The Vilcanota Range is located in a remote area southeast of Cusco and includes beautiful turquoise lakes, glaciers, hot springs and the massive snow-covered peaks of Ausangate (6380 m/20926 ft).
The Vilcanota circuit is a challenging trek through spectacular mountain scenery. On the seven day and six night trip you will encounter four high passes over 4,725 m/15,500 ft. The trek will also provide you with many amazing opportunites to view Andean wildlife. Look for the Condor and Huallata (Andean Goose) the elegant Vicuña, Llamas, and the mountain viscacha.
The experiences don't stop at hiking and wildlife viewing. On this spectacular trek you will hike through sacred land and view dual faith in the present day. If you are lucky enough to go during the last week of May, you will witness one of the most expressive religious festivals of Qoyllorite. You will experience, first hand, a magnificent illustration of the unique mixture of Catholicism and Andean religion found in indigenous Peruvian Cultures.
Highlights
- Spectacular scenery including up close viewing of Mount Ausangate, the highest peak in Southern Peru
- Awesome wildlife viewing
- Visit ancient Inca Villages, prestine hot springs, and bright turquoise lagoons.
- Mules and Horses carry all heavy gear to leave you free to enjoy your beautiful surroundings.
Day 1 - Bus from Cusco to Tinqui and set up camp
Day 2 - Trek to hotsprings and second campsite at Upis (4500m/14,435ft)
Day 3 - Hike over the first pass of the trip - Arapa pass (4,850m) - and continue down to camp at Lake Pucacocha.
Day 4 - Ascend to second pass - Apuchata pass (4,900m) - and third pass - Palomani pass (5,200 m) - and then descend to camp at Uchuy Finaya.
Day 5 - Hike along a beautiful mountain stream to the final pass of the trek - Jampa. Then walk to camp at the mystical lake at Qómer Cocha.
Day 6 - Hike out through the valley passing more wildlife and stopping at another hotspring for a relaxing soak.
Day 7 - Short hike to Tinqui where you meet up with the private vehicle and return to Cusco.
Why should I choose this trip? What makes it better (different) than other trips?
The trek around the the Vilcanota Range is considered the most spectacular Trek in the Andean region. On the Trek you will encounter high altitude beauty that you can truly enjoy as mules will be carrying all of your heavy gear. This trip combines views of mountain peaks, dips in hotsprings, amazing wildlife, and a little immersion into Incan culture to make for an all around amazing experience. ...view more details
What kind of person will enjoy this trip?
Active, adventurous hikers who want to circumnavigate a spectacular Andean Massif, and who are interested in experiencing Andean culture, scenery and wildlife. ...view more details
Day 1. Cusco – Tinqui (Bus)
We depart early from Cusco in our private bus and travel to Tinqui at the foot of the Vilcanota range. We pass through several Andean villages like Urcos and Ocongate, with spectacular views of the Vilcanota range. There will be several rest stops and photo opportunities with local farmers and Alpaca shepherds. Lunch is served on the way before we arrive to our camp.
Lunch, Dinner.
Day 2. Tinqui – Upis (trek)
We meet our arrieros, or mule-drivers, who will carry our equipment on llamas and horses. This is an easy day which gives you the opportunity to become acclimatized. We will cross the Mapocho river and wind our way up the Huahuayocrumi Hill below the jagged stone flanks of Mount Ausungate (6,380 m/20,926 ft), the highest snow peak in Southern Peru. After trekking approximately five hours, with time for lunch and rest stops for pictures, we arrive at the hot springs of Upis, (4500m/14,435ft). We will camp here for the night.
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 3. Upis – Jatun Puca Cocha (trek)
After trekking approximately 2.5 hours, we get to our first pass, Arapa pass (4,850 m.) From the pass we enjoy wonderful vistas not only of Ausangate itself, but of many other nearby snow peaks as well. We continue down the corridor past small, multi-colored lagoons until we reach the larger Lake Vinococha, where we have lunch. A short walk in the afternoon brings us to the red-colored Lake Pucacocha, our campsite for the night. From here we get a dramatic, close-up view of Mount Ausangate and may even hear ice falling into the lake from its sides. Don’t worry. We are not in any danger.
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 4.Jatun Puca Cocha – Uchuy Finaya (trek)
In the morning, we make a short ascent to our second pass of Apuchata, (4,900 m.) with the turqoise waters of the Laguna Ausangate Q’ocha below. From here, we climb to the Palomani pass (5,200 m.), the highest of our journey. We can enjoy fantastic views of Ausangate and the Vilcanota range from this point. After approximately 2 hours of walking down into a valley, we arrive to our incredibly beautiful campsite at Uchuy Finaya.
