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.
3 days from $ USD 100.00
Lares Trek 3 days / 2 nights
The Lares Trek is considered the “cultural” route to Machu Picchu as it passes through traditional Andean villages. It covers about 37 kilometers.
The tour begins in the city of Cusco with a detour to the city of Lares where visitors can enjoy the local thermal baths. In the next few days you will visit Andean countries rich in history and culture.
On the penultimate day they travel by train to the town of Machu Picchu Town, just 10 kilometers from Machu Picchu. The last day is dedicated to the discovery of Machupicchu. The tour includes everything you need for the trip: transportation, tickets, guide, kitchen equipment, porters, camping equipment, etc.
We will pick you up at your hotel at 5 am and take you to the Sacred Valley of the Incas with our private vehicle. We stop at the main entrance of the Sacred Valley of the Incas to take some photos of this unique and beautiful landscape.
Then we will go to the archaeological complex of Pisac, located in the high mountain part of the city, where we will discover the Inca architecture and spectacular views. It is a great opportunity to observe the Old Inca Tawantisuyo Cemetery with 5000 tombs, the agricultural terraces on the edge of the mountains, the Temple of the Sun, the Intiwatana and other mysterious enclosures.
We remember the great knowledge and harmony they have with the natural environment. Then we will go to the town of Calca, we will make the necessary purchases for the walk and we will take the transport to the Walcapunku pass at 4500m where we can enjoy the beautiful panoramic view of the surrounding snow-capped mountains.
Then we descend to the starting point of the excursion in Chancachaca. We start our 3-hour hike through the Wakawasi Valley until we reach the first camp at Wakawasi Village.
1, Easy
After a delicious breakfast, we start the trek early with an ascent to the Wawaqasa Pass at 4500 meters above sea level. We will be able to enjoy magnificent panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and glacial lagoons.
Then we descend to the Yuracocha and Auraycocha lagoons, fed by the melting ice and crowning the peaks of Pumawanqa and Kiswarani. We will have lunch on the edge of the lagoons and we will be able to observe different species of Andean birds.
We continue our journey through the Yanawara Gorge where different farming communities live. In the city of Yanawara, we take a bus to Ollantaytambo. There we will board the train that will take us to Machu Picchu Town, where we will spend the night.
1, Easy
Early in the morning (before sunrise) a bus transfer will take us to the Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu, so you can enjoy this famous city at sunrise and before the crowds arrive.
Then, embark on a 2.5-hour tour of Machu Picchu with your expert guide to learn about the most important areas of the sanctuary. Then you can explore the Inca Citadel on your own, it is recommended to walk to Puerta del Sol or climb Wayna Picchu (optional). In the afternoon, you must return to Machu Picchu Town to take the expedition train to Ollantaytambo at 4:22 pm, where our private vehicle will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in the city of Cusco.
The city of Valle de Lares and its hot springs
From Lares to Calca Cusco is a remote and little-visited region that offers the hiker a glimpse of real life. In Lares you will have the opportunity to see stone houses with thatched roofs surrounded by herds of llamas and alpacas.
The area offers moderately strenuous hikes through small mountain villages at over 4000m elevation with spectacular views of the snow-capped peaks of Pitusiray, Sawasiray and Chicon.
During the hike, you will have the opportunity to see how the Quechua-speaking indigenous people of the high mountain villages make a living growing potatoes and geese on the steep slopes of the high peaks and raising llamas and alpacas.
The Valle de Lares in Calca Cusco is one of the most picturesque towns in the southern area of the city of Cusco. Valle de Lares in Calca Cusco is best known for its high-quality, colorful fabrics and distinctive upturned hats, which supply many popular tourist markets. The trek itself is considered moderate, comparable to the 4 day / 3 night Inca Trail.
However, there is a pass at more than 4,000 m, so it is important to get used to the altitude well.
1, Easy
Send us your questions to info@southwindsperu.com. These are the ten most frequently asked questions by tourists about the visit.
Yes, cancellations are requested by email to info@southwindsperu.com. The last term is 3 days. The penalty of 35% of the value of the tour.
Yes, tour date changes will be requested through info@southwindsperu.com. The maximum term is also 3 days in advance. The maximum fine is 25% of the value of the trip (for short-term damage).
Can anyone join the tour? Is there an age limit?
Yes, as long as they are over 8 years old. Adults over the age of 60 must be in good health. It is best to consult your doctor before going for a walk.
The food is made with natural products from the Andes and prepared by our kitchen team that will accompany you throughout the visit. Vegetarian tourists can request this type of food through info@southwindsperu.com.
The visit is very safe. It is always recommended to follow the instructions of the guide.
Do not forget to bring: Sleeping bag (not included in the tour), warm clothes for the night, light clothes for the last day, hat, sunscreen, resistant shoes, toiletries, snacks, fruit, rehydrating drinks, extra money, camera, identity card and medicines (if necessary).
The Lares Trek is available all year. However, the most commonly suggested dates are between April and November. January, February and March are the rainiest months and therefore not very suitable for excursions.
No, the entrance to these mountains is not included in the tour. You can request these tickets for an additional $20 by sending your request to info@southwindsperu.com
The Lares Trek is a walking route accessible to all. No tickets or special permits are required to visit. However, it is better to choose an excursion.
Can I choose a private tour?
Yes, private tours can be requested through info@southwindsperu.com.
Lares is located in the Andes in southern Peru. This district of Cusco belongs to the province of Calca. It is located in the municipality of Calca, 50 km north of the city of Cusco.
The province of Calca has different ecological terrains that range from 900m in the municipalities of Valle de la Estrella to 6,200m in Yavero Lacco in the snowy district of Chaiñapuerto Lares.
The municipality of Lares is located at 3,150 meters above sea level.
The climate of Lares in Calca Cusco is temperate with cold nights. The average temperature is 11°C. During the day, the temperature can rise up to 21°C. The night temperature can rise up to 1°C.
The months of October to March are characterized by heavy rains, the dry season goes from May to September with sun and clear skies with temperatures between 15°C and 21°C.
The coldest months are from May to July without rain. The rain begins in August and April and is more intense during the months of December to March. These months are not recommended since the road is dangerous.
The Lares Valley has a rich and varied flora from different ecological zones, among them: the chachacomo, used for the coal industry, the alder leaf, which grows in the shape of a bell in the humid soil and whose delicate branches are used for crafts. (Florist), Q’achin Choquekancha Lare’s Elderberry grows on hardy bushes and the fruits are used to make jam
In Lares, among others, the most important fauna of the region is mentioned: achuccalla, weasel, anas, skunk, atoe, Andean fox, opossum, fox, wild guinea pig, deer, taruca, violet, ucate, badger, vizcacha, puma, bat, spectacled bear, ukumari, coati, capiso, ahnni, bosrat.
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.
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