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AUSANGATE TREK VS INCA TRAIL: TWO TREKKING ROUTE COMPARISON

You’ve come to the right place if you want to explore Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail. If you’re undecided about which route to pick or simply want to explore both routes, you’re in the right place.

It will be interesting to compare the impressive Ausangate Trek or Inca Trail, discovering their charms, challenges, and unique experiences. If you are searching for an adventure among ancient trails and stunning landscapes, then you are about to embark on an exciting journey.

This Inkayni Peru Tours’ blog is not just a read – it’s a guide that will help you decide which path to follow for your next adventure. Are you ready to explore these routes? Come along with me as we review the Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail Hike.

WHAT IS THE AUSANGATE TREK?

The Ausangate Trek is an impressive trekking route that circles snowy Ausangate, Peru’s fourth-highest mountain and the highest in the Cusco region.

Ausangate Trek, dos pérsonas modelando frente al nevado Ausangate y tambien las lagunas que hay cerca de alli. AUSANGATE TRE VS INCA TRAIL

The Ausangate Trek circles Ausangate Mountain offering breathtaking views from above.

This incredible southern trekking route shows snow-capped mountains, lakes, dry Puna grasslands, glaciers and biodiversity dwelling above 4000 m / 13,123 ft among the Andes mountains. This is not just a trekking route, it is an opportunity to feel real life, feel freedom while trekking under the sunlight or spending the night under a starry sky.

WHAT IS THE INCA TRAIL?

The Inca Trail was an ancient network of trails, paths or even roads throughout the Incan Empire. Furthermore, the original name of the Inca Trail was “Qhapac Ñan”.

However, the most famous patch of the Inca Trail is in Cusco. This path begins at km 82 and ends at Machu Picchu and it is the worldwide known route where people face tough challenges whilts they go onwards 44 km / 27 mi through the Andes.

Personas realizando el camino Inca como también se ve la logística de la agencia Inkayni Peru tours. | Ausangate Trek or Inca Trail

Inkayni Peru Tour’s private group enjoying their trek and food.

AUNSANGATE TREK VS INCA TRAIL HIKE – HIGHLIGHTS OR FAMOUS ATTRACTIONS

AUSANGATE TREK HIGHLIGHTS

The Ausangate Trek show its natural beauty along the route. Natural resources are there and you will witness them when trekking.

Consider that not every resource mentioned below could be seen in a row. Depending on the route you plan to trek or the tour you have hired. I recommend you bring your camera to portray every interesting thing you capture.

  1. Lakes: There are lots of them along the route, specifically in the foothills of glaciers and snow-capped mountains. Their names are in Quechua owing to ancient Andean dwellers. Some of the most beautiful lakes which can be found are Kinsacocha, and Sibinacocha among others.
  2. Snow-capped Ausangate: This towering Apu can be seen along the whole trekking route. I remind you that it is the fourth-highest mountain in Peru and the highest in the Cusco region (6,384 m / 20,940 ft ASL). It’s so high that it can be seen from Cusco city, maybe 120 km / 74 mi far away.
  3. Rainbow Mountain: This is the second most famous tourist attraction in Cusco. Most of the tourists usually go there to take photos which does not make sense in my personal opinion.
  4. Hot Springs: The three hot pools are located in Paqchanta. This town usually is the trailhead of the Ausangate Trek.
Atractivos turísticos o r4ecursos turísticos en la ruta de Ausangate Trek. | Ausngate Trek or Inca Trail

The main charm that the Aunsangate Trek offers is nature.

INCA TRAIL HIGHLIGHTS

The Inca Trail combines ancient culture with the realm of natural resources. Along the Inca Trail exist archaeological complexes nestled on the mountain’s slopes but also there are towns which still have their cultural heritage alive. In my opinion, the most important highlight of this trek is not cultural nor natural, it’s the experience and challenges you’ve decided to face before arriving at Machu Picchu.

  1. Patallaqta:  On the hike, this is the first archaeological site located in front of the path.
  2. Runkurakay: It was an urban and religious centre where the Incas controlled travellers’ access. It has a circular shape and is small in size.
  3. Sayacmarca: Also known as the “standing town” or “dominant town”.
  4. Phuyupatamarca: This place is also known as the “City above the Clouds”. Why? When you reach this place, you are literally above the clouds.
  5. Chachabamba (Short Inca Trail): This is one of the first points to visit if you take the Short Inca Trail, which starts at Km 104 of the railway. It is believed that this place was used for worshipping water and is considered a secondary gate that guarded Machu Picchu’s entrance.
  6. Wiñayhuayna: This place has beautiful views of the Urubamba River and Wiñayhuayna, which means “always young” due to its abundance of orchids around it.
Atractivos turisticos o recursos turísticos en la ruta del Camino Inca | Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail Hike

Along the Inca Trail, you will explore history and walk over cobblestone paths.

