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Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu

Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu

Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu

Upis Yanacocha Qomercocha Rainbow Mountain Red Valley Ollantaytambo Machu Picchu

Imposing glacier mountains, turquoise lakes, picturesque villages, herds of llamas and alpacas, and Machu Picchu will color this 4-day adventure through one of the most timeless regions of Cusco towards Machu Picchu.

If you are looking for a hike that is lesser known by hikers, a challenging trek with spectacular vistas, then this is the trek to take; unlike other hikes to Machu Picchu, the 4-day Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu still maintains its authenticity; soak up the stunning mountains of the Vilcanota Range where Ausangate (the highest mountain of Cusco is located), reddish pale valleys and hills, the curious wildlife, arrive at the Rainbow Mountain first than any crowds and make this place for yourself for a while and gaze out the wonders of the great citadel of the Incas: Machu Picchu with a private Trek Leader at your side.

For a photographer or nature lover, this Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu has it all, camping under starry nights or starting your new day with an amazing sunrise, and trekking through valleys surrounded by wondrous towering peaks, what else? your last morning at Machu Picchu savoring the unique sunrise vistas.

This is a fully supported trek with a professional and experienced team of Peru Summit Adventures from local muleteers, cooks, chauffeurs, and Trek Guides. Join us on this once-in-a-lifetime adventure to discover the real wonders of Peru’s background like it was decades ago!

Join us for the adventure of a lifetime – give us a call at +51 984 464 391 or shoot us an email at info@perusummit.com to learn more or book your spot today!

This trip is officially operated by Peru Summit Adventures, a 100% local tour operator based in Cusco.

Think Green, Think Global for a Better Place for Everyone

Traveling with us you are making a big difference in favor of the environment, our trips are rated as eco-friendly trips to ensure that fragile ecosystems are protected and maintained for future human generations, also maintain ecosystem and environment integrity through considering a sustainable and ethical business model. Making genuine and sustainable itineraries often translates to real costs, with a host of responsible travel practices that underpin our prices.

Why Experience Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu

Travel with a locally based team, thoughtful planning and a pace designed around the realities of Peru.

  • A route matched to your travel style

    We recommend the pace and visits that best fit your time, interests and energy level.

  • Local guides who know the journey

    Your guide supports the timing, safety and cultural context of every travel day.

  • Careful altitude and pacing decisions

    Realistic travel times and well-placed stops help you enjoy the Andes without feeling rushed.

  • Private attention throughout the tour

    Ask questions, adjust the pace and explore with support focused on your group.

  • Tour logistics handled in advance

    Tickets, transport and entry times are coordinated with your itinerary before departure.

  • Direct support for local people

    We work with local guides, drivers and communities so your visit benefits the places you explore.

Trip Details

Service Level

Upgraded Comfort

Comfort-focused service with an expert local guide, private transportation and a flexible itinerary.

Group Size

Min 2, Max 8 people

Couples, families and friends are welcome. Private service gives your group more flexibility.

Physical Grading

Light to Moderate

Travelers should be comfortable walking at altitude and exploring sites with uneven paths.

Limited Spaces

Advance booking recommended

Entrance tickets and selected services are subject to availability during busy months.

Activities

Archaeology & Cultural Adventures

Explore Inca sites, traditional towns, local markets and Andean landscapes.

Acclimatization

Allow time in Cusco

Arrive at least two days before your tour so your body can adjust to the altitude.

Accommodation

Not required for this day tour

The experience starts and finishes at your accommodation according to the itinerary.

Important Note

Flexible local operation

The itinerary may change when weather, roads or local events affect safe travel.

Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu video

Itinerary

This itinerary for Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu outlines a 4-day trekking journey with planned visits to Upis, Yanacocha, Qomercocha, and Rainbow Mountain. Review each stage below to understand the daily highlights, travel sequence and practical details..

First steps in the highland regions of Cusco.

Picturesque villages, first steps over the highland regions of Cusco, and a bunch of llamas and alpacas will color today’s adventure in the Ausangate Trail.

You will be picked up from your hotel at 5:30 AM by your Trek Guide, you will then drive for about 3 hours to reach the trailhead located in Upis Village (4400 m/ 14,436 feet), at this place, you will meet your muleteers, after a brief introduction, you will make your adventure start. 

The first section of the trail until the lunch spot is gentle uphill, the trail passes through an Andean valley where is possible to see lots of alpacas and llamas and the massif Ausangate glacier at backdrops.

