The Ausangate Trek is one of the most challenging yet breathtaking hikes in Peru, and it’s perfect for adventurous hikers looking to explore the rugged beauty of the Andes Mountains. The trek takes you around the Ausangate Mountain, the highest peak in southern Peru, and rewards you with stunning views of snow-capped peaks, high-altitude lakes, glaciers, and wildlife. While most hikers choose to hire a guide, it is possible to hike the Ausangate Trek without one. However, it requires thorough preparation, good physical condition, and a sense of adventure.
This guide will provide everything you need to know to hike the Ausangate Trek independently, covering essential topics such as the trek’s difficulty, itinerary, necessary gear, acclimatization, and safety tips.
Why Hike the Ausangate Trek Without a Guide?
Hiking the Ausangate Trek without a guide offers more freedom and flexibility, allowing you to go at your own pace and connect with the remote, untouched landscapes of the Andes. While hiring a guide can make the trek easier logistically, doing it on your own can be an incredibly rewarding challenge. You’ll feel a deep sense of accomplishment when you finish this 5-7 day trek with nothing but your own wits and preparation to rely on.
Difficulty and Duration of the Ausangate Trek
The Ausangate Trek is considered a high-altitude and strenuous trek. It covers approximately 43 miles (70 kilometers), and it takes between 5 and 7 days to complete, depending on your pace and route. The trail reaches altitudes of over 16,500 feet (5,000 meters), so physical fitness and experience with altitude trekking are crucial.
Some sections of the trek are steep, rocky, and exposed, making the hike physically demanding. Altitude sickness is also a concern, so it’s important to be acclimatized before starting the trek.
Itinerary for the Ausangate Trek
While there are multiple ways to hike the Ausangate Trek, a common itinerary for an unguided trek is as follows:
Day 1: Tinki to Upis
- Distance: 6 miles (10 kilometers)
- Elevation Gain: 1,000 feet (300 meters)
- Estimated Time: 4-6 hours
Start your trek in the small town of Tinki, located about three hours from Cusco. From here, you’ll follow a well-marked trail that gradually ascends to Upis, a small community known for its thermal hot springs. Spend the night in Upis to rest and acclimatize.
Day 2: Upis to Pucacocha
- Distance: 7 miles (11 kilometers)
- Elevation Gain: 2,300 feet (700 meters)
- Estimated Time: 5-7 hours
On the second day, you’ll climb to the first high pass of the trek, Arapa Pass, which sits at around 15,800 feet (4,800 meters). After the pass, the trail descends to the stunning Pucacocha Lake, where you can set up camp for the night.
Day 3: Pucacocha to Palomani Pass to Huchuy Phinaya
- Distance: 8 miles (13 kilometers)
- Elevation Gain: 2,100 feet (650 meters)
- Estimated Time: 6-8 hours
This is one of the most challenging days as you ascend to the highest point of the trek, Palomani Pass, at 16,732 feet (5,100 meters). The views from the pass are extraordinary, but be prepared for thin air and cold winds. After crossing the pass, the trail descends to the valley of Huchuy Phinaya.
Day 4: Huchuy Phinaya to Qampa Pass to Pacchanta
- Distance: 10 miles (16 kilometers)
- Elevation Gain: 1,300 feet (400 meters)
- Estimated Time: 7-9 hours
Today, you’ll cross Qampa Pass, another high-altitude pass at around 16,400 feet (5,000 meters). After the pass, you’ll descend toward the village of Pacchanta, where you can enjoy a well-deserved soak in the hot springs.
Day 5: Pacchanta to Tinki
- Distance: 6 miles (10 kilometers)
- Elevation Loss: 1,000 feet (300 meters)
- Estimated Time: 3-5 hours
On the final day, you’ll hike back to Tinki, completing the circuit around the Ausangate Mountain. The trail is mostly downhill, and you’ll pass through several small villages before returning to where you started.
