Day 1: Cusco – Alqatari – Ausangate – Ananta–Q’ellwacocha
Your Rainbow Mountain Trek 2 Days adventure starts early, with a 4:00 AM pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. In the quiet stillness of the early morning, our private van will transport you on a scenic 3-hour journey to the remote village of Alqatari, the starting point of your trek.
Here, surrounded by tranquil mountain views, our experienced team will prepare a hearty breakfast to fuel your day. While you savor the warm meal, our guides will provide invaluable insights about the journey ahead, ensuring you’re fully equipped for this exhilarating trek.
As the trek begins, you’ll find yourself walking through a sprawling green valley, where hundreds of alpacas graze peacefully under the care of local farmers. This picturesque landscape offers a glimpse into the traditional Andean lifestyle, as you pass farmers tending to their lands.
Towering above the valley is the awe-inspiring Ausangate Mountain, a sacred peak in Peruvian culture. Its majestic presence serves as both a backdrop and a guide, hinting at the incredible vistas awaiting you.
As you ascend the trail, the landscape begins to shift, leading to the Puccacocha Pass, perched at an impressive 5,000 meters (16,400 feet) above sea level. Here, you’re greeted with 360-degree panoramic views of the Andes, with the Ausangate Glacier creating a dynamic scene as it feeds into the turquoise lake below.
This is one of the most spectacular spots on the Rainbow Mountain trek, offering a moment of awe and reflection as you connect with the untouched beauty of the Andes.
From Puccacocha, the trek continues to Anata, where a well-deserved lunch awaits at 4,713 meters (15,462 feet). Our skilled chef will prepare a delicious, energy-boosting meal using fresh, local ingredients to keep you fueled for the journey ahead.
After lunch, the trail ascends further to the Warmisaya Pass (4,996 meters / 16,390 feet). As you reach the summit, you’ll catch your first glimpse of Rainbow Mountain Vinicunca in the distance—a magical preview of what lies ahead.
Camp at Lake Q’ellwacocha
The day’s adventure concludes with a descent to the serene Lake Q’ellwacocha, where our campsite is nestled at 4,796 meters (15,734 feet). Under the vast Andean sky, you’ll unwind with a freshly prepared dinner, crafted with care by our culinary team.
As night falls, the wilderness transforms into an ethereal scene. The sky, free from city lights, reveals a brilliant display of constellations, the Milky Way, and shooting stars. With a warm cup of coca tea in hand, you’ll fall asleep under a “hotel of a thousand stars,” surrounded by the tranquility of the Andes.
