How hard is the Ausangate Trek? Find the most proper answer on this blog.

Are you worried about the difficulty of the Ausangate trek? If you’re considering challenging and wondering: how hard is the Ausangate trek? You’ve come to the right place because, in this blog, we’ll unravel the mystery and explore the crucial question: how difficult is the Ausangate trek?

Get ready to discover the challenges waiting for you on this trekking adventure. From the heights to the terrain, we will explain every aspect so you can decide whether this trek suits your abilities and expectations.

This blog is not just a source of information or text; it is a guide made to help you learn more about the difficulty of the Ausangate trek. Ready to find out if you are up to the challenge? Join me as we explore together how difficult the Ausangate trek is – let’s reveal together the secrets of this incredible route!

WHAT IS THE AUSANGATE TREK?

The Ausangate Trek is a trekking route that runs around the snow-capped Ausangate, known for being one of the highest mountains in Cusco and the fifth highest in Peru. During the trek, the route offers impressive landscapes, such as snow-capped mountains, lakes and the occupancy of flora and fauna dwelling at this altitude.

The Ausangate trek circles the Ausangate mountain.

Keep this in mind! This route is one of the most rewarding for those who seek adventure in nature, enjoy trekking and wish to camp under the moonlight.

HOW DIFFICULT IS THE AUSANGATE TREK?

I can say that this trek is challenging – formidable because of the altitude. Take it easy! If you are a cautious trekker, have trekking experience at higher elevations, good physical condition, and acclimatization before embarking on the trek, the difficulty will be lower and pleasant.

DIFFICULTY OF THE 6 DAYS AUSANGATE TREK

Trekking for 6 days around Ausangate Mountain is a real challenge, but it is worth it. Along the whole trek, you’ll walk 79 km/ 49 mi on rocky and rough trails. On the other hand, aside from the steep sections and 16,000 ft+ elevation passes, is the weather. The Andes’ weather is quite unpredictable, and blizzard conditions at higher altitudes are common, especially in the wet season.

Remember! Altitude is a very important factor to consider since, during the route, elevation varies from 4,000 m / 13,123 ft to 5,000 ml / 16,404 ft ASL. Also, physical condition and acclimatization will be your best weapons to enjoy this trek to the fullest.

DIFFICULTY OF THE 5 DAYS AUSANGATE TREK

This itinerary ranges still between challenging and formidable. Although the trekking distance is less (55.5 km / 34.4 miles) than the 6-day itinerary, the difficulty will remain the same. Keep this in mind!

Weather conditions and altitude can affect your adventure, raising the trek’s difficulty, so preparing yourself physically and mentally before facing it, it’s a must.

Aside from the difficulty, the reward of accomplishing this route is rewarding because the natural Andean beauty is non-comparable with others, and always the presence of Apu Ausangate will witness over you.

DIFFICULTY OF THE 4-DAY AUSANGATE TREK

The 4-day Ausangate Trek is considered moderate to challenging. Although the route is considerably shorter (37.5 km / 23.3 miles) than the 5,6-day trek, the difficulty may be more manageable for some people. However, the route still presents challenges to figure out.

As a trekker and travel agency, Inkayni Peru Tours aims to create our own trekking experiences and ensure that difficulties are just words and not something to worry about.

DIFFICULTY OF THE AUSANGATE 7 LAKES LAKES

The Ausangate 7 Lakes trek has moderate difficulty. The route, which covers 16 km / 9.9 mi, is shorter than others in the same area since this trek lasts only a few hours. However, difficulty is always present due to the altitude besides its length. Remember that the trail routes lie above 4,000 m / 13,123 ft ASL.

So be physically prepared! It is not needed to get a professional level, but it is advisable to be in acceptable physical condition. With this, everything will be possible, and you will say goodbye to the impossible.

DIFFICULTY OF THE AUSANGATE TREK ACCORDING TO THE SEASON IN CUSCO

DRY SEASON (MAY TO SEPTEMBER)

During this season, the days are usually sunny which shows breathtaking scenery along the route. However, you should be prepared for the nights, since, being at a very high altitude, they are quite cold.

As for the trails, they tend to be in good condition, so don’t worry! This means there is less risk of accidents due to mud, and you can easily cross streams.

Will there be fog? Fog will not be very present during mostly early mornings, so don’t worry; you can enjoy all the scenic beauty the route has to offer without visibility problems.

Dry season in the Ausangate trek

WET SEASON (NOVEMBER TO MARCH)

During this season, rainfall is abundant. What does this mean? Frequent rainfall makes trails slippery and, at times, landslides can occur. Days are cold, and at night these conditions intensify even more, especially above 11,000 ft.

Rivers or small streams increase their flows and change their colour from crystal clear water to brown or creamy water.

Will there be fog? In this season, you can expect foggy days, which can affect visibility and prevent those incredible panoramic views found usually during the trek. Be prepared for the weather conditions and pack all necessary precautions to enjoy the trek safe and sound!

