palomani high pass

This program starts with an early morning departure from Cusco, along the fertile Vilcanota Valley, to the village of Checacupe. After a visit to its Colonial Church of our Lady of the Immaculate Conception, we ́ll start ascending the Pitumarca Valley, through the spectacular Japura Gorge that leads to Chillca. Here we will be greeted by community members. From there, it will only be a short and easy walk to the first “Tambo”, and once at the lodge, we will have time to relax and enjoy the music provided by local inhabitants of Chillca.

Our hike begins at 08:30 in the wide valley of Upis where impressive glaciated mountains loom above the valley offering majestic views. The trail narrows as we make our way towards the waterfalls descending from the Santa Catalina Mountain. This path is mostly used by the wandering llamas of the area. Once we reach the small Paloma lagoon the countryside will be dotted with these animals as well as a large number of alpacas. After hiking along a second lagoon and crossing a long series of moraines we will reach Machuracay Tambo Lodge, located right at the bottom of Apu Ausangate.

After a demanding ascent of the Palomani pass at an elevation of 5,200 m. /17,000 ft., we will descend to Ausangatecocha. Breathtaking views of the glaciated south face of the “Apu” will inspire us as we continue towards the red sandstone formations of the “Nevado Del Inca”. By the time we get down into the valley, our bus will be waiting for our return trip to Cusco.