Overview & Highlights
This challenging high-altitude mountain trek is close to Cusco, but with an other-wordly, wilderness feel. Overnight not in chilly tents but in small, cosy lodges run by local communities.
- Cusco: Guided walking tour of the city and nearby Inca sites
- Cusco: Guided excursion to upland villages and Inca site
- Ausangate Trek
Ausangate is the highest snow-draped mountain in the region. The trek which visits it is close to Cusco, but little trodden and the Martian landscapes will enhance the feeling of remoteness.
Our five-day trek below its northern face (you don’t climb to the peak) is one of our favourites. You’ll explore part of the Vilcanota range which divides the highland empire of the Incas from the steamy jungles of the Amazon. En route you’ll cross three high-altitude passes, with views of gigantic glaciers, icy lakes and jagged peaks. The area is full of wildlife, isolated farmsteads and traditional indigenous villages.
Yes it's challenging, but there is a big bonus: you aren't camping! You'll be staying in remote, basic but comfortable lodges run by the local communities, members of which you get to meet along the way. There are proper beds, bathrooms and hot food to set you up for the next day's hike.
Outline itinerary
Day 1
Arrive Lima, transfer to hotel close to the Pacific coast.
Day 2
Fly to Cusco.
Day 3
Walking tour of the city and surrounding Inca ruins.
Day 4
Walking tour of highland Chinchero and Maras villages and Moray Inca site.
Day 5
Begin the Ausangate Trek, overnight basic lodge.
Day 6
Hiking the Ausangate Trek, overnight basic lodge.
Day 7
Hiking the Ausangate Trek, overnight basic lodge.
Day 8
Hiking the Ausangate Trek, overnight basic lodge.
Day 9
Return to Cusco.
Day 10
Day at leisure, optional excursion to Machu Picchu.
Day 11
Fly to Lima to connect with international flight home.
Things to do
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Accommodation
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What our clients say
97% of our clients rated their experience with us as Excellent or Good.
Very efficient with the booking process and very helpful with his service throughout. Adam was always prompt and helpful in answering all our questions prior to departure.
IR, London
Tailor made holiday
Our specialists have been expertly crafting award-winning tailor-made holidays to Latin America for 40 years. We would be delighted to create a truly personalised trip which perfectly matches your wishes and requirements.

Carrie Gallagher - Travel Consultant
A former JLA tour leader, Carrie brings a wealth of on-the-ground experience to our London-based Escorted Groups team.
Inspired by this trip
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Our exciting range of articles on Latin America explore everything from iconic destinations and lesser-known cultural gems to delicious traditional recipes. You’ll also find exclusive travel tips, first-hand client reviews and the chance to get your personal questions answered by our travel experts.
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