Join Mother Earth Treks on a high-altitude adventure in Peru, where the Andes, beautiful landscapes, and ancestral traditions come together in a unique experience. The trek to Ausangate and Rainbow Mountain is more than just a hike: it’s a journey to the heart of Pachamama, Mother Earth.
Over four days, you will travel through sacred lands, glacial valleys, and colorful mountains, culminating at the majestic sanctuary of Machu Picchu. This trek is designed to nourish your body, awaken your spirit, and strengthen your connection with nature and Andean wisdom.
At Mother Earth Treks, we will guide you through one of Peru’s most stunning high-altitude journeys. This Ausangate Rainbow Mountain Peru Trek will reveal sacred landscapes, colorful valleys, and ancient Andean traditions. Over four days, we will travel through breathtaking trails shaped by the power of nature and the wisdom of ancestral cultures. Every step will connect us more deeply with Pachamama—Mother Earth herself.
We will begin this unforgettable experience in Cusco, heading southeast toward the small Andean village of Tinki. Our trail will lead to the healing waters of Aguas Termales de Upis, where we may soak our bodies under snowcapped peaks. This first night will introduce us to the beauty and intensity of the Peruvian Andes. We will rest under clear mountain skies, preparing for the adventure ahead.
On day two, we’ll hike up to the Pucacocha glacial lakes, surrounded by sharp mountain peaks and flying condors. Our journey to Ananta will take us across wild valleys and high passes above 15,420 feet (4,700 meters). The crisp air and colorful mountain scenes will fill us with awe and gratitude. We will camp near alpine lakes, embraced by the silence of the Andes.
Day three brings the reward of reaching the iconic Rainbow Mountain. We will rise early to cross the final pass and witness this natural marvel at over 16,565 feet (5,050 meters). After time for photos and reflection, we will descend through wide landscapes on our way to Aguas Calientes. The air will shift as we draw closer to the sacred city hidden in the cloud forest.
On our final day, we’ll visit the majestic Machu Picchu, following the path of the Sacred Female Legacy. We will walk the stone paths with intention and reverence, connecting with the spiritual strength of this ancient site. At Mother Earth Treks, we believe every journey should nourish body, heart, and soul. This Ausangate Rainbow Mountain trek will do just that—through challenge, beauty, and connection.
We will start early at 4:30 A.M. with a private drive from Cusco to Tinki village. After a traditional Andean breakfast, we will begin our trek through high-altitude valleys filled with grazing alpacas. Quechua families live here in harmony with nature, honoring the sacred Apus.
We will ascend gradually while surrounded by snowcapped peaks and colorful hills. After 4 hours, we will stop for lunch facing Mount Ausangate, the highest peak in Cusco. Then, we will hike downhill toward Upis (14,450 feet / 4,405 meters), a peaceful spot near natural thermal baths.
In the evening, we will relax in the hot springs. These waters have been used by Andean women for centuries to heal and restore. Our campsite will be right next to the springs, under the stars.
Wake up with coca tea in your tent and a hearty breakfast to fuel the day. We will hike up to Pucacocha, a stunning lake surrounded by snow-covered peaks. The area is silent, remote, and incredibly scenic. It feels sacred.
We will stop for lunch by the lake, taking in breathtaking panoramic views. Later, we will ascend to the Alpaca Pass (16,565 feet / 5,050 meters). This high point offers unmatched views of Ausangate’s glacier face.
Afterward, we will descend to Ananta (14,108 feet / 4,300 meters), a quiet spot with turquoise lakes and dramatic ridges. The campsite here is remote and magical—perfect for a night of reflection under southern constellations.
We will begin with a steep climb toward Rainbow Mountain (16,470 feet / 5,020 meters). This mineral-rich formation glows with red, yellow, and turquoise layers. For Andean women, it represents fertility and cosmic harmony.
After reaching the top, we will rest, reflect, and enjoy the surreal landscape. Then we will descend through red valleys back to the trailhead. From there, we will drive to Ollantaytambo and check in at a cozy hotel.
Enjoy a well-earned dinner and rest. This will prepare us for the final sacred journey to Machu Picchu.
We will rise early and take the train to Aguas Calientes. Then, a short bus ride brings us to Machu Picchu. Our guide will lead a 2–3 hour spiritual tour of this lost city. We will explore temples, terraces, and observatories once cared for by priestesses and women astronomers.
If pre-booked, we may climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for extra views. Afterward, enjoy a relaxed lunch in Aguas Calientes before returning to Cusco by train and bus.
This sacred visit connects us to the feminine roots of Andean knowledge—an empowering ending to our Ausangate trek.
We will rise early and take the train to Aguas Calientes. Then, a short bus ride brings us to Machu Picchu. Our guide will lead a 2–3 hour spiritual tour of this lost city. We will explore temples, terraces, and observatories
This pack stays with you during the trek and should include everything you’ll need for each day:
This bag is carried by mules, so you won’t have access during the day:
Responsible Travel Reminder: At Mother Earth Treks, we support fair pay, humane working conditions, and proper gear for all our staff. Packing smart and light helps us maintain ethical and sustainable trekking practices.
The trek is considered challenging due to its high altitude and rugged terrain. You’ll be hiking above 13,100 feet (4,000 meters) for most of the journey, with the highest point reaching over 16,400 feet (5,000 meters). Good physical condition and proper acclimatization are essential.
Yes, we strongly recommend spending at least 2–3 days in Cusco (or a similar altitude) before the trek to help your body adjust and avoid altitude sickness. Activities like visiting the Sacred Valley or taking short hikes help prepare your body.
The dry season (May to September) offers the best weather for trekking, with clear skies and better trail conditions. The wet season (November to March) brings more rain and snow, which can make the trek more difficult.
Yes. On the last day of the trek, you’ll hike to Rainbow Mountain, one of the most colorful and famous places in Peru.
You’ll be served nutritious and hearty meals—4 breakfasts, 4 lunches, and 4 dinners—prepared by a professional trekking chef. Vegetarian and special dietary options are available with advance notice.
Bring your passport, hiking boots, warm clothes, a rain jacket, sunscreen, snacks, any medicine you need, and some cash for tips.
Yes. Entrance to Ausangate, Rainbow Mountain, and all attractions included in the itinerary are covered in your tour price.
You’ll need your passport, trekking boots, warm clothes, rain jacket, sun protection, snacks, personal medicine, and some cash for tips. You can find the full packing list here.
“Professional, well-organized, and breathtaking!”
I chose Mother Earth Treks for the 4-day Ausangate trek and couldn’t be happier. Everything was so well planned: transportation, camping gear, meals, and even purified water every day.
The chef cooked delicious and varied meals—even vegetarian options! Our guide was supportive and shared so much about Andean culture. Rainbow Mountain on the last day was the cherry on top. 100% worth it!