How difficult is the Ausangate Trek?
You just need to remember that you are able to go at a speed that is comfortable for you. Take your time, pace yourself, and enjoy. Ausangate Trek is considered as a moderate hike; not a technical hike but high altitude may affect some people.
Are trekking poles or sticks necessary?
We recommend the use of trekking poles, especially for those passengers with known knee problems. There are multiple times during the trek that a trekking poles is handy, be it ascending a mountain or walking along the rough trails.
Is altitude sickness common? And how high is the Ausangate Trek?
It's impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude. Your ability to adapt to high altitude is determined by your genetic makeup and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problems as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. A full 2-day trip spent in Cusco (3,399 masl), taking it very easy and drinking plenty of water is enough for some people but if you can arrange to have minimum 2-3 days in case of any travel disruptions as well, then this is what we recommend as there is also so much to do here! The highest point you will get to while hiking Ausangate reaches 5,280 masl on the 2nd day.
Do I Need A Permits?
The Lares Trail does Not require permits as the Inca Trail, but it is important to reserve in advance do to the trip requires train tickets and entrance to Machu Picchu which once are limited.
Will I need to bring water?
We recommend that you purchase a 1.5 – 2 liter bottle of water to take with you on the first day. Every night during the trek, we will boil water so you can refill the same bottle every morning before setting out. If you are planning to drink from any streams or waterfalls, we strongly suggest you bring water purification tablets or filters. Also, you will be able to buy water along the way on Day 1, for the first few hours of Day 2, then again on the afternoon of Day 3, and of course at Machu Picchu.
When Do We Reach Machu Picchu And How Much Time Do We Spend There?
We’ll reach Machu Picchu early in the morning on Day 4th; we’ll try to take the earliest bus from the town of Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (25 minutes); Once in Machu Picchu, Your Trekking guide will take you for an informative 2-3 hour tour, where you’ll visit the most important places of Machu Picchu and you’ll have enough time to take pictures. After the tour you will have a free time to explore along. When you finish All in Machu Picchu you’ll take the bus down to the town of Aguas Calientes where you can have your lunch in one of the restaurants.
Is the Ausangate Trek still good during the rainy season?
Some people actually like to go during the rainy season because there are fewer tourists but we say please be prepared for wet weather and have suitable clothes and equipment. Possibly snow, so be prepared for a possible change of route if a pass is deemed impassable by the guide. We do not recommend this trek in the months of January, February and March.
Will I be able to witness the sunrise at Ausangate?
You first encounter Machu Picchu as the sun rises over the high mountains encircling it. It is already dawn but this impressive moment of Machu Picchu coming out of the shadows of the looming mountains is awesome.
Will I need any extra money?
Yes or yes we recommend taking extra money, tips for the trekking staff, souvenirs, snacks, bottled water, drinks, etc. You should take at least 300 soles as emergency money.
What Type Of Food Will We Get On The Ausangate Trek?
Our cooks prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a trek of this nature. The menu usually includes pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruit and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other breakfast foods. Vegetarian alternatives are available upon request at the time of booking.
Do Tour guides speak English?
Completely fluent in English. Our guides are also one of the most popular aspects of our tours some of them being historians and archaeologists and all demonstrate a great passion for their culture and heritage.
Is This Recommended For Children?
This tour is not recommended for children because they may have trouble walking, but if the child enjoys hiking at high altitudes, they can do it.
Can People With Medical Problems Make This Trip?
If you have medical problems, you should consult your doctor and indicate that you want to or are planning a hike in the Peruvian Andes and the height is 5040 m (16,400 ft) above sea level. If you have medication, you must bring it with you to continue your treatment.
Horse Rentals?
Horseback is available as an option at an additional cost of $20usd per day for those who have not built up stamina for long distance hiking or who may not have time to acclimatize. (This option requires advanced notice)
Where Do I Store My Luggage?
All luggage not needed for the hike should stay in Cusco. All hotels are very accommodating and quite used to storing luggage on site. But we have storage in Cusco where we can keep all your belonging.
