We will depart Cusco early in the morning by bus, passing numerous archaeological sites, local handicraft markets, and vast stretches of cultivated lands within the Sacred Valley of the Incas. The Sacred Valley is renowned for its fertility and produces some of the best crops in South America, including maize, which is a primary export of the region.

Once we reach the province of Calca, located at an altitude of 2940m, we will change roads and ascend to the highest point of the trek, Huacacasi, situated at 4400m. From there, we will descend into the sparsely populated Lares Valley (at an elevation of 3250m) and visit the Lares hot springs, which have medicinal properties and temperatures ranging from 28 to 34 degrees Celsius. After a relaxing soak and lunch, we will commence our 3-hour hike to Huaca Wasi (at an altitude of 3600m), where we will camp for the night.

The transport time from Cusco will take approximately 5 hours, while the trekking time will be around 3 hours in a chilly climate. Lunch and dinner will be provided.

Physical Level

1, Easy

Today is the most difficult day of the Lares route. We will have an early breakfast and embark on a moderate climb to reach the highest point of our trek, the Ipsay Pass (4,550 m). From this viewpoint, we will enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped mountains, isolated communities, Andean villagers, llamas and alpacas.

After enjoying the breathtaking scenery, we will descend to the Ipsay Lagoon for lunch, followed by a downhill hike and interaction with the real descendants of the Incas. Finally, we will arrive at our lodging to spend the night in Patacancha (3,750 m/12,377 ft) in a hotel.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner will be served.

Physical Level

1, Easy

On this day of the trek, we will continue our hike through local communities and small villages like Willoq (3400m), Pumamarca (3200m), and others. As we cross these villages and traverse the landscape from Patacancha, we will get a taste of the traditions and customs passed down by our ancestors during the reign of the Tahuatinsuyo Empire, also known as the Inca culture and traditions.

After a few hours of hiking and exploring the land, we will reach Ollantaytambo (2850m), a place that bears witness to Andean history and anthropology from those times through its archeological sites. From Ollantaytambo, we will board the train to Aguas Calientes (2050m), the tourist town built beneath the ruins of Machu Picchu, where we will spend the night at a hotel.

Breakfast, lunch, and dinner will be provided.

Physical Level

1, Easy

Rewritten:

We will start our day with an early breakfast and take the first bus to the archaeological complex of Machu Picchu (at an altitude of 2400m). Upon arrival, we will explore this magnificent Inca sanctuary with a professional guide for approximately two hours. After the guided tour, you will have plenty of time to explore the ruins at your own pace. For the adventurous, there is the option to hike to Huayna Picchu or the nearby Temple of the Moon. Later, we will meet in Aguas Calientes (at an altitude of 2050m) to catch our train and bus back to Cusco.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.

Optional: If you wish to spend an extra day in Machu Picchu, please let us know so we can change the date on your train ticket back to Cusco. Inka Trail Expeditions Peru can arrange a guide and hotel for the extra day at an additional cost. Please note that you will need to purchase a second day entrance ticket to the Inca City of Machu Picchu.

This concludes our services.

Physical Level

1, Easy