HOW TO BOOK AUSANGATE TREK VS INCA TRAIL?

AUSANGATE TREK OR INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY:

STEP 1: CHOOSE A RELIABLE TRAVEL AGENCY

Better if it’s a specialized travel agency for this kind of outdoor activity. Also, if we talk about Peru, make sure it is a fully legal agency and has the necessary experience and trekking equipment for the Ausangate Trek.

We recommend looking for reviews of the agency you are considering on sites such as TripAdvisor, Google, Facebook, etc., as they will give you a more accurate perspective of the travel agency.

Inkayni Peru Tours is the right option. Why? Because we have everything you need for trekking and other outdoor activities among the tough Peruvian Andes.

STEP 2: CONTACT THE AGENCY OR ASK FOR A TAILORED TOUR

When you have made your choice of travel agency, you can contact them then.

Travel agencies normally communicate through E-mails, Messenger, WhatsApp, phone calls, etc. By using these alternatives, you can request and receive more information about the service you are willing to take.

STEP 3: CONFIRM AVAILABILITY AND BOOK

Make sure there is availability for the chosen date. Do you have any doubts? Don’t worry, you can ask your travel agent about the details that are not clear to you or if you are not sure about the information received.

Keep this in mind! To book the Ausangate Trek, make your reservation at least one month ahead, as this trek is subject to travel agencies’ availability. It’s almost impossible to depart with a single person at least you can pay for all the logistics and services including transportation, guides, cooks, mules, muleteers and so on.

NOTE: The Inca Trail have to be booked ahead of time owing to its popularity. Many people around the world want to hike this trek.

The Peruvian government only give 500 tickets per day to access the Inca Trail. In this 500 tickets include cooks, porters, guides and tourists. This means that only 200 tourists could enter the Inca Trail per day accompanied by their staff.

The Peruvian government only give 500 tickets per day to access the Inca Trail. In this 500 tickets are include cooks, porters, guides and tourists. Thus means that just 200 tourist could enter the Inca Trail per day acompained by them staff.

STEP 4: MAKE THE PAYMENT

Payment methods are up to the companies, so it is necessary to understand travel agencies’ payment policies. Some agencies usually ask for a certain percentage of the advance payment or the full fare.

Remember to take your time to decide based on your tastes and preferences.

AUNSANGATE TREK VS INCA TRAIL – AVAILABILITY

Availability is a detail to consider before choosing the Ausangate Trek or Inca Trail, as both require certain requirements to go through. You should also consider the availability of groups in travel agencies that play an important role, especially in prices.

AUSANGATE TREK AVAILABILITY

If you want to trek around the imposing Ausangate mountain, it’s necessary to know the agency’s scheduled departure dates. Keep this in mind! When looking for an agency, you should make sure that they have groups available for the dates you plan to start off the trek.

Do I need tickets? The advantage of going on the Ausangate Trek is you don’t need any tickets whereas on the Inca Trail. You can book it earlier in advance than on the Inca Trail. Unless you are a traveller who forgot this detail, you are likely to find overnight groups. However, we recommend booking at least three weeks in advance to ensure your place in a group.

Reserva con Inkayni Peru Tours | Inca Trail Hike availability

Many travellers book ahead due to the availability!

INCA TRAIL AVAILABILITY

The Inca Trail is one of the most popular and sold-out treks, so you need to be even more careful about availability than the Ausangate Trek. To book this trek, it is necessary to do it at least 4 months ahead of time. How come? Because for this trek, permits are required that only travel agencies authorized to operate on the Inca Trail, such as Inkayni Peru Tours, can obtain.

Permits are limited, with only 500 available per day. So, if you are thinking of doing this trek, you should consider both the time required for booking and the choice of travel agency.

In comparison, the Ausangate Trek has more availability flexibility and you don’t need to book as far in advance as the Inca Trail. However, both options have specific requirements, so it is essential to plan carefully and choose a reliable agency to ensure a satisfactory experience.

Viajero sujetando su teléfono con el boleto de ingreso a Machupicchu y en el fondo esta la misma ciudadela de Machupicchu. | Inca Trail Availability

Remember, entrance tickets for Inca Trail and Machu Picchu are limited.

TREKKING DIFFICULTY OF AUSANGATE TREK VS INCA TRAIL

Trekking difficulty worries many travellers, although it shouldn’t be. Everything in the world is difficult at some point in life. These treks are rated as tough to challenging, but almost all the tourists who embark on this adventure complete it!

As difficult as it can be, the rewards are rewarding when doing either of these two treks, whether it is getting to know one of the wonders of the world like “Machupicchu” or touring the surroundings of one of the highest mountains in Peru. So, don’t worry because Ausangate Trek or Inca Trail have been conquered by many people.

