Ausangate (6,384m) is the highest Apu (Inca sacred mountain) in Peru, revered by the Inca as the origin of life because its glaciers melt into the region’s vital rivers. Centuries ago, Inca pilgrims would hike the trails of Ausangate to pay homage, make offerings, and seek good fortune.
Today, these trails are the starting points of our 5-day trek. The area is now home to a few remote pastoral communities, which make a living herding alpacas and llamas. We will have opportunities to visit them at the beginning and end of the trek. These herders preserve a traditional way of life and have adapted to high altitudes. However, these altitudes may be problematic for first-time mountain trekkers, who will need time to acclimatize.
This trek is most appropriate for seasoned trekkers or those in good physical condition. You will need to cross four tough passes: Arapa pass (4,800m), Apuchata pass (4,900m), Palomani pass (5,200m), then finally Campa pass (5,050m). Additionally, the weather will be colder than more typical Peru locations. There won’t be Inca architecture or ruins to see, but the surreal natural scenery on the trek will make up for it.
Peru Travel Insights
Ausangate Camping Trek
If you’re looking for a beautiful and more remote trek in Peru, the Ausangate trek may be perfect for you. On this 8-day itinerary, you’ll discover the beauty and rugged highlands of the Ausangate region, hike past glacial lakes, and wander amidst herds of alpacas.
Inca Trail & Ausangate Trek - 14 Days
Discover three of Peru's top destinations: Cusco, the Inca Trail, and Ausangate, in this comprehensive, unforgettable tour. Wander through cobblestone streets, mountain trails, and lush forests to experience the best sights the region has to offer. From Incan ruins to the highest Andean peaks, this tour gives a taste of both Peru's rich history and breathtaking scenery.
Best 10 Treks in Peru
Peru — a nation with abundant natural diversity, from coast, to mountains, to jungle — has long attracted lovers of the Great Outdoors. The Peruvian Andes, running like a backbone down the centre of the country, contain mesmerizing variations in landscape that make for some of the best trekking in the world. Cloud forests, 5000m+ cordilleras (mountain ranges), the world’s deepest canyon and the striking remains of ancient civilizations all await.
Adventure Awaits: Rafting, Biking & Trekking - 15 Days
An activity-filled expedition to the South of Peru. A multi-day tour full of new experiences that excite & challenge. This is a tour for all age ranges, group sizes and all types of experience.
Best Treks to Machu Picchu
A visit to Machu Picchu is the highlight of most people’s trip to Peru. In fact, this ancient Inca Citadel attracts over a million visitors each year. Many visitors get there by way of the classic Inca Trail. Yet, there are numerous treks that take you there, each unique in their own right.
Sacred Valley & Ausangate Mountain - 12 Days
Experience Peru's rich cultural history and hike through the Andes on this exciting blended trip. Spend several days exploring ancient Inca sites in Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu. Then continue on foot through the mountains, trekking on and around Ausangate through vast glacial valleys and between herds of wild vicuñas. Spend your nights in cozy mountain lodges operated in collaboration with local communities.
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Meet our Local Travel Specialists
Jimena Salazar
For me, traveling is about much more than just visiting places. It’s about opening new paths in your life—through the people you meet, the flavors you try, and the landscapes that take your breath...
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Liz Karen L. Jihuallanca
Peruvian food, culture, and history aren’t just things I love—they’re a part of who I am. As a proud Cusqueñian, I carry my roots with pride and love sharing my culture with others. I've lived...
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Io Gillhuber
Growing up in Germany, I was lucky to spend several vacations in different places in Europe. When I finished school, I started exploring the world on my own, and I couldn’t get enough of it....
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Anne Godoy
I fell in love with Peru's landscapes, culture, food, and people—not only because of what I learned in college but also because of what I had seen and lived my whole life. That passion and love...
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Trip Reviews for Peru
This was an amazing trip. There were 2 glit...
Peru
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Apr 26 - May 10, 2026
This was an amazing trip. There were 2 glitches in the schedule, the strike in Bolivia which caused us to miss Puma Punko but KimKim quickly made alternative suggestions and tours. Plus a change in Nazca line air tours from Paracus but KimKim quickly solved our hotel and tour options to make it happen. Overall we were very happy with the hotel selections and tours.
Very good experience
Peru
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May 7 - May 15, 2026
