The peak of the mountain is 6,385 masl, but we wont go quite that high. Through this Peru trek, youll ascend and descend through the mountain range, finding sweeping Andean vistas, thermal lakes, mystical glaciers, green mossy passes and enormous snowy mountains. The sun warms things up for the afternoon and is very strongmake sure you stay well-protected. Please Note: You usually need to pay extra for sleeping bag rental. Bus from Cusco to Tique: 10 soles ($3) each way. Keep this in mind when traveling at this time of year. Machu Picchu. However, this can be rewarding if you are a seasoned multi-day trekker. They made the trip fantastic! This is the coldest time of the whole year, and the nights go well below 0C. Ausangate full Day Trek 1 Day From US$ 130 per person Difficulty: Medium Max. In the afternoon youll make another climb to the Ausangate pass before descending towards your campsite for the night at Ausangatecocha. The mountain range has several peaks over 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) high, including the sacred Ausangate peak (6,372m / 20,906ft). Your campsite will be at Chillca (4,456 m / 14,619 ft). I hope you have enjoyed this article. The months when youre most likely to experience showers are between December and February. tend to be more densely populated. As a result, the 6-Day Ausangate Trek, while being a visually stunning adventure, is something of a spiritual pilgrimage. . The shoulder months of October and April bring more moderate weather with mixed rainy and dry days. Be sure to check with your tour company about whats included in your tour package as well as extra expenses. We sell virtually all services available in Peru, Galapagos, Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Bolivia. Ausangate trek and Rainbow Mountain - the complete guide Here you can see these iconic mountains with rich mineralization bringing red, orange and yellow hues across a seemingly endless mountain expanse. If you want to take to one of the lesser known trails of the mystical Andes, reach out to our team and well be happy to include it in your upcoming, Sunset on the Cordillera Vilcanota snow-capped mountains, Trekkers camping near a laguna in the majestic cordillera Vilcanota on the Ausangate circuit, Rainbow Mountain Peru: Complete Visitors Guide, 27 Best Treks in Peru: Hiking in the Andes and Beyond. You can leave your bags at camp and hike to Rainbow Mountain and back. The Ausangate trek of four days is one of Peru's best options to explore the native life of the Andes. Generally hikers leave the bulk of their belongings safely in storage at their Cusco hotel, and bring only their hiking pack for the trek. , a two-year exploration of the Amazon River Basin spanning the Andes to the Atlantic. We suggest that you take a minute to read our detailed article on altitude sickness and acclimatization. Find out which tour offices sell this trek and pay them a visit. Book Now Contact Us Highlights The temperature is relatively warm in the day with quite cold nights. On July 25th, National Geographic Explorers Baker Perry and Tom Matthews, supported by a local Peruvian Quechua team and female Bolivian climbing experts the Cholitas Escaladoras worked together to climb Nevado Ausangate the highest peak in southern Peru to investigate important meteorological processes driving the climate and glacier behavior and to install a weather station near its peak. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Privacy | Terms | DMCA | Affiliate Disclosure | Site Map. Feel free to share my article with friends or link to your blog. You might not see the sun so much this month as dark clouds are frequent in the skies. Your camp for the evening is usually beside this lower lake. In the Vilcanota Range, there is a dry season and a wet season. If theres one thing that can slightly ruin your experience, its bad weather. From the lookout, you get a gorgeous 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. At the beginning of November, the landscape looks pretty dry because it hasnt been raining for quite a few months. +51 917815987 info@peruhike.com. Whether youve already booked your vacation to Peru or are still planning the logistics, youll be putting together an itinerary. The Ausangate trek is very high altitude, therefore the weather can be quite cold and unpredictable. You can go days without another tourist in sight. The important thing is not to rush during your trek - slow and steady is better for descending a steep mountain pass. Ausangate TIP: Tell us the destinations you have in mind. More progressed cases can result in vomiting, shortness of breath and high altitude cerebral edema, which is associated with lethargy, nausea and disorientation. However, with the rainy season approaching, youre a little more likely to get wet. are