Ausangate mountain is the fourth highest peak in Peru. Standing at 6,372 meters, it is also the highest in the Vilcanota Mountain Range. To the average tourist, Ausangate is a beautiful mountain and a challenging climb. The Quechua population of the Southern Andes, however, revere it as one of their most significant apus. An apu is a mountain deity, a powerful mountain spirit, and the core of Andean religion. In fact, Apu Ausangate is considered the owner of the entire Cusco region of Peru. The communities that dwell on and around Ausangate live a pastoral lifestyle. They herd llamas and alpacas, and trade with farming villages at lower altitudes for their other needs. These people’s lives are closely interwoven with their animals and with each another. Locals continue to practice their ancient traditions, such as Andean weaving. Yarn spun from their own alpaca wool is hand-dyed with plants and minerals, and carefully woven on a backstrap loom. The textiles they weave feature ancient designs which symbolize everyday life, and the spiritual beliefs of the community. Visit #ausangate & discover more with us. To book your trip to Ausangate, just give us a call or reach out to us at +1 (248) 420-4630 / [email protected]. . Caminalosandes.com | #caminalosandes x @positravelty 📽 (at Ausangate Trek) https://www.instagram.com/p/B4LBV4KATMp/?igshid=wlfky0w3zarm