Lares Trek 3 days / 2 nights
3 days from $ USD 450.00
Lares Trek 3 days / 2 nights
3 days from $ 450 | Lares Trek 3 days / 2 nights
Introduction
The Lares Trek is considered the «cultural» route to Machu Picchu as it passes through traditional Andean villages. It covers about 37 kilometers.
The tour begins in the city of Cusco with a detour to the city of Lares where visitors can enjoy the local thermal baths. In the next few days you will visit Andean countries rich in history and culture.
On the penultimate day they travel by train to the town of Machu Picchu Town, just 10 kilometers from Machu Picchu. The last day is dedicated to the discovery of Machupicchu. The tour includes everything you need for the trip: transportation, tickets, guide, kitchen equipment, porters, camping equipment, etc.
Highlights
The Lares Trek is a popular multi-day trekking route in Peru, located in the Andes Mountains. It offers a unique cultural experience, as well as stunning mountain scenery, and is an alternative to the more crowded trail of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. The trek typically takes 2 to 4 days to complete, and covers a distance of approximately 25 to 40 miles. It passes through traditional Andean communities, where trekkers can observe local customs, weaving, and agriculture. The highest point of the trek is over 13,000 feet above sea level, and trekkers typically camp overnight in tents along the route. The Lares Trek is considered to be physically challenging, due to its high altitude and rugged terrain, but is suitable for adventurous and fit individuals with a good level of fitness.
Itinerary
CUSCO – PISAC – CHANCACHACA – WELCOME
At 5 AM, we’ll pick you up from your hotel and take you to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in a private vehicle. Along the way, we’ll stop at the main entrance of the valley to take photos of the breathtaking scenery.
Next, we’ll visit the Pisac archaeological complex, located in the mountains, to explore Inca architecture and enjoy stunning views. This is your chance to see the Old Inca Tawantisuyo Cemetery with 5000 tombs, agricultural terraces on the mountain edge, the Temple of the Sun, Intiwatana, and other mysterious structures.
You’ll be able to appreciate the harmony the Incas had with nature as we visit Calca, where we’ll make any necessary purchases for the trek. From there, we’ll take transport to the Walcapunku pass at 4500m for a panoramic view of the surrounding snow-capped peaks.
We’ll then descend to Chancachaca and begin our 3-hour hike through the Wakawasi Valley, ending at the Wakawasi Village, our first campsite.
Meals: Lunch, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Camping Altitude: 2,900 meters (minimum) to 3,800 meters (maximum) Distance: 12 kilometers Duration: Approximately 6 hours Difficulty: Medium level.
WACAWASI - WAWAQASA PASS - YANAHUARA - OLLANTAYTAMBO - MACHU PICCHU TOWN
After a hearty breakfast, we’ll set out early and ascend to the Wawaqasa Pass at 4500 meters above sea level, where we’ll take in breathtaking panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and glacial lagoons.
Next, we’ll descend to the Yuracocha and Auraycocha lagoons, fed by melting ice and located at the peaks of Pumawanqa and Kiswarani. We’ll have lunch by the lagoons and spot various Andean bird species.
We’ll continue our journey through the Yanawara Gorge, home to farming communities, before taking a bus to Ollantaytambo. There, we’ll board the train to Machu Picchu Town, where we’ll spend the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner Accommodation: Hotel Altitude: 3800 meters (minimum) to 4450 meters (maximum) Distance: 18 kilometers Duration: Approximately 9 hours Difficulty: Hard.
MACHU PICCHU TOWN – MACHU PICCHU – CUSCO
Begin the day with a pre-sunrise transfer to Machu Picchu Citadel to witness its beauty during sunrise before the crowds arrive. Your expert guide will lead a 2.5 hour tour, showcasing the most important areas of the sanctuary. Afterwards, you will have time to explore on your own, with options to visit the Puerta del Sol or climb Wayna Picchu (optional). In the afternoon, take the expedition train to Ollantaytambo and return to your hotel in Cusco via private transport.