designed to showcase all that this country has to offer. In Andean spirituality, the mountains, called apus, are highly revered and believed to have a spirit. Some companies also offer Ausangate trek as a lodge trek in which you will stay in very basic huts along the route. Although the total distance is only about 39km, the ancient trail laid by the Incas from the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu winds its way up and down and around the mountains, snaking over three high Andean passes en route, which have collectively led to the route being dubbed the Inca Trail. The views of snowy mountain peaks, distant rivers and ranges, and cloud forests flush with orchids are stupendous and walking from one cliff-hugging pre-Columbian ruin to the next is a mystical and unforgettable experience. Discover traditional Peruvian villages, herds of llamas, glaciers, and turquoise lakes. Instead, you have to fly into the city of Cusco. There are no support crew fees. Specifically, it celebrates the reappearance of the Pleiades constellation in the night sky, marking the beginning of harvest season. Login. However, the Ausangate Trek is never really busy as such, so this doesnt make much difference here. What to do in Iquitos city: the best plans of the Amazonian Venice Plazas de Armas of Peru: the 5 most beautiful squares of the country. Ausangate Region Rainbow Mountain Weather: The Andes climate varies greatly based on elevation and season. 4 Forecast Elevations: Peak: 20946 ft 18046 ft 14765 ft Base: 11484 ft This table gives the weather forecast for Ausangate at the specific elevation of 4500 m. Our advanced weather models allow us to provide distinct weather forecasts for several elevations of Ausangate. Our Peru For Less Travel Blog is a living library of travel information, knowledge, and advice from a group of travel loving experts who live, work, eat, and breathe all things in South America. Skies will be clearer to enjoy spectacular views, and during the day, youll be warm. You will climb a steep shoulder and cross a narrow pass to reach an incredible lookout point (4,940 meters / 16,207 feet). Given the high altitude of the campsites, temperatures drop considerably in the afternoon and especially at night, when they can drop to -10 C or even lower in the dry season. Trekking to the base of Ausangate or aiming to ascend to base camp - knowing the meaning and history of the mountain makes it an even more incredible experience. The tropical high Andes of southern Peru contain essential water towers that support nature and human communities from the glacier margins to the Amazon basin. Winter is coming to a close, but nights are still very cold. [1] Take the opportunity to soak your weary bones in the warm waters. Not only because of the rampant beauty you will encounter, but also because of the lack of people. She finds Peru to be the most inspiring country in the world, and has been exploring and writing about this sacred place since 2014. You might experience the odd shower here and there, but nothing major. You will follow the Pampa Jutunpata valley along the shores of Lake Ticllacocha. If you have any further questions about the Ausangate trek, please leave a comment below. You will camp near the thermal baths at Upis which are 4,408m (14,462 ft) high. Between the experienced guides with rich regional knowledge, the traditional meals by local chefs, and the gear being carried and set up from campsite to campsite by local porters, a guided trip notably enhances the experience. Many of the days have steep sections that cause rapid altitude gain in a short time. To secure your spot, its always a good idea to book a bit in advance during this time of year. The Ausangate Trek is a high altitude 70km hike in the Peruvian mountains near Cusco with an average altitude of over 4000m. The combination of the two stations provide critical data to study climate-glacier interactions in the accumulation zone and characterize the extreme climate at the highest elevations in the Andes. This includes guides, transport, horses, and camping gear. Winds decreasing (strong winds from the W on Sun night, light winds from the W by Mon night). All the hikers on the team can pool their tips and then hand to the trekking team, who will distribute among themselves. Where to stay? The trail winds 70km / 43 miles through the Vilcanota Mountain range. Ausangate Trek: The Complete Trekker's Guide It is difficult to find accommodation along the way. The National Geographic and Rolex partnership supports expeditions to explore the planets most critical environments. If you are hiking independently, make sure the gear you take is suitable for sub-zero temperatures. The weather forecast for Ausangate is: A moderate fall of snow, heaviest on Tue afternoon. It is possible to hike Ausangate