LARES HIKE & SHORT INCA TRAIL 4 DAY 3 NIGHT Pool Service

Short Itinerary: Lares Hike & Short Inca Trail (4 Days / 3 Nights)

Day 1: Sacred Valley | Calca – Quishuarani – Huacawasi Lodge

Depart from the Sacred Valley to the starting point.

• Option A (Challenging): Hike from Quishuarani over Abra Huillquijasa (4,200m), passing turquoise lakes. (12 km / 7.45 miles).
• Option B (Moderate): Visit Calca Market and Ancasmarca ruins, then hike over Yanacocha Pass (4,200m) to learn about local weaving. (5.44 km / 3.4 miles).

Overnight: Huacawasi Lodge (3,835m).

Day 2: Huacawasi – Patacancha – Ollantaytambo

• Option A (Challenging): Climb the Ipsaycocha Pass (4,450m), the highest point of the trek, and descend to the weaving community of Patacancha. (12 km / 7.45 miles).
• Option B (Moderate/Easy): Participate in a traditional Shamanic offering to Mother Earth, visit Pumamarca ruins, and hike down to Ollantaytambo. (9 km / 5.59 miles).

Overnight: Sacred Valley Hotel in Ollantaytambo (2,830m).

Day 3: Ollantaytambo | Two Scenic Paths to Machu Picchu

• Option A (Cultural): Guided tour of the Ollantaytambo fortress and afternoon train to Aguas Calientes (optional Machu Picchu visit available).
• Plan B (The Short Inca Trail): Take the train to KM 104 and hike the classic trail to Wiñaywayna and through the Sun Gate for your first view of the citadel. (6 hours hike).

Overnight: Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel, Aguas Calientes (1,900m).

Day 4: Machu Picchu Citadel – Cusco

Early morning visit to Machu Picchu for a private 3-hour guided tour of the «Lost City.» Discover the Sun Temple and the Sacred Plaza before returning to Cusco by train in the afternoon.

Itinerary Overview: 4 Day Adventure

DAY 1 HUAYLLABAMBA | CALCA – QUISWARANI, HUACAWASI

OPTION A

Our bus leaves sacred valley at around 07:00am. It’s a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley; we head off for the two hours’ drive to Quishuarani (3700m 12139ft) which is the starting point for the trek. Along the way you will be able to observe small Andean communities, spectacular mountain landscapes, herds of llamas and alpacas.

Heading west up a small valley well arrive at a lake at the head of the valley and start a steep zig-zag climb up a narrow trail to the top of the first pass known as Abra Huillquijasa, (4200m 13779ft) about 3 hours from Quishuarani village. Below you lies a series of stunning turquoise lakes. Well drop down and picnic lunch beside the lakes before continuing on for the short trek to the next village of Kunkani (3750m) in the bottom of the valley (2 hour from the pass). Arriving in the village around 4pm we will take our own van and drive for 20 minutes to our Huacawasi Lodge.

• Walking distance approximately: 12km 7.45ml (6-7 hours)
• Active hike: 6-7 hours.
• Difficulty: Challenging
• Overnight: Huacahuasi Lodge (12,585’ / 3,835m)
• Kiswarani – Huacawasi

OPTION B

Our bus leaves sacred valley at around 08:00. Its a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley, passing through Calca and stopping for visit the local Market of Calca town for about 30 minutes Departing Calca town around 08:30 we head off 40 minutes’ drive to Ancasmaraca inca storage buildings located over (3600m 11811ft) Along the way you will be able to observe small Andean communities, spectacular mountain landscapes, herds of llamas and alpacas.

We continue driving for two more hours until Kunkani valley where we are going to have our picnic lunch and start a steep gradual climb up a narrow trail 2 hours to the top of the first pass known as Yanacocha pass (4200m 13679ft), We will walk slightly downhill for 2 hours to our lodge in Huacawasi community (3700m 12139ft). Many of the houses that we see are built from stone and have thatched roofs. The people of this village produce beautiful colourful textiles. Here we will learn about the weaving techniques and be able to admire some of their high quality ponchos, chullos (wool hats) and other garments. We will rest and have dinner at the lodge.

