Andean Trekking Peru: Immerse yourself in the culture of the Andes
Andes Machu Picchu Trek unfolds over a 5 day trek that immerses you in the Andean culture. Appreciate the Andean mountains on the hike to the Lares Valley
Description
In the Andes Machu Picchu tour on an immersive 5-day trek through the breathtaking Andes, exploring the Lares region and engaging with the rich local culture of Patacancha. This Lares to Machu Picchu trek offers a unique blend of picturesque landscapes, llama companionship, and shared experiences with the indigenous people.
As you traverse the Andean mountains, your trek will lead you through the most enchanting scenery, creating a connection with the typical animals of the region—llamas. Upon reaching Patacancha, a warm welcome awaits from a local family, eager to share their traditional ways. Discover the art of typical wool weaving with the women and gain insights into daily farm life from the men.
On the fourth day, an early start takes you to Ollantaytambo via local transportation. From there, catch a train to Km 104, the starting point of the Inca Trail. After passing through the control checkpoint, begin your trek into the Andean heights towards Machu Picchu. Along the Inca Trail, explore the Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, and Intipata Inca ruins, culminating in a magical sunset view from Sun gate or Intipunko overlooking Machu Picchu.
The final day unfolds with an unforgettable visit to the ancient citadel of Machu Picchu, where history, nature, and mystery converge, creating memories to last a lifetime.
What to Expect
Sustainable Tourism: At Machu PicchuT, we are happy to promote and practice sustainable tourism by being eco-friendly and supporting local communities.
Service Level: Confortable tourist – Class accommodations with character, emergency horse and private transport.
Physical Rating: 3 – Demanding – Some high-altitude hikes or more strenuous activities, but accessible to most healthy travellers.
Age requirement: 8+ / All travellers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Staff: A professional bilingual Tour Guide, a Trekking chef, a Muleteer, Llamas and Horses.
Accomodation: Campsites (2 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (1 night).
Meals: 4x breakfast, 3x lunch, 1x box lunch, 4x dinner, 3x afternoon tea, 3x snack.
Itinerary:
Day 01: Cusco – Lares – Huacawasi
Day 02: Huacawasi – Ipsaycocha – Patacancha
Day 03: Patacancha
Day 04: Train to Km 104 – Inca Trail
Day 05: Machu Picchu – Cusco
Highlights of the Andes Machu Picchu:
- 4 day hike with a professional Tour Guide, trekking chef, Muleteer and Llamas or Horses;
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu;
- Observation of incredibly beautiful sceneries of snowy peaks and mountain lagoons;
- Meeting people of remote Andean villages along the Lares Trek route.
- Andean way of life discovery.
- The Andean Machu Picchu Tour is the best experience to immerse yourself in the Andean culture.
Itineray Details
DAY 1 : Cusco - Lares - Hot Spring - Huacawasi
Embark on an unforgettable adventure with our Andes Trekking Peru! Your journey begins with an early pickup from your hotel at 4:30 a.m., taking you through the picturesque Sacred Valley of the Incas. Enjoy breakfast in Calca, where you can purchase last-minute snacks or essentials. After departing Calca at 8:00 a.m., our three-hour drive will unveil Andean villages, stunning mountain landscapes, and herds of llamas and alpacas. Upon arrival in the small town of Lares (10,170 ft), renowned for its medicinal thermal baths, we will enjoy a refreshing bath before beginning our hike. Feeling energized, we take a leisurely walk through the Trapiche River Valley and reach the village of Vilcabamba after about 2.5 hours. A well-deserved lunch break awaits, offering a chance to rest before continuing the ascent through the valley for another hour and a half. Our journey then takes us to the charming village of Huacawasi (12,139 ft), where we will set up camp, enjoy a hearty dinner, and spend a memorable night surrounded by the tranquility of the Andes.
DAY 2 : Huacawasi - Patacancha
Experience the unique charm of Huacahuasi, where stone houses with thatched roofs are scattered throughout the landscape. Marvel at the vibrant, handwoven fabrics produced by the locals, which showcase their exceptional craftsmanship. These fabrics are used to make items like ponchos and "chullos," which are woolen hats. In the morning, immerse yourself in the art of weaving, learn about the techniques, and appreciate the high-quality products. After lunch in the village, our trek begins. A two-hour climb will lead us to the breathtaking Ipsaycocha Pass (14,764 ft), the highest point of the trek. Enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, then descend gently for about an hour to reach our second campsite near the stunning Ipsaycocha Lake. Keep an eye out for Andean geese, Puna ibises, and other bird species around the lake. After continuing the descent, we will arrive at our camp in Patacancha (12,377 ft/3,750 m). Enjoy tea and a delicious dinner surrounded by the serene beauty of the Andes.
DAY 3 : Patacancha
Awaken to the ancient melodies of the pututo, an Incan conch shell trumpet used only in special religious ceremonies. After enjoying a traditional, nourishing breakfast, set out on a scenic hike to Lake Azul Cocha. This short trek offers breathtaking views of the Andean landscape, including majestic mountains, winding rivers, potato fields, and llamas and alpacas roaming freely. Marvel at the charm of traditional Andean houses made of adobe or stone with thatched roofs. You will also encounter unique flora, including queñoa (Polylepis), ichu grass (Stipa ichu), yareta (Azorella compacta), and more, immersing yourself in the rich Andean culture. Upon returning to the campsite, enjoy a delicious lunch and participate in hands-on potato hilling and harvesting activities guided by our Andean host family. As the late afternoon unfolds, relax at the campsite and take in the mesmerizing sunset vistas before enjoying a well-deserved dinner.
