This trek is an excellent alternative for those who
want to get off the ‘beaten track’ and have an insight into
authentic communities whilst being surrounded by stunning
mountain, lake and valley landscapes.
It begins from a small village in the Sacred Valley
and ascends to 2 passes over 4000 metres (13123 feet)
passing through traditional, colourful villages to finish in
the relaxing hot springs in Lares.
Tour Details:
Itinerary
Day 1:
We pick
you up from your hotel at around 7am and travel by bus for
approximately 2 hours to Huaran (2840m/9317ft), a small village in
the Sacred Valley and the start of the trek. We will meet our
horseman and mules here and begin the beautiful hike through the
lush valley, following the gentle uphill route of the Cancha Cancha
River. It will take about 5 hours to reach the picturesque village
of the same name where we will set up camp for the night
(3800m/12467ft).
Day 2:
After
having breakfast, we will leave the campsite and begin a steep
ascent to Pachacutec Pass (4458m/14625ft) the highest point of the
trek. From here there are spectacular views of the snow-peaked
mountain, Pitusiray, Pachacutec Lake and the surrounding valleys.
After the pass, we continue walking and descend into the next valley
to reach Quiswarani village (3700m/12138ft) where will spend the
night. Along the route, the scenery is breathtaking – there are
glacial lakes, waterfalls and snow-peaked mountains. This area is
also rich in birdlife and there is a possibility of seeing Andean
ibis, Andean geese and flamingoes amongst others.
Day 3:
We will
have breakfast and start an ascent of about 3 hours to reach the
Huillquijasa Pass (4200m/13779ft) the second highest pass of the
trek. The views are impressive and worth the climb! After this, we
descend towards the village of Cuncani, passing beautiful turquoise
lakes along the way. We continue descending after Cuncani until we
arrive at Lares’ Hot Springs. We will spend the night in a nearby
campsite (3860m/12663ft).
Day 4:
After
breakfast, the morning will be spent enjoying the hot springs – a
well-deserved reward after the trek!!! From Lares we will take a
bus* back to Cusco and will arrive late afternoon.
