Lares Trail Program

Why the Lares Trail?

• An authentic route through the impressive Lares Valley
• Hiking through traditional Andean villages
• Connecting with the local Quechua communities
• Staying in local lodges and experiencing centuries-old traditions
• Hiking past blue mountain lakes, alpacas, llamas, and spectacular Andean landscapes
• A wonderful combination of nature, culture, and adventure

Day 1: Connecting with the Local Community

While Cusco is still asleep, your guide will pick you up early in the morning. By private minibus, you’ll head towards the Andes and the Lares Valley. Along the way, you’ll stop in Calca, where you’ll visit a local market and enjoy breakfast. From there, you’ll continue to Lares before heading on to Cuncani, the starting point of the hike. Time to put on your backpack!

From here, you’ll hike through an impressive Andean landscape, passing traditional mountain villages and imposing peaks. After approximately 2 to 3 hours of hiking, you’ll stop for a picnic in a beautiful spot surrounded by nature. Afterwards, you’ll continue hiking for another 2 hours towards Huacawasi. In Huacawasi, you’ll meet the local community and get a glimpse into their traditional way of life. The local people are skilled at transforming alpaca wool into colourful, handmade textiles. You’ll even have the opportunity to experience this centuries-old weaving tradition yourself.

In the evening, you’ll stay in a simple yet comfortable local family home, where you’ll have the opportunity to freshen up and relax after your first day on the trail.

Day 2: Blue Mountain Lakes and the Highest Point

After breakfast, you’ll set off on the longest and most challenging day of the Lares Trail. The first three hours take you steadily uphill towards the Ipsay Pass at 4,490 metres, the highest point of the route.

Along the way, you’ll pass remote Andean communities and have the opportunity to learn more about their traditional customs and way of life. Keep your eyes open for alpacas, llamas, and vizcachas (a type of Andean rodent). With a little luck, you may even spot an Andean condor soaring high above the mountains. Once you reach the pass, you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views across the surrounding mountains. From here, you’ll descend towards the crystal-clear blue waters of Ipsaycocha Lake, where lunch will be served.

After lunch, you’ll continue towards Patacancha, where you’ll once again stay with a local family. Here, you can rest after the hike and enjoy the peace and tranquillity of the Andes.

Day 3: From Traditional Villages to Ollantaytambo

Today, you’ll hike mostly downhill towards the Sacred Valley of the Incas, making this day considerably easier than the previous ones. Along the way, you’ll pass the traditional villages of Willoq and Pumamarca, known for their colourful clothing and centuries-old textile traditions. From Pumamarca, you’ll follow a beautiful ancient Inca trail towards Ollantaytambo. The path takes you through impressive agricultural terraces dating back to the Inca period, while the landscape gradually changes from the high Andes to the lush and green Sacred Valley.

Once you arrive in Ollantaytambo, you’ll have time to explore its atmospheric streets and ancient Inca canals. These canals are still in use today, making Ollantaytambo a unique living Inca town.

After dinner, you’ll take the train to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll spend the night at the foot of Machu Picchu.

Day 4: Visiting Machu Picchu

The moment you’ve been waiting for has finally arrived! Early in the morning, the bus to Machu Picchu will be ready to take you up to the famous Inca citadel.

Once there, your guide will take you on an approximately two-hour tour, sharing the history and mysteries behind this remarkable Inca city. After the guided tour, you’ll have some time to explore the designated route on your own.

Please note: Since 2024, the Peruvian authorities have introduced new regulations to manage visitor numbers at Machu Picchu. The citadel is now divided into three different circuits, each offering a different route through the site. Circuit 2 and Circuit 3 are the most extensive options.

We always combine this Trail with a two-hour guided tour via Circuit 3. Would you like to extend your visit with Circuit 2 as well? For 45 per person, we can add a Circuit 2 ticket to your booking.

Climbing Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain

Another option is to climb Huayna Picchu, meaning “Young Mountain”. This is the iconic green mountain overlooking Machu Picchu, offering spectacular views of the citadel and the surrounding mountains and valleys. The climb takes approximately 45 minutes, but it is not included as standard.

Machu Picchu Mountain is located directly opposite Huayna Picchu. This impressive mountain is slightly steeper, but definitely worth considering if you’re looking for an extra challenge! If you would like to add a climb of Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain to your trip, feel free to contact us for more information.

In the afternoon, you’ll descend by bus (optional) or on foot. Once back down, you’ll say goodbye to your guide before taking the train back to Cusco.