After 2 hours of hiking, you will arrive at the lunch spot, where you will have a delicious lunch prepared by your cook. Following the lunch break, you will still hike up to the first pass called Arapa at 4800 m/ 15,748 feet for 2 hours, from where you will enjoy stunning vistas of the massive highland mountains and valleys. The next trail section to the campsite is downhill for 2 hours. Today, you will camp at 4650 m/ 15,256 feet. Lunch and dinner included.

  • Hiking Time: 6 – 7 hours.
  • Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
  • Lowest Point: 4,350 m / 14,272 ft.
  • Highest Point: 4,800 m / 15,748 ft.
  • Physical rating: Moderate
Physical level Moderate to Demanding

Get immersed in the most scenic hiking day.

Cold morning with frosty grass outside the tent and the sun rays hitting the top of the towering peaks.

A hot breakfast prepared by our cook will make you ready for today’s hike, next, you will make your rucksacks ready and start with the adventure, the trail starts from a gradual uphill to a very steep uphill as you get closer to the next pass, after 3 hours hiking you will get to the next pass at 5,000 m/ 16,404 feet.

This section from the last campsite to this pass is one of the most scenic sections of the trail, from the pass, you will soak up mesmerizing views of Ausangate Glacier, reddish valleys, and the massive Vilcanota Mountain Range. After gazing out at the amazing views, you will hike downhill to reach a valley where you will have lunch.

In the afternoon, after lunch, you will hike up again for 2 hours to reach the next pass called Warmisaya located at 5000m / 16,404 feet. This is another amazing spot and you will even see Rainbow Mountain in a far location. You will still walk downhill for 30 minutes from the pass and you will arrive at the next campsite (Qomercocha) located at 4800 m/ 15,748 feet.

  • Hiking Time: 8 – 9 hours.
  • Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.46 miles.
  • Lowest Point: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft.
  • Highest Point: 5,000 m / 16,404 ft.
  • Physical rating: Very demanding.
Physical level Very Demanding

Lively colors of Rainbow Mountain and stay at Cozy Hotel in Ollantaytambo Town.

The lively colors of Rainbow Mountain, Red Valley and a long trip to Ollantaytambo awaits today.

After enjoying our last breakfast prepared by our cook, you will set off towards Rainbow Mountain, the section from the campsite is a gentle uphill for 1 hour and 30 minutes. After a while, you will reach the top of Rainbow Mountain way before than the crowds and have plenty of time to enjoy this fascinating site.

You will then hike to Red Valley, which is another spectacular place that makes you feel literally in a different world, here you will see reddish pale valleys, hills, and small mountains and the coolest thing is that you will hike through it. After experiencing this gorgeous valley, you will keep walking downhill to the end of the trail where our private transportation will be waiting for you to transfer to Ollantaytambo train station. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo town, you will have a late lunch at a local restaurant.

After lunch, we will walk to our hotel in the town (where you will enjoy a nice shower and deserved rest for the following day), check-in, and later on by 7 PM, we will have dinner (not included) your guide will provide restaurant recommendations and you will choose one based on it.

  • Hiking Time: 4 – 5 hours.
  • Hiking Distance: 8 km / 4.97 miles.
  • Lowest Point: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft.
  • Highest Point: 5,040 m / 16,535 ft.
  • Physical rating: Moderate to demanding.
Physical level Moderate to Demanding

Gaze out Machu Picchu through the misty morning.

Another great day awaits you, now it will be to gaze out at the stunning site of Machu Picchu.

After having a good breakfast at the hotel (included) you will take the train to Aguas Calientes Town at 6:10 AM, the train ride takes 1 hour and 40 minutes. Upon our arrival in the town, we will walk to the bus station to take the bus to Machu Picchu, which is for 25 minutes. Once at the checkpoint, you will enter Machu Picchu for which you will use your passport and the tickets (provided by us). Inside the citadel, you will have plenty of time to take pictures, to enjoy the morning views, and to enjoy the rich history of the ancient civilization.

You will then start exploring the Inca citadel for about 2 – 3 hours with your private Trek Leader at your side, on this tour, you will visit the temples, plazas, crop terracings, dwellings, granaries, solar observatory, and much more while listening to the history lesson from your guide. You will also have plenty of time to take pictures during the tour.

Once having a great time at Machu Picchu, you will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes Town where you will have time to enjoy lunch (not included) at one of the restaurants and celebrate your trek accomplishment with other trek mates and your guide, and why not some shots of Pisco “Peruvian flagship drink”. Next, you will take the train back to Ollantaytambo, from where you will be picked up by our private transportation and drive back to your hotel in Cusco City. End of the adventure.

Physical level Easy to Moderate

Included & Not Included

A clear breakdown of the services covered by your tour and the personal or optional expenses.

