Embark on an unforgettable 4-day, 3-night adventure with our Lares Trek with Llamas and the Short Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. This unique journey combines the beauty of the Lares region, the charm of llamas, and the iconic Machu Picchu, offering an immersive experience of the Andean culture and breathtaking landscapes. Trek alongside llamas, explore the Short Inca Trail, and discover the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu, all in one remarkable expedition.

Here's what you can expect from this incredible trip:

Lares Trek with Llamas: Trek alongside the ancient Inca trails and experience the breathtaking beauty of the mountains, lakes, and graceful herds of llamas and alpacas.

Short Inca Trail: Covering 13 km (8 miles) from the Urubamba River to Machu Picchu, this 2-day hike offers a condensed version of the famous Inca Trail, showcasing beautiful ruins, lush greenery, and stunning mountain views .

Visit to Machu Picchu: Explore the awe-inspiring Inca site of Wiñay Wayna, also known as the "Forever Young," and take in the breathtaking panoramas of the Andes mountains.

Cultural Immersion: You'll have the chance to immerse yourself in the local Quechua culture, visit isolated communities, and learn about the traditions and heritage of the Andean people.

Professional Guides: The trek is led by highly professional guides who are passionate about Inca heritage and history, ensuring a knowledgeable and enriching experience for the participants.

Small Groups: To provide a personalized experience, the trek is conducted in small groups, typically not exceeding 12 people, allowing for more individualized attention and service.

Unique Route: This trek offers a unique off-the-beaten-path experience, passing through remote villages and pristine glacier lakes, providing a distinct and less-traveled route to Machu Picchu.

Join us on this unforgettable journey and discover the best of Peru's natural and cultural wonders. Don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to trek with llamas, explore the Short Inca Trail, and experience the magic of Machu Picchu.

ITINERARY:

Day 1 - 2: Trekking with Llamas to Auroray Cocha

We will arrange for your hotel pickup in Cusco promptly at 5:30 am, and from there, we will embark on a scenic drive through the captivating Sacred Valley of the Incas in our private transportation. Our first stop will be at Urubamba (2870m/9,416ft), where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast and acquire any last-minute supplies you may need for the trek.

Continuing our journey, we will drive to the Yanahura-Pucara community (3300m/10,826ft), which serves as the starting point of our trek. As we commence our ascent, we will trek through the breathtaking Mantanay valley, taking in the magnificent views of the surrounding mountains and the flourishing native vegetation, including the captivating polylepis trees. Along the way, you will encounter streams nourished by lakes and waterfalls.

During our trek, keep an eye out for llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully along the trail, offering a glimpse into the typical high Andean scenery. After a rejuvenating lunch break, we will continue our trek, ascending towards the first picturesque lake, Yuraq Cocha. But the journey doesn't end there; we will make our way to yet another stunning lake, Auroray Cocha (4480m/14,692ft), where we will set up camp for the night.

Trekking Distance: 10km/6.21 miles

Campsite Altitude: 4480m/14,692ft

Estimated Time: 6-7 hours

Day 3: Trekking with Llamas to Patacancha

Following a hearty breakfast, we will begin on a gradual ascent towards the magnificent Huayruruyoc pass (4600m/15,091ft). From this vantage point, you will be treated to awe-inspiring views of the shimmering lake and the majestic mountains that surround it.

Continuing our trek, we will make our way downhill, passing by enchanting lakes that are teeming with diverse bird species. Take this opportunity to observe and appreciate the vibrant wildlife that inhabits these scenic surroundings. Eventually, we will arrive at Patacancha community (3750m/12,303ft), where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch and spend the night.

Patacancha is a community deeply rooted in the Quechua culture, where the local families engage in traditional agricultural practices and tend to their herds of alpacas and llamas, just as their ancestors did. After lunch, immerse yourself in their rich culture and gain insights into their daily lives. You will have the chance to learn about their time-honored weaving techniques, passed down through generations.

Trekking Distance: 7km/4.34 miles

Campsite Altitude: 3750m/12,303ft

Estimated Time: 3-4 hours

Day 4: Inca Trail to Machu Picchu

After an early breakfast, we will make our way to the train station in Ollantaytambo via our private transportation, with a departure around 7:00 am. Our destination is Km 104, which serves as the starting point for our hike.

As we commence our ascent, we will gradually walk for approximately 4 hours, reaching the remarkable Inca Site known as Wiñay Wayna (Forever Young) at an elevation of 2650m/8,694ft. This archaeological marvel consists of an agricultural center adorned with numerous terraces, as well as urban and religious sectors. Along the way, we will be treated to breathtaking views of the Urubamba River valley, accompanied by glimpses of other Inca sites dotting the riverside.

Upon exploring the captivating Inca site, we will continue our journey towards the Sun Gate (Inti Punku) at an elevation of 2720m/8,923ft. This will provide us with our first panoramic view of the iconic Machu Picchu, allowing us ample time to bask in the splendor of this mysterious Inca city at sunset. Subsequently, we will descend to Machu Picchu and take a bus down to Aguas Calientes, where we will indulge in a well-deserved dinner and spend the night.

Trekking Distance: 14km/8.69 miles

Aguas Calientes: 2040m/6,692ft

Estimated Time: 6-7 hours

Day 5: Machu Picchu to Cusco

We will start the day by waking up early and enjoying a satisfying breakfast at the hotel. Our goal is to catch one of the first buses to Machu Picchu, as the early morning hours offer a tranquil and serene atmosphere in the ancient city. This early arrival is well worth the effort, as it allows us ample time to capture stunning photographs and witness the mesmerizing sunrise over Machu Picchu.

Following our arrival, a knowledgeable guide will accompany us on a comprehensive tour of Machu Picchu. During this guided exploration, you will learn about the intriguing history of Machu Picchu while visiting its most significant structures and temples.

Our guided tour of Machu Picchu will conclude around 9:30 am. It's important to note that new regulations implemented in 2021 have introduced time slots for entrance to Machu Picchu, which are regulated by the Peruvian government. Our tour is scheduled between 6:00 am and 10:00 am. If you wish to embark on additional hikes within Machu Picchu, such as Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to purchase an extra ticket.

After fully immersing yourself in the wonders of Machu Picchu, we will take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes, where a delicious lunch awaits. Before departing from Machu Picchu, please ensure you are aware of the designated meeting time and location in Aguas Calientes, where you will receive your train tickets for the return journey to Cusco. From there, we will board the train to Ollantaytambo, and our private transportation will transport you to your hotel in Cusco.

Total Distance by Bus: 6km/3.37 miles

Machu Picchu Altitude: 2400m/7874 ft