Ausangate Trek
The Ausangate Trek is a unique experience that takes adventurers through stunning landscapes in the Peruvian Andes. With the imposing Ausangate snowcapped as a backdrop, this trail offers spectacular views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lagoons and remote valleys. As well as challenging hikes at high altitudes, there are relaxing hot springs and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the rich culture of local communities. This journey combines amazing nature and cultural experiences to create an unforgettable adventure in one of the most impressive landscapes in Peru.
Get to know the beauty of Ausangate, one of the highest mountains in Peru
The Ausangate Trek : In the department of Cusco -the capital of the Inca Empire- there is an astonishing variety of destinations that surpasses the limits of imagination.
One of them is the snow-capped Ausangate, which rises to 6,384 meters above sea level. It is the fifth highest mountain in Peru, and is the owner of a unique beauty that leaves visitors speechless.
It lies in the district of Ocongate, province of Quispicanchi (about 100 km southeast of Cusco). The summit of Ausangate can be seen from the fortress of Sacsayhuaman.
The ice formations of this snow-capped mountain melt and supply the Araza, Malpacho and Vilcanota river basins. The Vilcanota alone supplies, on average, half of the drinking water for the entire department. It is also a source of energy for Puno and Apurimac, in addition to feeding the majestic Sibinacocha lagoon, whose turquoise waters, a mirror of the sky, cover 66,000 hectares.
Andean Cosmovision
Anyone who has ever visited Ausangate can attest to the powerful energy that emanates from this mountain. A religious and cultural connection arises between the traveler and the natural environment.
The mountain is the Apu, or patron god of the surrounding communities. The villagers pay reverence to him as the creator of the waters. According to the Inca cosmovision, this mountain distilled its masculine energy to fertilize Pachamama (or Mother Earth). Its waters would have even fertilized the Amazon, according to legend. After that, the Apu Ausangate returned to make the glaciers and lakes prosper, transformed into a river of stars or Willkamayu (the Milky Way for the ancient Peruvians).
Space will always be the spiritual realm of the Cusco people. Every year, on the north side of the mountain, the celebration of Quyllur Rit’i (which in Quechua means ‘snow of stars’) takes place. In this festivity, the image of Christ is venerated on a rock of the Qulpipunku mountain.
The celebration, considered Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, takes place between the end of May and the beginning of June, and links Andean beliefs and Catholic religiosity.
Protected area of Ausangate trek
In 2019, it was decided to create the Ausangate Regional Conservation Area (ACR) in Cusco, in order to preserve glacier ecosystems and Andean grasslands, according to the National Service of Natural Areas Protected by the State (Sernanp).
The area includes a large part of the snow-capped mountain, as well as the Quelccaya area, which holds the title of the largest tropical glacier on the planet.
The ACR also seeks to protect the Sibinacocha lagoon and the high Andean pastures.
Tourism and adventure of Ausangate trek
Reaching Ausagante is an experience that all adventure and adrenaline lovers should live, at least once in their lives. To do so, you must embark on a hike that starts from the town of Pacchanta (Ocongate district).
Along the way, you can appreciate the attractive geography and biodiversity of the place. Once there, visitors can access different activities, including climbing the majestic glacier. They can also enjoy the magnificent gastronomy of the place, such as a succulent Pachamanca a la tierra.
If the snow-capped mountain is on your list of future destinations, you should consider booking a tourist service, as this way you will have the necessary security for your adventure. In this way, you will enjoy a stay free of mishaps.