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LARES VALLEY TO MACHU PICCHU – Andean Connection – 4 Days / 3 Nights

  • 4 Days / 3 Nights
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Duración

4 Days / 3 Nights

Acomodación

Camp + Hotel ⭐⭐⭐

Dificultad

Moderado

Altitud

Max 4780 m.s.n.m

Tipo de tour

Private

Descripción del Tour

The Lares Valley trek offers an authentic and refined alternative to the renowned Inca Trail. This exclusive route seamlessly blends breathtaking landscapes with meaningful cultural encounters, providing direct interaction with high-Andean communities that have preserved their ancestral traditions for centuries.

Throughout the journey, travelers are immersed in a spectacular natural setting of towering mountains, snow-capped peaks, crystalline lagoons, subtropical valleys, and natural hot springs—all enriched by the presence of ancient Inca heritage.

This experience provides a genuine and insightful perspective into the daily life of the people of Cusco, allowing you to appreciate their traditions, ancestral wisdom, and deep connection to the land—just as it was during the Inca Empire.

Our journey begins in the peaceful village of Pumahuanca, nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley, and concludes at the soothing thermal waters of Lares, including a visit to the traditional community of Cuncani. On Day 3, we continue toward Ollantaytambo, where we board the train to the legendary Machu Picchu.

Unlike more commercial routes, this itinerary remains largely untouched by mass tourism, offering a tranquil and immersive experience in nature. Due to its remote character, there is a high likelihood of spotting native wildlife such as viscachas (a rabbit-like Andean chinchilla), the elusive Andean fox, and a rich variety of flora and fauna—making this journey truly unforgettable.

Itinerario
Día 1

DAY 1: CUSCO – PUMAHUANCA – PUYOC

Our trek begins in the charming village of Pumahuanca, gradually ascending through the Sacred Valley toward Puyoc. The day covers approximately 14 km along scenic trails surrounded by vibrant nature—native plants, orchids, wildflowers, and a remarkable diversity of birdlife.

Along the way, we visit the small Inca archaeological site of Pumahuanca, where we gain insight into its historical significance.

Our campsite is located in Puyoc (4,100 m / 13,451 ft). Due to the altitude, temperatures can be quite cold, and snowfall is possible between May and November. Warm clothing and proper cold-weather gear are highly recommended.

Día 2

DAY 2: PUYOC – YANACOCHA – CUNCANI

Considered the most visually stunning day of the trek, this section is less physically demanding than the previous day. We hike approximately 13 km, mostly downhill, toward the community of Cuncani.

Along the route, we enjoy extraordinary scenery: snow-capped peaks, glacial lagoons such as Yanacocha (“Black Water”), and colorful Andean communities where locals proudly wear their traditional bright red garments.

Your guide will share valuable insights into Andean culture, worldview, and daily life in these remote highlands. You may also learn a few basic Quechua phrases—perfect for connecting with local families.

Camp is set in Cuncani, a community rich in culture and tradition.

Día 3

DAY 3: CUNCANI – LARES HOT SPRINGS

After a nourishing breakfast, we begin a gentle 6 km walk toward the relaxing Lares hot springs—a perfect setting to unwind after days of adventure.

Along the way, we pass small villages where locals cultivate traditional crops such as quinoa and tarwi. You may also encounter flocks of Andean parrots, easily recognizable by their vibrant calls.

After enjoying the thermal baths, our private transport will take us to a hotel in the Sacred Valley.

Día 4

DAY 4: MACHU PICCHU – THE SACRED CITADEL

At 06:45 AM, following a delightful breakfast, we head to Ollantaytambo train station to board the selected train to Aguas Calientes. From there, we ascend by bus to the majestic Machu Picchu.

You will enjoy a guided tour of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, exploring temples, agricultural terraces, ceremonial sites, and iconic viewpoints for unforgettable photographs.

After the visit, we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, where private transportation awaits to return you to Cusco.

 

USEFUL INFORMATION

  • Starting altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft
  • Highest altitude: 4,780 m / 15,682 ft
  • Total trekking distance: 34 km / 21 miles
  • Longest day: Day 1 (14 km / 8.7 miles)
  • Coldest night: Day 1 (approx. 0°C / 32°F)
  • Difficulty level: Moderate to Challenging (depending on physical condition)
  • Recommendation: Prior acclimatization in Cusco
Inclusiones

¿Qué incluye?

  • Certified professional guide
  • Assistant guide (for groups of 9+)
  • Experienced trekking chef
  • Pack animals (mules) to carry equipment and up to 7 kg of personal belongings
  • Pick-up from Plaza Regocijo
  • Round-trip train tickets to Machu Picchu
  • Bus tickets to Machu Picchu (up & down)
  • Transportation Ollantaytambo – Cusco
  • Drinking water (except first 4 hours on Day 1)
  • 2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners (special diets available)
  • Dining tent with tables and chairs
  • 4-person tent (shared by 2 travelers)
  • 3-star hotel on Day 3
  • Sleeping pad
  • Oxygen bottle
  • First aid kit
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu
  • Entrance to Lares hot springs

No incluye

  • Sleeping bag (available for rent)
  • Trekking poles (available for rent)
  • Breakfast Day 1, dinner Day 3, lunch & dinner Day 4
  • Tips for guide, chef, and muleteers
  • Travel insurance (highly recommended)
  • Services not mentioned
Recomendaciones

WHAT TO BRING

  • Original passport
  • ISIC card (if applicable)
  • Trekking boots
  • Waterproof jacket / poncho
  • Thermal clothing
  • Hat and gloves
  • Comfortable hiking pants
  • Sun hat
  • Sunscreen (SPF 35+)
  • Insect repellent
  • Personal toiletries
  • Personal medication
  • Camera and flashlight with extra batteries

 

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

  • Sleeping bag: USD $35 (entire trip)
  • Aluminum trekking poles: USD $20 (entire trip)

 

IMPORTANT NOTES

  • Additional services such as upgraded trains, hotels, or special dinners can be arranged upon request
  • Itinerary may be adjusted based on flight and train schedules
  • All programs are subject to changes due to external factors (weather, railway operations, etc.)

 

CANCELLATION POLICY

  • 60+ days prior: No cancellation fee
  • 30–59 days prior: 50% cancellation fee
  • Less than 15 days prior: 100% cancellation fee (no refund applies)

 

OUR PHILOSOPHY

At PIT EXPEDITIONS, we design journeys that go beyond the ordinary.

We specialize in crafting meaningful travel experiences with exceptional service standards. Our commitment is to deliver seamless, authentic, and unforgettable journeys—where every detail is carefully curated to exceed expectations.

 

CONTACT
📩 reservas@pitexpeditions.com

🌐 www.pitexpeditions.com

📱 WhatsApp: +51 952 362 184 / +51 974 675 146 / +51 984 613 448

Cusco is not just a destination. It is an experience to live, feel, and remember forever.
Thank you for choosing us. It will be a pleasure to accompany you on this unique experience in Cusco.

LARES VALLEY TO MACHU PICCHU – Andean Connection – 4 Days / 3 Nights

Precio por persona a partir de

US$ 1000 USD
💬 Comunícate con un asesor

¿Por qué elegir PIT Expeditions?

  • Operador turístico local 100 % autorizado
  • Tours seguros y bien organizados
  • Atención personalizada y guías expertos
  • Promovemos el turismo responsable

Diseñemos juntos tu aventura

Estamos aquí para ayudarte a planificar el viaje de tus sueños.

Escríbenos

reservas@pitexpeditions.com

WhatsApp

+51 952 362 184 / +51 974 675 146 / +51 984 613 448


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