Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Andes on this five-day adventure that immerses you in the rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes of Peru. From soothing thermal baths to ancient Inca trails, each day of the trek is designed to offer a blend of exhilarating hikes, scenic vistas, and authentic encounters with local traditions. This adventure provides a perfect balance of physical challenge and cultural exploration, allowing you to experience both the natural beauty of the Sacred Valley and the timeless legacy of Inca civilization.
Every step of the way, you’ll be accompanied by experienced guides and supported by local porters and horsemen, ensuring both safety and a deep connection with the Andean way of life. Whether you’re marveling at the panoramic views from mountain passes or engaging with indigenous communities along traditional routes, this journey promises enriching experiences, historical insights, and lasting memories of a land steeped in ancient wonder.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
- Day 1: Famous Thermal Baths – Kiswarani Waterfall Campsite
- Day 2: Quiswarani – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Village
- Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Mine – Ollantaytambo
- Day 4: Hiking the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
- Day 5: Visit Machu Picchu & Return to Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Famous Thermal Baths – Kiswarani Waterfall Campsite
At 5:00 AM, we’ll pick you up from your hotel in Cusco, Urubamba, Huarán, or Pisaq for a scenic three-hour drive through the Sacred Valley and high Andes. Upon arrival at the Lares Hot Springs, enjoy a nutritious breakfast with panoramic mountain views, then soak in volcanic pools that range from icy to steaming—celebrated for their therapeutic minerals that relieve muscle tension, stress, headaches, and joint pain.
Afterwards, a 20-minute transfer brings you to the trailhead at Punta Carretera (3,300 m/10,827 ft), where horses and experienced horsemen await. Hand over your duffel to be transported to camp, then begin a gentle two-hour ascent to the village of Kiswarani in the “Potato Valley,” named for its rich diversity of organic potatoes. Along the way, your guide will identify local medicinal plants and explain their traditional uses. Lunch will be prepared on-site by our trekking chef.
In the afternoon, witness a traditional llama ceremony conducted by our llameros, honoring these sacred Inca animals and supporting the community’s conservation efforts. Learn why llamas were once a symbol of privilege and how they’re cared for today. Then explore Kiswarani: visit family homes to absorb daily life and age-old customs, and—if time allows—stop by the schoolhouse where children still speak Quechua. Feel free to bring notebooks, toys, or school supplies to share and teach them a few English words.
Continue uphill for two more hours until you arrive at camp, where your tents will be ready. As dusk falls, warm up with hot drinks under a starry sky before savoring a hearty dinner. You’re welcome to stay up and gaze at the cosmos or retire early in your tent.
Day 2: Kiswarani – Condor Pass – Cancha Cancha Village
Rise around 5:00 AM for hot drinks and a view of the colorful Kiswarani lagoon and grazing llamas and alpacas. After breakfast, refill water bottles, pack snacks, and set off on a three-to-four-hour switchback climb to Pachacute/Condor Pass (4,680 m/15,354 ft). Along the route, take in waterfalls, mountain lakes, and high-altitude wildlife. Porters will serve a mid-morning hot beverage at the summit, where you’ll stand above the clouds and admire the majestic peak of Pitusiray (5,700 m/18,700 ft).
Begin a one-hour descent to El Mirador (Vista Point) for lunch with llamas grazing nearby. Then continue downhill for three hours, passing pristine lakes and alpaca herds until you reach Cancha Cancha Village (3,750 m/12,303 ft)—a living Inca settlement with no electricity or cars, where 85 % of homes retain traditional stone-and-thatch construction. Your porters will set up camp, and you’ll have time to meet local children: feel free to share food, clothing, or school supplies to support their education and health. Afterwards, visit a local family’s house to learn about weaving techniques, guinea pig farming, and daily village life. The evening concludes with hot drinks and dinner beneath the stars.
Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Huaran – Maras Salt Pans – Ollantaytambo
Your porters will wake you with hot tea. After breakfast, explore the village and its school where Quechua is still taught. Then embark on a four-hour downhill trek through terraced farmland, observing how locals cultivate potatoes, fava beans, and other heirloom crops using traditional Inca tools. As you descend into the warmer Sacred Valley microclimate, watch fields transition to corn, quinoa, kiwi, peaches, avocados, and more.
Arrive in Huarán (2,700 m/8,858 ft) and bid farewell to horses, chefs, and porters. From there, a short van ride takes you to the famed Maras Salt Pans at 11,000 ft. Learn how a spring-fed stream fills 3,000+ terraced pools—used since pre-Inca times—to produce pink-tinged, mineral-rich salt prized for its healing properties. Browse the on-site shop before transferring to your hotel in Ollantaytambo for the night.
