SIBINACOCHA AND AUSANGATE TREK 7D
Sibinacocha is a glacial lake located in the Central Andes of Peru, at about 4,873 meters above sea level, in the Cuzco region. With turquoise waters, it is a vital source for the Vilcanota river basin and nearby populations. Surrounded by mountains and a unique ecosystem, the area is home to Andean fauna such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and condors. It also has a profound cultural and spiritual value for the local communities. Although not very accessible, it is a destination for ecotourism and trekking.
Admire the majestic mountains and snow-capped peaks that decorate these valleys and admire the imposing AUSANGATE glacier. The streams and waterfalls will accompany us and you will be able to see the trout in these lagoons that are part of the landscape and that will be our campsites and enjoy the Andean skies full of stars.
Enjoy this unique experience in the world. Walk through the valleys and mountains and feel the energy of the Andes in this experience made exclusively for you, dare to live this adventure.
ITINERARY AT A GLANCE
Day 1
CUSCO – OCONGATE -TINKE – PACCHANTA
We will leave the city of Cusco and head south until we reach the starting point of the trek. There we will enjoy breakfast and then we will start walking and pass through fields of crops and before resting you can enjoy the thermal baths in our camp.
Day 2
PACCHANTA – 7 LAGUNAS – PACHASPATA – CAMPAMENTO AUSANGATE
We will go up the road and you will be able to admire the famous tour of the 7 lagoons with different colors. You will have time to rest and your guide will explain the importance of the place, then we will arrive to our camp.
Day 3
CAMPAMENTO AUSANGATE – JAMPA PASS – SORAPATA – QUILLITA
After breakfast we will start climbing to the Jampa Pass, the first high point of the hike. There you will be able to see the glaciers and lagoons that are around and then go down the valley to reach our camp.
Day 4
QUILLITA – PASO CONDOR – SIBINACOCHA
After breakfast it will be time to climb up the valley to reach the highest point of the hike, El Paso Condor. From there you will be able to see the great Tropical Glacier of Qelccaya, in these valleys you will be able to see the great amount of wild vicuñas that live there.
5
SIBINACOCHA – CCASCARA LAGOON
After sleeping in this magical place next to this wonderful lagoon we will walk around it until we reach the next lagoon where we will sleep on the shores of Ccascara, surrounded by mountains and snow-capped peaks.
Day 6
CCASCARA – PHINAYA VILLAGE
The tour will be next to the lagoon and after climbing a small hill we will begin to descend through small villages until we reach the village of Phinaya. There we will rest and sleep, it will be the last night in the mountains.
Day 7
PHINAYA VILLAGE – CUSCO
Después del desayuno podremos visitar el jardín de niños y podrá vivir un momento con la gente de la zona, admire el Glaciar de Qelccaya y después abordaremos nuestro transporte para regresar a la ciudad de Cusco.
Sibinacocha is a glacial lake located in the Central Andes of Peru, at about 4,873 meters above sea level, in the Cuzco region. With turquoise waters, it is a vital source for the Vilcanota river basin and nearby populations. Surrounded by mountains and a unique ecosystem, the area is home to Andean fauna such as llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and condors. It also has a profound cultural and spiritual value for the local communities. Although not very accessible, it is a destination for ecotourism and trekking.
Admire the majestic mountains and snow-capped peaks that decorate these valleys and admire the imposing AUSANGATE glacier. The streams and waterfalls will accompany us and you will be able to see the trout in these lagoons that are part of the landscape and that will be our campsites and enjoy the Andean skies full of stars.
Enjoy this unique experience in the world. Walk through the valleys and mountains and feel the energy of the Andes in this experience made exclusively for you, dare to live this adventure.
Day 1
CUSCO – TINKE – PACCHANTA
Today begins the adventure of a lifetime. We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:00 a.m. and travel in our private transportation to the village of Tinke (3.800 m.a.s.l. / 12.467 ft.). where we will make a short stop so you can buy some things you need for the trip, then we will continue and arrive at the starting point of the trek. while you are sorting and preparing your backpack and clothes you will wear for today, our cook will prepare breakfast so you can feed yourself before leaving.
The hike starts in the middle of this village and we will start climbing up through the houses and you will be able to see the local people working in the potato farms and you will see how the animals of the area are feeding along the way. In their Maytia the people have guinea pigs, sheep and alpacas in their houses and agricultural fields because it is the main economic income they have.
