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Holidays

Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu

Peru
5 reviews
Available Departures: May, Jun, Aug

14 days from

US$2,705

without flights
Walk & Trek
Guided Group
CHALLENGING CHALLENGING

A complete trekking circuit of the Inca's sacred peak Nevado Ausangate (6732m)

Trip Code: AUS
Holiday Grades

Our Holiday Grades Explained

To show the relative difficulty of our holidays, each trip is graded on a scale of 1 to 12, with 12 being the most challenging. Although we have tried to make our grading system as clear as possible, it cannot take into account your personal interests, abilities or experience. If you have any questions about the nature of a particular trip or its suitability for you, please read the 'Is this holiday for you?' section or contact us.

 1 - 3 LEISURELY
1 - 3 LEISURELY

Suitable for most people in good health, holidays at this grade include only limited amounts of activity.

View leisurely holidays
4 - 6 MODERATE
4 - 6 MODERATE

Suitable for reasonably fit individuals, such as weekend walkers and cyclists. There can be the occasional more difficult day.

View moderate holidays
7 - 9 CHALLENGING
7 - 9 CHALLENGING

Physically challenging holidays, where you need to be prepared before you go.

View challenging holidays
10 - 12 TOUGH
10 - 12 TOUGH

Our toughest holidays, involving many long days, often in isolated areas. A high level of fitness and previous wilderness and mountain experience is essential.

View Tough holidays

Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu

Highlights
  • A classic trekking holiday in Peru`s rugged and remote Cordillera Vilcanota
  • Escape the crowds on this challenging Inca Trail alternative crossing several high passes
  • Turquoise glacial lakes, Andean wildlife, hot springs and inspiring mountain views
  • Acclimatise pre-trek whilst exploring Cusco, Sacsayhuaman and the Inca's Sacred Valley
  • Celebrate post-trek with a guided tour of the Inca fortress of Machu Picchu

At a Glance
  • Group Size 6 to 16
  • 8 days trekking
  • Max altitude - 5050m
  • Join In Cusco

Accommodation & Meals
  • 13 Breakfasts
  • 9 Lunches
  • 8 Dinners
  • 5 nights Hotel
  • 8 nights Camping
Overview

South of Cusco, the Vilcanota is one of the most impressive of Peru's mountain ranges, with several 6000 metre peaks, including sacred Ausangate (6372m), the highest snowy mountain South Peru. This high and wild trekking circuit winds its way through this rarely-visited range, on quiet trails, following lovely alpine valleys that are home to traditional Quechua Indian herdsmen and some of Peru's most rare and spectacular wildlife, including herds of grazing vicunas and the majestic Andean condor. Traversing this pristine and beautiful region, we enjoy a series of unbelievably beautiful lakeside camps and cross several 5000 metre passes, each providing far-reaching mountain views. Descending to the blissful hot springs at Pacchanta, we trek out via remote Laguna Singrenacocha, which provides a final 3 days of simply superlative walking. As part of a pre-trek acclimatisation programme we will also visit all the top Inca sites in the Sacred Valley of the Incas and spend time exploring colourful Cusco and Sacsayhuaman. Post-trek we will celebrate the end of our holiday with a visit to the the breathtaking lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu! If you are looking for a remote and challenging alternative to the Inca Trail, with outstanding mountain views, then this 2 week trekking holiday is for you!

Is this holiday for you?

On this trek we will enjoy an interesting variety of trails and pathways, from the open meadows of the puna, to some sections of boulders and scree. In general the walking is on well-defined tracks. This is a fully supported trek, and you will only be required to carry your day pack each day. Our friendly camp crew will take care of all the camp chores, so when in camp you can relax, rest and enjo …

On this trek we will enjoy an interesting variety of trails and pathways, from the open meadows of the puna, to some sections of boulders and scree. In general the walking is on well-defined tracks. This is a fully supported trek, and you will only be required to carry your day pack each day. Our friendly camp crew will take care of all the camp chores, so when in camp you can relax, rest and enjoy the views. To help you acclimatise and enjoy your trekking holiday, we have allowed 1 night at 2800 metres, 2 nights at 3200 metres and a night at 3800 metres before we start trekking. Not only does this help us acclimatise, it also allows us the chance to enjoy exploring all the sites in Cusco and around the Sacred Valley! This is high, remote and wild trekking, with several high passes to cross, and as such is a rewarding and acheivable challenge for fit and regular hillwalkers.

Why KE?

Our 8 day trek makes a full Circuit of Nevado Ausangate. Unlike other trekking operators we follow the classic route missing nothing out!

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Itinerary

Upon arrival in Cusco (3326m), KE Land Only package services begin with a group transfer to the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here we overnight in the picturesque traditional town of Ollantaytambo (2800m). Spending our first night at the lower elevation of Ollantaytambo will also ease the acclimatisation process as we prepare for our trek up to 5000 metres

Accommodation

Hotel

We start the day with an exploration of the village and the Inca Citadel of Ollantaytambo before we take the spectacular drive via Pisac to Cusco. En route we have stunning views of the Vilcabamba peaks, including Salkantay Este and Huayanay. At Pisac we make a stop to look round the artisan’s market. Arriving in Cusco we check into a colonial style hotel in the city.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B

A day for acclimatisation in Cusco. We begin with a relaxing walking tour of the city. Every small street or alley-way that we enter and every corner that we turn, brings another surprise, in the form of superbly constructed Inca walls or the rather more architecturally extravagant Spanish Colonial churches and palaces. The city, once capital of the extensive Inca Empire, has seen many changes since Pizarro took control of the city (with apparent ease) in 1535. The highlight of this tour is our visit to the impressive fortress citadel of Sacsayhuaman, which is set high above Cusco. The remaining stones here (some of the larger ones where used to build modern day Cusco) are 8.5m highest and weigh over 360 tonnes. Returning to Cusco town, the afternoon is free for further independent exploration.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B

Today we will make the 3-hour drive to the start of our trek into the Cordillera Vilcanota. From Cusco, we drive first towards Puno, past the Wari site of Pikillacta and the old colonial towns of Andahualillas and Huaro. The road climbs steadily to a viewpoint where the Cordillera Vilcanota appears in the distance, with Ausangate and Colqe Cruz the dominant peaks. The drive takes us through a picturesque landscape and by way of several traditional villages including Urcos, Cattca and Ocangate. The small village of Tinqui is at an altitude of 3800 metres. Here, we meet our arrieros, the local Quechua Indian herdsmen and their mules and llamas which will be carrying our bags and equipment. From Tinqui we will take a short walk of around 15 minutes to our campsite at Rodeana. Following lunch here we will make an afternoon hike to help with our acclimatisation.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