Day 4: Inca Trail – Chachabamaba – Wiñay Wayna – Sun Gate
At 5:30 AM, we’ll collect you from your hotel for the 6:10 AM train from Ollantaytambo, one of the world’s most scenic rail journeys. Marvel at the Urubamba River gorge, snow-capped peaks, cornfields, jungle valleys brimming with orchids, bromeliads, and ferns. After a 1 hr 45 min ride, disembark at KM 104. Present your passport at the checkpoint—this is your first official entry to the Inca Trail—and enjoy breakfast with your chef and porters.
Begin with a guided visit to Chachabamaba, the first Inca checkpoint, where your guide will share historical insights. Then tackle a three-hour climb to the famed Wiñay Wayna ruins. Explore its terraces, temples, waterfalls, gardens, storehouses, watchtowers, and farming terraces, before settling in for a buffet-style lunch. A short post-lunch rest prepares you for the one-hour hike to the Sun Gate—the Incas’ vantage point to observe solstice sunrises over Machu Picchu.
From the Sun Gate, descend one more hour into the Machu Picchu citadel. Begin with the watchtower area for uncrowded photo opportunities, then board a 20-minute bus to the Puente Ruinas campsite. Enjoy happy hour with hot drinks, dinner, and a heartfelt farewell ceremony—your porters and chef will still be with you at breakfast the next morning.
Note: This hiking route mirrors our 2-Day Inca Trail with Hotel option.
Day 5: Sunrise at Machu Picchu – Return to Cusco
Wake early for hot drinks, then prepare your duffels and daypack. A 30-minute walk brings you to the bus line—try to be first, as waits can reach 20–30 minutes. The first buses depart at 5:30 AM, arriving by 6:00 AM at Machu Picchu. Present your passport at the checkpoint and watch the sunrise paint the citadel (weather permitting).
Your guide will lead a two-hour private tour through temples, plazas, and terraces, sharing the site’s fascinating history. Afterwards, enjoy free time: if you’ve secured a permit, climb Huayna Picchu (second slot at 10:00 AM) or wander to the Inca Bridge, hike the path to the Sun Gate (free entry), or mingle with llamas in the residential sectors.
Return by bus to Aguas Calientes for lunch, then board the afternoon train to Ollantaytambo. A private van will deliver you back to Cusco, where we’ll drop you at your hotel, concluding your 5-day adventure.
Inclusions
Included
- Lares Trail Professional Guides
- Lares Trail Permits
- Lares Trail Porters & Horsemen
- Hotel
- Transportation
- Food
- Water
- First Aid
- Lares Trail Extras
- Emergency Horse
Not Included
- Sleeping Bag: $20
- Inflatable Air Mattress: $15
- Walking Sticks (Pair): $15
Before You Go
Data about Peru
Peru is a country of great cultural and geographic diversity, located on the western coast of South America. The official language is Spanish, spoken by the majority of the population.
Peru’s official currency is the sol (PEN), which is accepted throughout the country. Additionally, there are many currency exchange houses in the main cities and tourist areas, where travelers can exchange currencies such as the U.S. dollar, the euro, the Japanese yen, among others.
Peru is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, spanning from ancient Andean civilizations like the Incas to the Spanish influence that left its mark on the country’s architecture, cuisine, and traditions. Its economy is one of the most dynamic in Latin America, and Peruvian fashion, influenced by its textile traditions, has gained international recognition, especially for its alpaca and innovative designs using natural and sustainable materials.
The climate in Peru varies greatly by region: the coast has a desert climate, the Andean areas are cold, while the Amazon rainforest enjoys a warm and humid climate year-round. Each region has its own charm and is an invitation to explore not only the landscapes but also the cuisine, history, and traditions that make this country a unique destination.
Arriving in Cusco
The Cusco airport is exclusively equipped for domestic flights. Therefore, all international travelers must land in Lima and go through Customs. Although your flight to Cusco may be operated by the same airline and on the same day, you will need to collect your luggage in Lima and recheck it for the flight to Cusco.
Flying is the quickest and most comfortable option to reach Cusco, with several airlines operating this route. While LAN is usually the most expensive, it offers many alternatives and schedules to fit your planning.
Weather in Cusco
The weather in Cusco is primarily temperate and dry, with a rainy season from November to March. During the dry season, from April to October, daytime temperatures are more pleasant, but nights can be cold due to the altitude. Daytime temperatures typically range between 15°C and 20°C, while nighttime temperatures can drop to 0°C or below.
Altitude
When booking a trip to Cusco, it is natural to have concerns about altitude sickness. Cusco’s altitude means that the air contains less oxygen, which forces your body to work harder to obtain the necessary oxygen.
It is recommended that you spend at least two days in Cusco before starting any treks in the Andes to allow your body to acclimate. Cusco is a fascinating city, full of activities, so you won’t be bored during your acclimatization period.
Altitude sickness can initially present with symptoms similar to those of a cold or hangover. Symptoms include headaches, fatigue, loss of appetite, nausea, dizziness, sleep problems, and difficulty breathing during exercise. If symptoms worsen, it is important to contact our office so that we can assist you and arrange for a medical consultation.
