Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Our adventure begins early with the pick-up in Cusco at 6:00 a.m., followed by a private transportation to the picturesque town of Lares (3,100 m.a.s.l.), the starting point of our trek. Here we will enjoy a delicious Andean breakfast, ideal to energize ourselves before immersing in the relaxing Lares hot springs. These natural pools, rich in minerals, are known for their therapeutic properties, perfect for relieving stress and preparing the body for the hike.

After this revitalizing break, we will meet our support team, including the mules and horses that will carry our gear. While they prepare a nutritious lunch, we will have time to appreciate the beautiful natural surroundings and capture photos of the stunning Andean landscapes.

With renewed energy, we will start our walk towards Huacawasi (3,900 m.a.s.l.), our first campsite. The trek lasts about 4 hours, crossing valleys, mountains, and small high Andean villages. Along the way, we will observe local inhabitants in their daily life, wearing their traditional bright-colored clothing and practicing ancient weaving techniques. We will also have the chance to see llamas and alpacas, iconic animals of the Peruvian Andes, grazing in their natural habitat.

Upon arriving at Huacawasi, we will settle in our camp and enjoy a hot dinner while admiring the starry Andean sky. We will rest surrounded by the tranquility of the mountain, preparing ourselves for the second day of this unforgettable expedition.

After an energetic breakfast at our camp in Huacawasi, we prepare for the most challenging day of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. Today, we will walk for approximately 8 hours, crossing stunning landscapes and reaching the highest point of the entire expedition.

The first 3 hours will be a continuous ascent to Abra Ipsay (4,490 m.a.s.l.), the highest mountain pass of the trek. In this remote area of the Peruvian Andes, communities still preserve their ancestral traditions. During the journey, we will have the opportunity to interact with local people and learn about their way of life, marked by livestock farming and traditional textile work.

From this point, we will enjoy a spectacular panoramic view of the Andean valleys and the majestic surrounding mountains. Here, we will also be able to spot the local wildlife, such as llamas, alpacas, vizcachas, and, with a bit of luck, the majestic Andean condor soaring in the sky.

After a break to rest and take pictures, we will begin the descent towards Ipsaycocha Lagoon, a beautiful water mirror surrounded by incomparable natural landscapes. At this point, we will enjoy a well-deserved outdoor lunch, relaxing in the serenity of the Andes.

In the afternoon, we will continue our hike towards Pata Cancha, a small high-Andean village where we will set up our second camp. After an intense day, we will indulge in a comforting dinner before resting under the starry sky of the Andes.

After a nutritious breakfast at our camp, we will begin today’s hike, descending towards the majestic Sacred Valley of the Incas. Unlike the previous days, this section is more relaxed, as the path is mostly downhill, allowing us to calmly enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes and the rich culture of the area.

Along the way, we will pass through the picturesque villages of Willoq and Pumamarca, known for their strong Inca heritage and vibrant textile traditions. Here, the locals still make clothing using ancient techniques and wear garments in vivid colors, the same ones that have been used by generations since Inca times. We will have the opportunity to learn more about their way of life and capture unique photographs of this living culture in the Peruvian Andes.

Continuing the trail, we will arrive at Ollantaytambo, a town that maintains its original Inca urban structure, with cobbled streets and water channels that have been flowing for centuries. This is why it is known as the “living Inca town,” as its inhabitants still use the same constructions left by their ancestors. Here we will enjoy our last lunch before starting the next stage of the journey.

In the afternoon, we will board the panoramic train to Aguas Calientes, a spectacular journey through jungle landscapes and mountains that signal our proximity to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, we will head to the hotel to rest and enjoy a comforting dinner, preparing for the big day ahead.

The most awaited day has arrived. From Aguas Calientes, we will have two options to reach the majestic Machu Picchu citadel:

• Take the bus, a journey of approximately 30 minutes (additional cost of $12 USD per person).
• Hike up, a challenging route of 1 hour and 30 minutes, with 80% of the path consisting of well-marked stone steps.

The decision is usually made the night before, coordinating with the guide the departure time. Regardless of the chosen method, the group will meet at the entrance of Machu Picchu at the scheduled time.

Upon arrival, we will pass through the entry controls by presenting the original passport. If you have booked the hike to Huayna Picchu Mountain (additional cost of $65 USD, with reservation up to 6 months in advance), a specific time will be assigned. It is important to note that access to Machu Picchu is regulated by schedules and circuits, so we recommend making the reservation in advance to get the best time slots.

Once inside, we will begin a guided tour of approximately 2 hours, exploring the temples, plazas, and buildings that make Machu Picchu one of the wonders of the world. Our guide will share details about the history, significance, and impressive architectural achievements of the Incans, which continue to amaze tourists, archaeologists, and engineers.

After the tour, you will have free time to take photographs or simply admire the beauty of the place. Then, we will descend by bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will board the return train to Cusco, thus concluding this incredible adventure.

Important Information:

• Itineraries are flexible and may be adjusted depending on weather conditions or the physical condition of the passengers.
• During the rainy season (December to April), some camps and routes may be closed.