Lares Trek Experience 9D/8N (Lima to Lima)

Duration: 9 Days

Departure Time: 1:00, 2:00, 3:00, 4:00, 5:00, 6:00, 7:00, 8:00, 9:00, 10:00, 11:00, 12:00, 13:00, 14:00, 15:00, 16:00, 17:00, 18:00, 19:00, 20:00, 21:00, 22:00, 23:00, 00:00

Airport Transfer
Welcome to Lima, the City of Kings. Upon arrival to the airport, you will be transferred to your hotel. Please look for your driver at the airport, he will be holding a sign with your name on it. Once you have checked into the hotel, the remainder of your first day will be free. While Peru’s capital officially began life in 1535, when Spanish conquistador Francisco Pizarro founded the city on the Day of the Three Kings, settlements had been scattered through the valley since before the Incas. The city was built on top of an existing palace and temples that belonged to the local chief who had little choice but to move on. Lima was in its prime during the Spanish colonial days and much of the city’s attraction now lies in its well-preserved historical center.

Transfer to Cuzco (B)
Enjoy the morning free to explore the city on your own. In the afternoon, our driver will pick you up from your hotel’s foyer and will transfer you to the airport to take the flight towards the imperial city of Cuzco. Arrive in Cuzco, historic heartland and former capital of the Inca Empire. Our driver will welcome you at the airport and will transfer you to your hotel. Cuzco is a favorite destination of many visitors to Peru. As you wander the streets and side alleys of the city you will witness the perfect tapering Inca stonework that provided the foundations for many of Cuzco's colonial and modern buildings. The city itself is the continent’s oldest continuously inhabited city and was the home of the Inca Empire for two centuries before the Spanish built their first capital here. Today Cuzco is a fascinating combination of both cultures. Take the time to acclimatize to the city’s 3450-metre high (11,150 ft) altitude and explore the many Baroque churches and ancient temples that dot the city.

Free Day in Cuzco (B)
Enjoy a free day in Cuzco to explore the city on your own. We recommend visiting some of Cuzco's main attractions, as well as its lesser-known sights such as the Qoricancha temple, San Pedro market, the main square, the 12 Angled Stone, Regocijo Square and San Blas Square. In the afternoon, you will have a mandatory briefing on your trek. At this meeting, you will receive detailed information on the route, a list of what to bring, confirm your pick-up service and be able to ask questions.

Cuzco to Lares Town and Trek to Wakawasi (3,850 m) (L/D)
Today, you will be picked up at your accommodation between 5:00- 6:00 am and transferred by bus to Lares Town (2,900 m). You will get the opportunity to relax in the Hot Springs (at an extra cost) before starting your 6-hour trek. You will hike a zigzagging climb to reach the town of Wakawasi (3,850 m). There, you will enjoy beautiful views of glaciers, wildlife, and local communities. You will have the chance to meet local families that live in harmony with nature.
Note: Today, you will hike for about 6 hours (14 km).

Trek to Patacancha Town (3,800 m) (B/L/D)
Today, you will trek up for about 4 hours to the top of Ipsayccocha Pass (4,400m) where you will enjoy a peaceful moment before stepping down for 40 minutes until your lunch stop next to the lake. You will continue 3 more hours to Patacancha town (3,800m) where you will get the chance to camp surrounded by llamas, alpacas and amidst native crop plantations.
Note: Your today's trekking will be about 15 km (8 hours).

Trek to Ollantaytambo and Train to Aguas Calientes (B/L/D)
Today, you will walk for 4 hours until Ollantaytambo. After lunch, you will take off on a train that will lead you to Aguas Calientes, where we will overnight in a hotel. Your guide will give you indications for the next day. If you have time, stroll through the streets where you will find many cafes, plenty of shops and places to relax.
Note: Your today's trekking will be about 12 km (4 hours).

Explore Machu Picchu and Return to Cuzco (B)
This morning, you will take the bus early at 05:30 am to Machu Picchu (25-minute ride) so that you will enjoy the mysterious city as the mist dissipates in the early morning light. You will get the opportunity to have a 2-hour guided tour of the spectacular archaeological site and learn more about the history of the place. You will then explore this incredible city on your own. You will also be able to climb the Huayna Picchu Peak (to book in advance at an extra cost). You will then head towards Aguas Calientes by bus where you can visit the local marketplace next to the train station before returning to Ollantaytambo. From there, you will take a bus back to Cuzco arriving around 08:00 pm. You will be dropped off at the Plaza San Francisco. Please make your own way to the accommodation of your choice.

Transfer to Lima (B)
At the appropriate time, our driver will pick you up at your hotel and will transfer you to the airport to take your flight back to Lima. Once in Lima, you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel.

Airport Transfer (B)
Today, you’ll be transferred to the airport to take the international flight back to home. Safe travels ahead!