Lares Trek To Machu Picchu 4 Days

We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:30 am to begin a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley. Along the way, we’ll pass through Chincheros before stopping in Urubamba for a light breakfast at a local restaurant. Here, you’ll have access to restrooms and the chance to pick up any last-minute snacks or water. Around 7:20 am, we’ll depart Urubamba and take a short 25-minute drive to the entrance of the Pumahuanca Valley, renowned for its white corn crops and Chicha, the traditional Incan beer.

At the valley’s entrance, we’ll meet our horses and the skilled horse-wranglers who will accompany us. Our trek begins with a gentle ascent through the breathtaking Pumahuanca Valley, where forests of native Queuña (Polylepis) trees dominate the landscape. As we climb the winding trail, you’ll enjoy stunning views of the valley and surrounding mountains.

After 3 to 4 hours of hiking, we’ll reach the archaeological site of Inca-Kancha. Here, we’ll take time to explore the ancient complex before enjoying our first traditional Andean lunch in this serene setting. After lunch, you’ll have a chance to relax or even take a short nap before we continue our journey. Our hike resumes through the enchanting Queuña forests, heading toward the community of Paccha.

Along the way, you’ll encounter a spectacular mountain landscape dotted with llamas, alpacas, and sheep. The trail takes us past numerous small waterfalls as we walk for another two hours, finally arriving at our destination for the day. campsite Cuyoc at an altitude of 4.010 m ASL. Meals: B, L, D – Snacks Accommodation: Camping

Distance

Maximum Altitude: 4.010 m ASL Minimum Altitude: 2.810 m ASL Distance: approximately 13,5 kilometers Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours.

Our journey begins at 6:00 am with a warm cup of coca tea and a delicious breakfast of Kiwicha pancakes. By 7:30 am, we’ll start our trek, greeted by breathtaking views of the snow-capped peaks of Chicón, San Juan, and Verónica (also known as “The Crybaby”). Surrounded by lush forests, we’ll embark on a challenging five-hour ascent along a steep trail featuring stone steps, stairs, and tight serpentine bends, leading us to the Pumahuanca Pass at an altitude of 4,780 meters above sea level.

At the pass, you’ll notice the “Apachetas,” small stone piles left by travelers to pay homage to the mountain spirits, or Apus. Here, we’ll also partake in a traditional ritual, offering coca leaves to honor the gods of the mountains. From this vantage point, we’ll soak in panoramic views of Moray, Maras, and the renowned salt mines. After savoring the moment, we’ll begin a one-hour descent along a stone path with stunning vistas on either side of the mountain, eventually arriving at a group of picturesque lakes.

This will be our lunch spot, where we’ll enjoy a well-deserved meal and a brief rest. Following lunch, we’ll continue with a two-hour trek, mainly downhill. Along the way, we’re likely to encounter local farmers dressed in the vibrant, traditional clothing unique to the Lares Valley. Our destination is the main community of Cuncani, located at 3,900 meters above sea level. Here, we’ll set up camp for the night and enjoy a hearty dinner under the stars.

Cuncani is renowned for its exquisite textiles, which are still woven using ancient techniques and traditions. You’ll have the chance to purchase handmade textiles directly from the artisans of Cuncani/Lares as a meaningful keepsake from this unforgettable journey. Meals: B, L, D – Snacks Accommodation: Camping Maximum Altitude: 4.780 m ASL Minimum Altitude: 3.900 m ASL Distance: approximately 13 kilometers Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours

Today marks the final day of the Lares Trek, and it’s designed to be a more relaxed experience, allowing you to sleep in a bit. Breakfast will be served at 8:00 am. In this quaint village, we’ll have the unique opportunity to visit the home of our horse-wrangler, Luis Cabeza. He will warmly share his simple yet profound way of life, one deeply connected to nature. Luis preserves the traditional customs of farming and weaving, passing down intricate textile techniques through generations.

He will also offer fascinating insights into his knowledge of medicinal plants, a legacy of his rich cultural heritage. After this meaningful visit, we will embark on a scenic four-hour downhill walk to the village of Lares, renowned for its soothing medicinal hot springs. Here, you’ll have the chance to unwind and enjoy a rejuvenating soak in the thermal baths. Following a hearty lunch, we’ll board our private bus for a picturesque three-hour journey to Ollantaytambo.

From there, we’ll hop on a train for a two-hour ride to Aguas Calientes, bringing us closer to the iconic wonders of Machu Picchu. Meals: B, L, D Accommodation: Hostel Maximum Altitude: 3.740 m ASL Minimum Altitude: 2.735 m ASL Distance: approximately 6 kilometers Approximate walking time: 3-4 hours.

Begin your day with an early breakfast at the hotel, timed perfectly to match your entrance ticket schedule for Machu Picchu. Accompanied by your guide, you’ll head to the bus station and ascend to the Machu Picchu checkpoint.

Here, you’ll embark on a guided tour of Peru’s most iconic site, exploring its wonders through one of the designated circuits (1, 2, 3, or 4) over 2 to 3 unforgettable hours. Of course, there will be plenty of opportunities to capture stunning photos along the way.

After your visit, you’ll take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch, followed by a scenic train ride to Ollantaytambo. From there, a comfortable tourist minivan will transport you back to Cusco, where you’ll be conveniently dropped off at your hotel. At the train stations, a LlamaToursPeru staff member will be waiting to greet you with a sign displaying your name—so keep an eye out!!

Saying Goodbye to Peru

The final day of our adventure is here, and it’s time for heartfelt goodbyes. Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before heading to Cusco airport via private transfer. If you’re not joining us for the Rainbow Mountain Trek extension, feel free to schedule your flight from Cusco at any time today.
Meals: Breakfast

Please note: Tour Leaders Peru reserves the right to adjust itineraries as needed based on weather, conditions, health, group dynamics, availability, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Prepare for an unforgettable adventure as you embark on a trek to the stunning Palccoyo Rainbow Mountain. This hidden gem, often referred to as the “painted hills,” offers a breathtaking journey through snow-capped peaks, dramatic desert landscapes, vibrant mineral hues, and herds of alpacas.

Your day begins with an early 6:00 AM departure, followed by a scenic three-hour drive through traditional villages and panoramic views of the Andes, arriving at the trailhead at 15,000 feet in the heart of the Vilcanota Mountain Range. From here, you’ll begin a gradual ascent through a colorful valley and a unique stone forest on your way to the summit.

At the peak of the mountain, you’ll be rewarded with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding Andean landscape, including the majestic Ausangate Glacier, towering at 21,000 feet. This glacier, one of the most sacred peaks (Apus) in Incan culture, adds a sense of wonder to an already extraordinary experience. Keep an eye out for wildlife, as this is one of the few places in Peru where you can spot wild vicuñas and Andean camels alongside llamas and alpacas. You’ll have ample time to soak in the stunning scenery, take photos of the vibrant mineral-streaked hills, and embrace the serene beauty of the region.

The descent will be unhurried, with opportunities to pause and appreciate the landscape before returning to Cusco. Back at your boutique-style hotel, you’ll have the evening free to unwind and reflect on the day’s adventure.

Hiking Details

Duration: 3.5 hours
Distance: 2.5 miles
Elevation Gain: 900 feet
Difficulty: Challenging
Maximum Altitude: 16,000 feet
Accommodation: Boutique Hotel, Cusco (Shared Rooms)
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 10 – Farewell, Peru

As your adventure comes to an end, it’s time for heartfelt goodbyes. After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you’ll head to the airport via private transfer. Flights can be scheduled from Cusco at any time that suits your travel plans.
Meals Included: Breakfast