Lares Trek
4Days /3Nights

Cusco – Famous Thermal Baths – Kiswarani Waterfall Campsite

Soak in Hot Springs and Reach Your Campsite Under The Falls.

The Lares Trek begins with an early morning pickup at 5 a.m. from your accommodation in Cusco, Urubamba, Huaran, or Pisaq. We journey for three hours through the scenic Sacred Valley towards the Lares Hot Springs. Here, surrounded by the majestic Andes Mountains, you’ll enjoy a revitalizing breakfast.

Relaxing in Natural Hot Springs: The Lares hot springs, a series of naturally heated pools, range from pleasantly warm to invigoratingly hot. Rich in minerals, these volcanic waters are a natural remedy for physical ailments and the perfect way to relax before the trek.

Beginning the Trek: Post relaxation, a short drive takes us to Punta Carretera at 3,300m, where our hiking adventure to Machu Picchu begins. You’ll be introduced to your horses and riders here and start a gradual two-hour ascent through the breathtaking Potato Valley, named for its diverse organic potato farming.

Cultural Immersion in Kiswarani: Lunch is at the picturesque village of Kiswarani. Here, you’ll witness a unique llama ceremony by local llameros, offering insight into the spiritual and economic significance of llamas in Incan culture. Explore the village, visit local homes, and if time permits, interact with children at the local schoolhouse, sharing stories and perhaps some English words.

Reaching the Campsite: The day concludes with a two-hour hike to our campsite near the stunning Kiswarani Waterfall. You’ll be greeted by our trekking team, with tents set up and hot drinks ready. After dinner, stargazing is an optional but recommended activity before retreating to your tent for the night.

Trekking Distance: 10 km / 6.21371 miles
Camp Elevation: 3,850 meters / 12,631 ft
Weather: Cold

Quiswarani – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Village

Summit Condor Pass and Explore a Traditional Andean Village.
Awakened by the serene beauty of the Kiswarani valley and a warm beverage, day two promises a blend of challenge and cultural immersion. After a nourishing breakfast, we start the trek towards the majestic Condor Pass.

Conquering the Condor Pass: The ascent to Pachacute or Condor Pass, at 4,680m, is both challenging and rewarding. Spanning three to four hours, the climb presents a panoramic view of the Andean landscape, dotted with lakes, waterfalls, and grazing llamas and alpacas.

Lunch with a View: Post descent, lunch awaits at El Mirador, offering an opportunity to relax and enjoy the surroundings, with llamas often seen grazing nearby.

Arriving at Cancha Cancha: The final stretch of the day is a three-hour descent to the village of Cancha Cancha. This unique village, devoid of modern technology, offers an authentic glimpse into traditional Incan lifestyle. Engage with local families, learn about their hand-woven textiles, and contribute to the community by sharing educational supplies with the children.

Walking Distance: 14 km / 8 miles
Elevation Gain: 830 meters / 2,723 ft
Camp Elevation: 3,750 meters / 12,303 ft
Weather: Cold

Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Mine – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Visit The Maras Salt Mines And Reach The Sun Gate.

The third day starts with a descent through the village of Cancha Cancha, continuing towards the Sacred Valley. This journey offers an insight into traditional Andean agriculture and the rich history of the Incas.

Exploring Ancient Agriculture: The trek passes through farms showcasing traditional crops like potatoes, fava beans, and more. Here, you’ll learn about Incan farming techniques that are still in use today.

Visiting Maras Salt Mines: A highlight of the day is the visit to Salineras salt pans in Maras. Operating since pre-Incan times, these salt pans are a testament to enduring Andean traditions. Local families own and harvest these pans, offering a unique insight into their livelihoods.

Journey to Aguas Calientes: After exploring Salineras, we drive to Ollantaytambo, an intact Incan village. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before boarding a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

Walking Distance: 9 km / 6.2 miles
Aguas Calientes Elevation: 2,000 m / 6,562 ft
Weather: Cold in the morning, warm in the afternoon. Watch out for mosquitoes.

Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Explore Machu Picchu and Start Trip Back To Cusco

The final day is the climax of the Lares Trek – the visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. A bus ride from Aguas Calientes takes you to this ancient Incan citadel for a sunrise view and a comprehensive guided tour.

Discovering Machu Picchu: Your guide will lead you through the ruins, sharing stories and insights into the Incan civilization. After the tour, seize the opportunity to explore the site independently or hike Huayna Picchu for an unparalleled view of Machu Picchu.

Returning to Cusco: The journey concludes with a train ride back to Ollantaytambo followed by a bus trip to Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your hotel, carrying memories of a lifetime.

Weather: Warm and humid