Included on Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu

  • Private transportation from your hotel to Upis Village (trailhead).
  • Private transportation from the end of trail to Ollantaytambo Train Station
  • Private transportation form the train station to your hotel in Cusco City on the last day.
  • Machu Picchu Entrante tickets (the slot will depend on the availability as the tickets are limited to 3044 a day).
  • Round trip train tickets on Expedition Class.
  • 1 night lodging at a 3-star hotel in Machu Picchu Town.
  • Round trip bus tickets (there is a shuttle service from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu).
  • Camping Equipment 4 season tent in Black Diamond or North Face Summit Series brand (03 people tent for 02 people)
  • Other camping equipment, a dining tent with table and chairs, and a kitchen tent, manned by a professional cooking staff.
  • Inflatable sleeping pads (therma-rest) come with pillows.
  • Entrance tickets to the park of Ausangate.
  • Entrance tickets to Rainbow Mountain.
  • Entrance tickets to Red Valley.
  • Experienced on-trail Trek Leader, Our Leaders are equipped and trained to practice First-Aid, administer oxygen if needed, and conduct radio communication.
  • Meals: Breakfast (3), lunch (3), dinner (3), and snacks.
  • A professional Cook.
  • Horses, and muleteers; horses carry your 8kg / 16-pound personal items.
  • Emergency Horse to escort us during the trek.
  • Oxygen tank and first-aid-kit.
  • Duffel Bags to Carr your 8kg/  16 pounds of personal items.
  • Fully supported trek.

Not Included on Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu

  • Sleeping bag (available to rent).
  • Hiking poles (available to rent).
  • First breakfast on day 1 and last lunch on day 4.
  • Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain Ticket (at extra cost $80.00).
  • Extra expenditure during the trek, such as: soda, alcoholic drinks, extra snacks, tickets for the hot springs.
  • Tipping for the trek leader, porters or muleteers, and other staff (Not compulsory, personal appreciation).
  • Travel and health insurance (bring copies with you please), we highly recommend to get an insurance of trip cancellation, interruption; an insurance to protect your travel investment, Included with your pre-departure package, bring your travel insurance to cover trip cancellation, interruption, baggage loss and delay, emergency medical evacuation insurance and emergency medical expense insurance. Any unexpected situations occurred during the journey and which are beyond our control, including changes in scheduling trains or flights, delays, strikes, cancellations, missed connections, etc. it should be covered by the passenger as a whole. Also, if you for physical reasons of health cannot continue the trek or walk, and will need emergency evacuation then all charges incurred such as transportation, hotel, ambulance, doctors, medication, hospitalization, etc. will be at passenger’s expense.

Prices & Dates

Select your travel year and month below to view daily guaranteed departures. All departures operate in small semi-private groups with licensed expert guides.

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Our Reviews

Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice recognition
Award-winning Tour Operator

Peru Summit Adventures has received Tripadvisor recognition for five consecutive years.

Tripadvisor 221 traveler reviews

My wife and I just returned from a beautiful trip to Peru where we also hiked the Choquequirao with Peru Summit. I had been planning the trip for over a year together with Carlos and his patience, responsiveness and professionalism really impressed me and convinced me that I had made the right choice. The hike itself was run with the same attitude and attentiveness as the reservation process. We joined a possible group of 8 but eventually did the trek with just the two of us which made it even more special. The guide, cook and horsemen were all so knowledgeable and friendly and worked so hard to accommodate us. All we needed to do was hike! Our chef never made the same dish twice in 5 days and they helped us with all of our needs and flaws. One of our power banks broke during the trip and the one of the horsemen lent us his to recharge at night so that we could still take pictures and use our watches the final two days. A personal visit by Carlos to evaluate at the end of the trip was the icing on the cake. He made us feel very special. Peru Summit delivered above and beyond and created great memories for us. Thank you Carlos, Aureol, Luis, Victor & Juan. We'll be back!

We booked through Peru Summit for private tours to sacred valley, machu piccu and rainbow mountain. We had William as our guide and Juan as our driver. We all thoroughly enjoyed the trips. William is an excellent guide with so much knowledge to share, a great sense of humour and great fun to be around. We were well looked after at every stage and would highly recommend the company as well as William and Juan to make your Peru trip extra special and very hassle free!

