Rainbow Mountain and the 7 lagoons of Ausangate

After a nutritious breakfast, we prepare to start the trail toward the imposing Arapa Pass (4,850 m). Enjoy the incredible views of the Ausangate snow-capped mountain and the stunning Pucacocha Lake.

Be amazed by the vibrant colors of the Pucacocha, Hatun Pucacocha, and Qomercocha lakes, with their shades of red, green, and turquoise. At the end of the day, our campsite near the Ausangate glacier awaits to close the day on a high note. It will be an unforgettable experience!

Today begins with a smile and a coca tea to recharge our energy. We have an incredible hike ahead of us to the Rainbow Mountains, passing through the small village of Alccatauri and its unique landscapes. The first challenge is a one-and-a-half-hour ascent to the Ausangate Pass (4,930 m), where the reddish mountains greet us, and we encounter vicuñas, chinchillas, and alpacas in their natural habitat.

After descending to Alccatauri (4,400 m), we share coca leaves with the locals, who reward us with their hospitality and a delicious lunch. We then begin another one-and-a-half-hour ascent to Minasniyuq Pass, where the breathtaking Rainbow Mountains (5,020 m) are revealed to us. Here, we make an offering to Mother Earth, Pacha Mama.

To finish, we descend for one more hour to the campsite by the beautiful Surine Lake, in Surine Cocha (4,800 m).

After breakfast, we set off on a 2-hour hike to the impressive Rainbow Mountain (16,469 feet/5,020 m). Your guide will help you capture the best photos and share the secrets behind its vibrant colors, formed by unique minerals. This natural wonder is found only in Peru and China—a true treasure!

Afterward, we descend for two and a half hours toward the village of Quesiuno, where a delicious lunch awaits. Then, we begin our return journey to Cusco in our private van, wrapping up an unforgettable experience. We’ll arrive at your hotel in Cusco around 6 p.m.—the perfect way to end an incredible day!