Luxury Glamping Lares & Short Inca Trail 5 Days

The Adventure Begins: First Steps on the Lares Trail

Start your day with an early breakfast at your hotel, or enjoy a boxed breakfast provided by your hotel, before meeting your guide for a private transfer to the Sacred Valley. In Calca, you’ll have a chance to purchase any last-minute essentials before continuing the scenic drive to Huaran, the starting point of your glamping trek. Here, you’ll meet the dedicated trekking team, who will handle every detail of this extraordinary journey.

The trek begins with a gentle 3.5-hour hike along the Cancha Cancha River, where you’ll pass Andean crop fields and mystical queñua forests. The twisted trunks of Polylepis trees, surrounded by golden grasslands, create an enchanting atmosphere.

Your first gourmet meal awaits at Piedra Grande, a stunning spot named for the massive rock formations dominating the landscape. After another 2.5 hours of hiking, you’ll arrive at the Cancha Cancha campsite, nestled between majestic snow-capped peaks.

Upon arrival, unwind with a hot shower, a relaxing massage, and a delicious meal served in the dining tent by our attentive waiter. As night falls, retreat to your heated bedroom tent for your first night beneath the Andean stars.

Technical Information

• Trek starting time: 09:00 am
• Arrival at the campsite: 16:30 pm (4:30 pm)
• Minimum altitude: Huaran Town (2,966 meters  / 9,731 feet.)
• Maximum altitude: Cancha Cancha campsite (3,980 meters/ 13,058 feet)
• Distance covered: 7 km / 4.4 miles (6 hours walking approx.)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate.
• Meals included: Snacks, lunch, tea time, and dinner.

Accommodations

• Glamping

The Challenges and Rewards of the Andes: Summiting Pachacutec Pass

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast before beginning the rewarding ascent to Pachacutec Pass. Along the way, take in the stunning views of Aculcocha and Suerococha lakes, pass local families, and, if you wish, share school or drawing supplies with the local children.

After four hours, reach the summit of Pachacutec Pass (4,690 m / 15,387 ft.) and celebrate the achievement with a champagne toast, surrounded by panoramic views of glaciers, valleys, and glistening lakes. A two-hour descent leads to Qoyalaycocha Lake, where you’ll enjoy a delicious lakeside lunch.

Continuing the trek, arrive at the Quiswarani campsite, nestled near the Quiswarani community, renowned for its craftsmanship and intricate weaving techniques. Enjoy the stunning views of surrounding peaks and valleys as you meet with local artisans and learn about their way of life. End your day with a hot shower, rejuvenating massage, and a gourmet dinner before settling into your heated tent for another night in the Andes.

Technical Information

• Wake-up time: 05:30 am
• Trek starting time: 7:00 am
• Arrival at the campsite: 16:30 pm (4:30 pm)
• Minimum altitude: Quiswarani campsite (3,902 meters / 12,802 feet)
• Maximum altitude: Pachacutec Pass (4,690 meters /15,387 feet)
• Distance covered: 14 km / 8.7 miles (8 hours walking approx.)
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Meals included: Snacks, lunch, tea time, and dinner.

Accommodations

• Glamping

The Lares Finale: Heights and Hot Springs

Start your final day on the Lares Trek with a balanced breakfast before tackling the ascent to Huillquijassa Pass (4,400 m / 14,435 ft.). This highlight of the trek offers breathtaking views of towering Andean peaks and shimmering high alpine lakes. After savoring the panoramic vistas, descend toward Cuncani (3,900 m / 12,795 ft.), passing herds of alpacas and llamas grazing peacefully in the golden grasslands.

At the trail’s end, your private transfer awaits—congratulations on completing the Lares Trek! Celebrate with a visit to the Lares Hot Springs, where you can unwind in the rejuvenating thermal waters, followed by a delightful picnic lunch.

Afterwards, you’ll board a private transfer to your luxury hotel in the Sacred Valley, for a restful night before beginning the Inca Trail tomorrow.

Technical Information

• Wake-up time: 04:15 am
• Trek starting time: 07:00 am
• Minimum altitude: Sacred Valley – 2,870 meters / 9,416 feet
• Maximum altitude: Huillquijassa Pass – 4,400 meters / 14,436 feet
• Distance covered: 9 km / 6 miles (6 hours walking approx.)
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging.
• Meals included: Breakfast, snacks, picnic lunch, dinner in hotel

Accommodations: Luxury Hotel in the Sacred Valley

• 5* Superior Belmond Rio Sagrado
• 5* Tambo del Inka
• 4*Casa Andina Premium

The Journey’s Pinnacle: Machu Picchu

Wake up in your Sacred Valley hotel and enjoy a sumptuous breakfast before a private transfer to Ollantaytambo. Here, you’ll board the train with your guide to Km 104, the starting point of your Inca Trail trek and the final, most anticipated leg of your journey to Machu Picchu.

