The Authentic Lares Community Trek

We leave Cusco by bus, following the route to Pisaq until arriving at Huaran Creek (2950 m / 9676 ft). Here we start our hike up a small side valley that narrows gradually, while ascending on an original Inca Trail, enjoying a variety of native flora and fauna en route. After a 3-hour hike, we arrive at Cancha Cancha (4000 m / 13,192 ft), where we will be received with a sumptuous, locally prepared Andean meal and have the opportunity to gain insight into the traditional lifestyle and culture of this Andean community. We will set up camp in the vicinity of the community and overnight.
(L / D)

Driving distance: 60 km (37.3 mi) – Time: 1:30 hours
Trekking distance: 6 km (3.7 mi) – Time: 3 hours

After breakfast, we’ll begin a slow ascent to Accopata, an extension of the Cancha Cancha Community, where shepherds live in typical stone and ichu (straw) thatched-roof huts, to be closer to their herds. Now we begin an uphill trek towards Pachacutec Pass (4697 m / 15,406 ft), accompanied by views of the beautiful Azulcocha and Suerococha Lakes. From the pass, we follow a trail that slowly descends, with panoramic views of the Colque Cruz, Pitusiray, Sawasiray, Sirihuani and Chicon snow-capped mountains. We’ll pass near Collaycocha Lake (4200 m / 16,000 ft), arriving at a cascading waterfall as we approach the community of Quiswarani (3902 m / 12,798 ft) Here is another chance to spend time with the community, as we will camp here for the night, enjoying traditional Andean food prepared with loving hands, and spending our time with children and women weavers.
(B / L / D)

Trekking distance: 9 km (5.6 mi) – Time: 6 hours

As we depart from our campsite, we’ll hike towards the Huillquijasa Pass (4457 m / 14,618 ft) where we will observe the Chicon and Colque Cruz glaciers and “the 7 lakes” full of huallatas (Andean geese), ducks, and other waterfowl. After traversing the pass, we continue downhill until we reach the community of Cuncani (3886 m / 12,746 ft), a picturesque village, similar in many ways to Quiswarani, where we spent the evening on the previous night. After our picnic lunch, we’ll continue past a narrow valley, full of spectacular gigantic stones, to reach the Trapiche Valley floor. Now the trail slowly descends until we arrive at Lares Hot Springs (3261 m / 10,696 ft), where we will camp and enjoy the medicinal waters.
(B / L / D)

Trekking distance: 12 km (7.5 mi) – Time: 6 hours

After a morning soak, we will enjoy a delicious breakfast and board our vehicle, which will drive us from Lares back to the Sacred Valley or Cusco. Hotel and dinner on your own.

(B / BL)

Driving distance: 152 km (94.5 mi) – Time: 3 hours

End of services

B- Breakfast / BL- Boxed Lunch / L- Lunch / D- Dinner