Nevado Ausangate
Le Nevado Ausangate est une montagne majestueuse située dans la Cordillère Vilcanota des Andes péruviennes. C'est le plus haut sommet de la région, avec une altitude de 6 384 mètres (20 945 pieds). L'Ausangate est considéré comme sacré par les communautés locales Quechua et revêt une importance spirituelle. La montagne est connue pour sa beauté naturelle époustouflante, notamment ses glaciers, ses lacs turquoise et ses paysages de montagne éclatants. Il offre des possibilités de trekking et d'alpinisme, permettant aux visiteurs de s'immerger dans la nature vierge des hauts plateaux andins. Le Nevado Ausangate est une destination pour les amateurs de plein air à la recherche de paysages époustouflants et d'une connexion avec la nature.
Emplacement et comment s'y rendre
Nevado Ausangate is a striking mountain in the Andes, located approximately 100 kilometers southeast of Cusco in the Vilcanota mountain range. The nearest village to the base is Tinki, a common starting point for treks. To reach Ausangate from Cusco:
- By public transport: Take a bus or colectivo from Cusco to the town of Ocongate (3–4 hours), then another to Tinki (1 hour).
- By private transport: Hire a taxi or arrange a tour from Cusco directly to Tinki (4–5 hours).
Heures d'ouverture et billets
As a natural attraction, Nevado Ausangate does not have formal opening hours or entrance gates. However, access to certain trails or areas may require a community fee (typically 10–20 PEN) payable in Tinki or at checkpoint huts along the route.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
The dry season (May–September) offers the clearest skies and safest trekking conditions. June–August is peak season, while April–October provides milder weather. Avoid the rainy season (November–March) due to slippery trails and limited visibility.
Durée de la visite
Most visitors undertake the 5–7 day Ausangate Trek, though shorter day hikes are possible from Tinki. Allow at least a full day to appreciate the scenery if not trekking.
Activités
- Trekking: The full circuit around Ausangate is one of Peru’s most challenging and rewarding hikes.
- Photography: Glaciers, turquoise lakes (like Laguna Sibinacocha), and alpaca herds provide stunning subjects.
- Cultural encounters: Interact with Quechua-speaking communities and observe traditional pastoral life.
Installations
Basic facilities are limited:
- No restrooms or cafes on trails; bring all supplies from Cusco.
- Homestays or basic lodgings available in Tinki and Pitumarca.
- No formal parking; vehicles typically wait in village centers.
Ce qu'il faut apporter/vêtir
- Layered clothing for extreme temperature shifts (below freezing at night).
- Sturdy hiking boots, sunscreen, and altitude medication (treks reach over 5,000m).
- Cash (no ATMs) for community fees and supplies.
Règles et règlements
- Respect local customs: Ask permission before photographing people or livestock.
- Pack out all trash; no facilities exist for waste disposal.
- Open fires are prohibited; use camping stoves.