AUSANGATE TREK FAQs

AUSANGATE TREK FAQs

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AUSANGATE TREK FAQs

Travel Guide

If you’re considering an off-the-beaten-path trek that takes you to some of the most beautiful places on Earth and to rural communities, the Ausangate Trek is a fantastic option. Whether you’ve already decided on this route or are still deciding, we’ve put together the most frequently asked questions about the Ausangate Trek to help you make up your mind.

Before reaching out with a general inquiry, we recommend you read through this page to see if you can find the answer you’re looking for, along with our Ausangate trekking information and Peru travel information pages.

Frequent Questions

Here is a list of the frequently asked questions of our passengers

Is the Ausangate Trek Worth It?

Yes. Most definitely! The Ausangate Trek is one of the best alternative routes in the Cusco region. This trek is especially suited to those who like to get off-the-beaten-path and escape the large crowds on some of the more popular trails.

You’ll be rewarded with some of the most incredible scenery imaginable after relatively difficult days of trekking. Expect to see snowy mountain peaks, crystalline lagoons, and plenty of local flora and fauna.

Is the Ausangate Trek Difficult?

We rate the Ausangate Trek as moderately challenging, with some days more difficult than others. The main reason for the difficulty is the high altitude that can really make short distances seem a lot longer. You’ll also be doing some uphill hiking, which can seem extremely tough this high up.

On the classic 5 day Ausangate Trek, the second and third days are the toughest. This is because you’ll be trekking up to passes at very high altitudes.

How Far Do We Walk Every Day?

Every day, you’ll walk around 6–7 hours on average. You’ll walk the furthest on day 4, but because it’s not as much uphill, it isn’t as difficult as days 2 and 3. Below is a breakdown of the distance you’ll cover on each day of the Classic Ausangate 5 Days Trek:

  • DAY 1: 10 km / 6.21 miles
  • DAY 2: 12.1 km / 7.5 miles
  • DAY 3: 13 km / 8.1 miles
  • DAY 4: 15 km / 9.3 miles
  • DAY 5: 7.1 km / 4.4 miles

How Much Does the Ausangate Trek Cost?

The price of the Ausangate Trek will differ depending on the company you travel with and the number of days you opt for. This is a summary of the costs when you decide to travel in a group tour with Salkantay Trekking. Prices are per person.

  • AUSANGATE & RAINBOW MOUNTAIN TREK 4 DAYS — $450 USD
  • AUSANGATE TREK 5 DAYS — $500 USD

Can I Rent Equipment for the Ausangate Trek?

Yes. On every one of our treks, we’ll include the accommodation and a sleeping mat, so you don’t need to worry about those. There is the option to hire extra equipment if needed, though.

All the items we rent are top-of-the-range and can be reserved in advance or at the briefing the night before the trek. Items available to rent are:

  • A sleeping bag for -15°C and a sleeping bag liner.
  • Thermarest luxury air mattress.
  • Adjustable walking sticks.

If you already have these items, don’t hesitate to pack them. Just keep in mind that there are weight restrictions per person.

 

How Can I Prepare Physically for the Trek?

The Ausangate Trek is at high altitude and can be challenging to many who take it on, especially if you’re coming from sea level. You’ll be heading up to pretty high altitudes and hiking for a large part of the day.

This is why we suggest you prepare yourself before you travel to Cusco and in the few days leading up to the hike. If you do, you’ll enjoy the trip much more and won’t find it as tough. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to prepare yourself:

  • At home, before you leave for your trip, you’ll need to do regular exercise. This should include cardiovascular activities like regular hikes. Ensure you travel over varied terrain and over a few days.
  • A healthy, well-balanced diet is a must to keep your body in optimal shape. While you’re on the trek, we’ll provide you with meals full of nutrition in a wide variety of dishes.
  • Before you leave for the trek, you’ll have to spend 2–3 days in Cusco or the surrounding region to acclimate. When you don’t do this, your risk of succumbing to altitude sickness is much higher.
  • Don’t forget to bring well worn-in hiking boots. New shoes can cause a lot of pain over a longer period and you’ll be suffering when you should be enjoying yourself.

Is Water Included on the Trip?

Yes. You’ll need to make sure you take enough water for the first morning of your trek, but after this, we’ll provide you with boiled water to fill your bottle or pouch with at every meal and campsite. The water is clean and perfectly safe for you to drink, so you don’t need to worry in that respect.

Make sure you take a reusable bottle or Camelbak to use the entire trek. We prefer not to use plastic bottles to help protect the environment and the routes.

If you do need any extra water at some point, you’ll find the occasional kiosk selling it and snacks along the way.