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Ausangate And Rainbow Mountain Trek 6 Days
From
$1,740.00 pp
It is located northeast of the City of Cusco, between the Apurimac River, and the Vilcabamba Mountain Range, where the Salkantay snow – capped peak stands out with an altitude of 6 271 m.a.s.l. (20575 ft.). The biodiversity offered by this hike includes sightings of endangered species such as the Andean condor, the puma and the spectacled bear. This area served as a refuge and natural fortress to the sixteenth Inca resistance movement of the 16th century. According to oral tradition, it is believe that EL DORADO is located in this area, still hidden from the archaeology.
We will pick you up from your hotel at 3:00 a.m. to start the journey towards the town of Capuliyoc. Along the way, we’ll pass through the towns of Izcuchaca and stop at the Tarawasi Archaeological Complex. We will then continue our drive until we reach the Cunyac Bridge, passing by the towns of Curahuasi, Saywite, and Cachora before arriving at Capuliyoc. At Capuliyoc, the pack animals and muleteers will be prepared, and we will begin our trek with stunning views of the surrounding landscapes, the Vilcanota mountain range, and its glaciers. We’ll ascend along zigzagging paths until we reach the village of Chiquisca (6,330 masl), and from there, continue to the town of Santa Rosa, where we will stop for lunch.
After lunch, we will continue our journey, passing by the Padrayoc snow-capped peak, towards the town of Marampata, which is an 8-kilometer (5-mile) hike, taking approximately 5 hours. During this portion of the trek, you’ll enjoy magnificent views, beautiful landscapes, warm weather, and the impressive Apurímac canyon, along with the glaciers of the Vilcabamba mountain range. This is where we will set up our first campsite and enjoy dinner.
After breakfast at approximately 6:00 a.m., we’ll begin our second day of hiking towards the lost city of Choquequirao, which is said to be three times larger than Machu Picchu. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks and stunning landscapes, Choquequirao is steeped in rich history, waiting to be discovered.
We will explore Choquequirao for approximately five hours, accompanied by our guide, who will share insights about this important Inca refuge. During the visit, we’ll explore key sites including the Administrator’s House, Pikiwasi, the Priest’s Temple, Main Plaza, the llamas, the Qolqas (Inca storage rooms), and the House of the Mummies. After the guided tour, we will have lunch on-site, and then begin our hike back to our campsite in Marampata. Dinner and overnight camping.
At approximately 5:00 a.m., we will wake up for breakfast and begin our return journey along the same path as the first day. We’ll pass through the village of Chiquisca and finally reach Capulliyoc, where we will stop for lunch. Along the way, you will have the chance to admire a variety of exotic flora and fauna, panoramic views of majestic snow-capped peaks, and the stunning Apurímac canyon, considered the most spectacular in South America.
Optionally, if time permits, we will stop in the afternoon at the Cconocc thermal medicinal baths, where we will rest for about an hour before continuing our return to the Imperial City of Cusco. We will arrive at approximately 8:00 p.m., concluding our service with a transfer back to your hotel.
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Private Tour Pricing
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The Choquequirao trek is considered to be of high difficulty due to the long hikes and steep ascents, especially between Capuliyoc and Marampata. It is recommended to be in good physical condition.
It takes approximately 2 to 3 hours to reach Choquequirao from Marampata, depending on the pace of the group.
During the trek, you will sleep in rustic campsites, where tents and sleeping bags are provided. The nights are spent in Marampata, a small village in the mountains.
The hike is quite challenging, with a steep descent to the Apurímac River followed by a tough ascent to Marampata. This section is one of the most demanding parts of the trek.
Yes, it is recommended to spend at least two days in Cusco or another area of similar altitude to acclimatize before starting the trek, as altitudes above 3,000 meters are reached.
Along the trek, you may spot various birds, such as condors, as well as endemic flora and, if lucky, some small mammals native to the Andean region.
The best time to do the trek is during the dry season, from May to October, when trail conditions are more stable and the views are clearer.
Facilities are basic. There are rustic restrooms at some campsites, but it is recommended to bring toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
Yes, it is possible, but it would require more time. The Choquequirao trek can be combined with a visit to Machu Picchu with careful planning and additional days.
You should pack light and warm clothing, rain gear, trekking boots, sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, insect repellent, flashlight, and a reusable water bottle. It’s also advisable to bring energy snacks.
We are Inca Perú Travel certified tour operator, we offer tours to different destinations in Peru, as well as cultural experiences, adventure tours, gastronomic tourism and our most recent experiential and community tourism tours.
