Cusco is recognized as the 'Archaeological Capital of America'.
Cusco, Cuzco or Qosqo are the names by which the ancient capital of the Inca Empire is known. It is a center for archaeological scholars from all over the world who come to Peru to discover the wonders of Machu Picchu and the other ruins scattered throughout the valley.
It was an important administrative center for the Spanish Empire (Viceroyalty of Peru), and can be seen in the large number of manifestations of colonial art and architecture that can be found throughout the city and especially its Plaza de Armas. Today, Cusco is the largest tourist center in the country, receiving more than one million visitors a year.
Cusco is the oldest urban settlement in all of the Americas, more than 3,000 years old, but pre-ceramic samples have been found as old as 5,000 years. The origins of the first inhabitants of the city are lost in legend. Inca legends say that the founders of the city were Manko Qhapaq and Pachakuteq.
At the top of the mountain, large and impressive stone blocks joined together, the most important political and religious center of the Inca empire: Machu Picchu.
Located in the heart of the Peruvian Andes, the sacred Inca citadel built around 1450 and discovered in 1911, still hides enigmas and mysteries about its real purpose that remain hidden to this day and arouse the interest of both visitors and archaeologists from around the world.
Due to its strategic location on top of a high mountain, there are several theories about what it could have meant to the Incas. Some argue that it was built as a great mausoleum for the Inca Pachacutec, while others claim that it was an important administrative and agricultural center whose cultivated areas were used for the sustenance of its inhabitants. However, it is also considered that it was used as a necessary link between the Andes and the Peruvian Amazon or as a resting place for the Inca governor.
The truth is that Machu Picchu is one of the greatest symbols behind the impressive architecture and engineering of the Inca Empire. Although its origin is still under study, the value and transcendence it represented in its time, as well as its imposing design, have earned it to be considered one of the seven wonders of the modern world.
The tour to the Sacred Valley of the Incas in Cusco, is one of the most classic and incredible tours, where you can explore small villages outside the city of Cusco and also its archaeological sites.
The Sacred Valley of the Incas is located 15 km (9 miles) north of the Inca capital of Cusco at 2,800 meters (9,186 feet). The Sacred Valley was once the Inca empire’s main point for the extraction of natural wealth, and one of the most important areas for corn production in Peru.
We have to admire the advanced agricultural techniques of the Incas and their system of andenería (terraces): system of platforms composed of small groups of farmland, arranged in the form of tiers on the hills, where crops are planted. The valleys were also a place of worship to the Pachamama (mother earth).
The Sacred Valley is a must-see destination in Peru and has become one of the most important tourist centers in the country. There are numerous impressive Inca ruins, such as Ollantaytambo, Pisaq and Moray. The Sacred Valley also has two of the most important handicraft markets in the Cusco region: Pisaq and Chinchero.
The Inca Trail is not the only route to Machu Picchu. The city of Machu Picchu was connected by a network of roads known as Qhapaq Ñan.
The great adventure of the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu is for those who live passionately, always looking for a new experience!
The Inca Trail is a fascinating dream to fulfill and is the most famous trek in all of South America. The beauty of the views and the archaeological sites surrounding the Inca Trail are unsurpassed.
This tour is ideal for those who are full of energy to hike to Machu Picchu on the trip of a lifetime with the Classic Inca Trail 4 days 3 nights.
The Inca Trail Peru is a well established trek that takes travelers from km. 82 (the starting point 40 minutes from the town of Ollantaytambo) to Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate (also called Inti Punku).
Se trata de la montaña de los Siete Colores, también conocida como Vinicunca o Arcoíris.
Also known as the “Hill of 7 colors”, vinicunca, and colorful mountain, gift of nature for the enjoyment of our eyes. This unique mountain is located more than 100 km from the Imperial City of Cusco, belonging to the town of Pitumarca, is one of the main tourist attractions of Peru recently discovered and made known in 2016.
Vinicunca means “mountain of colors”. It is also known as Rainbow Mountain, Cerro Colorado or in English as Rainbow Mountain. It is located at 5200 meters above sea level and belongs to the Ausangate snow-capped mountain in the Vilcanota mountain range, it is the fifth highest mountain in Peru.