I just returned from an 10-day trip to Peru with my wife and three adult kids, all through Peru Summit Adventures. When I started planning the trip 16 months ago, I looked at several tour companies, ultimately deciding that I wanted to support a local family-owned business rather than a larger international company. Founder/owner Carlos immediately impressed me with his responsiveness, attentiveness, and professionalism. He worked with me diligently to create an itinerary that addressed the group's divergent interests, answered each of my (many) questions patiently and thoroughly, and showed tremendous flexibility when the size and makeup of our group changed repeatedly due to family circumstances - even providing a partial refund when he was no longer required to. Still, being anxious by nature, I harbored some uncertainty until we landed in Lima about whether we had chosen the right company and how everything would go. But any doubts were immediately put to rest. Through two days in Lima (with guide Rodrigo and driver David) and seven days in Ollantaytambo and Cusco (with guide Percy and driver Mario), we encountered nothing but top-end service with absolutely delightful people who became temporary members of our family. We did the two-day Inca Trail trek to Machu Picchu, climbed Wayna Picchu and Rainbow Mountain, saw all the major archaeological sites, visited some weaving cooperatives, and got great restaurant and shopping recommendations. Percy even went out of his way to make sure that my son's and my birthdays were celebrated during the trip. And Carlos continued to demonstrate the type of personalized attention you will never receive from a larger tour company, messaging every day to see how we were doing, whether the accommodations were comfortable, etc., and even taking time to stop by our Cusco hotel on our last day to introduce himself, chat in person, and solicit any suggestions for how his company might improve (we had none). Seriously, if you're browsing to help you choose a Peru tour company, you can safely stop browsing right now and go with Peru Summit. This was a once-in-a-lifetime trip and I could not have chosen a better outfit to entrust it to.

We booked a day trip to Machu Picchu. Although once here we realised we could have pieced it altogether ourselves, it was so worth booking ahead for peace of mind. Everything was so efficiently sorted by Carlos. Hotel pick up ( bang on time - and hotel recommended for shortest walk) , arrival at coach queue bang on time and no queuing, fast entry to MP ( and critically at 6am- first in) and the best Circuit 2 . All this in the capable hands of our guide William who was excellent - and good company! We learnt so much and it was all at an excellent pace and sensitive to our interests and level of knowledge. We had perfect clear skies but I think that was just luck!

William with Peru Summit Adventures made our Peru trip unforgettable! We did a customized tour of various attractions around Cusco (Maras salt mines, Moray circular terraces, Ollantaytambo Inca site, etc.) and William was the BEST guide through it all. He was unbelievably knowledgeable about every site and so friendly — we felt so comfortable around him, which was important to us as a group of 3 women. William went out of the way to make sure our experience was perfect, constantly checking in on us throughout the tour and ensuring we were having a good time. 10/10 recommend Peru Summit Adventures and especially William!

This private tour of the Sacred Valley was definitely worthwhile! Our guide Wally and our driver Juan were kind, knowledgeable, attentive and very fun. We got to see all the best sites in the sacred valley and even had some bonus facts/stops, like eating the best empanadas in Pisac! The tour is adjustable based on your liking and timing really depends on how long you want to spend at each site. We stuck with the advice from our guide and had the best day - highly recommended!

This is going to be a long review, because Peru Summit Adventures deserves it. After speaking with several large international tour companies, we ultimately decided to work with a local Peru-based company, Peru Summit Adventures—and it was one of the best decisions we made for this trip. From our very first conversations, Carlos spent a tremendous amount of time listening to what we wanted from our 2.5 weeks in Peru: a private, high-end trip with wonderful hotels and guides, plenty of history and culture, some adventure, and experiences that felt personal rather than cookie-cutter. He offered thoughtful suggestions we hadn’t considered and ultimately created an exceptional itinerary for the two of us. Of course we visited Cusco and Machu Picchu, but Carlos also encouraged us to experience Arequipa, Colca Canyon and Lake Titicaca, which ended up giving us some of our most memorable days in Peru. He paired the itinerary with beautiful hotels, outstanding private guides and drivers, and seamless logistics from beginning to end. What really distinguishes Peru Summit Adventures, though, is how personal the experience feels. Carlos didn’t simply plan our trip and hand us off once we arrived. He stayed in touch with us throughout the journey, checking in and personally monitoring things as we made our way across the country. We always felt like someone was looking out for us. He also arranged experiences we never would have found on our own. One of our favorites was a private day in the mountains outside Cusco accompanied by wonderfully tame and friendly alpacas and llamas—exactly the sort of unique, memorable experience we had hoped to find in Peru. We also discovered just how valuable it was to have Carlos in our corner when weather caused our flight to Arequipa to be cancelled. While we were stuck at the airport trying to figure out what to do, Carlos was in constant contact with us on WhatsApp, working on solutions and ultimately helping get us onto another airline and flight that allowed us to keep the rest of our itinerary on track. He was responsive, reassuring and genuinely sympathetic to how frustrating the situation was. That kind of hands-on, personal care is very difficult to imagine getting from a large international operator, and in that moment it meant an enormous amount to us. Every single guide Carlos selected for us was exceptional—warm, friendly, accommodating, easygoing and incredibly knowledgeable. They didn’t simply recite facts; they were wonderful storytellers who helped us understand Peru’s history, culture and people. Our drivers were equally terrific, and we felt completely comfortable and well cared for throughout the trip. Carlos was also incredibly helpful before we ever arrived, giving us excellent advice about packing, altitude and how to prepare for the different environments we’d encounter along the way. For a smaller local operator, the level of service was extraordinary. In fact, the personal attention we received was one of the great advantages of traveling this way. We had all the comfort, organization and polish of a high-end private tour, but with the warmth and flexibility of working directly with people who live in and love Peru. I also loved knowing that our tourism dollars were going directly to a local Peruvian company rather than through a large overseas operator. And somehow, despite the incredibly high level of service, we also felt that we received excellent value for the quality of the trip Carlos created for us. Most importantly, this wasn’t simply a well-planned vacation. We fell in love with Peru, and so much of that was because of the people and experiences Carlos brought into our journey. We came home with memories and stories that I know we’ll still be talking about many years from now. I recommend Peru Summit Adventures and Carlos without hesitation. If you’re looking for a beautifully planned, private trip through Peru with exceptional guides, thoughtful details, unique experiences and someone genuinely invested in making sure you are taken care of from the moment you arrive until the moment you leave, book with them with confidence. Peru Summit Adventures gets my absolute highest recommendation. Five stars doesn’t really feel like enough.

