Lares Trek to Machu Picchu (4 Days – 3 Nights)

We’ll pick you up from your hotel around 5 am and head to Lares. On the way, we’ll appreciate the majestic Sacred Valley with its fertile lands, arriving at the small village of Calca (2,940 m.a.s.l.) and then passing through the small hamlets of Totora and Maucaupata, where locals wear traditional clothing and are mostly involved in textile production, agriculture, and livestock. After a 4-hour journey, we’ll reach Lares (3,200 m.a.s.l.) and visit the hot springs for a refreshing bath. After lunch and meeting our muleteers, we’ll start our hike and reach our first campsite at Wacahasi (3,600 m.a.s.l.) in about 4 hours.

After breakfast, we’ll start our hike towards our second campsite. We’ll start early, ascending and passing through the Ipsay pass while observing different farming communities, their customs, and the textiles they weave for daily use. We’ll reach Ipsaycocha lagoon, where we’ll have lunch. After a nap, we’ll continue towards Patacancha, where we’ll spend the second night.

After breakfast, we’ll continue our hike towards the small village of Willoq, known for its original customs. Along the way, we’ll pass through small settlements and observe the archaeological remains of Qochapata and Pumamarca. At around 2:00 pm, we’ll arrive in Ollantaytambo. After lunch, we’ll have free time until 7:30 pm, when we’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes, spending our last night in a hotel with a private bathroom and hot water.

We’ll depart early to the Inca city of Machu Picchu to watch the sunrise and then enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 and a half hours, followed by free time. According to our train ticket, we’ll return to Aguas Calientes to board the train back to Cusco.

We believe that the best time to visit Machu Picchu is during the dry season, which runs from May to October. During this time, you can expect clear skies and minimal rain, making it ideal for exploring the archaeological site and taking stunning photos. However, this is also the peak tourist season, so be prepared for larger crowds. The wet season, from November to April, sees more rain and cloud cover, but it also comes with the advantage of fewer tourists. Regardless of when you choose to visit, Machu Picchu is a breathtaking destination all year round.