Luxury Palomani Pass & Vinicunca Trek
The Luxury Palomani Pass & Vinicunca Trek is the perfect way for experienced trekkers to completely immerse into the glaciated peaks of the high Andes as well as the striated rainbow mountain of Vinicunca. Specifically designed for advanced trekkers, this route traverses stunning landscape that showcases Apu Ausangate, several glacier lakes, pastures filled with alpacas and the colorful peaks of the Vilcanota mountain range.
Highlights of the trek include sleeping in the highest mountain lodge in the world (Machuraccay Tambo), ascending Palomani Pass (5,150 meters / 16,896 feet), trekking the moraine of Ausangate Cocha & spending a morning absorbing the beauty of Vinicunca.
The trek will be accompanied by llamas and horses that will carry the gear. They are owned by shepherds of the communities of Chillca and Osefina, who are proud to share their land with us, as well as the Spirit of their inspiring world. On the hikes and in the unique “Tambos” or Andean Lodges, daily meals will be prepared by experienced local chefs who will introduce you to a great variety of delicious Peruvian dishes and fresh produce. Each night the lodges offer hot beverages, a warm fireplace, hot showers and comfortable beds.
**Please note this is a custom trek that Peru Eco Expeditions only operates with private departures and is for advanced trekkers only.
Physical Preparation:
Trekkers considering this route must be in good physical condition. It is recommended that each participant has a preliminary 4 day acclimation stage prior to embarking on this trek as the trail ascends mountain passes at altitudes higher than 5,000 meters (16,400 feet). It is also important that hikers stay extremely well hydrated prior to and during the trek as a way to prevent altitude sickness.
Important Facts:
Total Distance Covered: 24.5 Kilometers (15.22 Miles)
Maximum Altitude: 5,150 Meters (16,896 Feet)
Minimum Altitude: 3,384 Meters (11,102 Feet)
Day 1 – Cusco – Machuraccay Tambo:
After departing Cusco in a comfortable coach we head along the Vilcanota River and deviate towards Pitumarca. The drive showcases the beauty of the Andean countryside. At the trailhead we will eat a light lunch and then embark on our first day of trekking! The trail ascends a mountain valley that offers stunning views of Ausangate & Mariposa mountains.
Driving Time: 4 Hours (With Stops)
Hiking Time: 3.5 Hours / 6 kilometers (3.73 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty
Lodge: Machuraccay Tambo
Highest Altitude: 4,850 meters (15,912 feet)
Day 2 – Machuraccay Tambo – Anantapata Tambo:
The morning starts off with an offering to Apu Ausangate followed by an ascent to Palomani pass, the highest mountain pass of the entire trek, which stands at 5,150 meters (16,896 feet). The summit of the pass offers stunning 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains. After resting at the pass trekkers will descend into the valley below, which lies the picturesque glacier lake of Ausangate Cocha. The duration of the hike meanders through pastures of grazing alpacas.
Hiking Time: 5 Hours / 9.5 kilometers (5.9 miles)
Difficulty: High Difficulty
Lodge: Anantapata Tambo
Highest Altitude: 5,150 meters (16,896 feet)
Day 3 – Anantapata Tambo – Cusco:
Trekkers will awake early this morning and ascend another mountain pass. They will then continue onto Vinicunca to enjoy the stunning views of this unique location prior to the crowds! The trek will continue through red mountains and out through a serene mountain valley. At the conclusion of the trek, lunch will be served and the coach will be waiting for our return to Cusco.
Hiking Time: 4.5 Hours / 9 kilometers (5.59 miles)
Difficulty: Moderate Difficulty
Highest Altitude: 5,030 meters (16,502 feet)
Drive Time: 3 Hours
Included Services:
– General Organization of the Trek
– All Staff to Include Expert Mountain Guide, Cook, Housekeeper, Horseman & Llama Handler
– Private Transportation to/from Cusco
– Accommodation in Double Rooms
– Biodegradable Hand Soap, Shampoo & Towels Provided Daily
– All Meals – Beginning with Lunch on Day 1 to Lunch on Day 3
– Daily Snacks & Filtered Water
– Porterage by Llamas
– Waterproof Bags for the Baggage Carried by Llamas
– First Aid Kit & Oxygen
Not Included:
– International & Domestic Flights
– Staff Gratuity (Suggested $70.00 Per Trekker to Split Between Staff)
Special Notes:
– There is no electricity at any of the lodges. (Anantapata has a solar panel to charge electronics)
– All rooms have private bathrooms & hot showers.
– Transportation times are subject to change based on traffic / road conditions.
– Hike times will vary depending on the skill level / altitude adjustment of the group.
– Local, authentic textiles are available for purchase along the way.
– Cash should be brought if guests would like to purchase these items.
Price:
$1,240.00 USD Per Person (Based on a Minimum of 4 Guests / 2024 Rate)
*Please note pricing is based on a private group departure any day of the week with a minimum of 4 guests. This advanced trekking package is perfect for small groups who would like a private trekking experience.