AUSANGATE TREK DIFFICULTY

The Ausangate Trek has challenging difficulty. Why? Because the route is situated at a significant altitude of over 4000 m/ 13,123 ft ASL, which makes it challenging. Remember to be prepared for this trek, properly well acclimatized, and in acceptable physical condition.

During the trek, you will be dazzled by the scenic beauty of the place, which will make your trip unique compared to other treks, always with a breathtaking view of Ausangate!

Viajera realizando la ruta de Ausangate Trek durante la estación de lluvias. | Ausangate Trek on rainy season!

The rainy season is the less recommended time to face the Ausangate Trek.

DIFFICULTY OF INCA TRAIL

The Inca Trail is tough and challenging. Are you worried? The most important thing is to enjoy the experience, which will remain in your mind forever and not think about the difficulty. Always remember that the Inca Trail ends in Machu Picchu, as a consequence, giving up is forbidden. So don’t worry about it; your only concern will be to have an acceptable physical condition to enjoy these treks.

Knowing the difficulty of each of these treks, you can now deduce which one is easier. The decision is up to you, but remember that, being different, both will surprise you and leave you satisfied when you finish them. Remember the importance of packing correctly, preparing yourself physically, mentally and, above all, acclimatising yourself well to avoid altitude sickness whilts trekking.

SIMILARITIES BETWEEN THE AUSANGATE TREK VS INCA TRAIL

LOCATION

Both treks are located in Cusco. Furthermore, Cusco is located in the southern Peruvian Andes, providing opportunities for diverse adventure activities.

However, both trekking routes are far apart. The Inca Trail is to the northwest of Cusco whereas the Ausangate Trek is to the southeast of Cusco city. It means that is impossible to link both treks.

NOTE: The Salkantay Trek and Choquequirao Trek could link the Inca Trail and end in Machu Picchu.

Vista panorámica del centro histórico de la ciudad del Cusco. | Ausangate Trek or Inca Trail

Cusco is a key place for acclimatizing well before trekking tough routes.

RISKS

It’s important to remember that risks are everywhere. So in outdoor activities, they must not be your main concern because most specialized trekking companies take control of them to give you an unforgettable vacation.

As with any outdoor activity, trekkers could fall over, slip and suffer injuries owing to weather conditions among others. If you hire a travel agency’s services, they must provide an expert guide to keep your safety.

Ausangate Trek

Risks are everywhere and they are part of life.

Don’t forget! We have told you several times about altitude sickness and you should be aware of it. The Ausangate Trek’s path was made between 4000 m / 13,123 ft to 5000 m / 16,400 ft ASL, but most Inca Trail’s paths are below 4000 m / 13,123 ft ASL.

We recommend that you acclimatise when you arrive in Cusco at least two days before starting either of the two tough treks.

THE TREKKING

Trekking or hiking is the main activity in both treks. Either following the Inca Trail travelled by Hiram Bingham or exploring the Ausangate route. These trails provide the opportunity to connect with Peru’s history, nature and biodiversity, making each step an enjoyable and enriching experience.

Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail - PATHS

Trekking is the main activity when taking both options.

NATURE AND LANDSCAPES:

Both routes offer spectacular scenery, including mountains, valleys, lakes and glaciers, forests, Puna grasslands, rocky areas, scrubs, etc. They are part of the geography and biodiversity of Peru. Despite its wide biodiversity, 40% are endemic and very special for the Peruvian Nation.

EXTRA DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE AUSANGATE TREK VS INCA TRAIL

INCA TRAIL

  • Final destination: It leads to Machu Picchu, one of the wonders of the world.
  • Duration: Because of its different versions, it can last 2, 4, 5 and 7 days.
  • Scenery: From valleys, elfin forests, tree-lined forests, pre-mountain forests and clod forests.
  • Highest altitude: 4200 m / 13,779 ft ASL.

AUSANGATE TREK

  • Final destination: Circles the Ausangate Mountain offering breathtaking views of its surroundings above 4000 m / 13,123 ft ASL.
  • Duration: Can vary, but generally takes 4 to 7 days, depending on the specific route and stops.
  • Scenery: Puna grasslands, rocky areas, glaciers, lakes, wetlands. The majority of them are above 4000 m / 13,123 ft.
  • Highest altitude: A little more than 5,000 m / 16,404 ft ASL.

If we compare the Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail Hike, I must tell you that they are unique. Nevertheless, that does not mean that you do not need preparation beforehand because both have their own challenges to be faced. The choice is up to your personal preferences and goals, as well as the availability of time and the level of adventure you want.

I leave the decision to you now that you have detailed information about the Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail, such as the trek difficulty, risks, biodiversity or landscapes that each route offers.

Ausangate Trek or Inca Trail, the winner is up to you! Whether you choose a historical and cultural route or a trekking-focused one, both promise incredible satisfaction and unique moments etched in our minds.

It’s time to pack your equipment, lace up your boots and hire Inkayni’ Peru Tour’s service!

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