We wake to the sounds of breakfast being prepared and the arrieros rounding up their animals. This is our introduction to camp life. After breakfast, we begin our trek around Ausangate, heading across the open puna or highland meadows and gradually gaining altitude. We may be lucky enough to see viscachas (the long tailed highland rabbit-like creature), condors and Andean foxes during today’s walk to Urpis which will take approximately 5 hours. We set up camp close to the hot springs of Urpis, where we can relax and take in the magnificent view of Ausangate at the end of the valley. After dinner the muleteers ask us to join a ‘Jaiway’ where we can all make an offering to the mountain God the ‘Apu’ for a safe passage around the mountain. Altitude at camp is 4400 metres.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

450 M

Descent

150 M

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

14 KM

Continuing up the valley towards Ausangate, we begin a steady climb of approximately 3 hours to the Arapa Pass (4850m). Beyond the pass, we descend to Laguna Uchuy Pucacocha, with its cascading waterfall and onwards past the turquoise Laguna Jatun Pucacocha, which lies at the foot of the western icefall of Ausangate. Trekking under some red cliffs we will cross a small pass before descending steeply to our campiste at Laguna Ausangatecocha where there is a lovely campsite. Altitude: 4630m.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

500 M

Descent

350 M

Time

9 hrs trekking

Distance

10 KM

Leaving the beautiful azure Laguna Ausangatecocha behind we climb to our third and highest pass of the circuit, the Palomani, at 5200 metres. From this pass, we descend steeply to the valley floor and to a small meadow locally called Pampacancha, which is set amongst glacial moraines at an altitude of 4510 metres. Here, we are close to the basecamp for expeditions to Mount Ausangate (6372m). From here we continue on to the quiet campsite at Sorapampa.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

750 M

Descent

750 M

Time

9 hrs trekking

Distance

12 KM

Today we follow the valley down to a junction with the main Pitumarca Valley and then climb steadily to the small Laguna Ticllacocha. This is one of the best places to see vicunas, the rarest member of the llama family and also viscachas. The lake area is also rich in birdlife. We climb out of the broad green valley on slopes of red scree to the Campa Pass (5050m), the last on our circuit of Ausangate. The summit of the pass is adorned with small cairns which guard against evil intruders from the spirit world. We traverse the south-west slopes of the pass and begin a descent toward the valley, bejewelled with different coloured lakes. At a meadow area one hour below the pass we will set up our camp at an altitude of 4850 metres.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

325 M

Descent

325 M

Time

6 hours trekking

Distance

10 KM

We will have an exploratory walk below Campa Peak in the morning. Group members who want some down time can relax in this beautiful spot or do some independent exploring in the environs of the camp. After an early lunch the continuation of our trekking route involves walking downhill for around 4 hours to our camp beside the welcome hot springs at Pachanta. (4360m).

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

500 M

Descent

780 M

Time

5 hrs trekking

Distance

18 KM

After an early morning soak in the hot pool, we leave the village of Pachanta. It is a steady climb from camp heading eastwards over remote highlands to the picturesque Laguna Armaccocha. This beautiful mountain lake is situated at an altitude of 4665 metres beneath the snow-capped Nevado Collque Cruz Range. A simply stunning place to spend the night.

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

600 M

Descent

300 M

Time

5 - 6 hrs trekking

Distance

9 KM

After breakfast, we continue our trek towards the north-east, climbing a steep shoulder and crossing a pass to reach a fabulous lookout point at a height of 4940 metres. From this high point, we get commanding 360-degree views of the surrounding valleys and mountains. surrounded by stunning 6000-metre peaks, before continuing down to shores of lake Singrenacchocha (4560m).

Accommodation

Camping

Meals

B L D

Ascent

50 M

Descent

650 M

Time

6 hrs trekking

Distance

11 KM

This final short day of trekking will take us along the lakeshore to the river flowing out of the lake. We follow this river gently downhill to the trailhead at Mallma at an altitude of 4230 metres where our bus will be waiting for us. Here we will say goodbye to our pack animals and some of the trek staff, before setting off on the drive back to Cusco. We'll arrive in Cusco in the late afternoon for a bite to eat, before checking into our hotel. The remainder of the day is free to explore Cusco at our own steam or to relax at the hotel and enjoy a nice shower!

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B L

Time

3 - 4 hrs trekking

Today we visit Machu Picchu, the site that was lost to the jungle but rediscovered in 1911 by the Yale academic, Hiram Bingham. Declared a UNESCO world heritage site in 1983, Machu Picchu exceeds all expectations. Perched high on an inaccessible hilltop the citadel is protected by huge cliffs and the raging Urubamba River. An early morning train takes us to Ollantaytambo where we continue by bus to Aguas Calientes. Here a 20 minute bus transfer takes us up to the site, saving us from the relentlessly steep climb. A local guide will give us an interpretive tour of Machu Picchu and we will have ample time to soak up the mystical atmosphere of this incredible site. After the tour of the main buildings and structures with our expert guide, we can walk to the Inca Bridge, discover hidden corners of the ruins, or just soak up the atmosphere of one of the most famous places on earth. We return back down to Aguas Calientes for the train back to Ollantaytambo and drive back to Cusco. On this final night of the trip, most people will want go out into the city to find a pleasant restaurant for a celebratory dinner. The local guide will assist with the choice of restaurants and with group reservations if that is required.

Accommodation

Hotel

Meals

B

Your holiday ends after breakfast. A single group transfer to the airport is provided. If you wish to extend your stay in Cusco, it is possible to arrange extra night(s) at the group hotel. Please see the extensions section of the trip page on our website for details and prices of all options including visits to Lake Titicaca and the Amazon Rainforest.

Meals

B
Download Trip Notes
The Route
Airport Airport
Point Point
Peaks Peaks
Direction Direction
Trek
Transfer
Train

Essential Information

We've compiled some of our Frequently Asked Questions to help you learn more about this amazing trip.

  • A professional and qualified Tour Leader
  • Cusco Airport transfers on Day 1 and Day 14
  • Accommodation as described
  • Meals as described in the meal plan
  • All land transport involved in the itinerary
  • When camping a full service including food and all equipment (excluding personal equipment)
  • Inflatable sleeping mat while camping
  • All activities/excursions/entrance fees mentioned except where specified as ‘optional’

  • Travel insurance
  • Some meals as described in the meal plan
  • Tips for porters and other trek staff
  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc

There will be a single-timed transfer from the airport in Cusco to the group hotel in Ollantaytambo on day 1.

