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Is Ausangate Trek dangerous? If you’re considering this trekking route, you’re likely wondering how risky it can be. Throughout its breathtaking landscapes—snowy peaks and crystal-clear lakes—you’ll also face extreme altitudes and challenging conditions. Is it worth the effort? In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know to prepare, avoid risks, and enjoy one of the most beautiful routes in Peru. Are you brave enough to discover if it’s truly as dangerous as people say? Keep reading and get ready for the challenge!
General Information about the Ausangate Trek
What is the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek is an exciting route that takes you through the Cusco Andes with the imposing Ausangate glacier as a backdrop. If you’re a traveler who loves nature, sleeping under the moonlight, and outdoor activities, you’re about to live a truly rewarding experience.
All along the route, you’ll be amazed by the incredible scenery that unfolds at every step: majestic snow-capped mountains, mirror-like lagoons of unique beauty, varied local flora and fauna, and stunning views that open before your eyes.
Ausangate Trek: A trekking alternative for those seeking extreme challenges
Where is the Ausangate Trek located?
This trekking route circles the impressive Ausangate glacier, located between the provinces of Quispicanchi and Canchis in the Cusco region (Cusco se ubica aproximadamente a 3,399 m [11,152 ft] de altitud). The classic route, which typically lasts 5 days, spans approximately 70 km (43.5 miles).
Take note! The Cusco region offers a variety of trekking routes, each with different landscapes, destinations, and levels of difficulty. If you have the time, don’t hesitate to stay longer and keep exploring everything this incredible region has to offer.
How many days does the Ausangate Trek last?
This trekking route has several variations, which makes its duration variable. Depending on the option you choose, you can find routes that last from a couple of days to even longer. If you search online now, you’ll find some versions such as:
- 7 Ausangate Lagoons in 1 day (full day).
- Ausangate trek and Rainbow Mountain, 3 days
- Ausangate trek and Rainbow Mountain, 4 days
- Classic Ausangate trek, 5 days
- Classic Ausangate trek, 6 days
- Ausangate trek + Sibinacocha, 7 days
Take your time to fully explore this tourist destination. Note down this super tip!
Safety on the Ausangate Trek
Is Ausangate Trek dangerous for beginners?
Most travelers who embark on this route are beginners, as not everyone treks regularly. If you’ve never done this route before, it’s important to keep in mind that it can be dangerous if you don’t have the proper preparation. In case of an accident or mishap, immediate assistance might not be available, and the lack of signage increases the risk of getting lost, making it necessary to be well-prepared and take additional precautions.
Therefore, it’s important to hire a travel agency that handles the trip logistics, providing camping equipment, meals, and support. Also, by delegating the transportation of many items to the muleteers, your backpack will be lighter. Muleteers also carry emergency kits, which can be a great help when you least expect it.
What risks does the Ausangate Trek involve?
The Ausangate Trek is a stunning route, but like any outdoor mountain path, it involves certain risks. One of the most common is altitude sickness. If you don’t properly acclimatize beforehand, you’ll likely feel the symptoms of altitude sickness, forcing you to rest until your body adjusts. It’s also important to wear appropriate footwear. Urban sneakers are not a good idea, as they can cause injuries or falls. Trekking shoes are best, as they protect your feet and help you walk more securely.
Because the route is at high altitude (around 4,000 m [13,123 ft]), temperatures can be extremely low, especially at night and early in the morning. Don’t forget to pack thermal clothing to keep you warm.
If you go during the rainy season, be aware that heavy fog can be common, making visibility difficult and increasing the risk of getting lost. Also, thunderstorms and lightning are more frequent, so caution is necessary.
On this route, the challenge is crossing the Palomani Pass. Make sure you factor in acclimatization.
How to prepare for the Ausangate Trek and minimize risks?
The first and most important step is to have the right physical condition. You can practice activities like walking, running, and swimming to improve your endurance and breathing.
Before starting the Ausangate Trek, travelers usually arrive in the city of Cusco (3,399 m [11,152 ft]). In this case, it’s essential to allow yourself one or two days to acclimatize and reduce or avoid the symptoms of altitude sickness.
Here’s the most important part: your luggage. Your clothes must be suitable for easy movement and protection against the cold; otherwise, you could get injured. Is Ausangate trek dangerous without the right gear? Yes, because extreme conditions can put your safety at risk. Also, if you’re going solo, your camping gear must be prepared for the climate and terrain, so I recommend relying on a travel agency such as Waman Adventures for the necessary assistance.
Is it safe to do the Ausangate Trek without a guide?
It’s not as safe as it might seem. Is Ausangate trek dangerous if you’ve never done this route? Yes, it can be if you don’t have experience. The lack of signage in the area makes it easy to get lost without an experienced guide. Moreover, should anything go wrong, having a trained guide can make all the difference to your safety.
For this reason, many travelers choose to hire a tour guide. They know the route perfectly and ensure you complete the journey successfully while overcoming any challenges that might arise. Their knowledge not only ensures your safety but also adds extra value to your experience with invaluable local information, making your trip even more special.
If you’re familiar with the route, it’s a good time to travel on your own. If not, better not to risk it.
Weather Conditions and Altitude
What is the weather like on the Ausangate Trek?
Dry Season
During the dry season, the weather conditions on the Ausangate trek are more stable and favorable, allowing you to move more comfortably. The climate is usually sunnier, with clear skies during the day and pleasant temperatures. Daytime temperatures on the route range between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F), but at night they drop considerably, reaching -5°C (23°F) to 5°C (41°F) or even colder.
