|
|
5.0 Excellent 659 reviews |
This tour provides a remarkable opportunity to witness one of nature's wonders while immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes of the Andes. The hike is challenging but rewarding, offering an experience that you'll remember for a lifetime. It's crucial to acclimatize to the high altitude in Cusco before embarking on this tour, as the trail reaches altitudes of over 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). Altitude sickness can be a concern.
DAY 1: CUSCO I CUSIPATA - PHULLAWASIPATA - VINICUNCA
You will be picked up at your specified location between 4:30-4:45. The bus departs to the south of Cusco through the mountain valleys for 11/2 hours as the sun rises. This could be a good time to catch up on sleep or take in the views of the breathtaking mountain ranges. At around 6:30am you will arrive in Cusipata for a nutritious breakfast, before continuing the journey just after 7:00am. After two more hours, you will reach Phullawasipata (4626m /15,177 ft.): this is the trail head, where you begin the hike. Horses and ATV rides are available for purchase at this juncture.
The ascent takes around 11/2 - 2 hours, traipsing up from the green valley to find lofty mountain views all around, with the imposing Ausangate Mountain to the northeast. Local people in traditional clothing can be seen going about their daily lives, while the route is flanked by groups of Alpacas, Llamas and sometimes wild Vicuñas, and small lagoons formed by glacial thaws. Arriving at the summit (Vinicunca 5036m / 16,522 ft.) we will have time to rest and take plenty of pictures, before beginning our descent along the same route.
The descent to Phullawasipata takes another 1-11/2 hours where the transportation will be waiting to carry you towards a comforting (and well earned!) 2:00 pm lunch. You will arrive back in Cusco at around 4:30 to 5:00pm, where you will be dropped off one block from the main square so as to avoid the rush hour traffic.
****During the rainy season and depending on weather, this trek can have some parts that can be challenging and slippery. For this reason, we recommend good supportive hiking shoes/boots and also ask you to exercise caution.
WALKING DISTANCE: 7 km / 4.35miles
DIFFICULTY: Challenging
WALKING TIME: 3 to 4 hours
STARTING ELEVATION: 4,630 m / 15,190 ft
HIGHEST ELEVATION: 5100 m / 16732 ft
INCLUDED:
Do you want to reserve or inquire?
|
Starting at:
Per Person |
BOOK NOW Do you have any questions? |
