Sacred Valley & Lares Trail to Machu Picchu

Treks

SUMMARY

5 Days

Peru

Sacred Valley & Lares Trail to Machu Picchu – A Journey Through History and Culture

Embark on a once-in-a-lifetime adventure along the Sacred Valley & Lares Trail to Machu Picchu. Explore Peru’s rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes. This trek blends the highlights of Cusco, the Sacred Valley of the Incas, and the Lares Trail. It is perfect for those seeking a quieter route to Machu Picchu. Expert local guides tailor the experience to your interests. You can hike remote highland trails, uncover ancient Inca sites, or connect with Andean communities through authentic cultural encounters.

Unique Cultural Encounters and Scenic Trails

On this trek, you’ll venture beyond the well-trodden paths, exploring charming towns in the Sacred Valley and uncovering lesser-known Inca archaeological sites. The Lares Trail offers a more serene route, where stunning vistas of the Andes accompany your journey. Along the way, you’ll visit traditional Andean villages, gaining insight into local customs and daily life that have remained unchanged for centuries. The combination of outdoor adventure and cultural immersion makes this trek a truly unforgettable experience.

Exclusive Mountain Lodge Stays

At the end of each rewarding day, unwind in the comfort of the deluxe mountain lodges nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley. The Lamay Lodge (2,963m) offers a serene retreat with panoramic views of the valley and its picturesque gardens. Relax in the outdoor hot tub or gather around the firepit to share stories with fellow travellers.

The Huacahuasi Lodge (3,840m) sits high on the mountainside, offering unmatched luxury and stunning views. Its soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows create a sense of openness and connection with the outdoors. Each room features a private outdoor jacuzzi, perfect for relaxing after a day of adventure. As the sun sets behind the peaks, the cool mountain air and star-filled skies enhance the magical atmosphere.

Flexible Trek Options

The Lares Trail to Machu Picchu departs from Cusco year-round, from March 1st to December 31st. For added adventure, you can choose the 7-day extended trek. This option includes visits to Chinchero, Maras, and Moray, offering even more cultural experiences and stunning sights.

Book your Sacred Valley & Lares Trail trek today and experience the beauty and history of Peru in comfort and style.

HIGHLIGHTS

Explore Majestic Inca Sites – Walk in the footsteps of the Incas as you visit awe-inspiring archaeological treasures in the Sacred Valley.
Hike Remote, Uncrowded Trails – Venture along serene highland paths, passing through breathtaking valleys and mountains rarely visited by other travellers.
Connect with Andean Communities – Immerse yourself in the daily lives and rich traditions of remote villages, where culture remains beautifully preserved.
Tailored Experiences with Expert Guides – Choose from a wide array of activities, including scenic hikes, cultural workshops, and more, all customized to your preferences.
Stay in Deluxe Mountain Lodges – Unwind each evening in luxurious lodges, designed in partnership with local communities. Enjoy warm hospitality, stunning views, and a perfect base for your next adventure.
Multi-Activity Exploration – Combine hiking, cultural encounters, and stunning landscapes for an unforgettable Andean experience.
Sustainable Tourism at Its Best – Support eco-friendly lodges and local partnerships, contributing to the preservation of Peru’s cultural and natural heritage.

ITINERARY

Day 1 Cuzco/Sacred Valley

Early morning departure from Cusco. Option to visit the important market at Pisaq or take a moderate hike in the hills and mountains over the Sacred Valley. Later, enjoy exclusive access to the isolated community of Viacha, where you will learn about its unique farming practices. For lunch, delight in a traditional “Pachamanca” meal here, cooked under hot stones. Afternoon excursion to the archaeological complex at Pisaq, a wonderful opportunity to explore the complex free of crowds, with the sun setting behind the peaks. Highlights: Viacha, Pisaq archeological site.

Day 2 Sacred Valley

Go deeper into the heart of the Lares region. A road journey into the mountains will take you through remote archaeological sites. After lunch, choose between visiting a traditional weaver’s villager or a scenic drive and a moderate/strenuous hike amidst turquoise blue lakes and towering peaks to the remote village of Huacahuasi. Locals will give you insight into the evolving role of the original Andean people in both the culture and commerce of modern-day Cusco. Highlights: Ancasmarca, Choquecancha, Cuncani hike, Quelquena hike.

Day 3 Sacred Valley

Spend some time in the morning learning more about the heritage and day-to-day activities of the Huacahuasi community. Then, you can choose to embark on a spectacular hike through varied terrain and over a high pass, to the adjacent valley leading to the ancient town of Ollantaytambo, the oldest living city in Latin America; or try an easygoing hike from Lares Pass- through an astonishing authentic Inca trail- along a beautiful canyon down to the Local Community of Totora.
If you prefer to see more of the Sacred Valley, you can drive back for a visit to an ethnographic museum featuring the history of Peru’s rich civilisations of the past or choose to explore the valley on a mountain bike. Afterwards, enjoy lunch in the Urubamba River countryside on your way to Ollantaytambo, where you can spend time meandering through its charming maze-like streets. Highlights: Ollantaytambo old town, Huacahuasi, Local communities.

Day 4 Sacred Valley/Machu Picchu

Early morning short hike to Inca storage structures high above Ollantaytambo for magnificent views of the town and the temple. After, enjoy a guided tour of the fortress, one of the best examples of Inca architecture and revel in its mystical history…a perfect introduction to the wonder of Machu Picchu. Midday, embark on a scenic train ride along the Urubamba River Valley to Aguas Calientes, a bustling town below the Machu Picchu Sanctuary. Highlights: Ollantaytambo old town.

Day 5 Machu Picchu

At dawn, begin your visit to Machu Picchu with a rollicking uphill bus ride. As you enter the Sanctuary, the morning sun rises over the iconic Sun Gate and washes the structures and terraces with dazzling light. Prepare to be awed by the skilful architecture of the many Watchtower, the Temple of the Sun, and the royal Inca residences, among many others. Take a moment to quietly sit and listen to the wind…or to meditate and absorb the mystical energy that envelops you. Let your imagination soar as you contemplate the history of Machu Picchu and its mysterious origins. Optional uphill hike on Huayna Picchu. Lunch in Aguas Calientes. Afternoon/Early evening return to Cusco by train and private coach. Highlights: Machu Picchu, Huayna Picchu.