这次秘鲁之旅真的多亏了 Peru Summit Adventures。不巧我太太在行程中受了伤,原定的多日徒步只能取消。当时我们挺沮丧的,但老板 Carlos 和团队反应非常快,不仅一直在鼓励我们,还迅速帮我们改了轻松的替代行程。Carlos 甚至特地跑来酒店看望我太太,让我们非常感动。在他们的周到照顾下,我们最终顺利登上了马丘比丘,圆了心愿!如果去秘鲁,找他们绝对靠谱。再次谢谢 Carlos 和团队! I cannot thank Peru Summit Adventures enough. My wife unfortunately injured her foot, so we had to cancel our multi-day trek. We were pretty stressed, but Carlos (the owner) and his team were so quick to help. They came up with an alternative plan right away, and Carlos even came to our hotel in person to check on her. Thanks to their quick support, we still got to see Machu Picchu safely! If you are planning a trip to Peru, I highly recommend them. Thank you again, Carlos!

WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT!...

Here’s, Why You Should Book With Us!

Making a choice of your right travel company/ tour operator is the most important decision you will make as you make your plans for a long-anticipated dreamed adventure. At first glance, some companies may seem cheaper. However, when you research a little deeper, you will see why traveling with Peru Summit Adventures assures that you will have the most memorable travel experience possible. In fact, we guarantee it, our TripAdvisor reviews say that.

Making genuine and sustainable itineraries often translate to real costs, with a host of responsible travel practices that underpin our prices, here are the reasons why you should go with us!

Could you imagine trying to hike silently along an isolated trail, carefully not disturbing shy wildlife, with 10 or 20 other travelers? Or walking on a remote area to explore the pristine wilderness with dozens of other tourists at your side? We know meaningful nature encounters must be undertaken in small groups. That’s why our trips come with an average of just four travelers, by far the smallest groups in the tourism industry across the country. This not only guarantees you more personal close-up wildlife experience, but a less-impact presence on the earth’s brittle natural places we love.

When you plan a bucket-list journey to Peru, the last thing you want is an operator canceling due to low numbers. At Peru Summit Adventures, we guarantee that once you book your departure date, your adventure is 100% confirmed. You can book your flights and plan your vacation with complete peace of mind.

Responsible tourism is at the core of everything we do. We provide our porters, wranglers, and support crew with fair wages, comprehensive insurance, warm sleeping quarters, and nutritious meals. Moreover, our expeditions feature high-end 4-season mountain tents, ergonomic trekking pads, and gourmet regional meals prepared fresh daily.

Green Engage - Eco-friendly and Sustainable Travel

THINK GREEN, THINK GLOBAL FOR A BETTER PLACE FOR EVERYONE

EVERY JOURNEY LEAVES A FOOTPRINT. LET'S MAKE IT A POSITIVE ONE.

Traveling with us means making a positive difference for the environment. We incorporate responsible and eco-friendly practices into our trips to help protect and preserve fragile ecosystems for future generations, while respecting the integrity of the natural environment through a sustainable and ethical approach to tourism.

