This trip combines the best of the Lares Valley with visits to the fascinating Inca archeological remains of Ollantaytambo and Machu Picchu. Our first stop is the colonial town of Lares, where we bathe in the hot medicinal springs before beginning a four-day trek through the spectacular Urubamba Range. Each day is reasonably paced with ample time to enjoy the incredible scenery, lunch alongside cascading waterfalls, and appreciate the life of the Andean farmer. On the fourth day we reach the legendary Inca stronghold of Ollantaytambo, considered a living museum for its Inca stone dwellings and the people who continue to inhabit them. Next, we take the short train ride to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, one of the world's most beautiful and important archeological remains.

ITINERARY:

DAY 1: CUSCO/CUNCANI
Depart Cusco early morning in a private bus through the Sacred Valley to the picturesque town of Lares (3100m.). Here, we will spend time bathing in the hot thermal springs before having lunch. Accompanied by mules and llamas to carry our packs, we begin our hike up the verdant river valley and continue for about 3 hours until reaching the charming community of Cuncani (3600m.) to camp for the.

DAY 2: CUNCANI/QUISHUARANI
In the morning, we are greeted by a stunning view of the snow-capped peak, Colque Cruz (5700m.) Continuing our trek, beautiful landscapes dotted by colorful ponchos worn by villagers herding their sheep and llamas unfold before us. Slowly hiking upward, we pass a succession of turquoise lakes and then continue to the first high pass at Uchuycasa (4000m.) From the pass, we enjoy astounding views of the valley below as our trail winds down to the village of Quishuarani (3700m.), where we spend the night. B,L,D.

DAY 3: QUISHUARANI/CANCHA CANCHA
Today, we begin with a short walk to an impressive lake into which empties the beautiful, cascading waterfall of Pausi. Our trail leads up to the right, passing many small waterfalls and following an original Inca stone path. As we reach the Pachacuti pass (4500m.), we have spectacular views of the snow-covered peaks of Pitusiray (5750m.) and Chicon (5500m.). Down below, we can also see the striking Suirococha lake located next to the village of Cancha Cancha (3800), our last campsite. B,L,D

DAY 4: CANCHA CANCHA/OLLANTAYTAMBO
This is our least difficult hiking day as we continue downward from the village of Cancha Cancha, passing thatched-roof stone houses and pastoral farmland. As we head into the warm valley, we follow mountain streams through a wide corridor filled with bird life and rocky formations. The trail comes out at Sayhuapata (2800m.), from where our private vehicle will take us to the legendary Inca town of Ollantaytambo. In the afternoon, we have plenty of time to visit this incredible archeological site. Then we can relax, enjoy a savory meal, and sleep comfortably in a hostal with great views of the Inca temples. B,L,D

DAY 5: OLLANTAYTAMBO/MACHU PICCHU-CUSCO
We take the early morning train to Aguas Calientes (tourist class). In Aguas Calientes, we ride the tourist bus up to the famous archeological complex of Machu Picchu, arriving around 11:30a.m. An official, English-speaking guide will lead a tour of approximately 2 hours, followed by time to explore the remains on our own. Departing the ruins in the afternoon, we take the bus down to Aguas Calientes to catch the train back to Cusco.

INCLUDES:

• Hotel collection and transport by bus to Lares
• Meals (Vegetarian option available)
• High quality tents and equipment (includes dining tent, kitchen tent)
• Pack animals (mules and llamas) to carry baggage and equipment.
• Professional, English-speaking guide and camp staff
• Dinner and accommodation in Ollantaytambo
• Entrance fees to Machu Picchu and Ollantaytambo
• Bus tickets to and from Machu Picchu
• Hotel in Ollantaytambo.
• Train ticket back to Cusco

• Backpack or duffle bag.
• Sleeping bag.
• Warm clothing/thermals.
• Insect repellent.
• Trekking shoes/wool.
• Socks.
• Water bottle.
• Rain gear Day pack.
• Sunscreen and hat Personal medical kit.
• Flashlight Bathing suit and towel.