Hotel contact details and an emergency number will be provided with your booking confirmation.

At the end of the trip a single timed group transfer to the airport in the afternoon is provided.

All breakfasts, 9 lunches and 8 dinners are included in the holiday price. Where there are a wide range of dining options to suit all tastes and budgets it is sensible to leave this choice to you and therefore we have not included meals (other than breakfasts) while staying in Cusco, Ollantaytambo and when visiting Machu Picchu Pueblo (Aguas Calientes). You will need to pay for a total of 5 lunches and 5 dinners. While trekking a full trek service including all meals is provided.

It is not recommended to drink untreated water from the taps. If you are on a trekking or cycling holiday, water is supplied to fill up your individual bottles. This will be boiled, filtered or provided in large jerry cans or 5 litre bottles. Additionally you should take purification tablets or a filter bottle (such as a Water-To-Go bottle) to treat your water when in towns or where water is not supplied. We do not encourage the purchasing of single use plastic bottles.

On trek the food provided will be a mixture of local and worldwide favourites, with all ingredients purchased in Peru and cooked for us by highly trained staff cooks.  The food our cooks are able to produce on trek will be a taste sensation! Lunch is usually a picnic - fresh fruit, salad and bread, cheeses, cold meats, avocado and plenty to drink. Dinners will be three courses and the menus will be flavoursome and varied. There will be no problem catering for vegetarians.

In Cusco and in Aguas Calientes there is a wide range of restaurants cafes and bars serving excellent and varied cuisine! Meals, apart from breakfast, are not included here so you are free to make your own choice of restaurant and menu. If you are looking to sample some traditional Peruvian fare we can recommend trying Ceviche, a dish of raw fished marinated in citrus juice (the acid in the citrus juice effectively ‘cooks’ the fish), which is the unofficial national dish of Peru! The name Ceviche actually comes from the Quechua word ‘siwichi’, meaning fresh fish. Guinea Pig or ‘Cuy’ is also a common delicacy in the Andes and has been eaten at special occasions since the time of the Incas! Usually served roasted or barbequed, Guinea Pig meat has a gamey taste. It is very high in protein and low in cholesterol.

When it comes to drinks, before and during your trek we can recommend drinking Mate de Coca. It takes a little time to acclimatise to Cusco’s 3400m elevation and one of the things that is said to help acclimatisation is supping this mildly stimulating, greenish and unusual tasting ‘tea’ made by steeping fresh coca leaves in boiling water. Those looking to celebrate the end of their holiday with an alcoholic beverage (best saved till post trek when you are fully acclimatised!) should seek out a ‘Pisco Sour’. This classic South American cocktail, made by mixing the Peruvian liquor Pisco with lime juice, egg white and bitters, is incredibly moreish!

Whilst we can cater for vegetarians, albeit sometimes with a more limited choice, we cannot always provide special diets.  Due to the nature of some of the trips that we operate and the countries in which we operate them, it can be very hard (and sometimes impossible) to cater for a wide range of dietary choices and you may have to supplement your diet with food/snacks from home.  If you have specific dietary requirements please do speak to our sales team and they will be able to advise you whether or not we will be able to offer your specific choice.  Please note that we are unable to provide separate menus and cannot accept liability for any problems arising from special dietary requirements or intolerances.

During the holiday there are a total of 2 nights in a comfortable and well located 3* hotel in Cusco, which is a beautifully converted old colonial house and just a short walk from the Plaza de Armas. We will also spend 1 night in a comfortable and well located hotel in Ollantaytambo in the Sacred Valley.

Whilst trekking there will be a total of 8 nights camping where your will receive a full service from our friendly camp crew. You will sleep in roomy 2 man dome tents, with a porch, and inflatable camping mattresses are provided. All the camp equipment and luggage will be transported between camps by mules, so you need only carry your day pack each day. Our camp crew will erect and dismantle the tents for you, cook, and take care of all the camp chores.

During walking days, having stayed behind to collapse camp, it is usual for the crew and the pack animals to overtake the group during the day and you will usually arrive into camp to find it already established and the kettle on!

In camp, as well as the tents used for sleeping, there will also be a mess tent, with chairs and tables, where the group will dine (and socialise into the evening) and a toilet tent. Hot water for washing will also be provided to you in the mornings and when you arrive at the camp each day.

All accommodation is allocated on a twin-sharing basis. If you are travelling by yourself you will be paired up with another single client of the same sex. It is possible to hire a single tent while on trek for an additional cost. This must be arranged ahead of departure and is subject to availability (please note that single tent hire does not include single rooms in hotels). Depending on availability, it may also be possible to pre-book single hotel rooms. For additional hotel prices and single supplement costs please refer to the dates and prices page of the trip on our website.

The group will be led by a professional and qualified tour leader. Whilst on trek the group will be supported by a full trek crew including camp assistants, cook, baggage animals and their handlers.

This holiday involves going to very high altitude. During the course of your trip you will be spending at least one night above 4000 metres and/or trekking to 5000 metres or above. This is not something that you should worry about; the human body is quite capable of adapting to a very wide range of altitudes, but it is important that we follow some simple rules in order to acclimatise successfully. Before coming on this holiday you should read the advice on trekking at high altitude on our website which can be viewed via the link below. Unless you have previous experience of trekking above 4000 metres you should consult one of our trekking experts before embarking on this holiday. On this trip we carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or bottled oxygen for use in emergencies. www.keadventure.com/page/altitude.html

New regulations for visiting Machu Picchu came into force in 2022.

Daily visitor numbers are limited and visitors must be accompanied by a guide on one of five designated 'circuits' that are walked in a one-way direction, with a maximum of 4 hours allowed with in the site.

A ticket, issued by the Peru Ministry of Culture, and included in your trip cost, needs to be purchased in advance of your visit. The ticket will stipulate an entry time and one of the 5 circuits. KE will aim to book the most comprehensive Machu Picchu tour available.

Tickets are linked to your name and passport number and usually sell out 2-3 months in advance. It is therefore important for you to supply us with your passport details at the time of booking to allow us to secure the required tickets.

If you are completing the Inca Trail, a set Machu Picchu circuit is included with your Inca Trail Permit.

IMPORTANT: If you change passport between booking and travelling, you must bring your old passport with you, as your ticket will be linked to the passport details you booked with.

