When preparing for a challenging and spectacular adventure like the Ausangate Trek, one of the most important aspects to consider is the weather. This factor will not only impact your comfort during the trek but also your safety and success in completing the route. Knowing the weather conditions throughout the year will help you pack the right gear and plan your trip for the best possible time. Ready to explore the Andean landscapes under ideal conditions? Keep reading and make sure you are fully prepared for this unforgettable journey.
What is the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate trek is one of the less conventional routes that doesn’t take you to Machu Picchu due to its location. If you want to visit, you’ll need to arrange a separate service specifically for that. This route offers destinations that are deeply connected with nature, accompanied by the snow-capped Ausangate mountain throughout the trek and breathtaking views from various mountain passes, which are also the highest points of the route.
Fun fact: The Ausangate mountain is known for being the fifth highest peak in Peru, standing at an impressive 6,385 meters / 20,948 feet.
Weather on the Ausangate Trek and in the Andes
When planning your trip to the Ausangate trek, weather is a key factor to consider, as it will influence not only when you choose to go but also how you prepare your gear, from handling extreme cold to packing for warmer temperatures. Before embarking on this incredible trekking route, you’ll likely spend a few days in Cusco, the main departure point for most tourist expeditions. Use this time to acclimate to the altitude, as it will be essential for your well-being throughout the trek.
The Ausangate Trek takes place in the heights of the Andes, one of the largest mountain ranges in the world, meaning the weather is influenced by several factors:
- Altitude: The extreme height of Ausangate, with peaks exceeding 6,300 meters (20,669 feet), creates a cold and dry climate. Most of the trek takes place above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), meaning temperatures can drop significantly, especially at night.
- Solar Radiation: Due to the altitude, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is much stronger than in lower areas, increasing the risk of sunburn even on cloudy days.
- Seasonality: In the Andes, there are clearly defined seasons between the dry season (May to September) and the rainy season (October to April). During the dry season, skies are clear, but nighttime temperatures are colder. In the rainy season, the terrain becomes slippery, and the risk of heavy rainfall increases.
- Winds: High-altitude winds can be strong, especially on mountain passes, contributing to the wind chill and affecting trail conditions.
Ausangate Trek Weather: Defined Seasons
The Andean region of Peru, where the Ausangate mountain is located, is characterized by two distinct seasons that directly impact trekking conditions: the dry season and the rainy season.
- Dry Season (May to September): These months are ideal for trekking, with sunny, dry days. Daytime temperatures range from 12°C to 25°C (54°F to 77°F), but at night, they drop sharply, reaching as low as -7°C (19°F) in the higher altitudes. Cold nights are common, making it essential to pack thermal clothing and adequate layers to protect yourself from the cold.
- Rainy Season (October to March): During this period, rains are more frequent, making trails slippery and muddy. Daytime temperatures are usually more moderate, between 18°C and 20°C (64°F and 68°F), but the nights remain cold. Visibility can also be affected by fog, and conditions may pose additional challenges for trekkers.
Transition Months
- April and October are considered transition months, where you may experience both rains and sunny days. While these periods may offer greener landscapes, it’s recommended to be prepared for variable weather conditions, as the trails may be wet and temperatures can fluctuate.
Acclimatizing to the altitude, especially with most of the trek taking place above 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), is crucial for a safer and more enjoyable experience. Along with thermal clothing, it’s important to pack rain gear and waterproof boots to handle possible rainfall during the less stable seasons.
MONTH-BY-MONTH WEATHER ON THE AUSANGATE TREK
Rainy Season on the Ausangate Trek
The rainy season stretches from November to March. During this period, frequent rainfall makes trails muddy and slippery. While the landscapes can be stunning due to greener vegetation and fuller water streams, it’s also a time of higher risk, with reduced visibility and colder, wetter conditions.
Ausangate Trek in November
- Daytime temperature: 18 °C / 64 °F
- Nighttime temperature: 4 °C / 39 °F
- Conditions: Rain begins to intensify, with muddy and slippery trails. It’s not the best time for trekking due to frequent rain and cold nights.
Ausangate Trek in December
- Daytime temperature: 14 °C / 57 °F to 16 °C / 61 °F
- Nighttime temperature: -4 °C / 25 °F
- Conditions: Frequent rain increases the risk of trail closures. Night temperatures drop even further, with possible frost.