Rainy season around Ausangate mountain

ABOUT ALTITUDE AND ALTITUDE SICKNESS OR ILLNESS

AUSANGATE ELEVATION OR ALTITUDE?

Ausangate reaches 6,384 m / 20,944 ft ASL at the summit. That is why this mountain is one of the highest in the Andes mountain range.

It is high, isn’t it? Take it easy! The Ausangate trekking route, the whole trekking route, traces between 4,000 m / 13,123 ft up to 5,000 m / 16,404 ft ASL, so you must carry the proper equipment. Reconsider that your luggage should have just what is necessary instead of lots of items that add weight and waste your energy at the end of the day.

Remember! Andean altitudes should not be a problem on our trips! Avoiding altitude illnesses is wise by having to acclimatize beforehand, and having an acceptable physical condition will help you.

HOW IS THE AUSANGATE WEATHER?

RAINY SEASON (NOVEMBER TO MARCH)

• Ausangate trek weather in November: This month expects rain with daytime temperatures between 12-18°C / 53-64°F. Rainfall is frequent, mainly from November to March. Rainfall is frequent, mainly in the afternoon and evening, affecting visibility due to fog. We recommend wearing waterproof clothing and taking extra precautions.
• Ausangate trek in December: The rainy season continues, with daytime temperatures of 12-18°C / 53-64°F. Although it may improve towards the end of the month, persistent rains may affect visibility. I recommend to be well-equipped with waterproof and thermal clothing.
• Ausangate trek weather in January: It is still in the rainy season, with daytime temperatures ranging between 12-18°C / 53-64°F. Although the weather improves towards the end of the month, persistent rains may affect visibility. It is recommended to be well-equipped with waterproof clothing.
• Ausangate trek in February: The worst month for trekking, with similar daytime temperatures around 12-18°C / 53-64°F. It is advisable to carry full rain gear and maintain well-informed about trail conditions, as storms and blizzards are frequent.
• Ausangate trek in March: Although March is still in the rainy season, there may be a gradual decrease in rainfall at the end of the month. Daytime temperatures could range from 12-18°C / 53-64°F, but humidity persists, so be prepared for wet conditions.

Remember that weather conditions make the Ausangate trek more challenging when trekking in the wet season.

DRY SEASON (MAY TO SEPTEMBER)

Ausangate trek in May: Although the dry season begins this month, rainfall may still occur in May. Daytime temperatures are expected to range from 15-20°C / 59-68°F, and nights can be cold, with temperatures dropping below zero in elevated areas. Visibility is usually excellent, offering clear mountain views.

Ausangate trek weather in June and July: These months are the driest and coldest. Daytime temperatures can reach 20°C / 68°F, but nights are notoriously cold, with frost common. It is essential to bring warm, thermal clothing for the night.

Ausangate trek weather in August and September: Daytime temperatures can be warmer, around 15-18°C / 59-64°F. However, the nights are still very cold and frost occurs. During the day, it affects our landscapes.

Weather in the Andes

 SHOULDER SEASON (OCTOBER AND APRIL)

• Ausangate trek in October: Although the rainy season begins, October could have relatively dry days with daytime temperatures around 15-20°C / 59-68°F. Rainfall increases towards the end of the month, so I recommend bringing waterproof gear.
• Ausangate trek in April: As the rainy season decreases, April can have drier days with cooler daytime temperatures around 15-20°C / 59-68°F. Nights are still cool, but the likelihood of significant rainfall decreases. Visibility gradually improves, offering opportunities to appreciate the beauty of the mountains.

WHAT IS THE COLDEST MONTH IN AUSANGATE? – HOW HARD IS THE AUSANGATE TREK?

We cannot specify exactly the coldest month, but we can make an approximation. Between June and July, the Ausangate route is considerably colder than the rest of the year at night. We can say that the most cold nights are in July.

Despite not being the rainy season, in these months frosts are common in the Cusco region. Daytime temperatures can range between 10-15°C (50-59°F), but temperatures can drop below freezing at night.

During this period, many travellers pack warm clothing and thermal camping gear, ideal for dealing with the cold. Keep that in mind! Being prepared and taking the necessary precautions will make the whole trip a unique and unforgettable experience.

It’s possible to find camping huts to spend the night near villages.

ALTITUDE SICKNESS ON THE AUSANGATE TREK?

The Ausangate trek route lies at an altitude of around 4,000 m / 13,123 ft ASL, which means there are high chances of experiencing altitude sickness symptoms.

Altitude sickness, or Acute Mountain Sickness (AMS), is a health effect that can arise at high elevations. What does it mean? When travelling to high altitudes, such as Cusco, which is above 3000 m / 9,842 ft, illness can make its presence felt. For this reason, many travel agencies, such as Inkayni Peru Tours, recommend acclimatizing for at least a day.

Don’t worry! It should not be a concern. Our intention as travellers is to enjoy our adventures to the fullest. So take the recommendations we will show you in our next section on “Acclimatization in Cusco before Ausangate”.

Altitude sickness

ACCLIMATIZATION IN CUSCO BEFORE AUSANGATE TREK?

