6 Days
The untamed beauty and infinite vastness of Ausangate Trek to Sibinacocha Lake 6 days, go unmatched by almost any other place on earth. Massive glaciers, epic treks, breathtaking natural vistas and unique wildlife make this region a must-experience destination for an adventurous traveler.
Spanning Andean mountains, it would be a challenging feat to see everything Ausangate (6.372m/20900ft) has to offer in one go. You have to make the journey to Patagonia at least once in your lifetime. Perhaps it is the mystique and adventure of a wild and unpredictable place. Ausangate’s undeniable beauty and allure lie in a landscape delivered on a large scale. Barren yet beautiful, environmentally delicate but unforgiving.
This amazing Ausangate Sibinacocha trek takes you over mountain passes, awesome mountain scenery, remote Andean villages, hot springs, and turquoise lakes. Besides, the Ausangate to Laguna Sibinacocha Hike is an off-beaten route and a perfect trek for those who prefer going off the beaten path.
DAY 1:CUSCO – OCONGATE – SINGRENACOCHA – PACCHANTA
This epic 6-day Ausangate trek and Lake Sibinacocha hike begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 5 in the morning. On the way we pass through Urcos, where we may spot a beautiful lagoon with the same name, continue on to Cattca, an agricultural and cattle raising community where we can appreciate the region’s spectacular views, Ocongate, enjoying impressive views of Mount Ausangate, after 3 hours you will arrive to the Community of Yanacancha, where our expert cook will prepare a delicious Andean breakfast.
Once our energies are recharged with a good breakfast, we begin the walk to the first attraction of this beautiful route, we will descend to the Singrenacocha lagoon, which is one of the most beautiful turquoise lagoons in Peru, you will be able to visit the most beautiful spaces of the Ausangate mountain range, and take the most memorable photos. At noon we are back to the starting point where we have lunch.
Then we go in our transport to the community of Pacchanta where we meet our muleteers, who will accompany us on this epic expedition to the Ausangate Trek.
Today we will make a short 1-hour walk to the site of our overnight next to the thermal baths of the Pacchanta community. Our campsite will be set in a spectacular spot with amazing views of Ausangate, Santa Catalina, Maria Huamantiqlla, Pucapunta and Colquecruz snow-capped mountains.
Meals included:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 2:PACCHANTA – QOMERQOCHA LAGOON – JAMPA PAMPA
After a good night’s rest, we begin the day with a slight climb up the Pacchanta valley in the company of llamas and alpacas that casually graze on the slopes around us, until we reach the Ninaparayoc lagoon where we will stop for lunch. This is a spectacular place with incredible views of the main snowy peaks that surround us: Ausangate, Santa Catalina, Maria Huamantiqlla, Pucapunta and Colquecruz. See if you can name them all!
After lunch, we will hike for about 3 hours to the first mountain pass of our trek, the Abra de Q’ampa (also called Jampa), at an impressive (literally!) 5060m/16,601ft. With our batteries charged and spirits replenished, All the way up you will have a breathtaking view of the Qomercocha and Alcacocha lakes, one is emerald color while the other one is bluish. Before reaching the campsite you will arrive to an overlook from where you will see all mountains and the 2 before mentioned lakes in all their splendor.
Today, our trip in the Ausangate trek region will be tiring but enchanting at the same time, before having a good time sharing stories with your guide, while you taste hot chocolate, teas, cookies, popcorn and a delicious Andean buffet dinner.
Meals included:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Minimum temperature: -5 C°
DAY 3:JAMPA PAMPA – HUAYNA AUSANGATE PASS – QUILLITA
After a nutritious breakfast in the domains of the Ausangate trek, you will get ready for another day full of mountainous and geological landscapes straight out of a fairy tale. Our morning begins with a gradual climb up Yanaqocha (“black lake” in Quechua), whose dark color gives it its name. Dark red and black volcanic soils color our journey, while moraines reveal the geological history of this region: glaciers once covered these slopes! We enter a beautiful valley that boasts an explosion of colorful mountains, three beautiful lagoons, and a handful of fuzzy llamas and alpacas. After taking unforgettable photos of you and your loved ones, you will descend for 2 hours and 30 minutes to the Ausangate Valley, where our expert cook will be waiting for you with a delicious buffet lunch.
