4-day llama lares trek to machu picchu

The Lares Valley is one of the lesser-travelled routes to the lost city of Machu Picchu, on this trip you'll be accompanied by local llama breeders whose llamas will carry your bags, allowing you to savour the views that little bit more along the way.

The trek will lead you through incredible landscapes of mountain ridges, lakes, and farmlands where the local people still wear traditional clothing. As well as experiencing the landscapes, you'll also get to enjoy a cultural exchange with you guides and the people you encounter along the way, this is one of the best trails for seeing local indigenous culture up close and observing ancient farming habits and religious rituals. Your trek will eventually join up with the traditional Inca Trail and climax with a visit to the world wonder of Machu Picchu.

Add in that you'll be camping in the valley beneath the stars, what better way is there to experience the true Peru?

Itinerary:

Day 1

03.00am pick-up in Cusco

Visit to Lares hot springs

Meet-up with llamas and guides

Trek to Cuncani (approx 6 hrs walking time)

Camping in Cuncani

Day 2

Trek to Huarcahuasy and meet-ups with llama breeders

Trek to Ipsay Pass with views of Ipsaycocha Lagoon and Patacancha Valley

Camping in mountains

Day 3

Trek to Patacancha town

Transport to Pumamarca

Trek from Pumamarca to Sacred Valley

Transport to Ollantaytambo and train to Aguas Calientes

Night in hotel

Day 4

Morning trek to Machu Picchu

3 hour tour of Machu Picchu

Optional hike up Huayna Picchu ($20 per person)

Optional 3 hour trek to Inti Punku ($20 per person)

Bus to Aguas Calientes

2.30pm train to Ollantaytambo

Transport to Cusco

All meals included