and first aid.

Highlights include exploring Ausangate glacier, observing climate change effects, and experiencing the colorful Ausangate landscape.

The hike isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back/heart issues.

Additional rentals and activities are available.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with an early morning pickup from Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 am. After a 2-hour drive to Checacupe, the group will visit Inca, Colonial, and Republican bridges. Next, they’ll hike 1.5 hours to the Ausangate and Pucacocha viewpoint before enjoying lunch. The hike continues for 3.5 hours to the Anata camp at 4,885 masl, where they’ll have afternoon tea near the Ausangate glacier.

Day	Elevation	Duration	Activity
1	4,885 masl	5 hours	Visit bridges, hike to viewpoint, continue to camp
2	5,020 masl	1 hour	Hike to Winicunca Pass, descend with views

On the second day, the group will hike to the Winicunca Pass at 5,020 masl for views of the Montaña de Colores before descending and returning to Cusco for lunch.

Day 1 Highlights

On the first day, the tour kicks off with an early pickup from Cusco between 4:30 and 5:00 am.

Travelers then embark on a 2-hour private drive to Checacupe, where they’ll visit Inca, Colonial, and Republican bridges.

The hike to Ausangate and Pucacocha viewpoint takes around 1.5 hours, offering stunning views.

After lunch in the area, the group continues hiking for 3.5 hours to reach the Anata camp at 4,885 meters above sea level.

In the afternoon, they’ll enjoy tea near the Ausangate glacier, admiring the impressive tropical glacier and observing the effects of global warming on the landscape.

Ausangate Exploration

Towering at over 20,000 feet, Ausangate is Peru’s largest tropical glacier and the centerpiece of the region’s dramatic landscape. Hikers on this tour will have the opportunity to explore this mighty ice formation up close, observing the effects of global warming on its retreating glaciers. The hike to the Pucacocha viewpoint offers sweeping vistas of the glacier, while the afternoon tea near the Ausangate glacier provides a chance to relax and take in the serene surroundings.

Ausangate Exploration	Description
Glacier Viewing	Observe the Ausangate glacier and its retreat due to climate change.
Pucacocha Viewpoint	Hike to a viewpoint overlooking the glacier and surrounding peaks.
Afternoon Tea	Enjoy a warm beverage while admiring the glacial scenery.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Global Warming Effects

Witnessing the retreat of Ausangate’s glaciers firsthand provides a sobering look at the effects of global warming on this delicate alpine ecosystem.

As the temperatures rise, the once-massive glaciers have shrunk significantly, exposing fragile moraines and revealing the stark reality of climate change.

Hikers on this tour will have the opportunity to observe the impact of melting ice on the surrounding landscape, from the dwindling water supply to the changes in local flora and fauna.

This firsthand experience underscores the urgency of addressing environmental issues and the importance of sustainable tourism practices in preserving these magnificent natural wonders for future generations.

Colorful Ausangate Region

Nestled amid the majestic Andes, the Ausangate region captivates visitors with its breathtaking palette of hues.

Towering glacial peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and rolling meadows come alive in a spectrum of vibrant colors. Witness the iconic Vinicunca, also known as the "Rainbow Mountain," its striped slopes a testament to the area’s geological richness.

Explore the ancient Inca paths that wind through this mystical landscape, offering a glimpse into the region’s storied past.

Whether you’re marveling at the sweeping vistas or enjoying the local culture, the Ausangate region promises an unforgettable adventure filled with natural wonder and cultural discovery.

Inclusions

Included in this private two-day trek to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain are hotel pickup in Cusco, round-trip private transportation, and the services of a professional bilingual guide.

Meals like 1 breakfast, 2 lunches, and 1 dinner are also provided. Entrance tickets, emergency horse, camping tents, cooking equipment, a first aid kit, and oxygen are all part of the package.

Guests can request vegetarian or special diet options. However, this tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or those with back or heart problems.

Travelers should bring their passport or ID, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and binoculars, as alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed.

Important Information

This two-day private trek to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain isn’t suitable for pregnant women or individuals with back or heart problems.

Participants should bring their passport or ID, camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and binoculars. Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed on the tour.

Additional rentals like sleeping bags, hiking poles, and horses are available. Visitors can also opt for extra activities and tip the staff.

The high-altitude hike and exposure to the elements require proper preparation and fitness level. Clients should carefully review the included and excluded items to ensure this trek matches their abilities and expectations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Book the Tour for a Group Larger Than 2 People?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a group larger than 2 people. The tour is offered as a private group experience, so the size of the group can be customized based on the travelers’ needs and preferences.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit the Ausangate Region?

The best time to visit the Ausangate region is typically between April and October when the weather is drier and warmer. This allows for optimal hiking conditions and clearer views of the stunning glacial peaks and colorful mountains.

How Difficult Is the Hike to the Winicunca Pass?

The hike to the Winicunca Pass is moderately challenging, reaching an elevation of 5,020 masl. It involves a steady ascent over uneven terrain, but the stunning views of the Montaña de Colores make the effort worthwhile for experienced hikers.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include More Days?

The tour can likely be extended to include more days, allowing hikers to explore the stunning Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain regions in greater depth. Additional days would provide more flexibility and time to fully experience the area’s natural beauty.

Are There Any Other Activities Besides Hiking Available on the Tour?

The tour includes various activities beyond hiking, such as visiting Inca, Colonial, and Republican bridges, observing the effects of global warming on glaciers, and experiencing the colorful and mystical landscape of the Ausangate region. Additional rentals and extra activities are also available.

Recap

This private tour offers an unforgettable journey through Peru’s breathtaking landscapes. Hikers will explore the stunning Ausangate glacier, witness the impacts of climate change, and enjoy the vibrant hues of Rainbow Mountain. With professional guides, comfortable accommodations, and all necessary gear, participants can fully embrace the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region during this 2-day adventure.

You can check if your dates are available here: