Short itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Checacupe – Pitumarca – Chillca
- Depart from Cusco by comfortable tourist bus toward the Vilcanota River.
- Visit the colonial temple of Checacupe and the scenic Pitumarca valley.
- Continue to Japura and walk a short distance to reach Chillca.
- Warm welcome by local musicians and coca tea at the lodge.
- Enjoy dinner featuring alpaca meat or vegetarian options, overnight in comfortable lodge with hot showers.
Day 2: Chillca – Machuracay
- Begin trekking alongside thousands of alpacas and llamas in the Phinaya glacier valley.
- Pass Santa Catalina and ascend by the spectacular Pjachaj waterfalls.
- Picnic lunch surrounded by moraines, glaciers, and lagoons.
- Continue hiking for about 5 hours to Machuracay Tambo where local hosts welcome you. A caravan of llamas carries your gear.
Day 3: Machuracay – Anantapata
- Cross the first mountain pass (5,000 m) with incredible panoramic views.
- Descend toward Ausangate Cocha lake for lunch.
- Walk through unique red sandstone formations, spotting vicuñas and possibly condors.
- Arrive at the third campsite in Anantapata to relax and enjoy the evening.
Day 4: Anantapata – Huampococha
- Ascend to another mountain pass then descend toward Kayrawiri lake.
- Admire colorful striations on the mountain slopes and pass near the «Laya Grande» hill.
- Lunch near Yauricunca with spectacular sediment colors, watch for Andean geese nesting on Anta’s cliffs.
- See pyramid-like formations near Apu Labrayani before reaching Huampococha Tambo lodge.
Day 5: Huampococha – Trapiche – Cusco
- Final ascent to a mountain pass with stunning views.
- Descend past limestone formations from the Cretaceous period on the way to Trapiche.
- Enjoy lunch before returning to Cusco by bus, concluding this extraordinary Andean adventure.
Detailed itinerary
This 5-day trek takes you deep into the spiritual heart of the Andes, through the Vilcanota range where the mighty Ausangate glacier rises as a protector deity. Along the trail you’ll encounter herds of llamas, alpacas, and wild vicuñas, while passing through remote villages that maintain age-old traditions. Each day offers new landscapes: towering peaks, deep valleys, vibrant sandstone hills, turquoise lakes, and a chance to walk the legendary “Path of Apu Ausangate.”
Your journey is supported by expert bilingual guides and a caravan of llamas carrying your gear, ensuring you can focus on enjoying the trek. Cozy lodges and campsites await at the end of each day, along with nutritious local meals featuring Andean specialties. This is more than a hike—it’s an immersive cultural and natural experience in the sacred mountains of Cusco.
Included
- Bilingual professional guide
- Assistant guide for every 8 travelers
- Private transport Cusco – Chilca, return from Congomire to Cusco
- 1 night in comfortable lodges
- Meals (breakfast, dinner, snacks)
- First aid kit and oxygen supply
Not included
- Travel insurance (highly recommended)
- Tips for guides and staff
Recommendations
- Spend at least one day in Cusco prior to the trek to acclimatize.
- Wear layered clothing for both cold mountain mornings and sunny afternoons.
- Use sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, and insect repellent.
- Bring a small backpack with water, snacks, and essentials.
- Follow your guide’s instructions and respect the environment and local communities along the trail.
