Lares Trek – 10 Days and 9 Nights

Upon your arrival in Lima, a representative from Travelution Peru will greet you and escort you to the Wyndham Costa del Sol Hotel, conveniently located at the airport. If you arrive early, we can organize optional tours in Lima or nearby destinations to make the most of your time. Since most international flights arrive late and connections to Cusco leave early, staying at the airport hotel ensures you get a good night’s rest to start your adventure energized.

After landing in Cusco, our team will meet you just outside the baggage claim, holding a sign with your name. We’ll transfer you to your hotel in the Sacred Valley, stopping along the way at Awanacancha, where you’ll meet the four Andean camelids: llamas, alpacas, huanacos, and vicuñas. We’ll also visit a traditional textile center, offering a rich introduction to Andean culture. Later, explore the vibrant Pisac market and visit the spectacular Pisac archaeological site, enjoying panoramic views before heading to your hotel to relax and acclimatize to the altitude.

Today we travel across the Chinchero Plateau, beginning with a visit to Chinchero’s impressive Inca ruins and colonial church. Then, we head to Moray to marvel at its circular agricultural terraces, once a sophisticated Inca laboratory. Enjoy a delightful picnic lunch before visiting the ancient salt mines of Maras, where thousands of salt pools cascade down the mountainside—a tradition still alive since pre-Inca times.

We start early with a drive to Huaran, where we meet our horsemen and prepare for the trek. We’ll hike three hours uphill to reach the remote community of Cancha Cancha (3,750 meters / 12,305 feet). After a hearty lunch prepared by our trekking chef, immerse yourself in the traditional lifestyle of this isolated village. Gifts like toys, clothes, or notebooks are warmly appreciated. After a two-hour afternoon hike, we reach our campsite. Relax with high tea and breathtaking mountain views, and end the evening stargazing as our guide shares ancient Inca constellation lore.

After a nourishing breakfast, we set off for a challenging yet rewarding four-hour hike, reaching the trek’s highest point at Pachacutec Pass (4,700 meters / 15,420 feet). Revel in the magnificent vistas of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and open valleys. After celebrating at the summit, we descend to a picturesque glacial lake for a well-deserved lunch. Continuing downhill, we arrive at our campsite near the Kiswarani community, surrounded by llamas and alpacas.

We begin the day exploring Quishuarani village, witnessing traditional farming practices firsthand. After a short two-hour hike, our private bus awaits. On our scenic descent to the Sacred Valley, we may spot the rare puya raimondii plants, which bloom once a century. We arrive at a comfortable hotel to rest and reflect on the journey.

Early morning, we board the train from Ollantaytambo to Km 104. After clearing the checkpoint, we embark on a three-hour hike to Wiñay Wayna, passing waterfalls, archaeological sites, and lush landscapes. After exploring Wiñay Wayna’s impressive ruins, we continue to Machu Picchu, arriving in the peaceful late afternoon hours. Following a short tour, we descend by bus to Aguas Calientes for an overnight stay and free time to explore the village or enjoy the hot springs.

After an early breakfast, we head up to Machu Picchu to enjoy its mystical atmosphere at sunrise. A guided tour reveals the mysteries of the site’s construction and purpose. You have the option to hike up Huayna Picchu (permits limited) or further explore the ruins at your own pace. Later, we take the train back to Ollantaytambo and then drive to Cusco, where we celebrate our journey with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Our day begins with a private walking tour through the artistic San Blas neighborhood, visiting a colonial church with its magnificent carved wooden pulpit. Next, we visit the Koricancha Temple, once the most sacred site of the Inca Empire, and the Cathedral in Cusco’s main square. After lunch, we explore the impressive Inca ruins surrounding Cusco, including Sacsayhuamán, Qenko, Puka Pukara, and Tambomachay, gaining deeper insight into Inca history and culture.

After breakfast, we organize your transfer to Cusco Airport. You may choose to continue your adventure elsewhere in Peru or catch your connecting flight home. Safe travels!