Embark on an unforgettable 3-day Lares Llama Trek Experience, immersing yourself in authentic Andean life within the stunning Lares Valley. This less-known but incredibly rewarding hike takes you through a hidden valley, offering a unique opportunity to connect with indigenous Quechua communities and witness their traditional lifestyle.
Experience breathtaking mountain scenery, serene glacial lagoons, and lush cloud forests. You’ll encounter authentic textile Quechua villages, places where very few outsiders have ventured, and observe the daily lives of llama shepherds and weavers inhabiting these remote high Andean regions.
Hike to the remote Cancha Cancha Community
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Your adventure begins with an early pick-up from your Cusco hotel at 6:00 AM. We’ll travel by car along the scenic route towards Pisaq, reaching the Huaran Creek (2840m/9315ft). From here, we start our trek, ascending a small side valley that gradually narrows. You’ll hike along an original Inca Trail segment, admiring the diverse native flora and fauna of the region.
After approximately 3 hours of hiking, we’ll arrive at Cancha Cancha (3800m/12464ft), a traditional Andean community. Here, you’ll be warmly welcomed with typical local food and have the unique opportunity to interact with residents, gaining insight into their traditional lifestyle and rich culture. We will set up camp here for the night.
Conquer Pachacuteq Pass and explore glacial lakes
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After breakfast, we begin our uphill journey, reaching Accopata, an extension of Cancha Cancha. We continue northeast up the valley, passing charming thatched stone houses that dot the landscape. After about 30 minutes, the path flattens out before climbing steeply for a challenging 2.5-hour trek to our first major pass: Pachacuteq Pass (4458m/14622ft).
The trail then follows a narrow ridge for about an hour, offering panoramic views, before descending into a stunning, secluded corrie. This area is rich in birdlife and features beautiful glacial lakes. The path continues to descend, following a series of cascading waterfalls, until we reach the village of Quishuarani (3700m/12136ft), our camping spot for the night. Here, you’ll have the chance to meet local children and skilled women weavers.
Relax in Lares Hot Springs and journey to Aguas Calientes
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Today begins with breakfast, followed by a short downhill walk to the colonial town of Lares (3100m/10168ft). Here, you’ll spend the rest of the morning relaxing in the medicinal open-air hot springs – don’t forget your swimsuit! After a well-deserved soak and lunch, we’ll take private transport to the town of Ollantaytambo, located in the Sacred Valley. From the Ollantaytambo train station, we’ll board a scenic train that will take us to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. You will spend the night at a hotel in Aguas Calientes, concluding your 3-day trek experience.
This 3-day trek concludes in Aguas Calientes. Entrance tickets and bus tickets for Machu Picchu are not included.
For the trek portion, you will carry a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, rain gear, and personal items. Your main luggage will be transported by mules and will be accessible at campsites. We recommend packing a duffel bag for the main luggage, ideally not exceeding 15-20 kg (33-44 lbs), including your sleeping bag.
Yes, it is highly recommended to spend at least 1-2 full days in Cusco (3400m / 11,155ft) before starting the Lares Trek. This allows your body to adjust to the high altitude and significantly reduces the risk of altitude sickness, ensuring a more enjoyable and safer experience.
A sleeping bag is not typically included in the tour price. You can bring your own comfortable sleeping bag suitable for temperatures down to 0°C (32°F) or -5°C (23°F) for colder months. Alternatively, high-quality sleeping bags can often be rented from the tour operator in Cusco for an additional fee.
The Lares Llama Trek involves moderate hiking at high altitudes, including a pass over 4400m. While children with significant trekking experience and good physical condition may manage, it is generally recommended for older children (e.g., 10-12+) who are accustomed to physical activity and high altitudes. Please consult with the operator if you plan to travel with young children.
The dry season, from April to October, is generally considered the best time for trekking in the Peruvian Andes, offering clearer skies and less rain. However, temperatures can still drop significantly at night, especially at higher elevations. The rainy season (November to March) can make trails muddier, but the landscape is greener and there are fewer crowds. The Lares Trek is generally accessible year-round.
Traveler Experiences
Recent comments
A very enriching experience, full of history and good coordination even with changing weather during the route.
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