DAY 4 : Patacancha - Inca Trail - Aguas Calientes
On this day, bid farewell to the community of Patacancha and embark on a scenic drive to Ollantaytambo via local transportation. Along the journey, marvel at the picturesque landscapes and Inca ruins that unfold before you. Upon reaching Ollantaytambo train station, board the train to km 104—the starting point of the Inca Trail. Begin the trek by checking in at the control point and proceed to Chachabamba, where a guided tour unveils the wonders of the Andes Mountains and Machu Picchu. Continue the hike to Wiñaywayna, an archaeological site of great significance in Inca history. Enjoy lunch at this juncture before pressing on to explore Intipata and then Intipunko, offering a breathtaking view of the sunset over the Inca citadel. Take in the panoramic beauty of the Andes mountains, including Huayna Picchu, Putucusi, and Machu Picchu Mountain. Descend to the Inca citadel, capturing memorable pictures from the Guardhouse and receiving a brief guided tour. In the afternoon, board a bus to Aguas Calientes and spend the night in a comfortable hotel in the village. Conclude the day with dinner and a briefing for the upcoming final day.
DAY 5 : Machu Picchu - Cusco
Embark on an early morning journey from our hotel to Machu Picchu after a hearty breakfast at 5:30 am, utilizing a bus for a prompt departure. This early start is intentional to ensure fewer crowds and to offer a serene atmosphere conducive to soaking in the ancient spirit of this renowned archaeological wonder. Upon reaching the citadel around 6:00 am, our knowledgeable guide will provide a comprehensive overview of Machu Picchu, delving into its history and Incan culture. Please note that your guided tour is in circuit 5. If you wish to explore the entire Inca citadel, we recommend opting for Machu Picchu circuit 1 or 2 (extra cost). Following the guided tour, you'll have ample free time, and you can choose to visit and ascend to Huayna Picchu mountain or Machu Picchu mountain for a breathtaking panoramic view. Subsequently, a bus will transport us back to Aguas Calientes. In the afternoon, board the train returning to Ollantaytambo, followed by a bus journey to Cusco. Our team will ensure your safe return to your hotel, concluding this memorable Andes Machu Picchu hike
Included
What is included in this trek?
- Pre-trek briefing (Our guide will visit your hotel a day before the trek for your briefing);
- Transfer by private vehicle to the initial point of the Lares;
- Accommodation: Camping (2 nights), Homestay (1 night), Hotel (1 night);
- Inca Trail Permit, entrance fee to Machu Picchu circuit 5;
- Meals: 4x breakfast, 3x lunch, 1x box lunch, 4x dinner, 3x afternoon´s hot beverages (If you are a vegetarian, please advise us in advance. A vegetarian meal option is for NO extra cost!);
- Experienced bilingual Tour Guide (a group up to 8 participants has 1 Tour Guide, a groups over 8 participants receives 2 Tour Guides);
- A professional trekking chef;
- Muleteer
- Personal Llamas to carry your personal belongings;
- Horses to carry food, camping, cooking equipment;
- Camping equipment: Personal double tents (4 person tent which allows for greater comfort, and also storage of backpacks);
- Sleeping bag (-5 grade);
- Air sleeping roll mattress;
- A pair of hiking poles;
- Duffel bag for your personal belongings (7 kg);
- A shuttle bus down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes Town;
- A shuttle bus up and down to Machu Picchu in the day fifth;
- Water every day (excluding the first 4 hours of the trek when you need to bring your own and the last day, you can buy in Aguas Calientes);
- Tables and chairs, cooking tent with cooking equipment, dining and toilet tents and bottled gas;
- A T-shirt of the Andes Machu Picchu;
- Tourist train from Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu) to Ollantaytambo;
- Tourist bus from Ollantaytambo to Cusco;
- First aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle.
Not Included:
- Breakfast on the first day
- The last lunch.
- Travel insurance;
- Entrance fee to Huayna Picchu ($85);
- Tips to local staff (please note: it is a custom to give tips in Peru; however, it is not obligatory);
- Other extras not mentioned.
Essential Information
Details
The 5-Day Andes Machu Picchu hike offers a fresh alternative to the traditional 4-Day Inca Trail. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking landscapes of the sacred Lares mountains, walk alongside enigmatic llamas, and engage with local communities to share their daily lives. The trek continues on the Inca Trail, providing stunning views of the Andes mountains and culminating in a guided tour of Chachabamba, Wiñaywayna, Intipata, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Throughout the journey, savor delicious meals prepared by our skilled trekking chef, while our guide shares insights into the rich cultural and historical significance of the route and Machu Picchu. Challenge yourself to lead the llamas during the trek, and cap off the experience with a scenic train ride to the Inca Trail and a visit to Machu Picchu. Book now for a worth-it exploration of Andean culture!
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