After ascending a hill you will be able to clearly observe the Ausangate Glacier and in the distance the snow-capped peaks throughout the length and breadth of this beautiful place. We will descend and arrive at the village of Pacchanta (4,200 m.a.s.l. / 13,779 ft.), where we will have our lunch and camp. When we arrive lunch will be ready and you can enjoy a delicious buffet and then you will have time to settle into your tent, then you can go to rest and enjoy the thermal baths of the place while enjoying the view of the glaciers that are high in the mountains. Afterwards we will have happy hour (hot drinks, chocolate, milk, coffee and accompanied by cookies and popcorn) and then enjoy the starry sky that adorns the camp before going to sleep.
Day 2
PACCHANTA – 7 LAGUNAS – PACHASPATA – CAMPAMENTO AUSANGATE
We will wake you up with a hot coca tea in your tent and after preparing your backpack we will enjoy an energizing breakfast and then start another day full of adventures and you can enjoy great views, landscapes and lots of nature.
We will start the hike following a marked stone path and you will see the sheep and alpacas walking on both sides of the stream that comes from the glaciers of the mountains. We will make the tour of the 7 lakes (famous day tour) and you will be able to see the different colors of each of these lakes that are located at the base of these mountains. You will have the opportunity to admire these natural wonders while being observed by the vizcachas (chinchillas), which will be running or resting on the rocks. Then we will continue walking until we reach our lunch spot where our cook will be waiting for us with a buffet lunch.
Then we will continue climbing until we reach our campsite. There our tents will be waiting for us ready to settle in and rest, if you wish you can walk and explore this beautiful place. We will have our happy hour and then buffet dinner and before going to sleep do not forget to admire the sky full of stars.
Dia 3
CAMPAMENTO AUSANGATE – JAMPA PASS – SORAPATA – QUILLITA
We start the day at 5:30 in the morning and we will wake you up with a coca tea in your tent. You will have time to pack your backpack and after a nutritious buffet breakfast we will be ready for the hike.
We will begin to climb to the first high point of the hike, Jampa Pass (5,000 m.a.s.l. / 16,404 ft.). There you will be able to observe the glaciers in front of you and the lagoons at their base. You can see the Apachetas (stone towers that were offerings to the mountains), while resting the guide will tell you the importance of the place and the traditions that our ancestors had and that today are still done in these places.
Then we will begin to descend and we will arrive to the lunch place. There you will be ready to taste the food made by our mountain cook, then you will have time to rest. Then we will pass to the right side of the valley to start climbing the road and we will see more herds of alpacas and small lakes. We will advance until we reach Quillita, a valley with a small stream, where we will camp.
In the afternoon enjoy hot drinks (happy hour) and then enjoy an exquisite dinner and after the next day’s briefing you can go to rest, but not before appreciating the stars and constellations that decorate the sky in this part of the mountains.
Day 4
QUILLITA – PASO CONDOR – SIBINACOCHA
After waking up and breakfast you will have time to organize your backpack and arrange the clothes you will wear today. The first 2 hours of the hike will be in the middle of the valley and you will be able to see more herds of alpacas and small houses of the villagers who work as farmers.
It is time to start climbing to the highest point of the trek, Paso Condor (5,300 m.a.s.l. / 17,3885 ft.). We will be at the top of the trail, rest and admire the surrounding valleys and especially admire the famous QELQAYA Tropical Glacier (5,650 m.a.s.l. / 18,536 ft.). You will see how this gigantic glacier seems to be part of another world. You will have time to take souvenir photos and then we will descend for 30 minutes to the lunch spot.
After a rest we will reach another high point of the trek, Llama Pass (5,300 m.a.s.l. / 17,388 ft,). From there we will descend to another valley and there you will be able to admire a large number of herds of wild vicuñas, they will be walking and feeding throughout this area. As we go down you will be able to take all the pictures you want and later you will be able to see where we will sleep tonight.
We will arrive at the Sibinacocha Lagoon (4,850 m.a.s.l. / 15,912 ft.). On the shore of this magical place will be our campsite. You will settle in your tent and then you can go to explore this beautiful place drawn by nature and covered by mountains. To end the day we will have happy hour and dinner and then you can enjoy the stars above the crystal clear waters of this great lake.
Day 5
SIBINACOCHA – CCASCARA
After resting in this incredible place we will have a good energizing breakfast and then we will continue with our adventure. Once ready we will start walking on the shores of this great lake and climb small hills to admire the grandeur of this wonder located at the top of the Andes.
Little by little you will observe the different colors of the crystalline and turquoise waters in its small beaches, you will be able to see the great diversity of fauna with the great amount of birds resting and flying around the lake.
