DAY 5

PUCA QOCHA CAMPSITE - QELWAQOCHA - RAINBOW SUNSET
- Pre-dawn wake-up for morning photo shoot: Start the day early to capture the soft dawn light over Ausangate if the weather allows. This time of day offers stunning lighting, perfect for adding to your Andean photography collection.
- Breakfast to fuel the hike: Begin with a nutritious breakfast to prepare for a scenic journey. This hike covers 16 km (9 miles) with elevations between 4,400 m (14,108 ft) and 4,850 m (16,004 ft)
- 7:00 am - Start the hike: Ascend to Puca Qocha Pass in about 2 hours, then continue through Alqatary Valley, where majestic new peaks and landscapes emerge with each step.
- Lunch and continue hiking to Qelwacocha Camp: Arrive at Ananta Camp for a quick, homemade lunch, then continue hiking toward our next scenic campsite at Qelwacocha, surrounded by breathtaking Andean views.
- Optional sunset hike to Rainbow Mountain: In the late afternoon, an optional 40-minute hike to Rainbow Mountain offers an incredible sunset view, providing rare photo opportunities without the usual crowds.
- Dinner and rest: Enjoy a fulfilling dinner before retiring early, as tomorrow includes a sunrise hike to Rainbow Mountain, capturing its colors in the best possible light before the crowds arrive.