We estimate that $300 (or equivalent in €/$) will be sufficient to cover your requirements including the non-included meals and incidental expenses such as tips for drivers, trek crew and local guides. There are a total of 5 lunches and 5 dinners which you will need to pay for directly and we recommend you budget $10 - $25 dollars per meal. There is no need to purchase local currency (Peruvian Soles) prior to travelling. It is possible to withdraw your money in local currency from ATMs in Cusco. If you are bringing your travel money with you we recommend you bring it in the form of US dollars in cash as this provides for the easiest exchange. Credit cards can be used to purchase goods and to pay for meals in Cusco and Ollantaytambo.

Tipping is common in Peru, however you must remember that it is voluntary, and how much you give depends on how you feel about the service you have received. Airport baggage carriers are the only exception and tipping is compulsory. These people are unwaged and make a living by carrying your luggage. The general rule is 1 or 2 soles per bag. For hotel staff, tipping is not expected, but is welcome. For hotel porters 1 or 2 soles per bag is reasonable. Drivers of standard taxis do not usually expect a tip. As with most countries, it is usual to tip in restaurants and 10% is expected for good service. For the support crew on trek (guides, cooks, porters etc.), it is recommended that each client contributes around £60 - £80 in Peruvian Soles to a group tipping pool.  Your guide will assist with the distribution of these tips to your support crew. We would advise that you get together as a group towards the end of your trip to agree on a suitable tip for your guide.

For this holiday you should take one piece of luggage and a daypack. Your bag on trek will be carried by porters or pack animals and should not weigh more than 10kg (NOT including your sleeping bag and thermarest), and you will be provided with a special duffel bag at the trek briefing in Cusco in which to repack for the trek. It is possible to leave clothes and other items not required on trek at the group hotel in Cusco. 

For each holiday there is a minimum number of participants required to enable it to go ahead. Once the minimum number is reached, the trip status will change from 'Available' to 'Guaranteed to run'. You can check the trip status for each departure in ‘Dates and Prices’ table. Other than in exceptional circumstances, we will not cancel a trip once it has achieved this guaranteed to run status and so you are free to proceed with your international flight booking and other travel arrangements.

The information that we provide is for UK passport holders. A passport with 6 months remaining validity at the end of your stay is generally required, and you should have at least 2 blank pages for each country that you visit.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you have the correct travel documents and visas for your holiday. Please ensure that you check for the latest advice before travel. For the most up to date information on entry requirements, please visit the UK Government website.

Visa Peru

UK and USA passport holders do not require a visa for short stays. When passing through immigration you will need to request a copy of your TAM Migration form. You will need to retain this document and keep it safe, as you will be asked to produce it before you depart Peru.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH THE USA

You will require an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any US-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is USD$21 and you should apply for it at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta/. With the ESTA complete, the majority of British Citizen passport holders can enter the US under the Visa Waiver Programme, VWP. You will be required to have a passport with an integrated chip. Note that if you have travelled to Cuba, Iran, Syria or North Korea since March 2011* you will have to apply for a visa rather than the Visa Waiver Programme (* a full and up to date list of countries can be found on the US government website here.)

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THOSE TRANSITING THROUGH CANADA

All citizens (except for USA citizens) will require an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorisation), and you must get this before boarding any Canada-bound aircraft or ship, or entering on a land border. The fee is CAD$7 and you should apply for it at http://www.cic.gc.ca/english/visit/eta-start.asp

 

If you have a severe allergy please inform the KE office before you travel. We will do all we can to help, but we cannot guarantee an allergy free environment on KE trips. You will need to carry your own treatment for the allergy with you, as 'adrenaline auto-injectors' are not carried as standard by KE leaders and staff. You should inform your leader on arrival of your allergy, and let them know where you keep your adrenaline pen.

Dengue fever is a known risk in places visited. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Zika virus has been confirmed as active in this country. It is a tropical viral disease spread by daytime biting mosquitoes. There is currently no vaccine or prophylaxis available and therefore the best form of prevention is to avoid being bitten. We recommend you take the usual precautions to avoid mosquito bites. The mosquitoes that transmit ZIKV are unlikely to be found above 2,000m altitude. For more information, visit the website of the National Travel Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) at https://travelhealthpro.org.uk

 

Vaccinations

You should contact your doctor or travel clinic to check whether you require any specific vaccinations or other preventive measures. You should be up to date with routine courses and boosters as recommended in the UK e.g. diphtheria-tetanus-polio and measles-mumps-rubella, along with hepatitis A and typhoid.

Malarial prophylaxis is not usually required for trips in the mountains, however if you are visiting rural and remote low lying areas then they might be necessary.

On holidays to more remote areas you should also have a dentist check up. A good online resource is Travel Health Pro.

Getting some additional exercise before coming on an active holiday makes a lot of sense. The fitter you are, after all, the more enjoyable you will find the experience. You should be aerobically fit and comfortable with walking for 8 or more hours for consecutive days. Hill walking, with a good amount of ascent and descent, is the best training, and we would suggest that you try to fit in a number of long weekend walks before you depart. Running, cycling and swimming are also good for developing cardio vascular fitness and stamina. 

There is little you can do to prepare for the altitude but if you have an excellent level of fitness this can help.

The climate of Peru is very varied across different regions. There are three major influences on the climate of any particular region, these being: its general geographical position as part of equatorial South America, its proximity to the cooling effect of the Humbolt current and most significantly, its altitude. The climate of the Andean valleys which corresponds to the region between 3000 and 4000 metres is characterised by hot wet summers and cool dry winters. The Southern Hemisphere winter season in the Andes runs roughly from April through to October and this is the optimum period for trekking in this part of Peru. At this time we can expect the days to be warm and generally sunny, with temperatures between 12 and 20°C. Above c. 3500m during this season, the night-time temperatures will fall below freezing. At our highest camps we might experience night-time temperatures as low as -5°C at any time and in mid-winter (July and August) temperatures may dip to minus10ºC overnight.

As a reputable tour operator, KE supports the British Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office's ‘Travel Aware’ campaign to enable British citizens to prepare for their journeys overseas. The 'Travel Aware' website provides a single, authoritative source of advice for all kinds of travellers and we recommend that prior to travel, all KE clients visit the official UK Government website at travelaware.campaign.gov.uk and read the FCDO Travel Advice for their chosen destination. North Americans can also check out the U.S. Department of State website: www.travel.state.gov for essential travel advice and tips.

KE treat the safety and security of all clients as the most important aspect of any trip we organise. We would not run any trip that we did not consider reasonably safe.  Should the FCDO advise against travel for any reason, we will contact everyone booked to travel to discuss the situation.  We receive regular updates direct from the FCDO and are in constant touch with our contacts on the ground.  If you have any questions about government travel advice, please call our office.

