This trek follows a path through deep green valleys, towering mountain passes, small rural villages, chilly snow caps and communities herding farmers whose way of life has essentially not changed since hundreds of years ago. The Lares trail is located east of Cusco. This journey is the perfect option if you are looking for something more off the beaten path than the classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. Difficulty: Moderate.
Briefing in our office, between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m. of the day before the trip, detailed explanation of the tour with our guide.
Recommendation: Arrive 24 hours before the trip at the office of Conde Travel.
We depart at 6:00 am from Cusco by private bus, picking you up at your hotel. We travel through the Sacred Valley to the hot springs of Lares, where we’ll enjoy a great lunch. Then we start out two-hour hike to our campsite in Wacawasi (3800 m.a.s.l.) where in the evening dinner is served.
After breakfast, we go to the first activity of the day: observation of Alpaca fabric weaving. Then we start our climb to the Ipsaycocha pass (4200 m.a.s.l.). Here we will enjoy the incredible view of Mount “Veronica” at 5750 m.a.s.l. and recharge to continue our hike to lake Ipsaycocha, where we have lunch. Then we will do the final hike to Patacancha where we set up our camp and have dinner.
After breakfast, we start walking downhill to Ollantaytambo, where we will observe traditional textile and weaving practices. Then we continue to Wylloq for a brief rest. Afterwards we walk for two hours to Pumamarka and enjoy the Inca terraces. Then we depart to Ollantaytambo to have our lunch and board the Expedition Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. When we arrive in Aguas Calientes, we bring you to your hotel and have dinner.
Today we get up early for the bus to Machu Picchu after breakfast. We start with a 2.5 hour guided tour of the different sectors of the archaeological complex. If you want to climb the mountain of Huayna Picchu, there is an additional cost and you have to reserve at least 3 months in advance due to limited availability. After the tour, you will have some free time to explore the sites or visit the hot springs in Aguas Calientes. You must make your own arrangements to be back at the Aguas Calientes train station for the train back to Cusco. We will board the 18:20 – 21:50 Expedition from Agua Calientes back to Ollantaytambo and its recommended to be at the station at least 30 minutes in advance. In Ollantaytambo our bus awaits us to return to the square of San Francisco, Cusco.