We believe that creating genuine and sustainable travel experiences comes with real costs. Responsible tourism requires thoughtful practices at every stage of our operations—from reducing our environmental impact and protecting natural areas to supporting local communities and the people who call these destinations home.

By choosing to travel with Peru Summit Adventures, you are helping us promote a more responsible and sustainable way of exploring Peru. Together, we can protect the incredible natural and cultural heritage of our country and help ensure that these extraordinary places remain for generations to come.

Every journey leaves a footprint. Let's make it a positive one.

Select Your Train to Machu Picchu

Expedition train journey through the Andes
Expedition Train

Comfortable, Practical & Scenic

The Expedition Train offers comfortable standard seating and wide windows for enjoying the Andean landscapes. It is a practical and pleasant way to travel between Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu.

Comfortable Seats Standard reclining seats
Large Windows Panoramic route views
Luggage Up to 5 kg
Onboard Service Basic assistance

This train is included

Vistadome train journey to Machu Picchu
Vistadome Train

Panoramic Windows & Andean Views

The Vistadome Train adds wider panoramic windows, a brighter cabin and a more immersive view of the valley for travelers seeking extra scenery and comfort.

Panoramic Views Expanded windows
Photo Friendly Better natural light
Snack Service Light refreshments
Luggage Up to 5 kg

Available as an upgrade

Vistadome Observatory premium journey
Vistadome Observatory Train

Premium Scenery & Observatory Car

The Vistadome Observatory combines panoramic windows with access to an observatory-style car, offering extra space and a memorable view throughout the route.

Observatory Car Open-view experience
Premium Views Designed for the route
Andean Ambience Enhanced experience
Onboard Service Attentive assistance

Premium upgrade available

Machu Picchu landscape for the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury journey
Belmond Hiram Bingham

Luxury Rail Journey to Machu Picchu

The Belmond Hiram Bingham train offers an exclusive journey to Machu Picchu with elegant carriages, gourmet cuisine, live music and attentive onboard service along the scenic Sacred Valley route.

Gourmet Dining Refined onboard cuisine
Bar & Observation Scenic social spaces
Live Music Entertainment onboard
Personalized Service Dedicated attention

Available as a luxury upgrade

Expedition Train Comfortable service included
Vistadome Train Panoramic comfort upgrade
Vistadome Observatory Premium scenic experience
Belmond Hiram Bingham Luxury rail experience

Trip Leaders

The perfect custom-made private tours, adventure tours, or expeditions don’t just happen. It takes a team of talented, knowledgeable, passionate, and experienced professionals to bring it all together and possible. Our team of Peru Summit Adventures Leaders is comprised of local trip veterans, seasoned tour veterans with rich backgrounds on history, archaeology, culture, cuisine, geology, biology, and more.

With the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the travel industry, our Trip Leaders safely deliver your trip-of-a-lifetime to maximize your Peru journeys and adventures every step of the way. Our Tour/Trek Leaders have worked extensively in the Peru isolated mountains, archaeological sites, hiking the Inca Trail (at least 150 times), Amazon jungle, and being at Machu Picchu for over 400 times at least, this guarantees your trip a unique and memorable experience.

Carlos - Lead Expedition Specialist 15+ Years

Carlos

Lead Expedition Specialist
400+ Expeditions EN / ES / QU

High-altitude expedition leader passionate about Andean astronomy, trail safety, and geology.

WFR Responder DIRCETUR Guide
Ronald - Senior Alpine Trek Leader 12+ Years

Ronald

Senior Alpine Trek Leader
250+ Treks EN / ES / QU

Alpine specialist recognized for steady acclimatization pacing and high-mountain expertise.

WFR Responder Alpine Safety
Edwin - Archaeology & Cultural Guide 10+ Years

Edwin

Archaeology & Cultural Guide
300+ Routes EN / ES / QU

Historian and archaeologist bringing Inca architecture, sacred cosmology, and living culture to life.

Archaeologist DIRCETUR Guide
Maritza - Eco-Trekking & Community Guide 9+ Years

Maritza

Eco-Trekking & Community Guide
200+ Expeditions EN / ES / QU

Conservationist dedicated to indigenous community partnerships and authentic cultural exchanges.

WFR Certified Eco Steward

WHATS THE TRIP LIKE & FAQ'S

Average daytime temperatures in and around Cusco generally range from 55º – 75º F with evenings cooling down into the 40º and 50º. Much of this itinerary takes place in the mountains, where weather can change very quickly and evening temperatures regularly drop into the 30º and 40º. As our treks are planned during the “dry season”, days are typically clear and pleasant, with afternoon clouds occasionally building and leading to small amounts of rainfall, and morning temperatures usually range from 35º and 45º with some frost on the tents, and frosty plains in some locations. While April and November departures may experience slightly higher amounts of rainfall, all-day rain is unusual. We will be hiking over multiple mountain passes which are over 14,104 ft, so should you be prepared for unpredictable mountain weather.

