Trekking glacier Ausangate 1D
Ausangate is a geological work of art. Its immaculately white glacier extends into jagged peaks and sharp peaks that defy the sky. It is the heart of a high-mountain ecosystem, a vital source of water that feeds rivers and lagoons of intense turquoise, emerald, and blue that dot the valleys below. The surrounding landscape is extremely beautiful, characterized by a vast and silent “puna” (Andean plateau), where herds of llamas and alpacas graze freely.
Introduction
Ausangate
With its towering snow-capped peak reaching 6,384 meters, this sacred glacier has been revered by Andean communities since the time of the Incas as a protector and giver of life. Beyond its geological majesty, Ausangate invites adventurers on a journey of discovery through vibrantly colored lagoons, dreamlike landscapes, and a deep connection with nature, revealing why this frozen wonderland is a place where the spirit of the Andes lives and breathes.
Dificultad y Preparación
- Difficulty: Moderate to high due to altitude and uneven terrain
- Preparation: It is essential to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trek.
- Equipment: Thermal clothing, trekking boots, hiking poles, sunscreen and camping gear
FULL DAY
One-Day Itinerary to the Ausangate Glacier
- 4:00 AM – 4:30 AM: Pickup in Cusco. The day starts very early. A tourist shuttle will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco to begin the approximately 2.5-hour journey south.
- 7:00 AM: Breakfast in Pacchanta. You will arrive at the community of Pacchanta, where an energetic breakfast will prepare you for the hike.
- 8:00 AM: Trekking Start. You will begin the hike on foot. The trail will take you through a stunning Puna landscape, with panoramic views of the Vilcanota Mountain Range and, in the distance, the majestic Ausangate Mountains.
- 9:00 AM – 1:00 PM: Lagoon Tour. During these hours, you’ll discover the seven vibrantly colored lagoons, each with a name in Quechua: Pucacocha, Azulcocha, Alqacocha, Qomercocha, Oqeqocha, Pataqocha, and Comercocha. The colors of their waters, which vary from turquoise to blue to green, are a visual spectacle. The views of the Ausangate Glacier reflected in the lagoons are the highlight of the tour.
- 1:30 PM: Lunch and Hot Springs. You’ll return to the community of Pacchanta for a comforting lunch. Afterward, you’ll have the opportunity to relax in the community’s hot springs, a perfect place to recharge while admiring the Andean landscape.
- 3:00 PM: Return to Cusco. The bus will be waiting for you to begin the return trip to Cusco.
- 6:00 PM: Arrival in Cusco You will arrive in the center of Cusco, ending a day full of adventure and unforgettable landscapes.
INCLUYE + DETALLES DE RUTA
Transportation
- Hotel pickup in Cusco.
- Transportation to the trek start (Mollepata or Soraypampa).
- Return by train/bus from Aguas Calientes to Cusco (depending on the package).
Meals
- Breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek.
- Snacks (tea, hot water, cookies).
- Cook and assistants during the trek.
Safety
- First aid kit.
- Emergency oxygen.
❌ Not included:
• Entrance to Ausangate Glacier (15-20 soles)
• Entrance to hot springs (optional)
• Tips
Before the Trek
- Acclimatization: Arrive in Cusco at least 2–3 days early to get used to the altitude.
- Pre-training: Hiking, running, or light cardio to build endurance.
- Sleep well: Avoid staying up late or drinking alcohol the day before.
Equipment and Clothing
- Small backpack (30–40L): To carry water, snacks, a camera, a coat, and daily essentials.
- Large backpack (60–70L): If you don’t hire additional porters (mules usually carry some of the weight).
- Layered clothing:
o Quick-drying t-shirts.
o Fleece jackets or a mid-layered coat.
o Waterproof and windproof jacket.
o Thermal clothing for the evenings (it gets very cold in Soraypampa).
- Trekking footwear: Sturdy, comfortable, and waterproof boots.
- Sandals/light sneakers: For resting at camp.
- Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses (the sun is strong at high altitudes).
- Gloves, hat, and scarf (it can be cold in the early morning).
- Headlamp with extra batteries.
- Sleeping bag with a temperature of -10°C (if not, rent one).
Food and Hydration
- Bring a reusable water bottle or camelback (minimum 1.5–2 L).
- Water purification tablets or a personal filter.
- Energy snacks: nuts, chocolate, cereal bars.
- Avoid alcohol and heavy meals during the trek.
Health and Safety Tips
- Walk at your own pace, without rushing (especially on the climb to Salkantay Pass, 4,650 m).
- Use coca leaves or sorojchi pills if you experience symptoms of altitude sickness.
- Protect yourself from the cold at night and from the sun during the day (sudden changes in weather).
- Bring a personal first aid kit: pain relievers, band-aids, and your own medications.
- Always follow the guide’s instructions.
Extras to Consider
- Cash in soles (for swims, extra snacks, tips, and the Cocalmayo hot springs).
- Swimsuit and a light towel if you plan to go to the hot springs.
- Camera with extra battery (there’s not always electricity to charge).