KE do not encourage the use of single use plastic items. We are ensuring that our agents all over the world are working together to reduce the problem and educate those around them. We are leading by example in our KE office by reducing our plastic use.

  • Exploring Cusco. Peter Frost

  • Inca Kola. Matthew Paris

  • Inca Gold. Clive Cussler

  • The last days of the Incas. Kim MacQuarrie

  • Conquest of the Incas. John Hemmingway

  • Into the forests of the night. John Simpson

  • Realm of the Incas. Max Milligan

PERU: 100K TOPOGRAPHIC SURVEY MAPS. IGN (PERU SURVEY). 1:100,000

Peruvian Survey mapping, by the Instituto Geogrfico Nacional, is of a very high quality and at a reasonable scale for following the trek route on the ground. Contours are given at 50m intervals and peak altitudes and other spot heights are also shown. The legend includes all the standard information (e.g. settlements, roads, etc.), plus a great deal of terrain and vegetation detail. For the technically minded, the projection used is Transverse Mercator and a UTM grid is overlaid on the maps. The maps can be purchased outside Peru but may require tracking down.

It is an essential condition of joining a holiday with KE Adventure Travel that you have a valid travel insurance policy to cover the cost of medical treatment and to protect the value of your holiday in the event of cancellation.  When taking out insurance please ensure the policy you choose covers you for the activities and altitude included in your itinerary.

For appropriate insurance cover we recommend Campbell Irvine Direct.  Please go to our Travel Insurance page for further information and to get a quote.

The following checklist should help you with your packing. As a general rule, you should always try to keep the weight of your equipment to a minimum.

You SHOULD bring the following items:

  • Hiking boots

  • Trainers or similar for travelling and camp use

  • Socks & Underwear

  • Trekking trousers

  • Waterproof over-trousers

  • Baselayer shirts (2 short sleeve, 2 long sleeve)

  • Casual shirts and/or T-shirts

  • Fleece jacket or warm jumper

  • Waterproof jacket

  • Warm jacket (down)

  • Sunhat

  • Warm hat

  • Sunglasses

  • Lightweight thermal gloves

  • Warmer gloves or mittens

  • Sleeping bag (Comfort rated -15°C)

  • Daypack 30 - 40 litres

  • Headtorch and spare batteries

  • Basic First Aid Kit including: Antiseptic cream, throat lozenges, diarrhoea treatment (Imodium), Diamox, painkillers, plasters and blister treatment, and re-hydration salts (Dioralite), Insect repellant (DEET)

  • Sun protection (including total bloc for lips, nose etc.)

  • Water bottles 1 Litre (x2) (we encourage re-filling water bottles rather than single use plastic)

  • Water purification tablets
  • Washbag and toiletries

  • Antibacterial handwash

  • Travel towel

  • Selection of dry bags (to keep kit bag contents dry)

  • Small padlock

The following items are optional:

  • Gaiters

  • Shorts

  • Sleeping bag liner

  • Travel clothes

  • Trekking poles (recommended)

  • Pen-knife (note: always pack sharp objects in hold baggage)

  • Repair kit – (eg. needle, thread, duct tape)

  • Camera, batteries

  • Reusable cloth bag for shopping (to avoid plastic bags)

Notes

Camping mattress - An inflatable camping mattress is provided. 


Whilst on trek you will be limited to 10kg (not including your sleeping bag or thermarest) and you will be provided with a suitable duffel bag at the trek briefing in Cusco in which to repack.


** Daypack - Perurail has a strict policy on hand baggage on the train to and from Machu Picchu. The weight of your hand baggage on the train must not exceed 5kg and the sum of its dimensions (length + width + height) must not exceed 157 cm. If your daypack exceeds these dimensions it must be placed inside your trek bag for transportation on the train.

Cotswold Outdoor Red PantonMany of the Equipment items listed above are available from Cotswold Outdoor - our 'Official Recommended Outdoor Retailer'. When you book a holiday with KE you will receive 12.5% discount voucher from Cotswold Outdoor and other retailers.
>> Find out more

Extensions

Extension Details

Lake Titicaca by Train

4 Days
Forming part of the border between Peru and Bolivia, this sacred lake of the Incas at an elevation of 3830 metres was where the god Viracocha rose and created the sun, moon, stars and the first people. It is the largest navigable lake in the world. There are several islands in the lake including the ‘floating’ Uros Islands which are man-made from reeds and are home to a pre-Incan people who live a simple traditional life.  We travel by luxury train across the altiplano from Cusco to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. Note: Train operates on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays only.
Extension Code: LAKA

Extension Itinerary

Transfer to Cusco train station 0700hrs for a full day PeruRail Titcaca train journey (which includes a lunch) to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. We are met by our local guide and transfer to Hotel Casa Andina or similar.

Meals

B L

Our guide will meet you at your Puno hotel early in the morning. First we enjoy a 2hr motor boat excursion on Lake Titicaca to visit 'floating' totoras reed islands home to the Uros people. We continue on to Amantani Island where we will stay overnight at the house of a local islander and enjoy the hospitality of a typical Amantani home.

Meals

B L D

After breakfast we have some time to explore this colourful island. In the later morning we take a motor-boat to Taquile Island, also inhabited by Quechua-speaking natives where we can learn about their fine hand weaving techniques, passed down through the generations. To reach the town we'll have to climb a stairway of 567 stone steps! In the afternoon we return to Puno and check into our hotel.

Meals

B L

Early morning drive - approximately one hour - to Juliaca airport where KE extension package services end. Flight to Lima not included.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Train from Cusco to Puno
  • 2 nights at a 3-star hotel in Puno and 1 night home-stay
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking local guide
  • All land transport required by the itinerary.
What's Not Included
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Drinks
  • Souvenirs etc
Extension Details

Peru Rainforest Extension

4 Days

Visit Tambopata National Reserve, a haven of pristine Amazon wilderness where the river provides access to an uninhabited and vast 2.5 million acre area, home to the Amazon’s five top predators – Jaguar, Giant Otter, Black Caiman, Harpy Eagle and Anaconda. It is a short flight to Puerto Maldonado, and then a ride in a motorised canoe to our jungle lodge. Highlights are the macaw clay-lick, otters, monkeys and an array of colourful birds.

Extension Code: RAIN
Sharing Price from
US$910
Single Traveller Price from
US$1,140
Single Room Supplement from
US$270
Deposit Per Person from
US$200

Extension Itinerary

Arrive in Puerto Maldonado. We transfer by road, boat (on Tambopata River), and on foot (4-5 hrs in total) to your jungle lodge. To account for this, you should land into Puerto Maldonado no later than 1pm.