After the lunch, you will ascend for 2 hours the next mountain pass (5100m / 16,732ft) and then continue to Quillita, from where you can see the Huayna Ausangate, the Ausangate and 2 other snowy peaks like 4 sentinels; You can also see the Condor pass and the reddish mountain of Chilca. Then you will hike 1 hour and 30 minutes on a relatively flat surface to the third Ausangate base camp.
Meals included:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Minimum temperature: -5 C°
DAY 4:QUILLITA – CONDOR PASS – MORMORANI
Today will be one of our hardest days, but also one of the most beautiful. After having your gratifying breakfast, you will hike uphill for three hours, to the Condor mountain pass (5221 m / 17,129 ft), which is the highest point of the Ausangate hike. As we reach our first milestone of the day, we are rewarded with spectacular views of the Vilcanota mountain range and maybe even some wild vicuñas Upon arrival at the mountain pass, we will provide you with hot coca tea or coffee and a sandwich to recharge your batteries and thus better enjoy the fantastic ring of snow-capped peaks in the Ausangate region.
Glacier-fed Lake Sibinacocha, our next destination, looms in the distance. It’s three hours from here to Sibinacocha, and we’ll cross another mountain pass and a valley before we get there. We will camp next to the dark blue waters of the lagoon, not far from its glacial source. This is an area rich in biodiversity and with luck we will see many huallatas or Andean geese, coots and ducks as they visit the waters near our camp.
Then, you will hike for three hours to the Mormorani hamlet, where we will spend the night.
Meals included:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Minimum temperature: -5 C°
DAY 5:MORMORANI – LAKE SIBINACOCHA – CASCANA
You leave behind the Ausangate trek and get in the domains of the Sibinacocha lake hike. After breakfast you will hike parallel to the lake Sibinacocha for about 4 hours. Within this section you will observe countless Andean birds such as: The Andean ibis, the Andean goose, seagulls, Andean flamingos and wild ducks to mention a few of them.
The Sibinacocha lagoon is an impressive blue-green lake, considered a tropical paradise due to its spectacular landscape, since it is surrounded by immense mountains and snow-capped peaks such as (snowy Janapapunta, snow-capped mountain Apucuchu, Misti Chumpe and Q’elca). This lagoon of glacial origin has a very large extension, covering an area of 25 kilometers and a height of 150 meters at its deepest point.
Today’s buffet lunch will be in the open air while you enjoy the amazing views of the Vilcanota snowy peaks. From our lakeside camp, we start hiking along the shores of Lake Sibinacocha until we reach Yayamari, located below the rocky mountain of the same name.
From here we cross the pampas where we are likely to see hundreds of llamas, alpacas and vicuñas (if we are lucky!) until we reach the Abra Ccascana (5040m/16,535ft). Surrounded by snow-capped peaks such as Montura and Chumpi, we arrive at the Ccascana lagoon, where we will camp for the night.
Meals included:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Minimum temperature: -5 C°
DAY 6:CCASCANA – PHINAYA – CUSCO
Today we say goodbye to this great adventure through the mountains of Peru, after having experienced one of the toughest treks in the world, we get ready to leave the high mountains, we will make a short walk to the town of Phinaya, where we say goodbye to our muleteers, with whom you shared pleasant moments, if you are condescending with their work they have done for you, you can give them some tips.
Our transport will pick us up at 10:00 am, then we will leave in the direction of the city of Cusco, the approximate driving time by car is approximately 6 hours. We will have lunch in the middle of the route, in the town of Cusipata. Finally, you will arrive at your hotel in Cusco at approximately 5:00 p.m.
Meals included:
- Breakfast, Lunch
INCLUDED IN THE AUSANGATE TREK TO SIBINACOCHA LAKE 6 DAYS
- Pre-departure briefing: You will meet your guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. At this time, we will provide you with the duffle bags which will be carried by our horses. The meeting will be day before the trip begins.