Ausangate Trek in January
- Daytime temperature: 4 °C / 39 °F to 15 °C / 59 °F
- Nighttime temperature: Frequent frost.
- Conditions: Heavy rains make January one of the worst months for trekking. Trails may be closed, and visibility is limited due to fog.
Ausangate Trek in February
- Daytime temperature: 16 °C / 61 °F
- Nighttime temperature: Frost conditions.
- Conditions: Although rains slightly decrease, they are still frequent and continue to affect trail conditions, making the ausangate trek weather less favorable.
Ausangate Trek in March
- Daytime temperature: 18 °C / 64 °F
- Nighttime temperature: 5 °C / 41 °F
- Conditions: Rains start to diminish, but the trails remain muddy. Fog is common and can limit visibility, making the ausangate trek weather still challenging.
Note: During the rainy season, it is essential to be well-equipped. Bring a quality raincoat, thermal clothing, and protection for both cold and mud. Ponchos and waterproof boots are must-haves for tackling the ausangate trek weather.
Dry Season on the Ausangate Trek
The dry season, from April to October, is the best time to do the Ausangate Trek. Days are generally sunny with clear skies, and temperatures are pleasant during the day, although nights are extremely cold, especially at higher altitudes.
Ausangate Trek in May
- Daytime temperature: 22 °C / 72 °F
- Nighttime temperature: 10 °C / 50 °F
- Conditions: Sunny days and cool nights. One of the best months to trek, as rains are minimal, and the ausangate trek weather is ideal for hiking.
Ausangate Trek in June
- Daytime temperature: 25 °C / 77 °F
- Nighttime temperature: -5 °C / 23 °F
- Conditions: The driest month of the year. Frost at night is common, so be prepared for the ausangate trek weather with thermal clothing for the cold nights.
Ausangate Trek in July
- Daytime temperature: 24 °C / 75 °F
- Nighttime temperature: -7 °C / 19 °F
- Conditions: Similar to June, with pleasant daytime temperatures but extremely cold nights. Ideal for those who enjoy clear skies and sunny days under the ausangate trek weather.
Ausangate Trek in August
- Daytime temperature: 26 °C / 79 °F
- Nighttime temperature: -3 °C / 27 °F
- Conditions: Although nights remain cold, the ausangate trek weather in August is warmer than in previous months. Rain is very unlikely.
Ausangate Trek in September
- Daytime temperature: 25 °C / 77 °F
- Nighttime temperature: -2 °C / 28 °F
- Conditions: Similar to August, with cold nights but sunny days. The ausangate trek weather is perfect for hiking, though occasional rain may occur.
Note: During the dry season, it’s not only essential to prepare for cold nights but also to protect yourself from the sun due to higher UV radiation. Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to avoid sunburn while enjoying the ausangate trek weather.
Transition Season on the Ausangate Trek
The months of April and October are considered transition periods. The ausangate trek weather is more variable and may include both sunny days and occasional rains.
Ausangate Trek in April
- Daytime temperature: 20 °C / 68 °F
- Nighttime temperature: 8 °C / 46 °F
- Conditions: Rain starts to fade, but occasional showers may still occur, mostly in the afternoons. April is a good month for trekking as the ausangate trek weather stabilizes, and there are fewer crowds.
Ausangate Trek in October
- Daytime temperature: 22 °C / 72 °F
- Nighttime temperature: 6 °C / 43 °F
- Conditions: Rain increases towards the end of the month. October is a mixed month, so be prepared for any changes in the ausangate trek weather.
Conclusion: How to Prepare for the Ausangate Trek Weather
The weather on Ausangate is unpredictable and extreme, so it is crucial to be well-prepared for both intense cold and strong sun. Here are some key recommendations:
- Bring layered clothing to easily adapt to temperature changes.
- Don’t forget a good raincoat and thermal gear.
- Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for sunny days.
- Always carry a backpack with extra gear like gloves, a hat, and a rain poncho for unexpected ausangate trek weather.
Traveling well-prepared is the key to enjoying this incredible trekking route, no matter what the ausangate trek weather brings.
Get ready for adventure! Don’t let the weather surprise you, and embark on one of the most spectacular treks in Peru. Book your trip now and enjoy the experience of a lifetime!