Meals

L D

Wildlife Reserve. Jungle walks and river trips. Overnight at the jungle lodge.

Meals

B L D

Wildlife Reserve. Jungle walks and river trips. Overnight at the jungle lodge.

Meals

B L D

Transfer to Puerto Maldonado airport for return flight to Cusco or Lima. (Services end at Puerto Maldonado airport.)

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Associated transfers
  • All transport required by the itinerary
  • 3 nights accommodation at a jungle lodge
  • Full programme of guided walks and activities
  • Meals as stated in the itinerary
What's Not Included
  • Internal fights
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Drinks
  • Souvenirs etc.
Extension Details

Galapagos Islands Cruise

7 Days
Situated over 600 miles from the mainland of South America, the remote archipelago of the Galapagos Islands needs little introduction. The Galapagos Islands are considered to the crown jewels of the natural world, achieving near mythological status following visits by Charles Darwin. It was on his second visit aboard HMS Beagle in 1835 that Darwin's scientific studies introduced the world to the theory of evolution. The islands teem with life, much of which seem totally unphased and perhaps curious of visitors. Of the thirteen major islands, on five have any form of human habitation. The environmental footprint is kept to an absolute minimum, allowing you, the visitor, a chance to explore the incredible biodiversity of these famous islands untouched by human development.Expect close encounters with blue-footed boobies, frigate birds, albatross, giant tortoises, seals, turtles and dinasaur-like lizards amongst many, many other examples.
Extension Code: GALP
Sharing Price from
US$5,105
Deposit Per Person from
US$2,400

Extension Itinerary

Arrive in Quito any time.

We take an early flight to San Cristobal Island, stopping off for refuelling at Guayaquil. In the afternoon, we board our boat, the Monserrat, and visit Isla Lobos, to be greeted by sea lions frolicking in the waves. We will explore this island on foot and perhaps by panga to view the sea and shore birds nesting and feeding. There will be an opportunity to snorkel in the waters of Isla Lobos too.

Meals

B L D

We visit Cerro Brujo on San Cristobal Island. Here we can observe sea lions, marine iguanas and seabirds. In the afternoon we visit the giant tortoise breeding area in the highlands. Later we set sail for Bahia Gardner, a sheltered cove off Espanola Island.

Meals

B L D

Today we visit the magnificent, white sandy beach of Gardner Bay, home to colonies of sea lions and birds. There will be a chance to snorkel the turquoise waters and spot large schools of tropical fish, including yellow-tailed surgeonfish, king angelfish and bump-headed parrot fish. We may even be lucky enough to spot white-tipped reef sharks, napping on the bottom! We then visit Punta Suarez, one of the most wildlife-rich landing spots in the Galapagos. Here we can observe many nesting birds including the waved albatross.

Meals

B L D

Upon landing at Punta Cormorant and Floreana Island, we visit the amazing multi-coloured beaches. We observe flamingoes and other shore birds feeding in the lagoon. Penguins and marine iguanas can also be spotted on the water's edge. We then move on to Champion Islet where we have another chance to snorkel with sea lions and, if we're lucky, turtles and rays. Afterwards, we visit Post Office Bay where we learn all about its unique history. English whaling vessels placed a barrel here in the 18th centuary where it functioned as a rather unusual post office!

Meals

B L D

We disembark at Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island and visit the Charles Darwin Research Station. Here we can observe many species of tortoise and land iguanas at the Fausto Llerena Breeding Centre. We learn about the conservation work and scientific research that is undertaken on this remote archipelago. We than catch our flight back to the mainland, and Quito.

Meals

B

Depart anytime.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Return Internal flights from Quito to Baltra and associated airport transfers in the Galapagos Islands
  • Double or twin berth cabin on full board basis (according to itinerary)
  • Cruise on a Tourist Class boat (according to itinerary)
  • Galapagos guide
What's Not Included
  • Galapagos National Park entrance $100 per person ($200 from 1 Aug 2024) payable locally in cash

  • Transit control card $20 per person (must be paid locally in cash)

  • Tips of local staff

  • Miscellaneous expenses - drinks and souvenirs etc

Extension Details

Lake Titicaca by Bus

4 Days

Forming part of the border between Peru and Bolivia, this sacred lake of the Incas at an elevation of 3830 metres was where the god Viracocha rose and created the sun, moon, stars and the first people. It is the largest navigable lake in the world. There are several islands in the lake including the ‘floating’ Uros Islands which are man-made from reeds and are home to a pre-Incan people who live a simple traditional life.  We travel by comfortable tour bus across the altiplano from Cusco to Puno, on the shores of Lake Titicaca. 

Extension Code: LAKT

Extension Itinerary

Transfer to Cusco bus station for the 0650am departure of the Inca Express deluxe bus service (which includes a buffet lunch en route) to Puno on the shores of Lake Titicaca. The bus stops on the way at several places of interest, including Andahuaylillas with its Baroque churches and La Raya, the highpoint of the route. We are met by our local guide and transfer to Hotel Casa Andina or similar.

Meals

B L

Our guide will meet you at your Puno hotel early in the morning. First we enjoy a 2hr motor boat excursion on Lake Titicaca to visit 'floating' totoras reed islands home to the Uros people. We continue on to Amantani Island where we will stay overnight at the house of a local islander and enjoy the hospitality of a typical Amantani home.

Meals

B L D

After breakfast we have some time to explore this colourful island. In the later morning we take a motor-boat to Taquile Island, also inhabited by Quechua-speaking natives where we can learn about their fine hand weaving techniques, passed down through the generations. To reach the town we'll have to climb a stairway of 567 stone steps! In the afternoon we return to Puno and check into our hotel.

Meals

B L

Early morning drive - approximately one hour - to Juliaca airport where KE extension package services end. Flight to Lima not included.