This Trek has a distance of 37 km – 23 miles from the trailhead located in Upis town to the end of the trail (parking area) after Rainbow Mountain.

Since the number of tickets a day to Machu Picchu has been reduced a couple of years ago only to 4044 tickets per day (from which only 3044 for the public), tickets have been selling out 2 – 3 months in advance, that’s why we strongly recommend booking this trek 5 months in advance to secure the entrance tickets. And if expecting to find a ticket in Aguas Calientes town at the last minute, unfortunately, that’s not a guarantee, and we do not recommend it as things are very crazy and chaotic.

The best month to hike the Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu is June, this month coincides with the typical celebrations due to the anniversary of Cusco, after the second week of June there are typical lively celebrations in Cusco city (shows, colorful dancers, local musicians, food exhibitions, etc) that are worth enjoying while scanning the city downtown. Besides June is a month within the dry season so the weather is perfect for any hike (blue sky and starry nights). We also recommend any time between May through August, these months are within the dry season.

Our recommendation is to book this trek at least 4 – 5 months in advance, all multi-day hikes need to be arranged with a reasonable time in advance and to secure the Machu Picchu tickets.

You will visit Rainbow Mountain on day 3 in the early morning, the night before we will stay just 1 hour away from this place, so the following morning we will start our hike very early to beat the crowds, you will be arriving at the place by 7:00 AM and very likely you will be one of the first ones in reaching this unique place.

Yes, there is a place for hot springs close by to the first lunch spot, however, the hot springs are not well maintained and it’s not recommended to use them, any updated information about this place will be provided during our welcome meeting in Cusco city, a day before the trek begins.

In comparison with other treks in the area, this 4 day trek is demanding. *It is strongly recommended that participants attend the ACCLIMATIZATION PROGRAM before attending this Adventure or take 2 days at least before the trek in Cusco City.

Yes, we are. Peru Summit Adventures is a reputable tour operator for Ausangate Trek and Rainbow Mountain, we have been the first ones in creating Ausangate Trek that includes Rainbow Mountain, and we always strive in making the treks a little different that the conventional operators.

All costs will depend on the type of service you will receive, this includes the type of gear, trek leader, muleteers, cook, wages, transportation, and support from your tour operator if unexpected things happen during the trek. The costs range from $750.00 USD to $990.00 USD for this 4 day Ausangate Trek, any price under this rate may be suspicious and please check the tour operator’s reputation before making your decision.

Extend Your Experience

Make more of your time in Peru with optional experiences you can add to your journey. Compare the duration and starting price, then choose what best fits your interests and travel plans.

Optional experiences Choose only what fits your journey.

What to Bring

Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu Packing List: We want to make your trip unforgettable, so here we provide you with information on everything you should bring for your Ausangate Trek to Machu Picchu.

  • Original passport and some copies.
  • Travel insurance and some copies.
  • Sleeping bag (or you can rent one from us).
  • Backpack to carry your personal items.
  • Camera and its charger and adapter.
  • Torch or headlamps with extra batteries.
  • Hiking poles (or you can rent one pair from us).
  • Rain gear (especially if traveling in the wet season, from October to March).
  • Comfortable hiking clothes, including warm clothes for the nighttime.
  • Good hiking boots with protector ankle or similar, and one pair of flip-flops or light sandals.
  • Sunblock and sunglasses.
  • Deet (40%) or bug spray.
  • Hiking long sleeve T-shirts.
  • Hiking trousers.
  • Ear Plugs.
  • Hands sanitizer
  • Thermal underwear.
  • Hiking socks.
  • Water bottle or canteen.
  • American dollars and Peruvian soles in cash.
  • Sun hat, cap, and warm hat and gloves for the nighttime
  • Toilet paper and face tissue paper.
  • Credit or debit card.
  • Personal first-aid kit (should contain lip salve, Diamox (Acetozolamide), Anti-inflammatory tablets (e.g. Ibuprofen), Aspirin, Band Aids, anti-histamine, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, re-hydration powder, extra prescription drugs you may take).

LODGING AND CAMPING

Camping Equipment: Great gear is a key part of every great journey, so we’ve made our gear warehouse featuring top-performing brands like Black Diamond, Patagonia, North Face Summit Series, Therma Rest, Marmot, Leki, this is a fantastic collection of our outdoor gear, accessories, which are offered in all trekking adventures, expeditions, and Peru Summit Adventures Logo items.

