Ausangate Trek 4D/3N: The Sacred Circuit, Fast-Tracked
Ausangate Trek 4D/3N: The Sacred Circuit, Fast-Tracked
This version concentrates the essence of the Ausangate circuit into four days by combining two stages of the traditional route into one extended day. Ideal for trekkers with prior altitude experience who prefer a more intense pace without losing any of the landscape milestones: Red Valley, the highest pass, and the glacial lagoons all remain in place.
Executive Summary
- Duration: 4 days / 3 nights
- Difficulty: Demanding (longer stages, more concentrated ascents)
- Max Altitude: 5,200 m (Palomani Pass)
- Group Size: Max 10 people
- Highlights: Red Valley, Palomani Pass, Ausangatecocha Lagoon, Pacchanta hot springs
Detailed Itinerary
01
DAY
Cusco → Tinki → Upis
Departure from Cusco to Tinki (3,800 m). Uphill walk to Upis (4,400 m), first camp with a direct view of the Ausangate massif. Possible hot springs soak before dinner.
02
DAY
Upis → Ausangatecocha Lagoon → Arapa Pass (4,850 m) → Red Valley → Anantapampa Camp
An extended day combining two stages of the classic route: we cross the first high pass, skirt the glacial lagoon, and continue on to the Red Valley before camping near the circuit's highest sector. A physically demanding day, but one that packs in the route's most photographed landscapes in a single stretch.
03
DAY
Anantapampa → Palomani Pass (5,200 m) → Pacchanta Community
Crossing of the circuit's highest point in the morning, when wind conditions are more favorable. Descent toward the alpaca-herding communities and arrival in Pacchanta, with hot springs at the foot of the glacier — the perfect rest after the previous day's effort.
04
DAY
Pacchanta → Tinki → Cusco
One last short walk with final views of the massif before the vehicle return to Cusco.
PLAN YOUR ADVENTURE
Inclusions & Exclusions
What's Included
- Ground transport
- Bilingual guide specialized in high-altitude trekking
- Cook
- Mules and muleteers
- Expedition tents
- Insulated sleeping pads
- Full meals
- First aid kit and emergency oxygen
- Hot springs entrance
What's Not Included
- Cusco accommodation
- Sleeping bag
- Trekking poles
- Personal trekking gear
- Tips
Why Choose This Tour with AndeanDiscovery.pe?
Compressing the Ausangate circuit into 4 days requires precise logistics: we know exactly where to combine stages without compromising acclimatization or the safety margin against altitude sickness. This isn't a generic route shortened for commercial convenience — it's an itinerary redesigned by guides who know every variation of the terrain.