Following ancient Inca footsteps, trek past the breathtaking Wiñay Wayna archaeological site, where vibrant orchids add splashes of color to the lush landscape. Ascend through tunnels carved into the mountainside, approaching the sacred Sun Gate (Intipunku). At 2,750 meters (9,020 feet), the Sun Gate reveals your first magical view of Machu Picchu, an emotional and unforgettable moment as the ancient citadel appears framed by towering peaks and the cloud forest.

After taking in the awe-inspiring view, descend for about 50 minutes to the citadel (2,430 m / 7,972 ft.), then take a short shuttle to Aguas Calientes (2,040 m / 6,693 ft.). Relax in your luxury hotel, savor a delicious lunch and gourmet dinner, and recharge for tomorrow’s full exploration of Machu Picchu.

Technical Information

• Minimum altitude: Chachabamba – 2,178 meters / 7,145 feet
• Maximum altitude: Sungate (Intipunku) – 2,750 meters / 9,022 feet
• Walking Distance: 16 km / 6 miles (6.5 hours walking approx.)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Meals included: Box lunch, snacks, dinner in the hotel

Accommodations: Luxury hotel in Aguas Calientes

• 5* Sumaq
• 5* Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel
• 4* Casa del Sol Machu Picchu

Embark on a captivating journey through Cusco’s ancient mysteries with a visit to the Temple of the Moon and Inkilltambo. Nestled in the lush Andean landscape, the Temple of the Moon enchants with its sacred allure and enigmatic stone carvings used for Inca ceremonies. Explore shadowy corridors and chambers where sunlight illuminates intricate rock formations.

Next, venture to Inkilltambo, where the remnants of an ancient Inca fortress stand against sweeping mountain vistas. Marvel at the precise stone architecture and imagine the lives of its former inhabitants. This tour offers a glimpse into the rich tapestry of Andean history and culture, forging a deeper connection to this storied land.

Technical Details:

Duration: 4 hours
Start Location: Cusco city center
Transportation: Private vehicle
Guide: Certified bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
Highlights:
Temple of the Moon: Stone carvings, ceremonial chambers
Inkilltambo: Inca fortress, panoramic views

Embark on a captivating journey through the Andean highlands. Start at the Chinchero Handicraft Center, where skilled artisans bring the ancient art of textile weaving to life. Continue to the Maras Salt Mines, a stunning landscape of terraced salt ponds, and learn about traditional salt extraction methods.

Enjoy a buffet lunch in the Sacred Valley, savoring traditional Peruvian flavors amidst breathtaking scenery. Conclude your tour in Ollantaytambo, exploring towering stone terraces and imposing Inca ruins. Wander through narrow cobblestone streets, soaking in the rich history and majestic beauty of this living Inca stronghold.

Technical Details:
Duration: Full-day tour (approx. 8 hours)
Start Location: Cusco city center
Transportation: Private vehicle
Guide: Certified bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
Highlights:
Chinchero Handicraft Center: Textile weaving
Maras Salt Mines: Terraced ponds, traditional methods
Sacred Valley: Buffet lunch, scenic views
Ollantaytambo: Inca ruins, cobblestone streets

Immerse yourself in Peruvian culture at the Chinchero Handicraft Market and embark on a scenic trek from Chinchero to the serene Urquillos Community.

Start your journey at the Chinchero Handicraft Market, a living canvas of Peruvian culture. Rows of vibrant stalls display intricate textiles and handmade crafts, created by skilled artisans who are descendants of ancient Incan weavers. Engage with the artisans, learn their techniques, and discover the cultural significance behind their work. Whether you’re admiring woven textiles or selecting unique souvenirs, Chinchero offers an unforgettable glimpse into Peruvian craftsmanship.

After exploring the market, embark on a picturesque trek from Chinchero to the tranquil Urquillos Community. Begin amidst Chinchero’s vibrant colors and traditional weaving techniques, then traverse ancient pathways with sweeping views of snow-capped peaks and lush valleys. Along the way, encounter welcoming Quechua communities nestled amidst terraced hillsides, offering warm smiles and genuine hospitality. Finally, arrive at Urquillos, where verdant fields and crystal-clear streams provide a serene backdrop for relaxation and reflection, offering a glimpse into the timeless rhythms of Andean life.

Details:
Start Location: Chinchero
End Location: Urquillos Community
Duration: 4-5 hours
Distance: 8 km (5 miles)
Elevation: 3,760m (12,340ft) to 2,900m (9,514ft)
Trail: Moderate difficulty

Highlights:
Scenic views, Quechua communities, Andean culture