Lares Trek

Lares to Machu Picchu Trek (4 days/3 nights)

LARES TREK TO MACHU PICCHU This trek is for for those who want to get out off the beaten track but still want to see Macchu Picchu. This trek will give you an insite into the authentic communities whilst being surrounded by stunning mountains, lakes and valley landscapes. It begins from a small village in the Sacred Valley and ascends over two major passes (over 4,000 meters / 13,234 feet)   Difficulty of trek: Moderate Length of trek: 4 Days / 3 Nights Start point: Cusco End point: Cusco Type of trek: Archaeological, Cultural, Camping, Ecological, Hiking Day 1 - CUSCO-LARES-HUACAHUASI We leave Cusco in the early morning, driving to the provincial town of Calca in the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and climbing northward to a spectacular high pass before dropping down to the village of Lares on the east slope of the Andes. Here we take a delicious dip at a hot springs in the meadows outside of town and then enjoy a picnic lunch. Then we begin a leisurely half-day hike up the valley of the rushing Trapiche River, before reaching the highland village of Huacahuasi, where we camp for the night. Huacahuasi (3,600 m / 11,800 ft) is an authentic Andean community located in an impressive valley. Typical house constructions of the Quechua communities living at high altitude can be observed here. (L,D) Day 2 - HUACAHUASI-PATACANCHA We climb steadily, traversing an open, treeless landscape of ground-hugging plants and flowers among pastures of Andean bunch-grass scattered with roaming herds of alpacas and llamas. Reaching an altitude of 4,500m (14,760 ft) we cross the pass of Ipsayccasa. The pass offers breathtaking views from Mount Veronica (5,750m/ 18,864 ft) and the surrounding snow-capped peaks. Then we descend to Ipsaycocha or Ipsay Lagoon. We may see Andean Geese, Puna Ibis and other water birds in the wetlands here as we journey through the heartland of these Quechua people, who are locally nicknamed "Huayruros". These seeds from the jungle have two colors: black and red; similar to those of the villagers dress. We reach the village of Patacancha, a well known textile Andean community that still preserves ancient Quechua traditions and dressing code. We set our camp nearby and spend the night, amidst awesome scenery. (B,L,D) Day 3 - PATACANCHA–OLLANTAYTAMBO-AGUAS CALIENTES Our transport takes us down the valley to Pallata where we will see the inca ruins of the early-Inca site of Pumamarca (Puma town). After we arrive to Ollantaytambo, from here we will take the train to Aguas Calientes. Tonight you will have accommodation in the town of Aguas Claientes. DAY 4 - Aguas Calienties to Cusco Up early, breakfast, then we will visit Machu Picchu. You will have free time to explore, take photos and of course if you have the energy, choose to hike up Huaynapicchu Mountain that has the best view of the city to offer. This will take approxamitely 2 hours up and back, also you must get in early as there are only 400 people a day allowd to hike up. After free time you will have a 2 hour guided tour, then its time to head by bus back to Aguas Calienties by 3.30pm to take the trail back to Cusco at 3.55pm.   Included: Transfers to and From Cusco Entrance fees Horses (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment) One spare horse Cooks for: 4 Breakfasts, 4 Dinners, 3 Lunch Snacks, coffee/ tea Bilingual guide Tents, sleeping matts, table(s) and chairs Short bus from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes Oxyogen 3 nights in a tent, 1 night in a Hostel (private room) Not Included: Sleeping bag (see our rentals for hire) Flashlight   What to bring: Hiking shoes Backpack and/or Daypack Sleeping bag for up to -8 degrees celcious Warm clothing (layers recommended) Thermals (woolen hat, socks and scarf are recommended) Flashlight Camera and film Battries Sun protection (hat, sun screen, sun glasses) Insect repellent Rain jacket or Poncho Water proof back pack cover Water bottle Water purifying tablets Personal medical kit Passport and ISIC card if you are a student (originals required) Money for souvenirs, drinks and tips Toilet paper   Optional (In US dollars): Extra snacks (its always good to have chocolates as energy food)   Single tent supplement $15 per day

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