Trip Code: PETSLAA7
DIFFICULTY RATING: 4 Light to High Adventure (high altitude in some areas)
Peru, Machu Picchu
Daily March to December
Deluxe
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Experience the unique culture of the Incas with this luxurious 8-day hiking expedition.
We invite you on a cultural exploration of the Urubamba Valley, the celebrated “Sacred Valley of the Incas,” and the spectacular archaeological site of Machu Picchu, combined with a hike in the less visited and less crowded Lares region north of Cusco, noted for its rural atmosphere, traditional weavers attired in colourful dress, and roving herds of alpacas and llamas - an authentic slice of Peruvian life.
Comfortable mountain lodges serve as deluxe “base camps” for daily hikes that bring you to remote passes with views of a panorama of waterfalls, snow peaks, and turquoise glacial lakes, with the occasional condor soaring above, and to tiny Andean highland communities unchanged for centuries, where you can meet local weavers and farmers and get a glimpse of the distant past.
On this all-encompassing hike, you will be provided travel logistics for your travel party for the duration of your journey, plus expert guides for all the major sightseeing as per itinerary. Each night you will stay in luxury lodges, designed especially for hikers on the Lares trail that offers creature comforts, and impeccable service so that you may recharge at the end of each day’s trekking.
On arrival, please make your way through to the Arrivals Hall where our representative will be waiting for you to transfer you to your hotel. He/she will be holding a sign with your name on it. Please note this service is with a driver only.
Cusco, set at an altitude of 3,400 metres in the Peruvian Andes, was once the capital of the Inca Empire. It is known for its Spanish colonial architecture and Incan remains. Narrow, cobble-stoned streets lined by Inca walls stretch out from the main plaza in every direction. Many of the colonial buildings were built on top of Incan foundations and the stonework is unparalleled in its precision and beauty.
This evening at 1800 hours (6pm) Mountain Lodges of Peru will hold a pre-trek briefing at Hotel Andenes. You will meet your guide and fellow travellers and receive a detailed briefing of your upcoming adventure.
Your journey begins from the busy streets of Cusco to the Sacred Valley of the Incas, full of lush green fields surrounded by striking mountain peaks. Your first step will be Chinchero, a small Andean village and Inca archaeological site. From there, choose an inspiring downhill hike from Chinchero to the town of Urquillos along historic Inca trails, or an afternoon exploring the circular agricultural terraces in Moray and natural salt mines in Maras.
Start your day with either an invigorating hike from the village of Amaru to the community of Viacha, or a visit to the lively town and colorful artisan marketplace of Pisaq. Midday, both cultural explorers and hikers will reunite in the village of Viacha to learn about traditional Andean farming before a hike or drive to the Pisaq archaeological site for a guided tour.
The day begins with a visit to the small town of Lamay followed by a scenic drive into the heart of the Lares Valley. Your first stop will be Ancasmarca for a guided tour of this seldom-visited archaeological site. Afterwards, choose a visit with the expert textile weavers in the remote village of Choquecancha or a hike amidst turquoise blue lakes and towering peaks to the remote village of Huacahuasi, where both groups meet again to spend the night.
For a cultural morning experience, you will visit the village of Huacahuasi and learn more about its heritage and daily life of the locals. Afterwards, return to the lodge for a Peruvian cooking class with the lodge staff or take a short hike to the nearby waterfalls. Alternately, challenge yourself with an all-day hike from the community of Quiswarani to Quelquena along the ‘Trail of 1,000 Lakes’ for majestic views of the lakes, valleys, and mountains.
Begin the day with a scenic drive from Huacahuasi to the remote village of Huilloc. From there, choose a morning hike from Huilloc to Pumamarka, or explore the village and nearby sheepherding community of Marcacocha before regrouping for lunch and a midday exploration of the Pumamarka archaeological site. After lunch, choose to hike from Pumamarka to Ollantaytambo or drive and spend the afternoon exploring Ollantaytambo’s maze-like alleys and passageways.
Note: Afternoon hikers will meet the rest of the group at the hotel upon arrival in the Sacred Valley.
Begin your day with an optional early morning hike to the Inca storage houses high above the town for an impressive view of the Ollantaytambo fortress and ceremonial site. Afterwards, the entire group will meet at the entrance of the site for a guided tour before embarking on a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes at the base of Machu Picchu. Alternately, opt for an all-day hike from train marker KM 104 to the Machu Picchu Sun Gate on the classic Inca Trail (subject to additional cost).
Your journey to Machu Picchu begins with a rollicking morning uphill bus ride, followed by a guided tour of the Machu Picchu citadel. After the tour you will have free time to explore on your own or hike up Huayna Picchu (at an additional cost)*, the iconic mountain that looms overhead. After the visit you will have lunch in Aguas Calientes before the return train ride to Ollantaytambo (approximately 1.5 hours) and vehicle transfer to your hotel in Cusco (approximately 1.5 hours).
*Note: Permits for Huayna Picchu are subject to availability; please advise if you would like to include this experience when you confirm your reservation. In the event that Huayna Picchu permits are not available for your desired date, Machu Picchu Mountain (the second peak within the sanctuary) is an alternate option.
Extension package
DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDFThis itinerary offers ample opportunity to combine with experiences involving the Atacama desert or the incredible Peruvian Amazon.
This extended Lares Adventure offers more time to explore the unique cultural experiences of the Andean Highlands, including the rural lifestyles and ancient heritage of the Inca people.
Explore unique cultural experiences like local rural textile crafts, the amazing Peruvian passion for food and of course the ancient heritage and mysteries of the legendary Machu Picchu
Each night you will stay in superior accommodation ensuring your journey is comfortable
We believe that appropriate accommodation should add to the authentic travel experience, as well as providing utmost enjoyment. For that reason our accommodation is scrutinised by our staff on the ground frequently, ensuring the properties adhere to our high standards. This key will help you understand the levels of accommodation available on this tour.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Comfortable properties with dependable facilities and service.
Luxurious properties with impeccable facilities and service.
Mountain Lodges of Peru - Lares 8 Day from AUD 5,780 | ||
Daily March to December |
Private Airport Transfers
Internal flights as part of itinerary
Accommodation with breakfast daily
Sightseeing with local English-speaking guide
Other meals where stated
Exclusions
International flight
Visa and reciprocity fees (if applicable)
Travel Insurance
Beverages
Personal expenses
Gratuities for tour guides/drivers
Any items not mentioned as included
Available upon request. Contact us for more details.
All entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice.
This is a Tailor-Made itinerary which can be customised to create your own unique journey. Contact us to discuss your travel plans.
Departure date, season and availability.