- Transportation: All your transportation is included in this package. We will pick you up from your hotel and take you to the starting point of the trek. Once you complete the tour, we will take you back to the door of your hotel.
- Qualified guides: Our guides have dominion of English and Spanish, professional education and official certification. They will explain to you about the history, culture and environment along the trail, as well as lead the group in ancestral rituals and ceremonies. They’ll also take care of your safety, health and comfort during the trip so you can enjoy the trek worry-free.
- Porters and horsemen: They will be in charge of preparing and transferring the duffle bags of all our passengers.
- Emergency horse: All our alternative routes include an extra horse if any of our passengers cannot continue the tour on foot.
- Equipment: Andean Great Treks uses the best equipment to ensure your safety and comfort. Every two people will share Salewa tents with a capacity for four people. Also, you’ll have a spacious dining tent where you can enjoy your food problem-free.
- Camping equipment: We have tents for cooking and eating, as well as tables, chairs and complete kitchen equipment. All of this is transported by horses.
- 1 duffle bag: There, you can carry your personal belongings (including your sleeping bad) up to a maximum weight of 7 kg / 15 lbs.
- Pack mules: Our pack mules will transport all camping equipment, as well as your personal luggage in the canvas bag.
- Food: Our chef prepares the best dishes in the middle of the mountain. Our passengers love our food! We respect all diets, so let us know if you have any particular restrictions on your reservation form and remind your guide during the briefing. You will enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in addition to hot drinks and snacks. Every morning we will give you your snack so you can enjoy it during the walk.
- Water: Andean Great Treks will provide you with all the water you need. The water is boiled, filtered, and cooled. You must bring your water bottles or camelback. We recommend a capacity of 3 liters. You’ll be able to fill your bottles during each meal.
- Meals: 5 breakfasts, 5 lunches and 4 dinners. Special menus such as vegetarian or vegan meals are available without additional costs.
- Morning tea: Every morning in our campsites, you’ll enjoy a cup of hot coca tea as soon as you wake up. It will be an excellent way to start the day.
- Tea time: In our campsites, we’ll serve you popcorn, cookies, coffee, chocolate, tea, hot water, etc. After a long day of hiking, you won’t have to wait until dinner to fill your stomach.
- Snacks (Days 1, 2, 3,4 & 5): We’ll offer you delicious snacks in a cloth bag: local fruits, cookies, chocolates, candy, etc.
- 1 cloth bag: As we’ve already mentioned, we’ll give you a cloth bag to carry your snacks. In this way, we avoid using plastic bags, which contaminate our environment.
- First aid: All Andean Great Treks guides have received specialized training in first aid. We hold mandatory training sessions with our guides every February. Your guide will always carry a first aid kit to face basic emergencies (altitude sickness, traveler’s diarrhea, cuts, scrapes.) and oxygen. If necessary, we’ll evacuate you from the path as quickly as possible and ensure that you arrive at a clinic for treatment.
- Entrance Tickets: To visit Ausangate Ciruit and Rainbow Mountains
- Oxygen bottle
NOT INCLUDED:
- Sleeping Bag
- Trekking poles
- Lunch and Dinner on the last day
- Clothing and personal equipment
- Travel insurance
- Tips for our team: Keep in mind that our personnel receive payment for their services, so feel free to give tips or not.
- Additional costs: There could be additional expenses, delays or modifications of the itinerary that are outside of the responsibility of the agency, such as: bag weather conditions, security or health problems, changes in government policies, political instability, strikes, etc.
Packing List for the Ausangate Trek
When preparing for the Ausangate Trek, it’s important to pack appropriately for the high altitude, cold weather, and rugged terrain. Here are some essential items to bring:
Essentials:
- Hiking boots: Choose a sturdy pair of hiking boots that provide good ankle support and are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
- Warm clothing: Pack layers of warm clothing, including thermal underwear, fleece or down jackets, a warm hat, gloves, and a scarf or buff.
