This two-day excursion takes you to see the colorful mountain of Vinicunca, also known as “Rainbow Mountain.” Stripes of brightly colored sediment transform the mountainside into the most striking piece of terrain in the Andes. National Geographic ranked Vinicunca as one of the 100 places you must visit before you die.

At 6:00 am, your driver will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco. Make sure to eat breakfast beforehand, as the first breakfast is not provided. The drive to Vinicunca takes about three hours. Once you arrive, you’ll take a 2.5-mile (4-km) hike to get to the best views. This is a tiring hike and takes place at around 16,000 feet (4,900 m) above sea level, where the air is quite thin. But you'll be rewarded with the bright pinks, purples, and greens of Vinicunca mountainside, which makes the hike entirely worth it.

As your first day in Ausangate draws to a close, you’ll make your way to Pacchanata to spend the night. Pacchanata is one of the only high-altitude grazing communities in the world. In the vicinity, you’ll see different species of camelid, including alpaca and vicuña.

While you’re here you’ll also have the chance to bathe in the local hot springs, which are a cozy contrast to the chilly Andean temperatures. You’ll spend the night either in one of the local’s homes or in a tent outfitted with a sleeping bag and a mattress.

On the second day, you can choose to either trek or ride horseback to the 7 jewel-green lagoons of Ausangate. Your tour continues to admire the snow-capped Ausangate Mountain, which is the tallest mountain in southern Peru. Afterward, your group will begin the return journey to Cusco.
Please note that it is best to acclimate to the high altitude before attempting this trip. It’s recommended that you spend at least 2 to 3 days in Cusco before the start of the trek. The hike is difficult, but you have the option to ride a horse for an extra fee.

Comfortable and warm clothes, hiking shoes, change of clothes, sunscreen, bottled water, and money for personal expenses, including thermal bath entrance fee and snacks.

Day 1 lunch and dinner, Day 2 breakfast and lunch, transportation to and from Cusco, overnight accommodation, entrance fee to Ausangate, and a guide.