In recent years, a number of alternative treks to the Inca Trail have opened up, offering hikers an off-the-beaten-path experience to reach the famed citadel of Macchu Picchu. Treks have also taken on a new face, targeting travelers who are keen on long adventurous hikes but who want all the comforts of a hotel at night. There are a handful of lodge-to-lodge treks available in the Cusco area, offering travelers the perfect balance between adventure and luxury.
## The Lodge-to-Lodge Hiking Experience: A Journey Through the Heart of the Andes
Deep within the majestic embrace of the Andes Mountains, a unique travel experience awaits: the lodge-to-lodge hiking adventure. Here, amidst scenery that will leave you breathless, a select number of eco-lodges offer a harmonious blend of time-honored Inca architectural ingenuity and the sophisticated comforts of the 21st century. The very construction of these havens speaks to their dedication to preserving authenticity. Due to their remote positioning, often inaccessible by traditional roadways, the building materials were painstakingly transported by mule and sturdy packhorse, a testament to the commitment to creating these secluded retreats.
These lodges serve as idyllic starting points for immersive treks into the surrounding wilderness. Three primary routes – the Lares Route, the Salkantay Route, and the Ausangate Route – beckon adventurous souls to traverse unspoiled trails. These paths wind through awe-inspiring mountainous landscapes, where the rhythms of life have remained largely unchanged for centuries, offering a window into a world steeped in tradition. The hikes described below offer considerable versatility; most can be custom-tailored to include a variety of activities, ensuring an experience perfectly suited to your desires. Consider exploring the region on horseback, feeling the wind in your hair as you traverse the terrain, or perhaps embrace the thrill of cycling through the valleys. For those captivated by the allure of Macchu Picchu, an additional day can be incorporated into your itinerary, providing ample opportunity for further exploration of this ancient marvel. Ambitious travelers can even choose to climb Wayna Picchu Mountain, though it is important to remember to purchase a separate ticket in advance to secure your ascent. The possibilities are seemingly limitless, promising an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Andes.
## The Lodges: Sanctuaries of Comfort and Cultural Immersion
Strategically placed throughout this remote, mountainous terrain are a carefully chosen selection of lodges, each designed to seamlessly integrate with the surrounding natural environment. Ranging in luxury from comfortable to opulent, these lodges serve as welcome respite after invigorating days spent exploring the Andean trails. Imagine yourself returning from a long and challenging trek, eager to soothe your tired muscles and rejuvenate your spirit. Picture yourself sinking into an open-air whirlpool tub, surrounded by panoramic views of the majestic landscape. Envision the blissful relaxation of a professional massage, melting away any remaining tension. A hot shower awaits, washing away the dust and grime of the trail, preparing you for an evening of indulgence. The experience culminates in a meticulously prepared three-course meal, accompanied by a selection of the finest wines, a true celebration of Peruvian gastronomy. As night descends, you will find solace in a cozy bed, enveloped by a luxurious goose-down duvet, ensuring a restful sleep and complete recovery for the adventures that await you on the following day.
Beyond the comforts and amenities, these lodges are deeply committed to operating as socially responsible entities, dedicated to supporting the local communities that surround them. The food served is sourced from nearby farms, guaranteeing freshness and contributing to the economic well-being of the region. Furthermore, the lodges prioritize hiring local employees, often with the local communities themselves managing the operations of some of the lodges. This commitment to local involvement ensures that you will receive a genuinely warm welcome from the moment you arrive, immersed in the authentic culture and hospitality of the Andes. You will not only be a guest but also a participant in a sustainable tourism model that benefits both the traveler and the local population.
## The Lares Route: A Journey Through Andean Traditions
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the Lares Route, a captivating trek that traverses the scenic Lares Valley, positioned north of the renowned Sacred Valley. This valley is particularly celebrated for its naturally occurring hot springs, revered for their purported curative properties and the soothing warmth they offer. The Lares Route provides an intimate glimpse into the heart of Andean culture, as the trail meanders through majestic scenery punctuated by remote villages, where the inhabitants steadfastly preserve age-old traditions. Along the way, you’ll observe the daily routines of the local people, witnessing men and women tending to their farms and children diligently raising herds of alpacas, prized for their soft, luxurious wool. This immersive experience offers a unique insight into the traditional way of life that continues to thrive high in the Andes.
The Lares Route offers diverse options, with treks available in varying distances, allowing you to tailor the experience to your preferred duration and fitness level. On a five-day program that begins from Cusco, travelers will appreciate a private transfer to Pisac in the Sacred Valley, which will include a fascinating stop at the Awanacancha textile center. After arriving in Pisac, you will have the opportunity to explore the town’s vibrant market before commencing your first trek at the local community of Amaru, enjoying a gentle hike to the first lodge. For those with more time to dedicate to this remarkable adventure, consider extending the itinerary to seven days, incorporating visits to the captivating ruins of Chinchero, a guided tour of the Moray Inca Agricultural Site and the intriguing Maras Salt Mines, and your initial trek from Chinchero to Urquillos.