without a guide. In the mountains, the weather can change quickly. The area also experiences rain and snowfall. highest weather station installed in the southern and western hemispheres near the summit of the Tupungato Volcano in Chile. Approximately 5 hours of hiking time. Is it worth seeing Machu Picchu at sunrise? In addition, the elevation changes significantly over a short space of time. Ausangate 5 Day Trek - Peru Treks - Killa Expeditions You'll also know authentic Andean Communities, thermal waters, and crystal clear lagoons. Tipping is not mandatory on a guided Ausangate Trek, but it is highly recommended. Image: Unsplash. You will be walking down slope towards the village of Pajchanta (4,010m / 13,156 ft). Sometimes, the first and final meals are not included. On the way, youll pass by the beautiful ecological landscape of Quinsapucyu and the mountain Huarmisaya. The highest point of the trek is 16,800 feet above sea level and the highest campsite elevation is at 15,255 feet. During the day it can be up to 20C, and there are cold winds during some parts of the day. You may also like: best time to hike to Machu Picchu and Inca trail weather. Along the way, you can appreciate the attractive geography and biodiversity of the place. Expect to see loads of tourists and decorated alpacas at this famous Peruvian landmark. Efforts like Baker, Tom and Ruths to study Ausangates critical ecosystem, coupled with Tom Peschaks unparalleled storytelling are at the forefront of our partnership with Rolex. For a hike like the ausangate trek, it is highly likely that you will experience some form of altitude sickness, as elevations reach as high as 16,800 ft. For this reason, it is important to acclimate properly, take your time on the trail and take measures to combat symptoms. It is a very attractive place for people who practice adventure sports, thanks to its geographical features. Traditionally, this spiritual journey is made during the, The best time to do the Ausangate trek, and all Peru hiking tours, is between May and September. These colorful sandstone slopes are some of the coolest things youll see in Peru. You can focus on enjoying the trail. If you dont deal well with cold conditions, then this trek isnt for you. AUSANGATE PERU | Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain Trek Tour Operator in Cusco Weather at Vinicunca Mountains in Ausangate If theres one good bit of advice we could give you, its: always be prepared! * NOTE: not all weather observatories update at the same frequency which is the reason why some locations may show data from stations that are further away than known closer ones. The dry season brings with it plenty of sun and clear skies. This post is also available in: With several mountain passes over 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) high, the Ausangate Trek is relatively difficult. Most companies hike to Ananta camp on Day 3. Thinking of visiting Iquitos? Winds increasing (light winds from the WNW on Thu night, fresh winds from the WNW by Sat night). Ausangate Trek Packing List Ausangate Trek 5 Days - Epic High Altitude Adventure It is a 500m (1,640 ft) ascent up the pass. Only about 5 percent of hikers do this trek independently. Ausangate is actually the 5th tallest mountain in Peru, standing at 20,945 feet above sea level. This new weather station will help us to understand how much snow is melting, why, and how we recover it. Its extremely important to our community.. The mountain range has several peaks over 6,000 meters (19,685 feet) high, including the sacred Ausangate peak (6,372m / 20,906ft). Seasons in Ausangate There are two main seasons in Ausangate: the dry season and the rainy season. In this instance, you will need to make sure your insurance covers you for high-altitude hiking. Gina loves the hidden turquoise rivers of the Andes, the magical pink dolphins of the Amazon, and the lush ocean-view parks of Lima. Temperatures will be well below freezing (max -8C on Mon morning, min -11C on Mon night). Data from the weather station will aid local and scientific communities in monitoring the impact of climate change on critical water tower. Discover More From US$ 500 pp Peru 4-DAY HIKE Ausangate Trek to Rainbow Mountain In this post we will tell you all about the Nevado Ausangate, the lost mountain of Peru. It takes about 2 hours to ascend this pass. This month is usually when it rains most during the entire year, so pack accordingly. Postpone your tour with zero cost up to 10 days prior to arrival with open dates. Today we come to tell you about the impressive marine wildlife that inhabits, Hello to all travel lovers! All rights reserved. At the top of Palomani pass, you will be 5,051m / 16,571 ft above sea level. In this article, Ive included a detailed overview of all route and itinerary options. The weather in the Ausangate region is highly variable due to the high altitude and mountainous terrain. You might want to bookmark this page for future reference. Like most treks in the region, the best time to do the Ausangate trek is in the dry months. Between the high altitude naturescapes, the spiritual flourishes and the amazing local guides, its an adventure like no other. Ausangate Trek 4 Days However, the odd shower will still occur, which is why this month is included in the rainy season. 