Ausangate Trek vs Inca Trail

Have you decided to come to Cusco – Peru, but you still don’t know which route to choose? Here we leave you two main differences of these walks, according to your tastes and preferences: the famous Inca Trail and the tour to the sacred mountain Ausangate. It offers unforgettable experiences, but each one is in its own way.

Here we present the differences between the classic Inca Trail and the route to the imposing Ausangate so that you can choose the best hiking option for you.

Ausangate Trek

Although not as popular as some of the other trails accessible from Cusco, the Ausangate hike is worth it. In fact, being less crowded with tourists is part of its charm. It guarantees travelers who venture on this remote journey a more unique experience. While you won’t encounter Incan ruins, it makes up for it with stunning natural scenery and spiritual significance. See spectacular snow-capped peaks, beautiful lakes, and wonderful wildlife, including herds of llamas and alpacas. The centerpiece of the hike is the mighty Apu Ausangate, one of the highest mountains in Peru.

Highlights of the Ausangate trek

1. The snow-capped Ausangate is the highest mountain in the city of Cusco and the fifth highest in Peru.
2. It is one of the most beautiful and sacred hikes in Peru, but not very crowded.
3. It has an altitude of 6,372 meters above sea level. in the Vilcanota mountain range.
4. Along the way you will appreciate incredible views of the Andean landscapes.
5. The Ausangate trek can be done with a travel agency or on your own.
6. Along the way you will find horses that will help you get around.
7. You will be able to observe diverse fauna: condors, chinchillas, llamas, alpacas and vicuñas.
8. The tour is considered a spiritual route, ideal for making offerings and thanking the apus for everything they have given you.
9. You will observe magical turquoise blue lagoons in the surroundings.
10. The walk can be done all year round.
11. Camping on the Ausangate route will recharge you with good energy around the mountains.

Flora, fauna, and scenery on the Ausangate Trek

Apu Ausangate
For the Incas, mountains served as a connection between the middle and upper worlds. Important mountains were called “Apus,” in honor of the protective spirits believed to live within them. Apu Ausangate is the highest peak of the Vilcanota Mountain Range in the Cusco region. It is also the fifth highest mountain in Peru, measuring 20,940 feet (6,384 m). Although the hike won’t take you to the top, you’ll get unparalleled views of its majestic snow-capped peak.

Glaciers and lakes
The nickname of Apu Ausangate is “Creator of Waters” due to its numerous glaciers. They are the source of several lakes and rivers that supply water to other parts of the country. For example, the Vilcanota River feeds the famous Amazon River. Thus, the Ausangate has a special meaning for Peruvians to this day. During the hike, you will find beautiful lakes, each of which has its own unique color. Colors range from green to blue, turquoise and even red.

rainbow mountain
One of the biggest attractions of Ausangate Trek is the opportunity to visit the famous Rainbow Mountain. Mineral rock sediments found in sandstone give this mountain its iconic colors. While it’s not on the trail itself, a visit can easily be arranged into a one-day detour. Check out the day-by-day itinerary below for more details on how to incorporate it into your hike.

Flora and fauna
The Ausangate trek passes through remote areas that have not been affected by mass tourism. This has preserved it as habitat for many species of wildlife found in the Andes mountains. Come face to face with llamas, alpacas, vicuñas and vizcachas (rabbit-like South American rodents). There are also several types of birds, such as Andean condors, black-breasted buzzards, and hummingbirds.

Inca Trail

The Inca Trail is one of the most famous hikes in the world and attracts thousands of trekkers every year. That creates as many ups and downs as you’ll find on the trail itself. The positive is that choosing this option means you’ll be hiking the original trail that the Incas did, and it allows you to see otherwise unreachable ruins. The downside is that it can be busy, but there is always another option for you. In case your dream is to hike on the Inca Trail, we recommend booking it in advance to secure your spots.

Highlights of the Inca Trail

1. The Inca Trail takes you directly to Machu Picchu through an ancestral path made by ancient men.
2. The number of visitors per day is 500. It is advisable to reserve at least four months in advance.
3. You’ll encounter lush landscapes along the trail, from towering ice-capped mountains to dense cloud forests in the jungle.
4. The Inca Trail is characterized by several archaeological sites distributed along the way.
5. The entrance is more strict and controlled because thousands of tourists choose this route.
6. The maximum altitude is at the Warmiwañusca pass (4,215 m.a.s.l.).
7. The nights are cold and the sun is intense during the day. Therefore, it is advisable to bring a hat, sunglasses, repellent, among others.
8. The Inca Trail can only be done with a certified and authorized travel agency.

Flora, fauna and landscapes on the Inca Trail

On the Inca Trail you will travel along ancient stone paths where the Incas passed and you will witness diverse flora such as orchids, eucalyptus forests and some plants from the tropical region. In addition, you will find beautiful mountains, different types of birds, cloud forests, among others. The Inca Trail is the home of the spectacled bear.

You will also explore several archaeological sites:

• Llactapata
• Wayllabamba
• Runkurakay
• Phuyupatamarca
• Wiñay Wayna
• Inti Punku

As one of the favorite routes of many travelers, the Inca Trail is a destination that receives many tourists throughout the year. The best months to do the Inca Trail are from April to October. Every February, the route is closed for maintenance. The great variety of landscapes and the feeling of being in the middle of the flora and fauna of this place is one of the best experiences you should enjoy in Peru.