Lares Luxury Trek

Your guide will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:00 a.m. (pickups available from any hotel, Airbnb, or location in Cusco or the Sacred Valley). The day begins with a one-hour drive to the town of Calca, where you’ll visit a small Andean market and select traditional offerings such as coca leaves or sugar that will be shared with local families along the trail. From there, a two-hour journey leads you to the district of Lares, home to a group of natural thermal baths surrounded by towering peaks. You’ll have time to relax in the pools, which range in temperature from cool to steaming, all sourced from volcanic springs known for their healing properties.

After enjoying breakfast near the baths, you’ll continue by vehicle to Punta Carretera (3300 m / 10,826 ft), the official starting point of the trek. A gentle two-hour hike brings you to Kiswarani, a traditional highland community at 3600 m (11,811 ft), where our chef will serve a freshly made three-course lunch with regional ingredients and a variety of hot and cold drinks.

In the afternoon, you’ll hike for another two hours toward the shores of Blue Lake, located at 3800 m (12,467 ft). Along the way, the trail winds through cultivated fields, trout farms, and herds of alpacas and llamas grazing in the open highlands—an essential part of the local economy and culture. Upon arrival at camp, your luxury tent will be ready, with time to settle in, shower, and relax before tea and dinner are served. Optional massages are available before bedtime.

Hiking distance: 10 km
Campsite elevation: 3800 m / 12,467 ft
Accommodation: Glamping
Included drinks: Wine, Pisco, Beer, Soft drinks

Wake up to a warm cup of freshly brewed coffee or coca tea delivered to your tent, as the first light hits the peaks above the lake. While our team organizes the gear and prepares the mules, you’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast with panoramic views of the mountains and crystalline waters.

The day begins with a gentle trail along the lake, gradually ascending for about 4 hours toward the majestic Condor Pass (4700 m / 15,354 ft). The hike offers sweeping views of glacial lagoons, grazing llamas and alpacas, and sightings of native Andean birds such as caracaras. Upon reaching the summit, you’ll take part in a special Pachamama offering ceremony led by an Andean shaman—a moment of reflection and connection with the land—followed by snacks and hot drinks.

From the top, begin a scenic 2-hour descent to Acopata (3750 m / 12,303 ft), where a freshly prepared lunch and chilled drinks await. After a well-deserved rest, continue for one more hour to the remote village of Cancha Cancha (3600 m / 11,811 ft), one of the few traditional communities still untouched by road access. You’ll have the chance to visit the local school and meet residents—guests are encouraged to bring small gifts such as school supplies, hygiene items, or warm clothing for children.

Back at camp, your glamping tent will be ready with warm showers and cozy bedding. Enjoy some quiet time, opt for a relaxing massage, or simply unwind with your drink of choice. Tea, wine, Pisco, beer, and soft drinks will be available throughout the evening.

Hiking distance: 16 km
Highest altitude: 4700 m / 15,354 ft
Campsite elevation: 3600 m / 11,811 ft
Accommodation: Glamping
Included drinks: Wine, Pisco, Beer, Sodas

After a nourishing breakfast, you’ll be welcomed into a traditional home, where local families will share ancestral knowledge and invite you to try your hand at high-Andean farming using age-old tools. It’s also a great moment to learn a few phrases in Quechua, the native language that still echoes through the valleys.

Your hike then follows a gentle 4-hour descent into the Sacred Valley, passing through vibrant agricultural terraces and ever-changing crops—from high-altitude potatoes to corn and avocados near the valley floor. Upon reaching Huaran (2700 m / 8856 ft), you’ll be treated to an authentic Pachamanca feast, where ingredients are cooked beneath the earth with hot stones, a ritual rooted in Andean culinary heritage.

In the afternoon, say farewell to your trekking crew and travel by private vehicle to the charming town of Ollantaytambo. There, you’ll catch a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, check into a comfortable 4-star hotel and enjoy a gourmet dinner at the renowned Indio Feliz Restaurant.

Hiking distance: 12 km
Aguas Calientes elevation: 2000 m / 6,562 ft
Accommodation: 4-star hotel
Dinner: Indio Feliz Restaurant

After a relaxing breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take the early bus up to the majestic Machu Picchu citadel, where your private guide will lead a curated 3-hour tour through the most iconic and hidden corners of this world wonder. Marvel at the seamless Inca stonework, ceremonial temples, and breathtaking panoramic views that define this sacred site.
Once the guided experience concludes, you’ll have free time to explore at your own pace or take an optional hike to either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain—both offering sweeping vistas from above (advance booking required, $75 USD). Later, enjoy a gourmet lunch with your guide at the Sanctuary Lodge by Belmond, just outside the ruins.

In the afternoon, return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can stroll through local artisan markets before boarding the Vistadome Panoramic Train. Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, your private driver will transfer you back to Cusco, with an estimated hotel drop-off around 7:00 pm.

Guided tour: 3 hours
Machu Picchu elevation: 2400 m / 7,874 ft
Meals: Lunch at Sanctuary Lodge (Belmond)