Its coloration is natural due to the large amount of sedimentary stones in erosion, what makes it so beautiful and impressive is how these stones are formed to give it the appearance of a rainbow (7 colors).
Although it is commonly called Rainbow Mountain (Cerro Colorado or Seven Colors Mountain), its real name is Vinicunca, which comes from Quechua.
If you are looking for a hike out of the ordinary, here are the hikes you are looking for
In Cusco you will find countless activities and tourist routes that you can explore; many of them include a visit to Machu Picchu, whether you are looking for a quiet and classic tour or adventure experiences with a touch of immersion with the coexistence with local people.
Live exciting moments in real contact with nature that remains untouched by the hand of man, all well preserved; walk in contact with nature, and the local fauna; if you are patient you will see many animals that come out to walk trusting; since each one is prohibited.
Enjoy hikes of 2 to more days; enjoy good food along the route; professional local guides and discover the magic of visiting this beautiful country that awaits you.
Exciting adventures, all over Peru, wide variety of experiences.
Peru has become in recent years the most fashionable destination in South America. There is no shortage of reasons: an impressive variety of ecosystems, breathtaking landscapes, beautiful cities full of history, culture, traditions, beaches, fauna, flora… and, of course, its delicious and famous gastronomy.
From the Amazon to the desert, from the high peaks of the Andes to the Pacific, passing through the valleys and high plateaus, the country enchants with its incredible contrasts. Although the reasons to visit the country are really endless, we want to show you some compelling arguments for you to embark on the exciting adventure of discovering it. Are you up for it?
Every place on Earth is fascinating and unique, but Peru is one of those countries that manages to be above average. This place has so many natural and cultural treasures that have fascinated people for hundreds of years, and still fascinate them today. There are thousands of reasons to go to this great destination, here are just some of the reasons why you should visit Peru.
4 Days from $ USD 100.00
Lares trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is the best alternative trek after the Inca Trail if you are looking to explore off the beaten path. This incredible trek will take you to visit Andean villages, local schools and walk alongside llamas and alpacas while enjoying spectacular mountain views and glacial ice lakes. Tour departures every day all year round!
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu takes you off the beaten path, where you can meet and interact with members of traditional Andean communities and explore the Andes in solitude. You will learn all about life in these isolated villages, become familiar with their culture and traditions, walk alongside llamas and alpacas, and even visit a local school, spending an unforgettable day exploring Machu Picchu.
The Lares to Machupicchu trek is the best alternative trekking route if you do not have permits for the classic Inca Trail to Machupicchu; the trek does not require permits for now; it takes you off the beaten path to where you can meet and interact with members of traditional Andean communities. You will learn all about life in these remote villages, become familiar with their culture and traditions and even visit a local school.
Our 4-day trek from Lares to Machu Picchu is also exceptionally beautiful, combining majestic Andean mountains with spectacular ice glaciers, blue lakes and glaciers, impressive waterfalls and countless llamas and alpacas. Finish your trekking vacation by exploring the wonder of the world: Machupicchu. The 4-day trek to Lares is an exceptional and rewarding excursion in Peru. It is truly one of the most beautiful treks in the world, not only because of the nature, but also because of the culture and the diversity of ethnic groups living there.
Compared to trekking in other parts of the country, this route offers better service and makes trekking easy and comfortable for you. However, if you are not willing to stay long in the mountains and want a more remote experience, there are unlimited options for camping and remote trekking on your own in Peru.
The Lares route in Peru has been capturing the imagination of mountaineers and explorers for more than 20 years. The lifestyle and habits of the inhabitants of the mountainous regions have not changed for generations. The locals offer great hospitality and a welcoming culture to hikers and climbers, and are often the people from whom hikers take their best memories. At Lares Trek we offer pleasant campsites with fascinating views.
To cap off an unforgettable trip, we will explore the lost city of the Incas, Machu Picchu. This trip will reward you with a fascinating combination of multi-layered mountains and history. This trail is a less traveled but just as rewarding and challenging alternative to the classic Inca Trail. One of the most important parts of your trekking experience is your guide. Your local guide will be everything to you along the route, and most people form lifelong friendships with their guides and their families. Peru is a country of friendly people belonging to many different ethnic groups, each with their own diversity of culture, religion, festivals, castes, etc.