In all hikes, you’ll enjoy Pro 4-season tents in Black Diamond and North Face with Pro Sleeping pads in Therma-Rest and pillows, tents are roomy and cozy designed for 3 people but used only for 2 guests.

Hotels: We select carefully our hotels in each destination all over the country. And we select our accommodations for how well they represent the distinctive character of the destination you’re in. Some of these rooms and cabanas draw their inspiration from history and others from the views they offer. What’s consistent, however, is that we stand by each and every one of these for what they’ll add to your experience.

DAY 1 - Sacred Valley Boutique Lodge
Sacred Valley Boutique Lodge
Altitude 2,870 m (9,416 ft)
Weather Sunny & Mild, 18°C
Activity Valley Hike & Culture
Setting Riverside Garden Lodge
DAY 2 - High Mountain 4-Season Glamping Tent
High Mountain 4-Season Glamping Tent
Altitude 4,200 m (13,780 ft)
Weather Crisp & Clear, 8°C
Activity Alpine Trek & Stargazing
Setting Glacial Valley Campsite
DAY 3 - Andean Scenic Wilderness Camp
Andean Scenic Wilderness Camp
Altitude 4,650 m (15,255 ft)
Weather Cold Alpine, 4°C
Activity High Pass Photography
Setting Remote Mountain Wilderness
DAY 4 - Machu Picchu Pueblo Selected Hotel
Machu Picchu Pueblo Selected Hotel
Altitude 2,040 m (6,692 ft)
Weather Subtropical, 22°C
Activity Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Setting Cloud Forest Town Hotel

Hotels

Tierra Viva Miraflores Centro

Tierra Viva Miraflores Centro

Miraflores, Lima, Peru

Tierra Viva Miraflores Centro is a 3-star city hotel in Miraflores, Lima, offering a central position one block from Kennedy Park, comfortable rooms and practical city access.

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Casa Andina Premium Miraflores

Casa Andina Premium Miraflores

Miraflores, Lima, Peru

Casa Andina Premium Miraflores is a 5-star premium hotel in Miraflores, Lima, offering contemporary Peruvian art, refined common areas and easy access to the Miraflores waterfront.

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AC Hotel Lima Miraflores

AC Hotel Lima Miraflores

Miraflores, Lima, Peru

AC Hotel Lima Miraflores is a 4-star design hotel in Miraflores, Lima, offering modern interiors and a Pacific-facing location beside Larcomar and the coastal promenade.

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Hotel B Lima

Hotel B Lima

Barranco, Lima, Peru

Hotel B Lima is a 5-star luxury boutique hotel in Barranco, Lima, offering a restored Belle Époque mansion, curated art and an intimate setting in Lima’s creative district.

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Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel, Lima

Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel, Lima

Miraflores, Lima, Peru

Miraflores Park, A Belmond Hotel, Lima is a 5-star luxury hotel in Miraflores, Lima, offering Pacific Ocean views, a rooftop pool and polished Belmond service near the malecón.

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InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores

InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores

Miraflores, Lima, Peru

InterContinental Real Lima Miraflores is a 5-star luxury hotel in Miraflores, Lima, offering contemporary rooms, destination dining and convenient access to Miraflores attractions.

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Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport

Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport

Jorge Chávez International Airport, Lima, Peru

Wyndham Grand Costa Del Sol Lima Airport is a 5-star airport hotel in Jorge Chávez International Airport, Lima, offering direct airport access, full-service facilities and a convenient base for early or late flights.

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Villa Barranco by Ananay

Villa Barranco by Ananay

Luxury boutique hotel

Barranco, Lima, Peru

Villa Barranco by Ananay is a luxury boutique hotel in Barranco, Lima, offering a restored residential villa, individually designed rooms and a quiet Barranco atmosphere.

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A curated collection of books about Machu Picchu, Peru and its wildlife

Suggested Reading List

We have created a custom comprehensive listing of Highlights of Peru In A Nutshell 12 Days , Machu Picchu and Peru, Machu Picchu, and Peru travel books for this trip. Our reading list Peru is custom-designed to complement specific Peru Summit destinations. We feature a handpicked selection of travel guides, maps, literature, books on art, cuisine, nature, and culture, designed to help you get more out of your travels to Machu Picchu & Peru.

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HANDPICKED EXPERIENCES IN CUSCO

Why Travelers Choose Us

Peru Summit is a locally owned Peruvian company. We combine personal support, expert guides and responsible travel practices so every journey feels carefully planned from beginning to end.