2023 Machu Picchu Trek | A Mountain IQ Guide. Your email address will not be published. Measures to combat acute mountain sickness include acclimatizing in the Andes for 48-72 hours, eating a light and high calorie diet, staying hydrated, avoiding smoking and alcohol, easing into the hike and taking breaks whenever necessary. We recommend the following when trekking to Ausangate: Now you understand the different seasons, and when to avoid the rain, its time to start planning your trip. Nevado Ausangate, the Sacred Mountain of Peru Namely, the beautiful Cordillera Vilcanota mountain range. These two are bang in the middle of the dry season, but the nights get extremely cold. Winds increasing (light winds from the WNW on Thu night, fresh winds from the WNW by Sat night). If you're planning a trip to Iceland, you're probably looking for some, Todos los derechos reservados 2021 Howlanders. Temperatures will be well below freezing (max -6C on Fri morning, min -9C on Sat night). Peru's weather and seasons: When is the best time to visit? Login. The road of the Apu Ausangate, or Ausangate Trek, is believed to be the most profound pilgrimage in the Andes and is one of the most renowned hikes in Peru. Andean bears takes place. Along the way, youll catch a glimpse of interesting wildlife, like condors, chinchillas and groups of vicunas. July is usually very dry, but dont be surprised by the occasional hailstorm. Weather can be friendly up there, but it soon turns either cloudy or sunny. Lets delve into the month-by-month description during the wet season. Its top reaches 6,385 meters above sea level. This is the dry season in the Andes, making for sunnier weather and clearer days to take in the beautiful scenery. The nights are getting much colder, and youll need a high-quality sleeping bag to stay warm until morning. If you are going by horseback, youll most likely be riding for much of the flat sections. Formed by weathering, environmental conditions and sedimentary deposits over time, the mountains unique minerology created a marbling effect, with layered hues of gold, lavender, red and turquoise towering into the sky. The nighttime temperatures range between 14 F / -10, whereas the day temperature reaches 77 F / 25 C. Best time to hike Ausangate 7 lakes Winds decreasing (strong winds from the W on Sun night, light winds from the W by Mon night). Each lake in the region is colored differently. Ausangate. Here are 5 of my favourite accommodation options in Cusco: The Ausangate trek is one of the few treks in Peru that offers the option to ride a horse along the route. The amount of rainfall is increasing, but therell still be breaks in the cloud for the sun to shine through, which warms the area quickly. This effort marks a significant milestone in the 2022 National Geographic and Rolex Amazon Perpetual Planet Expedition, a two-year exploration of the Amazon River Basin spanning the Andes to the Atlantic. These powerful spirits are believed to protect the local people in the highlands. If you are a member of the media with an inquiry or interview request, please call during regular business hours or email, National Geographic Headquarters 1145 17th Street NW Washington, DC 20036, National Geographic Society is a 501 (c)(3) organization. Explore Ausangate in one day and the 7 lakes Well get back to you within 24 hours. Ausangate is the highest mountain in the Cusco region and the 5th highest mountain in Peru. Youll need a good level of fitness and stamina as youll be trekking over many undulating sections. This means group sizes are usually small if not completely private. ausangate trek 4 days If you decide to trek this month, youll find the climate rather cold due to showers and the sky quite cloudy. Camping Gear (tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and cooking set): approximately 40 soles per day. During this time, there is a mix of rain and sunshine. At this point you will be at a breathtaking 16,800 feet above sea level, enjoying unique views of the vast mountain chain that runs below you. Local legend tells of the baths medicinal properties. Instead of ending day 6 at Tinki, you would continue on to Laguna Armaccocha, reach a viewpoint and lake Singrenacchocha on day 7, hike alongside the river to Mallma on day 8, and finally board a train