The five-day Lares Trek takes you high up in the Andes, hiking during the day and overnighting in luxurious lodges along the way. Providing impressive views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes, it’s a relatively demanding hike that will test your fitness.
## Highlights
* Stroll through the captivating and vibrant market of Pisac, immersing yourself in the local culture and vibrant atmosphere.
* Wander through the awe-inspiring ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, a breathtaking testament to the ingenuity and artistry of the Inca civilization.
* Embark on invigorating hikes amidst the awe-inspiring peaks of the Andes Mountains and alongside stunning turquoise glacial lakes, experiencing the raw beauty of the Peruvian landscape.
* Visit the remarkably preserved and impressive archaeological ruins of Ollantaytambo, a significant historical site that offers a glimpse into the rich past of the region.
## Overview
Your incredible trekking adventure begins in the historic city of Cusco, where you’ll have the opportunity to stock up on essential hiking gear, delicious snacks, and any last-minute necessities for your journey. From Cusco, your adventure will commence, with your initial destination being the charming market town of Pisac, nestled within the breathtaking Sacred Valley. The journey to Pisac will be comfortably undertaken by car, allowing you to soak in the picturesque scenery along the way.
Throughout the course of your carefully planned trek, you’ll be presented with the unforgettable chance to explore a diverse array of significant archaeological sites, each holding its own unique historical and cultural significance. These sites include the fascinating ruins located in Pisac itself, the intriguing remains of Ancasmarca, and the impressive structures found in Ollantaytambo.
While the trek is undoubtedly demanding, requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness and endurance, the rewards are immeasurable. The views that unfold before you are simply breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas of the stunning landscapes and ancient wonders. However, it’s not all about strenuous activity; built into the itinerary are opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty that surrounds you.
Furthermore, you’ll have the flexibility to tailor your itinerary to your personal preferences and interests. A variety of optional activities are available, offering you the chance to delve deeper into the region’s culture and history. These options include enriching visits to local museums, where you can learn about the area’s heritage, and exhilarating mountain bike rides, providing a thrilling way to explore the surrounding terrain.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Journey from Cusco to the vibrant market town of Pisac, exploring its cultural treasures. | Lamay Lodge |
| Day 2 | Explore the traditional Inca villages nestled within the captivating Lares Region, immersing yourself in their unique way of life. | Huacahuasi Lodge |
| Day 3 | Embark on a hike along an authentic Inca Trail, traversing through the stunning Sacred Valley of the Incas and witnessing its remarkable landscapes. | Kuychi Rumi Lodge |
| Day 4 | Delve into the fascinating ruins of Ollantaytambo, uncovering the secrets of this ancient Inca site. | Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel |
| Day 5 | Behold the breathtaking Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, marveling at its architectural grandeur and historical significance. |
Detailed Itinerary
### Day 1: From Cusco to Pisac
Your unforgettable adventure commences in the captivating city of Cusco, a stunning Andean gem renowned for its exquisite blend of colonial and Inca architectural styles. From Cusco, you will embark on a scenic journey by car to the charming town of Pisac, a delightful destination nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. Pisac is particularly famous for its vibrant and bustling market, a sensory feast of colors, sounds, and local crafts. You’ll be given ample time to wander through the market’s colorful stalls, immersing yourself in the local culture and perhaps picking up some unique souvenirs.
Following your exploration of the market, you will continue your journey to the more isolated community of Viacha, a hidden gem where you will have the opportunity to learn about their traditional potato farming practices, a cornerstone of their livelihood. You will also be treated to a delicious culinary experience, savoring the flavors of *pachamanca*, a traditional Peruvian meal consisting of meat and vegetables cooked under hot stones, a truly authentic and memorable culinary experience.
In the afternoon, as the day begins to mellow, you will visit the awe-inspiring Inca ruins of Pisac. This is an ideal time to explore the site, as the crowds tend to thin out, allowing you to appreciate the grandeur of the ruins in a more serene atmosphere. As the sun begins its descent, it casts a warm golden glow over the ruins, creating a truly magical experience as it sets behind the majestic surrounding peaks. Finally, you will settle in for the night at the comfortable Lamay Lodge, situated at an elevation of 9705 ft / 2958 m.
