Named after Nevado Ausangate, the highest mountain in southern Peru, the trail begins in the village of Tinki (Tinqui) on the Andean plateau about three hours east of Cusco. Much of the trail soars above 13,100 feet (4,000 meters) and traverses high alpine lakes, glacial valleys, and villages where alpacas graze freely and residents dress in traditional attire.
Travelers typically take 5 to 6 days to complete the 43-mile (70-kilometer) trail. Some tours go to Pacchanta—a town near lagoons filled with birds, alpacas, llamas, and condors—and nearby hot springs, or journey even farther afield to multi-colored Rainbow Mountain.
The Ausangate Trail begins in Tinki (Tinqui), about three hours by road from Cusco where most travelers begin their journey. Be sure to spend at least one or two days in Cusco to acclimatize to the altitude before starting the trail.
The best time to hike Ausangate is July and August, the peak of the Andean dry season, though do prepare for very cold nights. The dry season spans April to October, while the rainy season runs November to March. Well off-the-beaten-track, the trail never sees a lot of tourists, however, expect fellow travelers at Rainbow Mountain.
Add on an extra day to visit the magnificent Rainbow Mountain, known locally as Vinicunca. Eons ago, when the ice melted, dense concentrations of various minerals in the soil formed deep colorful stripes, ranging from red, brown, yellow, to blue, orange, and purple. Plan to reach the mountain at sunrise or right before sunset, when the colors are most vibrant.