- Sleeping bag: You’ll need a warm sleeping bag that is rated for cold temperatures. Most tour operators provide sleeping bags, but it’s always a good idea to bring your own if you have one.
- Waterproof jacket and pants: Bring a waterproof jacket and pants for rain and snow.
- Backpack: You’ll need a backpack to carry your gear, snacks, and water. Choose a backpack that is comfortable to wear and has a capacity of at least 30-40 liters.
- Trekking poles: Trekking poles can be helpful for balance and stability on steep and rocky terrain.
- Headlamp or flashlight: Bring a headlamp or flashlight for the evenings and early mornings when it’s dark.
- Water bottle: Staying hydrated is important at high altitudes, so bring a water bottle or hydration system.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses: Protect yourself from the strong Andean sun with sunscreen and sunglasses.
Clothing:
- Warm thermal underwear
- Insulating layers (fleece or down jacket)
- Waterproof and windproof jacket
- Waterproof and windproof pants
- Hiking pants or trekking leggings
- Warm hat or beanie
- Gloves or mittens
- Hiking socks
- Trekking boots or shoes
Gear:
- Backpack (30-40 liters)
- Sleeping bag (rated for cold temperatures)
- Trekking poles
- Headlamp or flashlight
- Water bottle or hydration system
- Sunglasses
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+)
- Lip balm with SPF
- Personal first aid kit
- Insect repellent
- Camera or phone
- Portable charger or extra batteries
- Basic toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, biodegradable soap, etc.)
Optional:
- Buff or scarf
- Gaiters
- Neck warmer
- Down vest or jacket
- Rain cover for backpack
- Hand warmers
Packing light and bringing only the essentials is important, as you will carry your gear throughout the trek. We will provide a duffel bag for you to pack your gear in. You can put up to 8 kilos of your personal stuff, including sleeping bags or air mattresses.
Ausangate Trek – Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek is a high-altitude trekking route that takes you through the Vilcanota mountain range in Peru. It is a challenging trek that spans approximately 70 kilometers, passing through high mountain passes, glacial lakes, and remote Andean communities.
How long does the Ausangate Trek take?
The Ausangate Trek can take anywhere from 4 to 7 days, depending on the route you choose and your hiking speed. Most trekkers take around 5 days to complete the trek.
What is the best time of year to do the Ausangate Trek?
The best time to do the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. During this time, the weather is generally dry and clear, making it easier to hike through the mountains.
What is the altitude of the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) at the Ausangate Pass. This makes it challenging, and it is recommended that trekkers spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude before starting the trek.
What should I pack for the Ausangate Trek?
You should pack warm clothing, a good-quality sleeping bag, a sturdy pair of hiking boots, a hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, a water bottle, and a backpack. Trekking poles and a headlamp are also recommended.
Is it safe to do the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek is generally safe, but it is challenging and requires good fitness and experience with high-altitude hiking. It is important to follow your guide’s instructions and take all necessary safety precautions while on the trek.
Do I need a guide for the Ausangate Trek?
While it is possible to do the Ausangate Trek independently, hiring a guide is recommended. A guide will be able to provide you with valuable information about the route, as well as ensure your safety and comfort throughout the trek.
How do I get to the starting point of the Ausangate Trek?
The starting point of the Ausangate Trek is typically the village of Tinki, which is located approximately 3 hours from Cusco. You can get to Tinki by bus or private transportation from Cusco. Your tour operator will typically arrange transportation for you.
What is the difficulty level of the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek is considered a challenging trek due to its high altitude and steep, rocky terrain. You will need a good level of fitness and experience with high-altitude hiking.
What is the altitude of the Ausangate Trek?
The trek reaches a maximum altitude of 5,200 meters (17,060 feet) at the Ausangate Pass. Trekkers should spend a few days acclimatizing to the altitude before starting the trek.
Is it safe to do the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek is generally safe, but necessary safety precautions such as hiring a guide, bringing appropriate gear, and properly acclimatizing to the altitude should be taken. Weather conditions can also affect the trail, so it is important to be flexible with your itinerary.
