Peru · Ausangate & Machu Picchu
South America
Duration
12 days
Price per person
$3,290 / pers.
Intensity
Hard
Sessions
1 date
12-day journey through the Cusco Andes: real acclimatization time in the Sacred Valley before altitude becomes a factor, days of trekking around the glaciated Ausangate massif past the mineral-striped slopes of Vinicunca and turquoise high-altitude lakes, mules carrying the gear and a support team waiting at camp every night, finishing with Machu Picchu by train. A far more spectacular, far less crowded way into the Andes than a standard Peru circuit — no technical skills required, just a good level of fitness and patience for the altitude.
Day 1
Transfer and rest at altitude, briefing.
Day 2
Pisac and Ollantaytambo ruins, easy walking at altitude, comfortable hotel.
Day 3
Half-day hike above the city, final gear check.
Day 4
Drive to the trailhead, mules loaded with the gear, first camp at the foot of Ausangate with hot springs nearby.
Day 5
Crossing the first high pass, glacier views open up, lakeside camp with a hot meal waiting.
Day 6
Early walk to Vinicunca's mineral-striped slopes before the day-trip crowds arrive.
Day 7
Second high pass above 5,000m, descent into a remote valley, the support team already at camp.
Day 8
Final pass of the circuit, descent to natural hot springs to soak at trail's end.
Day 9
Drive back, rest and recovery day at a comfortable hotel.
Day 10
Scenic train through the Sacred Valley to the base of Machu Picchu.
Day 11
Sunrise entry to the citadel, guided visit, afternoon at leisure.
Day 12
Train and transfer back, onward flights. End of expedition.
Participation is subject to review. Selection is confirmed after internal validation.
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