The LARES TREK is an excellent alternative to the traditional Inca Trail to Machupicchu, with the added advantage of visiting remote Andean communities with a long weaving tradition.
We want your trip to be more than just hiking, we want it to be an unforgettable experience. For this, we offer spiritual ceremonies by local shamans, meditation sessions and much more.
The Thermal Baths of Lares, is located in the district of Lares, province of Calca and department of Cusco, 113 km. from the city of Cusco.
The temperature of the Thermal Baths in Lares varies between 36ª and 44ª C and is part of the outcrops of medicinal mineral waters, and is known for its healing properties and therapeutic relief.
The tour to the thermal baths of Lares is a place to live a relaxing and stress-free experience.
At the appointed time, you will be picked up from your hotel then board a bus that will take us to the community of Lares. During this bus ride you will be able to see the sacred valley of the Incas as well as beautiful villages along the way.
The scenery on the route is truly spectacular, so it is highly recommended to bring along your camera as well as some snacks for the small Andean children you are sure to encounter along the way. This bus will take approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival in Lares (3,250 m / 10,662 ft), we will visit the hot springs located a few kilometers from the village. At the hot springs, it is possible to relax in its waters (30ºC-35ºC), and then we will have lunch.
Afterwards, we will start walking to Wacawasi, a small community located at 3600 m.a.s.l. (11,810 ft.). The hike to Wacawasi will take about 3 hours. Upon arrival we will take a good rest in our tents, and then we will join our guide for dinner and camp next to a local house. Finally we will go to rest in our tents, with the peace of the Ande.
1, Easy
On this second day, we will wake up early for breakfast and then start climbing a steep trail for about 3 to 4 hours until we reach an altitude of 4350 m. (14,435 ft.).
On the way you will enjoy one of the most amazing Andean landscapes, we will walk along huge mountain slopes and small agricultural areas, where the natives still employ traditional forms of cultivation, a place where Spanish is their second language, and where Andean men still live in harmony with mother nature.
We will make a stop at an excellent place for lunch, and start descending towards Patacancha, passing by the Ipsaycocha lagoon where we will find local people with their animals and typical birds of the area, arriving at the small village located at 3800 m (1246 ft) we will rest.
Here we will set up the tents and then have dinner with the group in the local house. We will spend the night at the Patacancha campsite.
1, Easy
After breakfast we will continue descending, passing through the community of Willoq, a colorful village that stands out for the preservation of a living culture, a natural area where Andean families still produce their own clothes, live by raising their own animals and believe in their own gods. After a walk of about 4 hours, we will arrive at the town of Ollantaytambo, located at 2850 m. (9350 ft.).
In the village of Ollantaytambo we will have lunch and then you will have free time to explore this great Inca settlement. In the afternoon we will take the train to the town of Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu town). Aguas Calientes is a resting place for those who want to go up early in the morning to Machu Picchu, here we will rest in a hostel (private bathroom), where you can recharge your cell phones or cameras, in the afternoon you can go to relax in the hot springs located at the top of the village.
Aguas Calientes has developed very well in recent years, therefore, today you can find here, internet access, plenty of restaurants and bars, ATMs and souvenir stores totally everywhere. Overnight at the designated hostel in Aguas Calientes.
1, Easy
This day we will have the option to go up very early in the morning and be one of the first to visit the park besides having the option to see the sunrise
Once there, our guide will show us the most important sectors of this great Inca city, the guided tour will last approximately 2 hours, and then you will have free time to explore the ruins on your own, and if desired, you can climb the mountain of Wayna Picchu, the great mountain that appears in the background of every classic image of Machu Picchu.
It takes about an hour or so to reach the top, after some very steep stairs, although it is a bit difficult, at the top you will be rewarded with one of the most breathtaking views of your life. Later, we will take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where we will have free time for lunch and then take the train back to Ollantaytambo (1 and 1/2 hours) and from there by bus to Cusco (1 ½ hours). Cusco at approximately 10 : 30 pm.