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 5. Uchuy Finaya – Qomer´Cocha (trek)
Leaving our campsite, we begin a winding ascent along a widening stream until we reach the Valley of the Viscachas, named for the dozens of these furry animals that can be seen here. We pass through the small community of Jampa. At this location, we can see the fabulous snow-capped peaks of Puka Punta and Tres Picos. Upon reaching our final pass at Jampa, we have lunch among the wild vicunas and green lakes. A short downhill walk brings us to the mystical Lake Qómer cocha, where we will camp along the shore. Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 6. Qomercocha - Pacchanta (trek)
Hiking down through the valley, we pass many herds of grazing llamas and alpacas until we get to the Pacchanta hot springs. Here, we can rest, have lunch, and enjoy a soak in the soothing thermal water.
Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner
Day 7. Pacchanta Tinqui Cusco
After breakfast, we continue our hike to the small village of Tinqui, where we take our private vehicle back to Cusco. Breakfast, Lunch,
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What's Included
_ Bilingual guide and trip briefing with guide before departure.
_ Private bus to the trailhead and return.
_ Entrance fees.
_ All meals indicated on the itinerary. Vegetarian meals on request at no extra cost.
_ First class trekking services include camp cook and assistant, all group camping equipment, personal tents (single tent available: $50 for entire trip), thermarest pad, kitchen, dining and toilet tents. Tables, stools and kitchen gear.
_ Walkie-talkies for the trek and back-up horse.
_ First-aid kit and oxygen bottle.
Not Included
_ Any expenses incurred in preparing for the trip, such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets or trip insurance, nor additional expenses encountered as a result of flight schedule changes, delays, cancellations, missed connections, acts of God or war.
_ Personal items like individual gear, sleeping bags (Peru Sur Nativa rents sleeping bags: $50 for entire trek), medicines, laundry, phone calls, etc.
_ Gratuities.
_ Bilingual guide and trip briefing with guide before departure.
_ Private bus to the trailhead and return.
_ Entrance fees.
_ All meals indicated on the itinerary. Vegetarian meals on request at no extra cost.
_ First class trekking services include camp cook and assistant, all group camping equipment, personal tents (single tent available: $50 for entire trip), thermarest pad, kitchen, dining and toilet tents. Tables, stools and kitchen gear.
_ Walkie-talkies for the trek and back-up horse.
_ First-aid kit and oxygen bottle.
Not Included
Not Included
_ Any expenses incurred in preparing for the trip, such as, but not limited to, non-refundable airline tickets or trip insurance, nor additional expenses encountered as a result of flight schedule changes, delays, cancellations, missed connections, acts of God or war.
_ Personal items like individual gear, sleeping bags (Peru Sur Nativa rents sleeping bags: $50 for entire trek), medicines, laundry, phone calls, etc.
_ Gratuities.
Notes
Trip Notes
- Mules and horses will carry all your heavy camping gear but this is inaccessible during the day so please bring a small day-pack to carry your personal day gear in – i.e. water-bottle, iodine tablets, camera, sun-block, insect repellent, light fleece and rain jacket.
- All entrance fees will be paid for.
Transportation On Trip
Transportation Types
Private Van
Lodging - Accommodations
Lodging Types
6 Nights camping
Toilet Facilities
Pit Toilet/Outhouse
Details
What special equipment will we use on this trip? Tell me about it.
You will only need to bring a sleeping bag and personal items such as clothes and sunscreen. We will supply the rest. We will provide private transportation, entrance fees, tents, thermarests, a cook, a bilingual guide, and meals as stated in the itinerary.
Tell me about the guides on this trip
Each trip will be accompanied by a bilingual guide a trip cook and a camp assistant.
Tell me about the safety precautions and plans for this trip.
In case of accident or illness, Peru Sur Nativa, through the group leader, will provide aid and arrange evacuation when necessary. Cost of specialized means of evacuation (helicopters, etc.) and medical care beyond basic first-aid are not the financial responsibility of Peru Sur Nativa (see waiver for complete details).
Maximum Age
None
Elevation Range (Max, Min)
Up to 5200m
Weather
The dry season is considered April - October. The trips in November & December are chosen with slightly wetter, warmer weather in mind. The rainy season is considered January to March. No guarantees are given for perfect weather at any time of year.
Travel Provider
Provider Name
Peru Sur Nativa
Why should I choose this provider?
Peru Sur Nativa is a new alternative for those looking for outstanding, safe, high quality travel experiences in South America. We look forward to giving you the best value in your travels and to making your next trip a memorable experience. We strive to be the most educational, conscientious, and respectful travel company and our trips aim to break down barriers between people of different cultures, regardless of language, so that you return home with a better understanding of the places and people you have visited.
Provider Policies
Terms and Conditions
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Confirmations: In order to confirm programs for groups or individual passengers, Peru Sur Nativa requires the following information:
• full name of passenger(s)
• nationality
• passport number
• age
• occupation
• medical history and dietary restrictions
• address and telephone number
• special interests / needs
• all flight schedules
• rooming list
Reservations: In order to make reservations, Peru Sur Nativa requires an initial deposit equal to 50% of the total cost 45 days before arrival. You are required to deposit the rest of the total cost 30 days prior to your arrival. Payments should be deposited directly into the Peru Sur Nativa bank account (contact us for payment instructions).