• Walking distance approximately: 5,44km 3.4ml (4-3 hours)
• Active hike: 4-3 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate hike
• Overnight: Huacahuasi Lodge (12,585’ / 3,835m)
• Kunkani – Huacawasi lodge.

DAY 2 HUACAWASI – PATACANCHA COMMUNITY – OLLANTAYTAMBO

OPTION A

The trek today is a short, beautiful and interesting but tough one. After breakfast it begins with a climb up and over the Ipsaycocha Pass (4,450m 14599ft) – the highest point on the trek – which takes about 2-3 hours, and then a descent of just over an hour to our picnic lunch at Ipsaycocha Lake. After a good lunch and rest is all downhill! The route descends for 2-3hours to the Quechua weaving community in Patacancha, where we will take our private van to Ollantaytambo town.

As opcional if you still have energy you can explore this pretty town and Ollantaytambo arqueological site, of Inca origin. The ruins features finely carved, vast stone blocks that make up the upper terrace or temple of the Sun.

• Walking distance approximately: 12km 7.45ml (6-7 hours)
• Active hike: 6-7 hours
• Difficulty: Challenging hike
• Overnight: Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley hotel (2,830m / 9,284’)
• Huacawasi – Ollantaytambo

OPTION B

Begin the day and enjoy spectacular scenery as you drive for 30 minutes through the andes mountain range , in this area, South America camelids (llamas and alpacas) graze in the immense lands of Sonco Cocha (heart lake), in the middle of the nowhere inside of the mountains you will have the opportunity to meet with an Andean shaman or healer and witness a real offering to mother earth & the sacred mountain protectors to thank them for this trip. From there, we will drive one hour then arrive to Pumamarka (City of Puma ) arqueological site. After to explore the Pumamarka arqueological site having our picnic lunch in the same Inka site choose as optional and enjoy a nice hike for 2:30 minutes of downhill to Ollantaytambo town and the arqueological site or just driving and spend the afternoon exploring Ollantaytambo’s maze-like alleys and passageways.

• Walking distance approximately: 9km 5.59ml (3-2 hours)
• Active hike: 3-2 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to Easy hike
• Overnight: Ollantaytambo Sacred Valley hotel (2,830m / 9,284’)
• Huacawasi – Pumamarka – Ollantaytambo

DAY 3 OLLANTAYTAMBO TO MACHUPICCHU

OPTION A

Today’s tour will give you a glimpse into the other side of Ollantaytambo Begin your day with an optional early morning hike to the Inca storage houses and Pinkuylluna Mountain for an impressive view of the Ollantaytambo fortress and ceremonial site above Ollantaytambo. Afterwards, the whole group will meet at the entrance of Ollantaytambo arqueological site for a guided tour before embarking on a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes town at the base of Machu Picchu.

• Important: All-Group cultural Activity (morning): Guided exploration of Ollantaytambo arqueological site.
• Optional: Afternoon visit to the Machupicchu citadel availability and additional cost
• Walking tour approximately: 2.5 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
• Overnight: Inkaterra pueblo Hotel, Aguas Calientes (6,232´ / 1,900m)

PLAN B (SHORT INCA TRAIL)

This morning we will walk from our hotel to the Ollantaytambo station the voyager train that travel through misty peaks to the astonishing hike on the classic Inca Trail, from KM 104 (2,100m/6,927ft) to the Sun Gate at Machu Picchu we will have an hour and 20-minute train ride where we will begin a moderate climb for three hours to the chiseled remnants and remote archaeological site of Wiñaywayna (2,650m/8747ft). Admire the fountains that have been flowing for hundreds of years and gaze down the spectacular, sheer mountainside, plunging down to the Urubamba River. After enjoying the architectural wonder of this ancient Inca site, we merge onto the traditional four days Inca Trail. We have lunch at the Wiñaywayna campground, and then continue onward towards the Sun Gate (2,730m/9,007ft). Following the ancient remote footpath, we finally get our first spectacular view of Machu Picchu in all its brilliance and majestic monumentality. As we move closer to the Citadel of Machu Picchu, you will enjoy views of the enigmatic ruins the whole length of the trail. Then we take our bus to Aguas Calientes.