Generally, the symptoms are mild, so it is recommended to take things slowly to allow your body to adjust. Stay well hydrated by drinking water or coca tea, which has been used for centuries to prevent the effects of altitude sickness. Coca leaves contain alkaloids that help oxygen circulate in the blood. Avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and coffee, as they dehydrate the body. It is also important to avoid smoking and taking sleeping pills, as these hinder oxygen absorption.
Remember that the trek to Machu Picchu is not a race. Even the fittest individuals can experience altitude sickness if they rush too much. Go slowly and allow your body to adjust to the altitude.
Your doctor may recommend medications such as acetazolamide to prevent altitude sickness, which you should begin taking two days before reaching high altitude.
Group Tours
Group tours may include people with varying hiking abilities and ages. When joining one of these tours, be prepared for the group’s pace to vary, as some participants may move faster or slower than you. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will work to ensure that everyone enjoys the experience. The groups may request some modifications to the itinerary, and the guide will make the best decisions to ensure everyone’s comfort.
Strikes and Protests
Unfortunately, strikes are common in Peru and can disrupt tour itineraries. Protests may block roads or halt trains. In the event that these issues arise, we will ensure that your itinerary continues as planned, even if this means departing earlier than expected. If it becomes necessary to cancel any tour, our operations team will contact you to coordinate the best possible solutions. The safety of our clients is always our priority.
Lost Items
You are responsible for your belongings throughout the journey. We recommend that you pay attention to where you leave your items and make sure to collect everything from our vans, camps, or restaurants. Do not leave your belongings unattended, as it is possible that other travelers may pick them up without knowing who they belong to.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is an affordable and highly recommended option. Although trips are planned months in advance, there is always the possibility of unforeseen events.
Adventure travel carries a higher risk, so having adequate insurance will protect your investment. If you wish, we can help you contact an insurance agent who can advise you on the proper coverage.
First Aid
Every guide from Travels to Machu Picchu has been trained in first aid by medical professionals. We conduct annual training sessions to stay updated and prepared for any emergency. During the tour, each guide carries a first aid kit with basic medications, such as those for traveler’s diarrhea, as well as oxygen.
If you ever feel that you cannot continue the trek, our guides will know the safest and quickest way to get you to a place where you can receive medical attention. We will never leave you alone; there will always be a team member who will accompany you until you are in the hands of a doctor. If necessary, we will ensure that you can visit Machu Picchu at a later time and rejoin your group.
Environmental Impact
At Travels to Machu Picchu, we are committed to respecting the environment. We use biodegradable soap and take care of transporting all our trash back to Cusco. Our porters are trained to take care of the trails and collect any waste they may find from other groups. Additionally, we use eco-friendly portable toilets, which allow us to pack up waste and leave no trace in the natural surroundings. We believe in the importance of practicing responsible and sustainable tourism.
Packing List
Recommendations
- Rain Jacket: A lightweight, waterproof layer to protect you from sudden mountain showers and chilly winds.
- Layered Clothing: Breathable base layers, insulating mid-layers, and a shell to adapt to fluctuating temperatures.
- Hiking Boots: Well-broken-in, waterproof boots with ankle support for varied terrain.
- Sun Hat & Sunglasses: UV protection for your face and eyes at high altitudes.
- Sunscreen: High SPF, broad-spectrum protection to guard against intense Andean sun.
- Hydration System: A reusable water bottle or hydration bladder to stay properly hydrated.
- Water Purification Tablets: For safe drinking water when refill stations are unavailable.
- Trekking Poles: Adjustable poles to lighten knee strain and improve stability.
- Headlamp with Extra Batteries: Hands-free light source for early starts and campsite navigation.
- First Aid Kit: Include blister plasters, pain relievers, anti-inflammatory medication, and personal prescriptions.
- Quick-Dry Towel: Compact and absorbent for refreshing washes at campsites.
- Insulated Mug: Keeps teas and hot drinks warm in cold evenings.
- Portable Power Bank: Charge phones and cameras when outlets are scarce.
- Snacks & Energy Bars: High-calorie trail snacks to maintain energy during long hikes.
- Personal Toiletries: Biodegradable soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, and hand sanitizer for hygiene on the trail.
Price
Join us on this unforgettable 5-day adventure along Lares for USD 905 per person. This price includes everything you need for a seamless and memorable experience: transportation, professional guides, permits, food, and more.
Please note that this tour requires a minimum of two participants. Gather your friends or family and embark on this incredible journey together!
Enquire Now
Thank you for considering Travels to Machu Picchu for your next adventure in Peru. To provide you with a tailored experience, we invite you to fill out our short form. One of our travel advisors will provide you with all the information you need to enjoy an unforgettable journey.
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