Keep in mind that acclimatization is very important for this trek! You will be hiking over 4,000 m / 13123 ft ASL. If you don’t have ample experience at high elevations, you must take this matter seriously.

We will show you some recommendations that you can follow to make your experience unique and unforgettable:

• Time in Cusco: Make sure you dedicate a few days in Cusco to acclimatizing. You can spend 1 or 2 days adapting your body to the lower oxygen pressure of the region.
• Light activities: We know you will be excited, but try not to push yourself to the limit. Opt for light activities, such as walking around town.
• Hydration: A key part of preventing altitude sickness is drinking enough water, as this will help alleviate the feeling of a lack of oxygen.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking: These elements will harm you, as their components dehydrate your body and increase the possibility of altitude sickness.
• Eat light: At high altitudes, our metabolism changes. Eating something heavy can make you feel sick. Start with something light so your body can easily adapt to altitude.
• Get adequate rest: Keep this in mind. This rest period will be crucial for your body to recover and better adapt to low air pressure.

Acclimate yourself beforehand

ABOUT SAFETY

IS THE AUSANGATE TREK DANGEROUS?

Let’s talk about danger. I will provide you with some things to consider if you plan to do this trek. Take it easy! As travellers, we aim to enjoy our trips and have unparalleled experiences.

WEATHER CONDITIONS:

The weather can be challenging sometimes, especially in the rainy season. During colder nights, such as June and July, temperatures are rougher than in other months. In terms of rainfall, the rainy season also brings certain risks, as it is accompanied by fog that can make the road invisible.

TERRAIN:

Along the way, you may encounter rocky and uneven terrain, and small streams flowing down. Being in nature, imperfections make them a perfect delight, especially while trekking. We recommend using proper footwear to avoid falls and protect your feet.

INSULATION:

Remember! This trekking route lies in remote places, far away from cities and towns, so emergency and other services may be limited. You should bring everything you need to complete the trek. In the section below, “What to bring to the Ausangate Trek”, we provide some recommendations.

Danger of the Ausangate trek

IS IT POSSIBLE TO DO AUSANGATE TREK WITHOUT A GUIDE?

If you have no experience, it is possible to do this trekking route as long as you have knowledge of the route and the necessary logistics. However, many travellers opt to rely on a travel agency, such as Inkayni Peru Tours, which takes care of all the logistics, allowing you to enjoy the trip without worrying about details that should not be relevant to your travels.

It is essential to select a legal and expert travel agency. You can use web platforms to look for reviews of who has hired the service, which will help you to make an informed and accurate decision.

ABOUT EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES

WHAT TO PACK FOR AUSANGATE TREK

Taking only the necessary and acclimatizing to your trip is very important. For this we will give you some recommendations that you can consider, remember that the route is in a remote place. So pack properly!

PERSONAL EQUIPMENT:

• Backpack
• Trekking shoes and sandals.
• Comfortable clothes suitable for the weather.
• Hat, gloves.
• Sunscreen.
• Personal hygiene items.

CAMPING EQUIPMENT:

• Tent.
• Sleeping bag.
• Mat or sleeping pad.

SUPPLIES AND FOOD:

• Water purifier.
• Light food and energy snacks.

ORIENTATION AND SAFETY:

• GPS
• Headlamp with batteries.
• Basic first aid kit.

DOCUMENTS AND MONEY:

• Passport.
• Cash.

Proper hiking boots are a must

BENEFITS OF COCA TEA

You have likely heard about the coca leaf, that magic leaf that you were told to take before starting any tour in Cusco. Here we will show you some of the benefits of the coca leaf infusion so you can learn more about it:

• Relief from altitude symptoms: It is believed that drinking a cup of coca tea helps to minimize altitude sickness symptoms. For this reason, some agencies recommend drinking this tea when arriving in Cusco.
• Stimulation and energy: Drinking this infusion will fill energy and alertness due to the caffeine. We recommend drinking it before 6 p.m. so as not to affect your sleep.
• Relief from digestive problems: In many regions of the Peruvian highlands, coca tea is often used to relieve stomach problems.
• Analgesic properties: Although scientific evidence is limited, some people use it to relieve minor aches and pains.
• Did you know? The Paracas culture used coca leaves as an analgesic during cranial trepanations.
• Mood enhancement: Coca leaf contains cocaine, which could relax you.

Coca tea is one of the most widely used home remedies to combat altitude sickness.

Now that you know a bit more about the benefits of coca leaves, you could try them during your trip to Cusco, especially during the Ausangate Trek route. Remember that you will be at an altitude of over 3000 masl / 9842 feet in Cusco and over 4000 masl / 13123 feet during the trekking route.

The Ausangatetrek can be challenging, but every step is worth it. The breathtaking views, the connection with nature and the satisfaction of overcoming difficulties make this trek a unique experience.

So why not choose the path that takes you to unexplored places, venture out with Inkayni Peru Tours, explore and discover the wonder that awaits you beyond the conventional path? Now you know how hard is the Ausangatet trek?

I hope this is what you were looking for – bon voyage!