to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu on day 9. No matter what season you are hiking Ausangate trek, make sure that . Sign up to receive our newsletter for great articles, and special deals. The dry season is between May and September, and is considered the best time to hike in the Andes. Logan in 2022 as well as to Mt. Learn everything you need to know about this incredible mountain. Vinicunca also known as the Mountain of Seven Colors, or more simply Rainbow Mountain was discovered four years ago when the snow covering it melted, revealing the natural beauty of the rock beneath. To see the weather forecasts for the other elevations, use the tab navigation above the Ausangate Mountain is considered by the Quechua people to be one of the most holy mountains in all of the Andes. Ausangate is one of the less popular hikes around Cusco. It is best to stick to the dry season or the shoulder season (mixed weather) of April and October. Day 8 is the final day of trekking. Ausangate Weather | Ausangate The Ultimate Guide - Peru Hike This is because trails can get slippery, and they also carry out maintenance. Venturing on this route will reward you with stunning views of snowy mountains, crystalline lagoons, and lots of flora and fauna unique to the area. It is considered by most to be the best alternative route. Look out for chinchillas scrambling between the boulders. Prices for the Ausangate trek vary greatly between companies. "Our tours are Fully Customizable and leave 365 days a year!". You will also get the chance to see the Rainbow Mountains of Vinicunca! there is truly something for everyone. As you can see, the climate can get pretty cold at this altitude, and youll need to ensure you stay warm at all times. The Ten Nations, or brotherhoods, of the surrounding areas all gather for the occasion. Campsite beside a lagoon on the Ausangate Trek. Ausangate is the fifth highest mountain in Peru. This is a lot more adventurous and also works out much cheaper. The Ausangate mountain trek, traversing one of the biggest mountains in all of Peru, is like a dream from start to finish. Flights generally run on time and dont face any issues. Your operator should allow good time for acclimatization to prevent hikers from getting altitude sickness on the higher slopes. We think its the best route! In fact, in Quechua apu means lord. Its best to pack lightly for Ausangate hiking. Please Note: If you are looking for a more authentic trail, you may want to skip this extension. On the Ausangate Trek, you will experience a wide range of temperatures. Temperatures will be well below freezing (max -6C on Tue morning, min -8C on Tue night). Throughout Ausangate trek, temperatures range from 10-20 C during the day if the weather is good, to 05-10 C during the day if there is no sun. The answer is simple: the experience is mesmerizing and unique. What to find in Ausangate It is part of the so-called Vilcanota mountain range. Youll start on an increasingly steep trail that leads you up to a high mountain pass at Arapa where you will be rewarded with outstanding views of the entire mountain chain. While the rainy season is warmer, it can still be cool at night. WhatsApp ;), The team typically replies in a few minutes. Every year huge pilgrimages are made to the mountain. This is held on the opposite side of the Cordillera Vilcanota, in the Sinakara Valley. Dry season spans from May to November, where skies are clear, days are cool, and the nights get very cold. Temperatures will be well below freezing (max -7C on Fri morning, min -10C on Wed night). Fortunately, the remote Ausangate Trek is a unique choice, making it clear of crowds year round even during peak season. Sure you have thought about exploring the Peruvian jungle, but what are you going to do while you are in Iquitos city? Its maximum altitude is 6384 meters above sea level. This is because of sediment variations in the nearby mountains, which makes for an alluring experience. We recommend this month to visit Cusco, as the big crowds dont arrive quite yet. This takes most hikers approximately 5 hours of walking. It's an epic journey through the foothills of the most important sacred mountain south of Cusco: The incredible Ausangate glacier that sits at 6,372 m / 20,905 ft. In Andean spirituality, the mountains, called apus, are highly revered and believed to have a spirit. She enjoys hiking, horseriding, 4x4 driving and kayaking. We recommend doing this trek with a guide. The valley is a great place to spot wildlife. You can also find a form to contact a travel advisor to perfectly tailor your ultimate Peru trekking adventure. Climate and temperature The predominant climate in the area is quite cold, with temperatures below 5C at night. The best time to do the Ausangate trek, and all Peru hiking tours, is between May and September.