We will arrive at the lunch spot and you will enjoy a delicious buffet and then you will have time to rest before continuing. After a rest we will start a one hour climb to reach the top of the hill from where you can see another natural wonder the lake of Ccascara (4,700 m.a.s.l. / 15,419 ft.). We will descend until we reach the shores of this beautiful place and sleep on the shores of this incredible place drawn by nature in the middle of the mountains and glaciers.
Settle into your tent and after exploring the place we will have happy hour and then dinner. Don’t forget to admire the Andean sky full of stars and you will be able to see the Milky Way. Rest and enjoy this wonderful place away from the crowds and big cities.
Day 6
CCASCARA – PHINAYA
After sleeping under the stars a cup of mate de coca and breakfast will be very good to start another day in the mountains. We will walk to the shores of the lake and then follow the path until we reach the top of another hill from there we will start to descend little by little and you will see constructions of small rustic houses of the inhabitants of the area and you will also see more herds of sheep, llamas and alpacas. You will be able to see Andean eagles flying everywhere and as we go on you will be able to see the village of Phinaya (4,500 m.a.s.l. / 14,763 ft.) at the bottom. This small village will be our last camp and we will spend the night there.
When we get there you will have time to rest and then we will have our buffet lunch. Then you can settle in and rest. One option is to go for a walk and explore this village located far away from the big cities where they still keep the tradition of wearing their traditional and colorful clothes, you can go to its small square and watch the children running and playing with their brothers around this small park.
Then enjoy happy hour and after dinner it will be time to rest and sleep after having enjoyed another wonderful day in the mountains.
Day 7
PHINAYA – CUSCO
After resting in this quiet village we will have the last breakfast and then we can visit the kindergarten and if you want you can leave some gifts for the students of this educational center. Share moments with the children and learn a little of the language they speak, Qechua. At the end we will board our transport and travel through large valleys and you will see sheep, llamas, alpacas, agricultural centers and small communities with their people working in the agricultural centers. After 6 hours of travel we will arrive in the city of Cusco and we will drop you off at your hotel.
We are sure that although very tired you will be very happy to have completed this adventure in the Andes.
WHAT IS INCLUDED?
HIGH QUALITY SERVICE AND SAFETY
– Briefing.
One day before your trip you will meet with your guide to learn more about the itinerary you will take on this adventure. You will also get to know the most important information about the day to day of the trip. We will give you your duffel bag where you can put the extra things you will need during the trip. Remember that in this meeting you can talk about the different options or food restrictions you have.
– Professional Nountain Guides.
All our guides are graduates of the most important universities and institutes of Cusco. They are chosen for their great experience, responsibility, professionalism and above all for the great passion and pride they have for our history and culture. They will be proud to share with you everything related to our ancestors. They will make sure that your trip will be unforgettable. Your safety is guaranteed from the moment we pick you up in Cusco until we drop you off at your hotel at the end of the trip.
– First Aid Kit.
Our guides are specialists in first aid, rescue and evacuation if necessary. Because they have specialized training and are certified by the international red cross. They are highly trained and will always have a first aid kit and oxygen for any emergency. Your safety is guaranteed with us.
– Camping Equipment.
We have the best logistic equipment for our trips such as eureka and the north face high mountain tents (3 and 4 seasons). Made especially to withstand the most intense climates of the mountains. We also have dining tents, kitchen tents, kitchenware and utensils. For you to spend comfortable moments at meal times.
Meals: 4 breakfasts, 4 lunches and 4 dinners.
Our high mountain chef is trained to cook and please you with the most delicious Peruvian and Cusquenian food. As well as the tastiest drinks, snacks and desserts that will leave you satisfyingly happy. Food options such as vegans, vegetarians or any restrictions are no problem for our cooks and will not have an additional cost.
– Snacks.
Every morning before the hike you will be provided with snack, fruits, cookies, chocolates, candies, So you can enjoy them during the hike.
– Water.
We have a water filter especially for use in the mountains. Each morning we will provide you with cold boiled purified water so you can fill your bottle or camell back. You will have the option to refill more water at lunch and dinner time, as you require.
-Wake-up tea.
Every morning we will wake you up with a hot drink of your choice, tea, coffee or coke. Our guide will bring this drink to your tent for a warm start to the day and then you will have time to prepare the things you will use during the trek.
-Happy Hour.
In the afternoons after arriving at our camp we will have happy hour (hot drinks, tea, coffee, milk, chocolate), and some snacks (cookies, crackers, popcorn). At this time we can talk about the day and look forward to a delicious dinner before resting.