Meals: breakfast Altitude range: 2000 to 2400 meters above sea level Difficulty level: easy
Discover the Valle de Lares hot springs and its quaint city, known for its stone houses with thatched roofs, herds of llamas and alpacas. Experience a moderately challenging hike through mountain villages at elevations over 4000 meters, offering views of snow-capped peaks such as Pitusiray, Sawasiray, and Chicon. Observe the Quechua-speaking indigenous people who grow potatoes and geese, and raise llamas and alpacas on the steep slopes of the high peaks. Valle de Lares in Calca Cusco is famous for its high-quality, colorful fabrics and distinctive hats, which are a popular tourist attraction. Note that the trek is moderate, similar to the 4-day/3-night Inca Trail, and acclimating to the altitude of over 4000 meters is important.
- Pre-visit safety briefing at 6 PM at our headquarters
- Hotel pickup on tour day
- Comprehensive transportation throughout the trek
- 7-kilogram luggage capacity for your belongings on horseback
- Skilled guides, porters, and horsemen
- Pachamanca cooking display
- Comfortable camping gear for two nights in the mountains
- One night at a 3-star hotel in Machu Picchu Town
- All meals on the trek made with local organic ingredients
- Entrance tickets to Lares, Salineras, and Machu Picchu
- Bus return to Machu Picchu
- Panoramic train ride back to Cusco for the final time.
- Sleeping bag, air mattresses or poles
- Lunch on the last day.
- Entrance tickets to the mountain Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu
- Tips to porters, cooks, guides.
What to Bring
Here is a list of suggested items to bring on the 3-day Lares Trek:
- Backpack
- Warm clothing including a jacket, gloves, and hat
- Comfortable and lightweight clothing for hiking
- Sunscreen and sunglasses
- Camera
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Toiletries (toothbrush, toothpaste, toilet paper)
- Headlamp or flashlight
- First aid kit (including blister pads, pain relievers, and any personal medications)
- Rain gear (during the rainy season)
- Insect repellent
- Trekking poles (optional)
- Money for drinks and souvenirs
- Passport or national ID for Machu Picchu entrance
- Personal items such as a hat, sunglasses, or camera.
Travel Guide
The Lares Trek is a 3-day hike through the remote and picturesque mountain villages of the Andes in Peru. This trail offers trekkers the opportunity to experience the rich cultural heritage of the Quechua-speaking indigenous people and see the breathtaking beauty of the high Andes. Here are some tips to help you plan your trip and make the most of your experience on the Lares Trek:
- Acclimatization: Lares is located at a high elevation, so it’s important to arrive in Cusco a few days before the trek to acclimate to the altitude. This will help prevent altitude sickness and ensure you have a more enjoyable experience on the trail.
- Clothing and gear: Bring warm, waterproof clothing and sturdy, comfortable footwear for the trek. A sleeping bag and tent will be provided for camping, but you may want to bring a sleeping pad for additional comfort. A daypack for personal items and a waterproof cover for your backpack are also essential.
- Food and water: All meals during the trek will be provided and will consist of local, organic ingredients. It’s still a good idea to bring snacks and water bottles to stay hydrated on the trail.
- Travel documents: Be sure to bring a valid passport, travel insurance, and any other necessary documents for entry into Peru.
- Respect for the local culture: The Lares Trek takes you through the homes and communities of the indigenous people of the Andes. Be respectful of their culture and way of life and avoid littering or taking anything from the trail.
- Pace yourself: The Lares Trek is a challenging hike, so it’s important to take it slow and not overexert yourself. This will help you enjoy the trek and avoid injury.
- Hire a guide: A knowledgeable, local guide will help you navigate the trail and provide insights into the culture and history of the area. Hiring a guide also supports the local economy.
In conclusion, the Lares Trek is a unique and rewarding experience that combines adventure, culture, and natural beauty. By following these tips and recommendations, you can make the most of your time on the trail and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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The best experiences in the Peruvian Andes
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Real contact with the people of the Andean region
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