**Morning Activities**
**Cultural:** Engage with the local culture through a variety of immersive experiences. Visit Awanakancha, a fascinating camelid farm and weaving center, where you can observe the traditional techniques of textile production. Explore the charming town of Pisac and its vibrant market, soaking in the local atmosphere. Interact with the members of the Viacha community, learning about their traditions and way of life.
**OR**
**Hike:** For those seeking a more active start to the day, embark on an invigorating hike from the community of Amaru to the welcoming community of Viacha. This hike is classified as moderate in difficulty, featuring a mountain pass at 14,200 ft / 4328 m. The hike is estimated to take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours, providing a satisfying workout and stunning views.
### Day 2: Explore Inca villages in the Lares Region
Prepare to be captivated by a scenic drive deep into the heart of the Andes Mountains, following the enchanting “Inca Weaver’s Trail.” This route offers breathtaking vistas and a glimpse into the traditional way of life of the Andean people. Your journey will include visits to both the town of Lamay, a charming local settlement, and the archaeological site of Ancasmarca, a historical treasure trove waiting to be explored.
After a satisfying lunch, you will be presented with a choice of afternoon activities. You can either visit Choquecancha, an ancient weavers’ village, where you can witness the intricate artistry of traditional Andean textiles and perhaps even try your hand at weaving. Alternatively, you can opt for a hike amidst the awe-inspiring peaks and alongside the stunning turquoise glacial lakes that dot the landscape, leading you to the tranquil village of Huacahuasi, where you will spend the night.
Your accommodation for the night will be at the unique Huacahuasi Lodge (12,585 ft / 3,835 m). This lodge is particularly special as it is run in conjunction with the local community, aiming to protect the environment and the rich cultural heritage of the Andes. By staying at Huacahuasi Lodge, you are directly contributing to the preservation of this unique region.
**Afternoon Activities:**
**Cultural:** Immerse yourself in the local culture with a visit to the weaving village of Choquecancha. Here, you will have the invaluable opportunity to meet with members of the local community, learning about their traditions and witnessing their remarkable weaving skills firsthand.
**OR**
**Hike:** Embark on a picturesque hike from Quelqena to Huacahuasi. This hike is classified as easy to moderate in difficulty, featuring a mountain pass at 12,595 ft / 3839 m. The estimated duration of the hike is 2 to 2.5 hours, making it a pleasant and rewarding experience.
**OR**
**Hike:** Challenge yourself with a hike from Cuncani to Huacahuasi. This hike is considered moderate in difficulty, featuring a mountain pass at 13,838 ft / 4219 m. The estimated duration is slightly longer than the previous option, offering a more challenging but equally rewarding experience.
### Day 3: Hike an authentic Inca Trail in the Sacred Valley of the Incas
The morning begins with an enriching opportunity to learn about the culture and traditions of the Huacahuasi community. This is a chance to gain a deeper understanding of their unique way of life and the challenges they face in preserving their heritage. You will then be presented with a choice of hiking options, each offering its own unique appeal.
One option is a spectacular hike over a high pass into the valley that leads to the charming town of Ollantaytambo. This hike offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The other option is a hike from the Lares Pass along an authentic original Inca trail to the remote community of Totora, allowing you to literally walk in the footsteps of the Incas.
For those who are keen to delve deeper into the history and culture of the Sacred Valley, an alternative option is available. You can drive to an ethnographic museum, where you can gain a comprehensive understanding of the country’s rich civilizations, from pre-Inca times to the Inca Empire. Another exciting option is to explore the valley by mountain bike, providing a thrilling and active way to experience the stunning scenery.
You’ll enjoy a delicious and relaxing lunch in a picturesque spot by the Urubamba River, taking in the stunning surroundings. After lunch, you’ll have the opportunity to wander through Ollantaytambo’s charming narrow streets, soaking in the local atmosphere and perhaps browsing the local shops. You’ll overnight at Kuychi Rumi Lodge (9284 ft / 2830 m) in the Sacred Valley, a comfortable haven after a day of exploration.
