Lares Trek To Machu Picchu

Day 1 CUSCO - QUISHUARANI (LARES) - 7 CATARACTS - CAMPSITE

We will pick you up from your hotel located in the city of Cusco and head towards the Andean town of Calca in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, you'll have the final opportunity to purchase any last-minute essentials.

Our journey continues by bus for another 2 hours until we arrive at the Lares hot springs, where you can enjoy a relaxing soak while taking in the stunning mountain views (optional). Revel in the rejuvenating properties of these thermal waters.

Next, we reach the starting point of the Lares to Machu Picchu trek. We'll hike for about an hour and a half to Quishuarani (3,700 meters above sea level), our designated lunch spot. Along the way, marvel at the sight of alpacas and llamas.

Post-lunch, we'll explore the 7 waterfalls, hiking around beautiful lakes until we arrive at our campsite for the night. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay. Distance covered: 4.72 miles – Approximate walking time: 4 hours.

Day 2 CAMPSITE - CONDOR PASS – CANCHA CANCHA

After a hearty breakfast, we embark on an uphill trek to the Condor Pass, located at 4,800 meters above sea level. Following a zigzag path, we will perform a coca leaf offering to the mountains, seeking protection. This location offers breathtaking views of the snowy Sahuasiray, along with sightings of local flora and fauna, including vizcachas.

Descending for about an hour and a half, we'll reach our lunch spot, surrounded by stunning lagoons and wildlife such as llamas and alpacas. After a restful break, we'll continue the Lares trail to Machu Picchu until we arrive at the community of Cancha Cancha at 3,800 meters above sea level, where our campsite is situated.

Before tea time, we'll interact with the local people to learn about their traditions. Dinner and overnight stay follow. Distance traveled: 9.32 miles – Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

Day 3 CANCHA CANCHA - HUARAN - OLLANTAYTAMBO - AGUAS CALIENTES

Following breakfast, we will set off at 07:30 am towards the town of Huaran, descending through magnificent mountains until we reach an altitude of 3,000 meters above sea level. Experience the changing weather and observe agricultural fields of corn, potatoes, and vegetables.

Next, transportation will take you to the town of Ollantaytambo, a 1-hour journey. Discover this enchanting Andean town with a walking tour through one of the most picturesque areas in the Sacred Valley. Optionally, you may tour the Fortress of Ollantaytambo. Relish a delightful dinner at a local restaurant.

Afterward, a bus will transport you to the Ollantaytambo train station, where you'll board the train to Aguas Calientes, a 2-hour trip. Upon arrival, we will proceed to the hotel for an overnight stay. Distance covered: 5.59 miles – Approximate walking time: 4 hours.

Day 4 AGUAS CALIENTES – MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO

At the crack of dawn, we will take the tourist bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where you'll finally stand at one of the 7 wonders of the world. By arriving early, you’ll have the site practically to yourself.

If timed right, witness the sunrise before embarking on a 2-hour guided tour of the Inca citadel, unveiling its secrets, stories, and historical facts. We'll visit Intiwatana, situated atop Machu Picchu.

Afterward, you can opt to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional). Experience the thrill of ascending Huayna Picchu's steps for 2 hours to gain unparalleled views of this awe-inspiring site.

We'll return by bus to Aguas Calientes, from where you'll take the train to Ollantaytambo. Our transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in the city of Cusco.