• Important: Replaces the standard program day itinerary; this activity must be booked upon confirmation of your Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure departure date in order to secure the necessary permits.
• Walking tour approximately: 6 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
• Overnight: Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel, Aguas Calientes (6,232´/ 1,900m)

DAY 4 MACHUPICCHU OPTIONAL VISIT – CUSCO

After an early morning rise and a healthy breakfast, we take the 30 minute bus ride up to the Machu Picchu complex, where we will tour the amazing site with its spectacular architecture and mysterious temples, which were left behind by the Incas. Machupicchu (The Lost City of the Incas) designated by Unesco as one of the New Wonders of the World. See the highlights of the site including the imposing Temple of the Sun, the House of the Priest, the Sacred Plaza and the intricately carved rock likely used as a sundial by the ancient Incas. Return by train to Cusco and transfer to the Cusco City.

• Walking tour approximately: 3 hours
• Overnight: Cusco hotel

Inclusions & Exclusions: Lares Hike & Short Inca Trail (4 Days)

What is Included:

• Expert Preparation: A mandatory pre-trek briefing at the office the night before departure (includes a provided duffel bag).
• Expert Guiding: Your journey is led by a professional, English-speaking guide specializing in the Lares region and the Inca Trail.
• Accommodation:
  • 1 night at the eco-friendly Huacahuasi Lodge (Lares).
  • 1 night at a Sacred Valley hotel in Ollantaytambo.
  • 1 night at the Inkaterra Pueblo Hotel (or similar) in Aguas Calientes.
• Meals & Snacks: 7 high-quality meals (2 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 2 dinners), plus snacks and hot/cold drinks while at the lodges.
• Logistics & Transport: All transportation throughout the itinerary, including pack llamas and emergency horses to carry equipment and your personal luggage (up to 8 kg / 17 lb per person).
• Entrance Fees: All permits and entry fees for archaeological sites, the Short Inca Trail (subject to availability), and the Machu Picchu citadel.
• Lodge Gratuities: Tips for the specific lodge staff are already included.

What is Not Included:

• Specific Meals: Dinner on the 3rd night and lunch on the 4th day in Aguas Calientes.
• Staff Tips: Gratuities for your guides, cooks, and muleteers are not included and are at your discretion.
• Beverages: Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages at the lodges or hotels.
• Insurance: Travel and health insurance.
• Personal Gear: Walking sticks (available for rent at $20 per pair).
• Extra Weight: Costs associated with luggage exceeding the 8 kg limit.

5 FAQs: Lares Hike & Short Inca Trail (4 Days / 3 Nights)

1. How do I choose between Option A and Option B during the first two days?

You don’t need to decide right now! Option A is designed for those seeking a physical challenge with steeper climbs and longer distances (up to 7 hours of hiking). Option B is moderate to easy, focusing more on cultural immersion, local markets, and Shamanic ceremonies. You can coordinate with your guide based on your energy levels and interests.

2. Is the «Short Inca Trail» on Day 3 guaranteed?

The Short Inca Trail (Plan B) is an optional upgrade that requires specific government permits. Because these permits are limited and sell out quickly, this activity must be confirmed and booked at the same time you reserve your Lares adventure. If permits aren’t available, you’ll still enjoy a fantastic cultural exploration of Ollantaytambo.

3. What should I pack in the duffel bag provided?

At your Day 0 briefing, we’ll provide a duffel bag for your essentials. Our team of llamas and horses will carry up to 8 kg (17 lb) of your gear, including your sleeping bag and extra clothes. You only need to carry a small daypack with your water, camera, and snacks.

4. What makes the lodges on this trek unique?

We pride ourselves on sustainability. Our lodges, like the one in Huacahuasi, are equipped with solar panels to minimize environmental impact. You get to enjoy the rugged beauty of the Andes without sacrificing the comfort of a bed and a roof, all while supporting eco-friendly tourism.

5. Why is the Day 0 Briefing mandatory?

The briefing at our Cusco office (2 blocks from Plaza de Armas) is crucial for a smooth trip. In about 40 minutes, we’ll cover safety protocols, hand over your duffel bag, and finalize logistics. It’s also the perfect time to meet your guide and ask any «last-minute-panic» questions before heading into the mountains!