Meals

B
Whats Included
  • Bus from Cusco to Puno
  • 2 nights at a 3-star hotel in Puno and 1 night home-stay
  • Meals as indicated in the itinerary
  • English-speaking local guide
  • All land transport required by the itinerary.
What's Not Included
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips
  • Miscellaneous personal expenses
  • Drinks
  • Souvenirs etc

Reviews

5 out of 5 from 4 reviews

Great adventure in wilderness ★★★★★

After my first trip with KE to Everest Basecamp few years back, this time I was looking for an adventure that will take me and my partner somewhere truly wild and unspoiled - and this trip more than delivered! Ausangate trek includes nine days of camping in remote area of Andes, where you will see not a soul, and except your team, alpacas will be your only witness :-) Trip starts in beautiful Cusco, where we stayed two days to acclimatize before the trek. Not to worry - you won't be bored! Area is full of incredible historical sites (Inca temples and fortresses), museums, colorful markets, and absolutely incredible food! Our guide, Luis, was very knowledgeable, and it was a pleasure to learn from him about Inca history and culture. Ausangate trek is demanding but experience is truly priceless! We camp in Andean wildness, in most breathtaking places, cross four high altitude passes, experienced all types of weather (snow, hail, wind, heat - sometimes all in one day). Our guide and support team were there all the way, working really hard, to make our adventure unforgettable. Camp were set up before we were arriving, and food was freshly cooked and ready. Food...hot tea/coffee every morning, delivered to our tents, nutritious breakfasts, snacks for the road, 3-course lunches, tea time, and 2-course dinners! All cooked freshly - heat, hail, or snow. Menu included pastas, pancakes, hot soups, and even a cake!! I can't appreciate enough the effort that the whole team put into making this experience really special for us - these guys deserve every penny of their tip and more, so I would like to strongly encourage any traveler to consider tipping extra on top of official guidelines, and ask themselves a question of their tip truly reflects hard work that guide and support teams put into making our holiday unforgettable. Nature and views on Ausangate trek is incredible - snow covered peaks, rainbow-coloured hills, turquoise lakes, hot springs, and night sky so dark you can't believe there is so many stars...and all of that with not a person in sight! It is so much to experience, that I have forgotten that we still have Machu Picchu to see after return back to Cusco. A lot has been written about Machu Picchu, and even more pictures were published - but it doesn't disappoint - I promise you, if only lucky with weather, it is even more incredible than you saw on Instagram :-) We had a wonderful time on this trek. It perfectly balance attractions of Cusco and lively Peruvian culture, with wilderness and challenges of high altitude trek. Highly recommended!
By Alicja from London | 28 August 2023

Amazing holiday - sublime area in which to trek! ★★★★★

The scenery around the Ausangate Circuit was spectacular - words and pictures really can't do it justice. I've done a lot of trekking and each trip usually has one or two views or particular locations that stick in the mind - the thing that was incredible about this trip was that there were days where every corner you turned would lead to another location more beautiful than the last. The lakes, rivers and mountain vistas were very special! Scenery aside, our Guide, Claudio, was great - his know ledge about the area and passion for trekking came through and made for an enjoyable trip. Machu Picchu was great, but hard to take a picture without someone in the background because there are so many tourists. On the trek itself, we barely saw another group the entire time we were walking, so if you want peace and tranquillity then this is definitely a trip to consider!
By Graham from Aylesbury | 09 September 2017

An 'off the beaten track' trek with stunning scenery ★★★★★

This was a fantastic trek which started with two days acclimatisation / sightseeing in Cusco and Ollantaytambo. Claudio (our guide) was very passionate and informative about Inca culture and history. We then moved to the mountains and spent eight days trekking the Ausangate circuit. This included crossing two passes over 5000m which was a first for me and a great experience. The scenery spectacular and is more beautiful than the photos show on the KE website. The local support crew were very har d working packing and unpacking equipment every day leaving us to concentrate on the walking. The food was excellent and I was amazed at the variety and quality of food produced every day. Claudio and his assistant David were excellent guides making sure we were going informed of the day's plans and nature of the terrain that we would follow. It does go dark early (6.00. / 6.30 pm) and evening meal was served at 7.00pm so I would take book / Kindle / playing cards to occupy this part of the day.
By Mark from Manchester | 07 September 2017

The most spectacular and best Andean trek for those with time constraints. ★★★★★

We have hiked extensively in the past 11 years around the world's mountainous regions - European alps (France/Italy/Austria/Switzerland/Slovenia), USA Rockies and Sierra Nevada, Canadian Rockies, New Zealand, Patagonia, Annapurna Circuit Nepal and this year Peru - Huayhuash, Santa Cruze/Ulta and Ausangate. Without doubt this Ausangate Trek is truly spectacular and rates as one of the top 4 places we have been. The big deal is that the trek, although high altitude, is "accessible", doesn't take t oo long (8 nights and shorter and less difficult than the Huayhuash trek), and it's uncrowded and allows the most close-up views of 6000m peaks we have ever come across. Just stunning! If you like mountain vistas - don't waste your time on busy Inca trails to Machu Picchu. Also I'd recommend this one above Mt Kilimanjaro. It's much better "bang for your money". The mountainous and epic valley landscape views are better than the featureless and distant flat horizon seen from the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro.
By Trevor from Brisbane | 04 September 2017

A Pan-American Adventure; Part 2.2 – The Trek

Having finally got my images back from the photolab, I have written separate blog posts following our KE itinerary for the Ausangate Circuit Trek. These include scanned analogue photographic images and some brief musings.

You can find the current posts at the following links, I will be posting more about the subsequent components of the itinerary:

https://achromaticity.wordpress. com/2016/01/29/a-pan-american-adventure-part-2-2-the-trek/

https://achromaticity.wordpress.com/2016/01/27/a-pan-american-adventure-part-2-a-ke-adventure/

Subsequent posts will follow at my blog and other social media outlets.