What to Pack for the Ausangate Trek
Since you’ll be hiking without a guide or porters, it’s essential to pack wisely but thoroughly. Here’s a list of recommended gear for the trek:
- Backpack (40-50 liters): Make sure it’s comfortable and large enough to carry your camping gear, food, and clothing.
- Tent: A lightweight, weather-resistant tent is crucial as temperatures can drop below freezing at night.
- Sleeping Bag: A sleeping bag rated for cold weather (down to -10°C or 14°F) is recommended.
- Sleeping Pad: A good sleeping pad will provide insulation and comfort.
- Clothing:
- Base layers (moisture-wicking)
- Insulating layers (fleece, down jacket)
- Waterproof and windproof outer layers
- Hat, gloves, and scarf
- Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots
- Cooking Equipment: A lightweight camping stove, fuel, pots, and utensils.
- Food: Bring enough high-calorie, non-perishable food for 5-7 days. Snacks like nuts, energy bars, and dried fruits are essential.
- Water Purification: A water filter or purification tablets, as water from streams and lakes needs to be treated.
- Trekking Poles: Helpful for steep ascents and descents.
- First Aid Kit: Include altitude sickness medication, blister treatment, and basic supplies like bandages and antiseptic.
- Navigation Tools: A map, compass, and GPS device or phone with offline maps are essential since trails can sometimes be poorly marked.
Acclimatization and Dealing with Altitude
One of the biggest challenges of the Ausangate Trek is the altitude. Most of the trek takes place above 13,000 feet (4,000 meters), and the highest point reaches over 16,500 feet (5,000 meters). Before starting the trek, spend several days in Cusco or another high-altitude location to acclimatize.
Symptoms of altitude sickness include headaches, dizziness, nausea, and fatigue. To prevent altitude sickness:
- Ascend gradually: Follow the “hike high, sleep low” rule, where you hike to a high elevation during the day but sleep at a lower altitude.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
- Rest: Take it slow and avoid pushing yourself too hard.
If symptoms of altitude sickness become severe, descend to a lower altitude immediately.
Safety Tips for Hiking the Ausangate Trek Without a Guide
Hiking the Ausangate Trek without a guide is possible, but it comes with risks. Here are some tips to ensure a safe and successful trek:
- Prepare for Weather Changes: The weather in the Andes is unpredictable. Be prepared for sun, rain, snow, and strong winds. Always carry waterproof clothing and gear.
- Stay on the Trail: While the trail is generally well-marked, it’s still possible to get lost, especially during bad weather. Always carry a map and use a GPS device.
- Tell Someone Your Plans: Let a friend or family member know your itinerary, and check in with them when you have phone service.
- Respect the Locals: Many small communities live along the trail. Be respectful of their lands and traditions. It’s also polite to ask for permission before camping near villages.
- Know Your Limits: The trek is tough, so listen to your body. If you feel unwell or exhausted, take a rest day or shorten your trek.
Conclusion
The Ausangate Trek is one of the most rewarding and challenging hikes in Peru. Hiking it without a guide allows you to experience the remote beauty of the Andes at your own pace. However, it requires thorough preparation, the right equipment, and an understanding of the challenges posed by high altitude. With careful planning and respect for the environment, the Ausangate Trek can be an unforgettable adventure for independent hikers.
Welcome to Xtreme Tourbulencia! Working hand in hand with our partner Aventure Inca Perou, we strive to promote sustainable tourism, protecting the local environment and culture. We offer a variety of tours and adventure expeditions at the Southern of Peru. The tours are all designed with the highest level of customer service and responsible tourism. We look forward to sharing Peru's amazing outdoors and deep culture heritage with you! Our priority is to provide outstanding service for our clients. Next to our professionalism, it is very important for us to minimize our environmental impact and show respect for local culture, nature and the people of Peru. That's why our objective is to make tourism more sustainable. Therefore, our agency only works with experienced and professionally licensed guides who have great knowledge of the environment, local culture and history. We offer tours in the following languages: Spanish, French, English, German, Italian and Quechua.
