Beyond the Peaks: A Journey through Ausangate

OVERVIEW

A private high-altitude journey designed for travelers seeking a deeper connection with nature and some of the most remote landscapes in the Andes. This immersive expedition circles the majestic Ausangate, a mountain revered as sacred by local communities, crossing glacier-fed lakes, high mountain passes, and vast Andean valleys. Over four days, travelers experience the serenity of rarely visited places while gaining insight into the living cultural traditions that continue to shape this extraordinary region.

DURATION:

4 Days / 3 Nights

DESTINATIONS:

Cusco – Pacchanta – Seven Lakes Circuit – Upis – Four Lakes Circuit – Pampachiri Palomani Pass – Soraypata – Jampa Pass – Pacchanta – Cusco

Itinerary

Day 1 → Cusco – Pacchanta – Seven Lakes Circuit – Upis

Begin before sunrise with a private transfer to Pacchanta, where a local breakfast prepares you for the adventure ahead.

Follow the Seven Lakes Circuit, surrounded by glacier-fed lakes, snowcapped peaks, alpine landscapes, and Ausangate’s majestic presence.

Continue toward the Upis Valley, where natural hot springs offer a peaceful moment of relaxation before dinner and an overnight stay at camp.

What's Included

Meals Included

Day 2 → Upis – Four Lakes Circuit – Pampachiri

After breakfast, continue through the Four Lakes Circuit, where Pomacanchi, Acopia, Asnacocha, and Pampamarca contrast beautifully with the surrounding Andean peaks.

Enjoy lunch overlooking Lake Ausangate before a peaceful afternoon in Pampachiri, followed by dinner and an overnight stay at camp.

What's Included

Meals Included

Day 3 → Pampachiri – Palomani Pass – Soraypata

After breakfast, ascend to Palomani Pass, the expedition’s highest point at approximately 5,200 m (17,060 ft), with spectacular views of Ausangate and the surrounding peaks.

Descend toward Inca Cárcel for lunch before continuing to Soraypata, a serene alpine valley of lakes and grasslands.

End the day with dinner and your final night beneath the Andean skies.

What's Included

Meals Included

Day 4 → Soraypata – Jampa Pass – Pacchanta – Cusco

After breakfast, ascend toward Jampa Pass, enjoying panoramic views of the mountains and valleys explored throughout the expedition.

After lunch, descend to Pacchanta, where private transportation awaits for your return to Cusco.

A final encounter with the grandeur, tranquility, and spirit of the Andes.

What's Included

Important Altitude Information

This expedition takes place between 4,300 and 5,200 meters (14,108–17,060 feet) above sea level, reaching its highest elevation at Palomani Pass.

Due to the demands of high-altitude trekking, participants should remain well hydrated, maintain a steady pace, and respect rest periods throughout the journey. Our team will continuously support the acclimatization process to help ensure a safe and comfortable experience.

Availability & Operations

Recommended Season (May – October)

The dry season offers the best trekking conditions, with greater weather stability, excellent visibility, and trails generally in optimal condition.

Not Recommended (January – March)

During these months, rainfall and snowfall can significantly affect trail conditions and visibility, making the expedition less suitable during the peak rainy season.

Booking Notes

Advance Reservation

Due to the extensive logistical planning required—including campsites, support staff, meals, and transportation—we recommend booking 45 to 60 days in advance.

Mandatory Acclimatization

As this is a moderate to challenging trek conducted entirely at high altitude, it is essential to spend at least two to three nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before beginning the expedition. Proper acclimatization will greatly enhance both comfort and enjoyment throughout the journey.

INCLUDED

Private transportation from your hotel in Cusco to Pacchanta and return.
Private bilingual guide specialized in high-altitude trekking throughout the expedition.
Full logistical support, including muleteers, a mountain cook, and pack horses for luggage transportation.
Entrance fees to the Seven Lakes and Four Lakes circuits, including access to the Upis hot springs.
All meals during the trek: breakfasts, lunches, and dinners as specified in the itinerary.
Fully equipped private campsites with mountain tents, air mattresses, thermal gear, dining equipment, and trekking poles.
Continuous monitoring of acclimatization and traveler well-being throughout the journey.

NOT INCLUDED

Gratuities
Personal travel insurance
Additional beverages
Meals not mentioned
Expenses not specified in the program

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

HOW PHYSICALLY DEMANDING IS THE EXPEDITION?
This is a challenging high-altitude trek requiring good physical fitness and previous hiking experience.

IS PRIOR ACCLIMATIZATION REQUIRED?
Yes. We recommend spending at least two to three nights in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before departure.

WHAT IS THE HIGHEST POINT OF THE JOURNEY?
Palomani Pass, at approximately 5,200 m (17,060 ft).

WHAT ACCOMODATION IS PROVIDED ?
Comfortable private camps are arranged each evening, with meals prepared by the expedition team.

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?
Warm layered clothing, waterproof gear, suitable hiking boots, sun protection, and a small daypack are essential.

IS THE EXPEDITION AVAILABLE YEAR-ROUND?
The preferred season is from May to October, when conditions are generally drier and trails more accessible.

WILL THERE BE MOBILE PHONE COVERAGE?
Connectivity is extremely limited throughout the route, allowing for a genuine immersion in the Andes.

ARE EMERGENCY ARRANGEMENTS IN PLACE?
Yes. The expedition includes experienced support staff, first-aid equipment, and an emergency response plan.

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