**All day Activities:**
**Cultural:** Immerse yourself in the culture of the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Drive to the valley and visit a local farmer’s market, experiencing the vibrant atmosphere and sampling local produce. This will be followed by a visit to a Pre-Inca and Inca cultural museum, providing a comprehensive overview of the region’s history. Enjoy a barbeque lunch at Kuychi Rumi Lodge before visiting the town of Ollantaytambo in the afternoon.
**OR**
**Inca Trail Hike:** Embark on a hike from the Lares Pass to the village of Totora, experiencing the authentic Inca Trail. Enjoy a barbeque lunch at Kuychi Rumi Lodge. This hike is classified as easy to moderate. The duration is approximately 3 hours.
**OR**
**Hike:** Hike from Huacahuasi to Patacancha, immersing yourself in the stunning natural scenery. You’ll have lunch at the tranquil Ipsaycocha Lake, before arriving in Ollantaytambo in the afternoon. This hike is classified as moderate to challenging, featuring a mountain pass at 14,646 ft / 4464 m. The estimated duration is 7 hours.
**Afternoon Optional bike excursion:** Explore the Sacred Valley by mountain bike, enjoying an active and exciting experience. You can also visit an artisanal brewery, sampling local craft beers. This excursion is classified as easy to moderate. The duration is approximately 2 hours.
### Day 4: Explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo
Today, you’ll have the option to embark on a hike to a series of Inca storage structures, strategically located high above Ollantaytambo. From this elevated vantage point, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic vistas of the town below and its main archaeological site, an incredibly important ceremonial center during the Inca Empire. This hike provides not only stunning views but also a deeper appreciation for the strategic planning of the Inca civilization.
As you later explore the ruins of Ollantaytambo in detail, your knowledgeable guide will shed light on the site’s intricate architectural planning and its fascinating history, providing insights into its significance during the Inca era. The ruins are remarkably well-preserved, offering a tangible link to the past.
In the afternoon, you will embark on a scenic train ride along the rushing Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, the bustling town that serves as the jumping-off point for the iconic Machu Picchu. The train journey itself is an unforgettable experience, winding through breathtaking landscapes. You’ll overnight at Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel (6232 ft / 1900 m), a luxurious and comfortable base for your Machu Picchu adventure.
**Early Morning Activities:**
**Hike:** Embark on a hike to Lower Pinkuylluna Mountain, located above Ollantaytambo. This hike is classified as moderate. The duration is approximately 1-1.5 hours.
**OR**
**Hike:** Challenge yourself with a hike to Higher Pinkuylluna Mountain, located above Ollantaytambo. This hike is classified as moderate to challenging. The duration is approximately 2-2.5 hours.
### Day 5: Marvel at the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu
Today is the day you’ve been waiting for – the day you’ll witness the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu! You will begin your journey to Machu Picchu at dawn with a short uphill bus ride. The early start is essential to avoid the crowds and to experience the magic of Machu Picchu at its finest.
As you enter the site, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of the Inca citadel as the sun rises, bathing the structures and terraces in a warm golden hue. This is a truly unforgettable moment, capturing the essence of Machu Picchu’s beauty.
Your knowledgeable guide will lead you on a comprehensive tour of the citadel, sharing fascinating insights into its incredible history and its imposing architecture. You will visit the main points of interest, including the strategic Watchtower, the sacred Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, gaining a deeper understanding of the purpose and significance of each structure.
For those seeking an extra challenge, you can choose to hike to the imposing mountain of Huayna Picchu, which commands spectacular views that take in the entire citadel, the winding Urubamba River, and the lush fringes of the Amazon Jungle. This hike is strenuous but incredibly rewarding. In the afternoon, you will travel back to Cusco by train, reflecting on the incredible experience of visiting Machu Picchu.
**Late Morning Activity:**
**Cultural:** You will have some free time to independently explore the ruins of Machu Picchu (7872 ft / 2400 m), allowing you to soak in the atmosphere and discover hidden corners at your own pace.
**OR**
**Hike:** You can opt for a guided hike of Huayna Picchu Mountain, providing a challenging but rewarding experience with stunning views. This hike is classified as moderate to challenging, featuring a mountain pass at 8924 ft / 2720 m. The duration is approximately 2-2.5 hours.
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