The Ausangate Trek is one of the most stunning routes in the Peruvian Andes, with landscapes that seem straight out of another world: snow-capped mountains, vibrant-colored lagoons, and untouched nature. However, it’s also a demanding trek, with altitudes exceeding 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) and a climate that can change in minutes. To fully enjoy it and avoid problems during the hike, it is essential to bring the right gear.
In this blog, you’ll find a complete list of what to bring to Ausangate trek to make the most of the journey in both safety and comfort. Whether you’re an experienced trekker or this is your first adventure at high altitude, these tips will help you pack your backpack efficiently, ensuring you won’t miss anything during your trip.
What is the Ausangate Trek?
The Ausangate Trek is one of the less conventional routes, and it doesn’t provide the opportunity to visit Machu Picchu due to its location. If you wish to visit it, you will need to purchase an additional service specifically for that. This route offers more nature-focused destinations, with the snow-capped Ausangate Mountain accompanying you throughout the trek and offering a spectacular view from the various mountain passes, which are also the highest points of the route.
Fun fact: Mount Ausangate, whose name comes from the Quechua word “Awsanqati,” meaning “creator of the waters,” is the fifth-highest mountain in Peru, standing at an imposing 6,385 meters (20,948 feet). Its glaciers feed the Vilcanota River, giving it its unique name.

Snow-capped Ausangate mountain with alpacas grazing on a green slope under a bright blue sky in the Peruvian Andes.
Below, I leave you some recommendations to properly prepare your gear for the trip. You will find tips to take care of your well-being, especially your feet, and suggestions on clothing that will allow you to move comfortably and adapt to the cold climate along the route.
The Weather in the Ausangate Trek and the Andes
When planning your trip to the Ausangate Trek, the weather is a crucial factor to consider, as it will influence the dates you choose to travel and how you pack your gear, both for high temperatures and extreme cold. Before embarking on this incredible trekking route, you will likely spend a few days in Cusco, the main departure point for most tourist expeditions. Use this time to acclimate to the altitude, which will be essential for your well-being during the hike.
The Ausangate Trek takes place in the highlands of the Andes, one of the largest mountain ranges in the world, which means the weather here is influenced by several factors:
- Altitude: The extreme height of Ausangate, with peaks over 6,300 meters (20,669 feet), generates cold and dry conditions. Most of the trek takes place at over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet), meaning temperatures can be very low, especially at night.
- Solar radiation: Due to the altitude, ultraviolet (UV) radiation is much stronger than at lower elevations, increasing the risk of sunburn, even on cloudy days.
- Seasonality: In the Andes, the seasons are clearly defined 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 torrential rain increases.
- Winds: Winds at high-altitude areas of the trek can be strong, especially at mountain passes, which contribute to the wind chill and can affect trail conditions.
So, What to bring to Ausangate trek?
1. The Right Clothing: Key to Facing Changing Weather
During the Ausangate Trek, layering is essential, practically mandatory. The temperature variation, which refers to sudden temperature changes between day and night or even between moments of sun and clouds, means mornings can be cold, but the sun quickly warms up the environment. One of the most common occurrences in high-altitude routes like this is that, whether morning, afternoon, or night, the weather can change again with cold winds and even rain.
That’s why it’s crucial to be able to add or remove layers of clothing depending on the weather. A suggested way to layer your clothing for the Ausangate trek or other high-altitude treks in the Andes would be:
- First layer: Thermal shirts or base layers that preferably absorb sweat and retain body heat.
- Second layer: A good fleece jacket that provides the necessary warmth without being too heavy or bulky, and easy to remove if needed.
- Outer layer: A waterproof and/or windproof jacket is essential for protection against both cold and rain. It should also be lightweight, so it doesn’t take up much space in your backpack.
Don’t forget to bring water-resistant trekking pants, as well as gloves and a hat for cold nights when temperatures can drop significantly.
2. Footwear: Your Best Allies on Tough Terrain
Hiking along rocky, uneven mountain trails requires sturdy trekking shoes or boots. Ideally, they should be waterproof, offer good ankle support, and already be broken in to avoid blisters. A useful tip is to bring two pairs of socks per day: one for walking and another for changing at the end of the day, preferably made of materials like merino wool, which retain warmth even when wet.
3. The Perfect Backpack: Lightweight and Functional
For a multi-day trek, a comfortable and durable backpack is essential. Look for one with a capacity between 40 and 60 liters, enough to carry everything you need without overloading yourself. It should have good lumbar support, padded shoulder straps, and preferably a rain cover to keep your gear dry in case of rain. Make sure to organize your backpack efficiently, placing the most-used items within reach and storing camp-specific items at the bottom.