Rainy Season
During this period, the weather on the Ausangate trek becomes more unstable, with frequent rainfall, especially in the afternoons and evenings. Daytime temperatures generally range between 12°C (53.6°F) and 18°C (64.4°F), while nighttime temperatures can drop to -2°C (28.4°F) to 4°C (39.2°F).
Although the rains don’t last all day, they can make the trail more difficult, as the paths and weather conditions change rapidly. Therefore, having the right gear will be the key to overcoming these challenges.
How does the altitude of the Ausangate Trek affect you?
Altitude sickness, also known as soroche, is a common condition among people who rapidly ascend to high elevations. This condition is caused by a lack of oxygen, leading to symptoms like nausea, dizziness, and headaches.
Is Ausangate trek dangerous if you don’t take the necessary precautions for altitude sickness? Yes, it can affect your performance and well-being during the trek. To prevent or reduce symptoms, it’s important to take some measures during the first few days, such as avoiding intense physical exertion, eating light, non-greasy foods, and especially staying away from alcohol. If you experience symptoms, you can try coca tea or consult your guide for generic medications.
In general, altitude sickness symptoms are temporary and go away quickly, so it won’t be a major concern if you take enough time to acclimatize properly.
When is the best time to do the Ausangate Trek?
The best time to do the Ausangate Trek is during the dry season, from April to September. In this period, the absence of rain allows you to enjoy the views and places along the route, while also reducing risks associated with trekking.
And what about the rainy season? If you plan to trek in these months, it can be dangerous. Frequent rainfall and altitudes above 4,000 m (13,123 ft) mean the cold is more intense. Without the right gear, you could have a rough time. Fog is also common, so it’s advisable to start walking later in the day to avoid it and appreciate the landscapes.
Remember! The best time to do this route is during the dry season. That way, both you and your companions will be safer and can enjoy the trip without worries.
Now you know the best time to make this journey! What are you waiting for? Pick a date!
Physical Preparation and Equipment
How do I prepare physically for the Ausangate Trek?
Preparing physically for this route isn’t complicated; you just need to put in the effort. It’s important to work on your fitness, especially on endurance and breathing, as these two factors will be key during the trek. You can incorporate activities like walking, running, and swimming into your routine.
It’s simple! These activities are quite easy to fit into your daily life, but remember to do them well in advance of your trip. Once you arrive in Cusco, make sure you allow at least two days to acclimatize. You definitely don’t want to face altitude sickness symptoms, right? Also, keep in mind that it can be dangerous if you don’t prepare properly, since extreme conditions can test your endurance. With these preparations, you’ll be more than ready for the adventure.
What essential gear and clothing do I need for the Ausangate Trek?
This is an important topic to consider when doing the Ausangate trek. Take only comfortable clothing that allows you to move freely, as well as essential personal items. Avoid carrying urban attire, fancy shoes, or products like makeup, since they’re not only unnecessary but could cause discomfort or injuries, in addition to weighing down your luggage.
Below is what you’ll need to bring:
Personal Equipment
- Trekking shoes
- Comfortable clothing
- Hat
- Personal hygiene items
- Beanie, gloves
Camping Equipment
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Insulating mat
Supplies and Food
- Water
- Portable water purifier
- Light meals and energy snacks
Orientation and Safety
- GPS
- Flashlight
- First-aid kit
Documents and Money
- Identity documents
- Passport
- Cash
Your perfect luggage: the key items for your Ausangate trek adventure.
Doing the Ausangate trek with a travel agency has various advantages. Since it’s a demanding route, many of the necessary items—like camping equipment and food—would have to be carried by you, which can be uncomfortable and add to the weight you carry on the hike.
Hiring an agency lets you lighten that load, as they take care of logistics, safety, and all essential gear. That way, you can fully enjoy the route without worrying about details, making the experience much more pleasant.
Emergencies and Medical Assistance
What should I do in case of an emergency during the Ausangate Trek?
Your first task is to inform your travel guide if you show signs of altitude sickness. They will give you home remedies and some generic medications to improve your condition. In case of injuries, they’ll do the same.
If you’re facing a serious situation that jeopardizes your well-being, you’ll be evacuated immediately with the help of the travel agency staff you hired. Meanwhile, you’ll receive basic medical attention from your guide to prevent your condition from worsening. Remember, it can be dangerous if you don’t follow these recommendations, since the route’s extreme conditions can quickly worsen if precautions aren’t taken.
Are there medical services available on the Ausangate Trek?
Something you should know is that you’ll be in remote areas. What does this mean? That there are no nearby medical services to assist you, although it’s unlikely that such situations will occur. Typically, travel agencies train their staff in basic medical procedures to assist you right away. Their second action will be to take you on one of the muleteer’s horses to the nearest road for your evacuation and thus, consequently, to the closest medical center for the care you need. However, it can be dangerous in these isolated areas if you don’t take precautions, as the lack of immediate medical access could complicate any situation.
Access to these services is scarce or nonexistent. Keep this in mind!
The Ausangate Trek route can be challenging, but with the right preparation, risks are minimized and the adventure becomes an unforgettable experience. Don’t let doubts hold you back; if you equip yourself well and know what to expect, this trek will lead you to discover landscapes that few people ever get to see. Is Ausangate trek dangerous? With the proper measures, you’ll be just fine. Are you ready to accept the challenge and explore one of the most spectacular routes in the Andes? Don’t wait any longer and start planning your next adventure now!
