Joining a group works out a lot cheaper but it can be a bit of a haphazard affair as far as quality, group size and departure dates are concerned. A company will often say it will leave in two days time and then cancel at the last minute if it can't find enough other people for the group. If you've come to Cusco with the intention of doing this trek then it is always best to book in advance. A recommended list of trekking operator can be found on our local tour operators page. As with all private treks the cost of the trek depends on how many people there are in your group.
E-mail the company first for a price and list of services included in the trek.
Usually the Ausangate trek is undertaken in 7 days, using a combination of trekking and horse riding. Well acclimatized trekkers could complete the trek in 6 days if they want, including all transport to and from Cusco. It's a 7 hour bus ride out to the village of Tinqui, the starting point of the trek, passing through some of the most beautiful scenery that Peru has to offer. Several traditional villages along the route include Urcos, Cattca and Ocongate. The night will probably be spent in a small and very basic hostal in Tinqui.