After Making Reservations: Upon receipt of deposit we'll send you maps, a detailed itinerary, waiver form, medical advice, list of suggested equipment, visa requirements, hotel description, recommended reading list, money exchange information, weather considerations and other useful tips.
Single Supplement: Prices are based on double room occupancy. Single accommodations can be arranged for an extra charge. This includes single tents on trekking trips. Charges vary depending on the trip and the accommodations.
Insurance: All passengers are required to sign a standard waiver form at the beginning of all trips. We also recommend a short-term traveler's insurance policy covering accidents, baggage loss, emergency evacuation, etc. Any expenses resulting from flight delays, schedule changes, missed connections, sickness, trip delays due to bad weather, trail conditions, strikes, natural disasters, cancellations or acts of God will be assumed by the passenger through their traveler's insurance. We'll provide any and all documentation needed for insurance re-imbursement.
Emergency Care: In case of accident or illness, Peru Sur Nativa, through the group leader, will provide aid and arrange evacuation when necessary. Cost of specialized means of evacuation (helicopters, etc.) and medical care beyond basic first-aid are not the financial responsibility of Peru Sur Nativa (see waiver for complete details).
Personal Equipment: Each participant must bring the equipment required for the program. Peru Sur Nativa supplies a detailed list of the necessary equipment and clothing, as well as the equipment provided by the company.
Cancellations: Payments forfeited for canceled trips will depend on the date of cancellation:
• 45 days or more before departure: no forfeiture.
• 30 - 44 days before departure: forfeit 30% of total deposit.
• 16 - 29 days before departure: forfeit 50% of total deposit.
• 10 - 15 days before departure: forfeit 80% of total deposit.
• 0 - 9 days before departure: forfeit 100% of total deposit.
No Shows: Peru Sur Nativa will retain the entire deposit and not be held responsible for canceled or delayed flights. Peru Sur Nativa reserves the right to modify or change any program itinerary to ensure client safety. The company does not accept any responsibility for maltreatment (damage) of equipment, loss, accident, unforeseen costs, unavoidable delays, services provide by intermediaries, nor direct or indirect acts which are out the company's control.
Conditions Regarding Hotels:
• Hotel prices include “American” or buffet breakfast, depending on the category.
• All extra requests (telephone calls, laundry, room service etc.) will incur additional costs.
• Prices listed by Trekperu are guaranteed and re-evaluated yearly.
For hotel reservation and choices, please contact us!
Cancellation Policies
Cancellations: Payments forfeited for canceled trips will depend on the date of cancellation:
• 45 days or more before departure: no forfeiture.
• 30 - 44 days before departure: forfeit 30% of total deposit.
• 16 - 29 days before departure: forfeit 50% of total deposit.
• 10 - 15 days before departure: forfeit 80% of total deposit.
• 0 - 9 days before departure: forfeit 100% of total deposit.
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TESTIMONIALS
I would recommend this trip to a friend in a second. The trip to the Galapagos was Outstanding. The Letty was wonderful; the naturalists were the greatest; the food was superb; the crew excellent; (I\'m running out of adjectives) I would recommend the whole thing and your agency also. You really provided excellent service and information. I felt I could email or call you with any questions and I knew you would answer quickly and I felt honestly. For just taking a chance finding you on the internet, I was very fortunate.
-- Joyce P, Galapagos Islands on the Eric, Letty, Flamingo I
The Inca trail trek can only be described as magical. I tried my best to be cynical, but it didn’t work. This trip was pure magic and absolutely perfect.
The logistics of the trip were impeccable. The ground transportation was on time and they made sure I was able to obtain my boarding pass and pay the airport tax at each leg of the trip.
Out on the hike, my guide Oswaldo was fabulous.
The food on the trail was amazing. The chef created simple and fresh meals that were bursting with local flavor.
-- Terry B, Inca Trail 5-day with Andean Adventures
Just returned from Costa Rica last night ... trip was a GREAT SUCCESS! We all thank you VERY MUCH for arranging the trip.
-- Bob Fenchel, Custom Costa Rica with Camino Travel
We’ve been home just over a week now and I just wanted to send you a quick note to let you just how fantastically well everything went! Ok, so we did end up paying the full whack (which I’ve decided just not to think about!). However, we had a fantastic guide and everything ran really smoothly and we had a fantastic time. From being collected from the hotel (Vieja Cuba which was lovely) to being looked after once we got to the Galapagos it was all just perfect, so thank you very much for being an important part of our fabulous trip.
Cheers Greg !
-- Marayka K., Galapagos Multisport 7-Day Adventure
Detour, The Adventure Travel Marketplace - Ausangate Circuit
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