By Sidhartha from SHEFFIELD | 29 January 2016

Traveller Reviews
5 out of 5 from 5 reviews

Great adventure in wilderness
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
After my first trip with KE to Everest Basecamp few years back, this time I was looking for an adventure that will take me and my partner somewhere truly wild and unspoiled - and this trip more than delivered! Ausangate trek includes nine days of camping in remote area of Andes, where you will see not a soul, and except your team, alpacas will be your only witness :-) Trip starts in beautiful Cusco, where we stayed two days to acclimatize before the trek. Not to worry - you won't be bored! Area is full of incredible historical sites (Inca temples and fortresses), museums, colorful markets, and absolutely incredible food! Our guide, Luis, was very knowledgeable, and it was a pleasure to learn from him about Inca history and culture. Ausangate trek is demanding but experience is truly priceless! We camp in Andean wildness, in most breathtaking places, cross four high altitude passes, experienced all types of weather (snow, hail, wind, heat - sometimes all in one day). Our guide and support team were there all the way, working really hard, to make our adventure unforgettable. Camp were set up before we were arriving, and food was freshly cooked and ready. Food...hot tea/coffee every morning, delivered to our tents, nutritious breakfasts, snacks for the road, 3-course lunches, tea time, and 2-course dinners! All cooked freshly - heat, hail, or snow. Menu included pastas, pancakes, hot soups, and even a cake!! I can't appreciate enough the effort that the whole team put into making this experience really special for us - these guys deserve every penny of their tip and more, so I would like to strongly encourage any traveler to consider tipping extra on top of official guidelines, and ask themselves a question of their tip truly reflects hard work that guide and support teams put into making our holiday unforgettable. Nature and views on Ausangate trek is incredible - snow covered peaks, rainbow-coloured hills, turquoise lakes, hot springs, and night sky so dark you can't believe there is so many stars...and all of that with not a person in sight! It is so much to experience, that I have forgotten that we still have Machu Picchu to see after return back to Cusco. A lot has been written about Machu Picchu, and even more pictures were published - but it doesn't disappoint - I promise you, if only lucky with weather, it is even more incredible than you saw on Instagram :-) We had a wonderful time on this trek. It perfectly balance attractions of Cusco and lively Peruvian culture, with wilderness and challenges of high altitude trek. Highly recommended!
By Alicja from London | 28 August 2023

Amazing holiday - sublime area in which to trek!
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
The scenery around the Ausangate Circuit was spectacular - words and pictures really can't do it justice. I've done a lot of trekking and each trip usually has one or two views or particular locations that stick in the mind - the thing that was incredible about this trip was that there were days where every corner you turned would lead to another location more beautiful than the last. The lakes, rivers and mountain vistas were very special! Scenery aside, our Guide, Claudio, was great - his know ledge about the area and passion for trekking came through and made for an enjoyable trip. Machu Picchu was great, but hard to take a picture without someone in the background because there are so many tourists. On the trek itself, we barely saw another group the entire time we were walking, so if you want peace and tranquillity then this is definitely a trip to consider!
By Graham from Aylesbury | 09 September 2017

An 'off the beaten track' trek with stunning scenery
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
This was a fantastic trek which started with two days acclimatisation / sightseeing in Cusco and Ollantaytambo. Claudio (our guide) was very passionate and informative about Inca culture and history. We then moved to the mountains and spent eight days trekking the Ausangate circuit. This included crossing two passes over 5000m which was a first for me and a great experience. The scenery spectacular and is more beautiful than the photos show on the KE website. The local support crew were very har d working packing and unpacking equipment every day leaving us to concentrate on the walking. The food was excellent and I was amazed at the variety and quality of food produced every day. Claudio and his assistant David were excellent guides making sure we were going informed of the day's plans and nature of the terrain that we would follow. It does go dark early (6.00. / 6.30 pm) and evening meal was served at 7.00pm so I would take book / Kindle / playing cards to occupy this part of the day.
By Mark from Manchester | 07 September 2017

The most spectacular and best Andean trek for those with time constraints.
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
We have hiked extensively in the past 11 years around the world's mountainous regions - European alps (France/Italy/Austria/Switzerland/Slovenia), USA Rockies and Sierra Nevada, Canadian Rockies, New Zealand, Patagonia, Annapurna Circuit Nepal and this year Peru - Huayhuash, Santa Cruze/Ulta and Ausangate. Without doubt this Ausangate Trek is truly spectacular and rates as one of the top 4 places we have been. The big deal is that the trek, although high altitude, is "accessible", doesn't take t oo long (8 nights and shorter and less difficult than the Huayhuash trek), and it's uncrowded and allows the most close-up views of 6000m peaks we have ever come across. Just stunning! If you like mountain vistas - don't waste your time on busy Inca trails to Machu Picchu. Also I'd recommend this one above Mt Kilimanjaro. It's much better "bang for your money". The mountainous and epic valley landscape views are better than the featureless and distant flat horizon seen from the summit of Mt Kilimanjaro.
By Trevor from Brisbane | 04 September 2017

A Pan-American Adventure; Part 2.2 – The Trek

Having finally got my images back from the photolab, I have written separate blog posts following our KE itinerary for the Ausangate Circuit Trek. These include scanned analogue photographic images and some brief musings.

You can find the current posts at the following links, I will be posting more about the subsequent components of the itinerary:

https://achromaticity.wordpress. com/2016/01/29/a-pan-american-adventure-part-2-2-the-trek/

https://achromaticity.wordpress.com/2016/01/27/a-pan-american-adventure-part-2-a-ke-adventure/

Subsequent posts will follow at my blog and other social media outlets.

By Sidhartha from SHEFFIELD | 29 January 2016

DATES & PRICES

Private Departure?

Gather a few friends, family or club and take over your own departure.

2024

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: AUS /01/24/
  • This trip begins on Sun 19 May and ends on Sat 1 Jun
  • This departure is available and departs within 23 days. Secure your place today with full payment
  • Single Supplement Price: US$375 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$110
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: AUS /02/24/
  • This trip begins on Sun 4 Aug and ends on Sat 17 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
  • Single Supplement Price: US$375 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$110
  • Download Trip Notes

2025

Dates

Adults from

Deposit

Status

More Information

  • Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: AUS /01/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 18 May and ends on Sat 31 May
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
  • Single Supplement Price: US$375 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$110
  • Download Trip Notes

More Information

  • Ausangate Circuit and Machu Picchu
    Without Flights
  • Departure Reference: AUS /02/25/
  • This trip begins on Sun 3 Aug and ends on Sat 16 Aug
  • This departure is available to book. Secure your place today with a deposit of US$425
  • Single Supplement Price: US$375 - Includes all group hotel and lodge nights
  • Single Tent Upgrade: US$110
  • Download Trip Notes

Land Only Information

The LAND ONLY dates and prices are for the itinerary joining in Cusco. A single transfer is included from/to Lima Airport.

ZEN_HOLIDAY_DATES_PRICES_LAND_ONLY_USD_NOTICE


Changes to flights

Please be aware that the flight industry is experiencing a high level of service fluctuation and changes to your flights may occur. This may also require amends to the transfers and joining arrangements. Thank you all for continuing your patience and understanding.

BOOK WITH KE CONFIDENCE - No surcharge guarantee

The price of our holidays can change depending on a variety of factors but unlike some other tour operators, KE have undertaken to guarantee the Land Only price of your holiday will not change after you have booked. The price when you book is the price you will pay, whether you are booking for this year or the next. Book early to avoid any tour price increases, get the best flight prices and take advantage of our 'No Surcharge Guarantee'.

KE Adventure is a fully bonded tour operator. We hold an ATOL license (No: 2808) and are bonded with ABTA (Membership No: W4341)


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