The Ausangate Snow-Capped Mountain is not just a mountain; for the people of Cusco, it is the most powerful “Apu” (sacred mountain deity) in the region. At 6,384 meters (20,945 feet) above sea level, it stands as the highest peak in the Vilcanota Mountain Range and the fifth highest in all of Peru. Its silhouette is visible even from the city of Cusco on clear days, inviting adventurous travelers to explore its slopes and colorful lakes.
Unlike other mountains that have been domesticated by mass tourism, Ausangate preserves a wild and sacred atmosphere. Here, Quechua culture remains alive: alpaca herders wear their traditional clothing not for photos, but as part of their daily life at over 13,000 feet above sea level.
Contents
How to Get to Ausangate from Cusco
The logistics for visiting Ausangate have improved, but it remains an adventure journey. The main route departs from the city of Cusco toward the southeast.
Starting Points and Access
Most expeditions and hikes begin in two key villages:
- Upis: The most common starting point for those seeking the hot springs and a frontal view of the snow-capped peak.
- Tinqui: A larger village that serves as a logistical hub where muleteers and horses are organized for longer treks.
The road trip from Cusco takes approximately 3 to 4 hours. You follow the highway toward Puno and then take the turnoff toward Ocongate. The route is mostly paved, making access easier for day tours to specific attractions such as the Seven Lakes.
Trekking Around Ausangate: One of the Most Beautiful Routes in the World
The trekking circuit around Ausangate is considered by National Geographic and expert mountaineers to be one of the best hiking routes in the world. It is not a trek toward a citadel (like the Inca Trail), but rather a journey through high-mountain landscapes.
Hiking Options
- Seven Lakes of Ausangate (Full Day): The most popular option today. It is a circular route that visits turquoise, green, and cobalt-blue lakes fed by the glaciers of the mountain.
- Classic Circuit (5 to 6 days): A demanding route that circles the mountain. You cross high passes exceeding 5,000 meters (16,400 feet), such as Palomani Pass.
- Connection with Vinicunca: It is possible to combine the Ausangate trek with the famous Rainbow Mountain, offering a complete experience of the region’s multicolored geography.
Weather and Best Time to Visit Apu Ausangate
The weather in Ausangate is unpredictable and extreme. Being surrounded by glaciers, temperatures can drop drastically within minutes.
- Ideal Season (May to September): This coincides with the Andean winter. Days are intensely blue with almost no rain. It is the best time for photography and trekking, although nights are extremely cold (down to 5°F).
- Risk Season (December to March): This is the rainy season. Visibility of the mountain is limited most of the time, and trails can become dangerous due to hail and snow.
Physical Preparation and Altitude: The Greatest Challenge
Visiting Ausangate is not something to do immediately after landing in Cusco. The average altitude during the trek is 4,500 meters (14,760 feet), which requires prior preparation.
Acclimatization Tips
It is recommended to stay in Cusco or the Sacred Valley for at least 3 days before attempting any hike in Ausangate. Drinking coca tea, staying hydrated, and avoiding heavy meals on the first day are essential. Altitude sickness is real, and due to the remoteness of the area, evacuation can be complicated.
Essential Gear
- Footwear: Trekking boots with good grip and ankle support.
- Clothing: The layering system is mandatory. Thermal clothing, fleece layers, and a high-quality waterproof jacket (Gore-Tex or similar).
- Trekking poles: Your knees will thank you, especially during steep descents over rocky terrain.
Cultural Importance: The Lord of Qoyllur Rit’i
Ausangate is not just a rock covered in ice; it is a pilgrimage center. Every year, weeks before Corpus Christi, thousands of people make a pilgrimage to the sanctuary of Qoyllur Rit’i, located in a nearby valley. The “Ukukus” ascend the glaciers to bring back blocks of ice considered sacred and healing water. This tradition has been declared Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ausangate
1. Do I need to be an expert to visit Ausangate? For the Seven Lakes (Full Day) tour, you only need decent physical condition and proper acclimatization. For the 5-day circuit, previous high-altitude hiking experience and strong endurance are required.
2. Are there hotels near the mountain? There are no luxury hotels directly at the base, but there are luxury lodges (Andean Lodges) offering high-end experiences along the route. Basic accommodations are also available in communities such as Upis or Pacchanta.
3. Can I see the snow-capped mountain without hiking much? Yes, from the village of Pacchanta you get a spectacular view of the peak. There are also tours that reach nearby viewpoints by ATV or horseback.