Your perfect gear: the key items for your adventure on the Ausangate trek.
4. Personal Hygiene and First Aid: Take Care of Yourself
The Ausangate trek exposes you to high-altitude climates, so it’s important to be prepared with a good first aid kit. Here are some items to bring:
- Painkillers (for headaches, common at high altitudes)
- Altitude sickness pills
- Gauze, bandages, and adhesive strips
- High-factor sunscreen (the sun at these altitudes is intense)
- Lip balm with SPF, as the dry wind can quickly chap your lips
Don’t forget basic hygiene items like wet wipes, a toothbrush, and hand sanitizer to stay clean even in the wild.

Make sure to bring appropriate clothing, regardless of which trekking route you choose; you’ll need it.
5. Food and Hydration: Stay Energized
Staying well-fed and hydrated is essential for overcoming the challenges of the trek. Bring energy-boosting snacks like granola bars, nuts, and chocolate, as these provide energy without taking up too much space. Additionally, it’s crucial to bring a water purification system because while you’ll encounter water sources along the way, they might not always be safe to drink. Portable filters or purification tablets are excellent options for staying hydrated without carrying excessive water weight.

Being well-prepared will enhance your experience on the Ausangate trek
6. Camping Gear: For a Comfortable Night in the Mountains
If your plan includes camping, ensure your gear is designed to withstand the cold mountain temperatures.
- Tent: It should be windproof and waterproof, made of windbreaker and waterproof material. Choose a tent designed for high-altitude conditions that provides good insulation but isn’t too heavy.
- Sleeping bag: Pick one that can handle sub-zero temperatures. Sleeping bags rated for -10°C or lower are highly recommended for this area.
Don’t underestimate the importance of a sleeping pad or inflatable mat, as it will create a barrier between your body and the cold ground, making a big difference in your camping experience during the Ausangate trek.
7. Useful Technology: Don’t Disconnect Completely
Although long treks in natural environments offer a great opportunity to disconnect from the digital world, it doesn’t hurt to bring some technological devices that can make your adventure safer and more comfortable.
For instance, having a solar charger or a portable battery will be very useful to keep your phone or camera charged throughout the trek, allowing you more time to capture the stunning landscapes while also staying in touch when necessary.
Additionally, although less common, it’s also a good idea to download offline maps or carry a GPS device, especially if you’re doing part of the route on your own. This way, you’ll be better prepared to follow the trail without relying on internet signals and can consult alternative routes or detours in case of an emergency. While one of the goals of immersing yourself in the Andes mountains may be to disconnect, these small devices can make a big difference when it comes to safety and peace of mind during your trek.
8. Documentation and Permits: Don’t Forget the Essentials
During the Ausangate Trek, besides the gear, all your personal documentation is very important. Although, in most cases, no special permits are required to do the route, carrying a copy of your passport is always a good idea. It may be requested at a checkpoint or in unforeseen situations.
Additionally, ensure you have travel insurance that covers trekking at high altitudes. You’ll be at over 4,000 meters (13,123 feet) and even 5,000 meters (16,404 feet) above sea level, so it’s good to be covered just in case. Make sure the insurance includes evacuation from remote areas.
Finally, check with your agency or guide if you will need special permits for certain parts of the trek. In most cases, this is not necessary, but it’s better to be safe than sorry. Do this check before starting the trek. By having everything in order, you can fully enjoy the experience without any problems.
Summary: What to bring to Ausangate trek?
Personal Equipment:
- Backpack
- Trekking shoes or boots
- Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather
- Hat, gloves, and waterproof jacket
- Sunscreen, hat, and/or cap
- Personal hygiene items
Camping Equipment:
- Tent
- Sleeping bag
- Sleeping pad
Food and Supplies:
- Water and purification system
- Lightweight food and energy snacks
Orientation and Safety:
- GPS
- Headlamp with batteries
- Basic first aid kit
Documents and Money:
- ID and important documents
- Cash
Packing correctly isn’t complicated, so don’t worry. Here’s one last tip: avoid bringing dressy or trendy clothes, as they are unsuitable for the Ausangate trek and could cause injuries. Plus, these clothes don’t have the necessary technology to protect your well-being.
Conclusion:
With proper planning and the right equipment, the Ausangate Trek will be an incredible experience. This list will help you bring what you need to overcome the challenges of altitude and weather, allowing you to fully enjoy the breathtaking landscapes the trek offers.
If the weight of your gear is a concern, hiring the services of a travel agency may be the best option. They handle carrying your equipment, providing food, and offering support along the route, allowing you to walk lightly and enjoy yourself without worries. Additionally, having a tour guide will ensure a richer and smoother experience.