During your travels, you’ll also have the opportunity to sample pachamanca, a traditional Andean meal that is cooked with hot stones. In addition to traversing age-old villages that exude history and character, the Lares Route grants you access to beautifully preserved Inca ruins. These include the archaeological sites of Pisac, Ancasmarca, and Ollantaytambo, each offering a unique perspective on the ingenuity and architectural prowess of the Inca civilization. Your journey will unfold amidst some of the country’s most dramatic mountainous landscapes, complete with glacial lakes that shimmer with pristine beauty and imposing snow-crowned peaks that pierce the sky. Upon reaching Ollantaytambo, the trek’s concluding point, you will board a train to Aguas Calientes, which serves as the gateway to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Spend an entire day immersing yourself in the wonder of this ancient citadel, marveling at its intricate stonework and pondering its rich history. For those who wish to prolong the experience, it is possible to extend the trek further to reach Machu Picchu directly on foot.
The total distance covered during the 5-day trek is 16.7 miles (27 km), while those who embark on the 7-day trek will traverse a total distance of 27 miles (43 km). No matter which option you choose, prepare to be captivated by the stunning scenery, rich cultural heritage, and invigorating physical challenge that the Lares Route has to offer.
## The Salkantay Route: Following the Footsteps of the Apus
The Salkantay Route, named after the majestic Mount Salkantay, is an unforgettable seven-day journey through fifteen diverse ecosystems. As you traverse this route, you’ll be surrounded by breathtaking mountain scenery, culminating in the crossing of the Salkantay Pass at an elevation of 15,213 ft (4638 m). From this vantage point, prepare to be awestruck by the unparalleled views of the snowcapped peaks of the Vilcabamba Range. Salkantay, one of the country’s highest mountains, held a sacred place in Inca mythology, revered as one of the holiest Apus, or spirits of the mountains.
Your adventure will commence at a site called Challacancha, from where you will trek along the picturesque Camino Real to Salkantay Lodge, your haven for the first night. The initial day is thoughtfully designed as an acclimatization trek to the stunning Lake Humantay, a glacial lake whose turquoise waters create a mesmerizing spectacle. This breathtaking body of water is undoubtedly a highlight of the entire journey.
Beyond the Salkantay Pass, the route descends into the lush cloud forest along the banks of the Salkantay River, a dramatic transition into a completely new and vibrant ecosystem. Here, the landscape transforms into a tapestry of banana and avocado orchards, and you’ll have the unique opportunity to tour a local coffee plantation, learning about the process from bean to cup. As you continue, you’ll reach the ruins of Llactapata, an archaeological site offering a rare and privileged view of the iconic Machu Picchu. Finally, you will make your way to the train station at Ollantaytambo, where you’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes, your jumping-off point for the exploration of Machu Picchu.
The total distance covered on the 7-day Salkantay Route is 34.5 miles (55.6 km). This route is more than just a trek; it’s an immersion into the natural beauty and cultural significance of the Andes.
## The Ausangate Route: In the Realm of the Sacred Mountain
Towering at an impressive 20,944 feet (6384 m) above sea level, Ausangate is a majestic mountain that dominates the Vilcanota range, securing its place as one of the highest peaks in the country. Just as Salkantay held significance, Ausangate was deeply revered by the Incas as a holy Apu, a spirit of the mountains. Even today, it continues to draw Quechua pilgrims who come to worship the earth and the mountains during the Snow Star Festival, a vibrant annual celebration that seamlessly blends Catholic and Andean traditions. Local shepherding communities hold Apu Ausangate in the highest esteem, recognizing its vital role in providing water and sustaining life, as well as offering shelter to countless communities throughout the region.
Scattered around the base of Ausangate are four carefully placed comfortable lodges, providing trekkers with unparalleled opportunities to explore the diverse corners of this majestic mountain. Among the six available treks, the Shepherds’ Trail, a 7-day, 6-night adventure, promises hikers the most immersive and rewarding experience of Ausangate. Your journey begins with a scenic drive from Cusco along the Vilcanota Valley and up the Pitumarca Valley to the welcoming community of Chillca, from where an easy hike will lead you to your first lodge.
As you traverse the Shepherds’ Trail, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring vistas of the Vilcanota range, following paths where llamas and alpacas roam freely, adding to the enchanting atmosphere. Your route will lead you to the very base of Apu Ausangate, where you will ascend the formidable Palomani Pass at an altitude of 17,056 ft (5200 m), making your way toward the unique red sandstone formations of the Nevado del Inca.
As you descend further into the valley, you’ll witness a remarkable transformation in the landscape, where mountains characterized by vibrant red, blue, and ochre strata emerge, providing a habitat for vicuñas and Andean geese. The descent commences after crossing Anta Pass, as you traverse limestone formations that serve as a haven for vizcachas, adorable rodents that are closely related to chinchillas. Upon reaching the valley floor, a private bus will be waiting to transport you back to Cusco, concluding this extraordinary journey through the realm of Ausangate.
The total distance traveled during the 7-day trek is 35.6 miles (57.1 km). This trek is an experience that will leave you with a profound appreciation for the natural beauty, cultural richness, and spiritual significance of the Andes.
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