For hygiene.
A small towel and soap will be provided before each meal for hand hygiene.
Transportation: private service from door to door.
We know that the most important thing on your vacation is your well-being and safety and that is why we organize our trips with the utmost care, because the most important thing for us is you.
Our experience offers you safety, comfort, good service and the satisfaction of our clients is our letter of introduction. If you have any questions write to us and we will be happy to help you so that all your doubts are clearly resolved.
Passport.
This is the most important document. You must carry with you the original passport, with which you booked the trip. This document will be presented when required by the Machu Picchu park staff, especially to enter the Inca city, to board the bus, the train and to check in at the hotel.
On the trail.
Considered one of the 5 best treks in the world by the National Geographic Magazine, the Inca Trail is well known and preferred by travelers seeking to learn more about our culture and to visit archaeological sites built in the mountains, walk through valleys, enjoy the beauty of nature, admire glaciers and snow-capped peaks, reach the summits of these ancient constructions, admire the tropical areas and enjoy the breathtaking scenery that adorn this hike to reach the sanctuary of Machu Picchu. The distances are strategically divided so that you can enjoy all the natural attractions of this magical place. Starting from the town of Piscacucho, kilometer 82 (2,700 m.a.s.l. / 8,858 ft.). Until arriving at the highest point, the pass of the dead woman (4,215 m.a.s.l. / 13,828 ft.). And the lowest place, Aguas Calientes village (2,000 m.a.s.l. / 6,561 ft.), in some places the hike will be challenging and we will give you the help and all the necessary recommendations to complete this incredible adventure.
Acclimatization.
Travelers arrive from different parts of the world, from different altitudes and even from sea level for this the recommendation is to arrive 2 or 3 days before to the city of Cusco (3,400 m.a.s.l. / 11,154 ft.). The altitude, the flight time and the time change can affect you especially if it is your first time in our city. No special training is required for this adventure, but acclimatization is recommended before starting the hike. We have alternatives before you travel. Day hikes for better acclimatization, we recommend some of them.
City tour
Sacred Valley
Salt mines of Maras and Moray
Mountain of colors, Vinicunca
Colored mountain, Palcoyo
Waqrapucara
Seven lakes, Ausangate
Queswachaca, Inca bridge
Biking, horse riding, rafting, zip line and more…
We have a special promotion for you that you will love, contact us right now and get an offer for the tour of your choice.
Informative meeting.
This meeting is very important, to share with you the information of the trek, day by day. Normally it is one day before the trip and the duration is 30 to 40 minutes. We will coordinate to choose the best place to meet you. Remember that the itinerary on the mountain about the next day will be at the time of dinner, to have the most clear information about all the days.
Duffel bag.
At the time of the briefing we will provide you with a duffel bag where you can put the extra things you will need for the trip, pants, polo shirts, socks, shoes, etc.
The capacity of the duffel bags is (7 kg. / 15.432 lb.), per person. Feel confident about the safety of your luggage and the inclement mountain weather because we have plastic to protect them from dust and rain.
Extra luggage.
If you have luggage that you are not going to use during the trip, don’t worry because you can leave it with us. We have a special storage room for your extra luggage and we will pick it up when you start the trek and return it when you finish your adventure. It is totally free and it is part of our service.
Door to door service.
Before starting the trip we will pick you up from your hotel, hostel or air b&b with our private transportation (if you are a little far from the city center or your accommodation has narrow streets to reach with our mobility we will coordinate it with you). We do not want any mishap to happen before, during and after the trip and that is why we will always be with you.
Feel free to ask all the questions you want to know, we will be happy to clarify all your doubts and concerns.
Important things to bring on the hike.
Very Important.
Original Passport
Student Card (students)
Cash (Souvenirs, Drinks, Snacks and Tips)
Water Bottles or Camelbaks
Sunscreen (SPF 50+)
Mosquito Repellent
WipesHand sanitizer
Hat
Snacks
CLOTHING
Pantalones de Senderismo (2)
T.Shirt (2-3)
Hiking Underwear and Socks Sets (4)
Warm Jacket
Thermal Fleece
Comfortable Hiking Boots
Waterproof Jacket / Rain Poncho
Wool Hat (Bennie)
Sneakers or Sandals (To wear at the Camp)
Waterproof Gloves
Towel (Quick Dry)
EQUIPMENT
Sleeping Bag
Trekking Backpack
Trekking Poles
Power Bank
Plastic Bags
Head Flashlight