1, Easy
Remember you are packing for 2 nights camping and 1 night in a hotel. Porters will carry up to 8 kg of your personal items. This should include your sleeping bag and air mattress (if you bring/rent one). From us, these two items weigh 3.5 kg.
INSIDE YOUR BACKPACKS:
Backpacks can be of any size for hiking, but we always recommend the smaller the better. Inside Machu Picchu, bags larger than 25 liters will not be allowed inside. If they are larger, they should be stored outside the gates of the citadel.
Valid passport, STUDENT CARD Immigration card (issued on the plane when entering Peru) Good backpack (the smaller the better) Water storage: water reservoirs such as Camelbacks are recommended, but sufficient for at least 2-3 liters. light with good soles)
Water: we supply clean water at every meal. You are responsible for your first morning of water only, as we will not have time to filter the water until your first lunch.
The Lares Machu Picchu Trail is 33 kms (20.5 miles) long and depending on the campsites used, the approximate hours of walking per day are:
Day 1: 5 hours
Day 2: 8 hours
Day 3: 4 hours
How difficult is the Lares hike?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is considered a moderate hike. It is not a technical hike, but the altitude may affect some people. We recommend purchasing a wooden walking stick while in Peru, as it will help with your balance and reduce the load on your knees. We ask that you do not use a metal-tipped walking stick, as it can damage the fragile environment along the trail.
It is impossible to predict who will be affected by altitude. Your genetic ability to adapt to altitude is determined by your genetic makeup and has little to do with fitness or health. Most people will have no problems as long as they take the time to acclimatize properly. A full day in Cuzco (3249 m), taking it easy and drinking plenty of water, is generally enough for most people.
The highest point you will reach while trekking Lares Trek is 4550 meters. You will sleep at 3600 meters for one or two nights.
You will arrive at Machu Picchu early in the morning on day 4. You will meet a local guide who will take you on a 2-hour informative tour of the ruins. After the tour, you will have a few hours of free time to explore the area on your own before the group travels by bus to Aguas Calientes, where we will take the train back to Cuzco.
No, llamas, pack mules and/or horses will be provided to carry your personal items. You will still need to bring a daypack to carry all the essentials you want or need, such as water, snacks, camera, sweater, raincoat, etc.
How cold is it on the Lares to Machu Picchu trek (will I need to bring hats and gloves)?
The high altitude means that it can get quite cold, especially during the Andean winter (May – September) when the temperature can drop below zero degrees (Celsius) at night. It can still be cool at other times of the year, so we recommend bringing thermal underwear and a warm sleeping bag. You can buy hand-knitted, warm, inexpensive, locally made hats and gloves in Cuzco.
On the first night of the Lares Machu Picchu Trek, we stay in a community-owned camp established by the Planeterra Foundation that features composting toilets, solar showers, and a solid waste management system that is the first of its kind in the region. On the second night, we will spend the night in three-person tents designed to accommodate two same-sex travelers. Hikers will be served a bowl of hot water (and a hot drink) in their tents during the morning hours. On the third night, we will stay in a simple hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Sleeping bags are not included, so we recommend bringing a compact three-season sleeping bag. If you are traveling between May and October, a 4-season sleeping bag is recommended. These can be rented in Cuzco for approximately $15 for the duration of the trek. Some renters may choose to bring a sleeping bag or sheet. Foam mats are provided, however, some travelers also bring their own self-inflating mat (i.e. a Thermarest). These can also be rented in Cuzco for approximately $15 for the duration of the hike.
We recommend that you bring a refillable water bottle as boiled water will be provided in the morning at breakfast, lunch and every evening after dinner.
Our cooks prepare excellent high-energy meals appropriate for a trek of this nature. The menu generally includes pasta, rice, chicken, fresh fruits and vegetables and a variety of oatmeal, eggs and other breakfast foods. Vegetarian alternatives are available upon request at the time of booking.
In Cusco, I am your travel specialist, with more than 10 years of experience organizing adventure trips.
Thank you for your interest in having an adventure travel experience in Peru operated by South Winds Peru. Please take a moment to complete our short form so that one of our friendly adventure consultants can provide you with all the information for the best trip of your life in Peru.
THE BEST TREKKING EXPERIENCE IN PERU
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