1.- WHAT IS THE LARES LUXURY TREK?
Many travelers around the world are unaware that the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru is a premium hiking adventure that perfectly combines the beauty of nature and the imposing majesty that only the Andes can represent, all while enjoying unique comfort with high-end standardized services. Compared to other treks and options, the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru allows you to enjoy an experience that is less frequented by tourists compared to other destinations such as the Inca Trail. This is one of the aspects that makes the Luxury Lares trek even more special, as it gives you the opportunity to enjoy an unspoiled natural environment, allowing you to experience a close immersion with the Quechua communities who maintain their traditions intact to this day and, through this type of activity, seek to promote their preservation. Although the Luxury Lares trek takes place in a remote location, traversing vast green valleys, lagoons with crystal-clear views, immense mountain passes that easily exceed 4,000 meters above sea level, and relaxing natural hot springs, it never loses the comfort and exclusivity that many travelers seek during their adventures. For this reason, it combines the experience with a visit to the Inca city of Machu Picchu aboard the highest and most exclusive train category.
The trail that makes up the Lares Valley is located north of the city of Cusco, in the middle of the Andean mountain range. Its landscape is characterized mainly by a mosaic of images, including snow-capped mountains, extensive forests where the Ichu (Andean vegetation) mainly grows, turquoise lagoons, and various Andean villages that seem to have stopped in time, giving rise to traditional daily life. It’s important to know that the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru isn’t for everyone, as the total distance is around 40 km and must be covered over a three-day period. The hikes range from 5 to 7 hours, which always vary depending on the route chosen and the level of difficulty due to the geographical diversity. However, all this effort is rewarded, as the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru also concludes with an exclusive and unique visit to the city of Machu Picchu. The route first allows travelers to reach the town of Ollantaytambo and then continue aboard the Belmond Hiram Bingham or the Inca Rail First Class, which later connects to the town of Aguas Calientes and finally to Machu Picchu.
2.- LUXURY FEATURES
2.1.- Premium Accommodations
- Unlike the traditional option, the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru offers you the opportunity to enjoy nights in spacious tents, replacing sleeping bags with comfortable beds, with heating and permanent lighting, which is a great convenience considering its remote location.
- There is also the option of mountain accommodations known as eco-resorts. These are boutique lodge-style accommodations that integrate the landscape with traditional architecture, blending into the surroundings to create a unique combination and offering exclusive and modern amenities.
- Some of the Lares Luxury Trek routes in Peru allow you to spend at least one night inside glass domes. These domes are characterized primarily by their spaciousness, but with transparent glass instead of walls, giving you the opportunity to rest with a full view of the starry sky.
- All options feature the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing shower every day, thanks to the portable facilities provided by the support team, which include hot water and high-quality, eco-friendly amenities.
2.2.- Exclusive Amenities
- Another very important aspect is the food. During the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru, you will be accompanied by a professional chef who is responsible for the meticulous preparation of gourmet meals made with local, seasonal ingredients, as well as a selection of wines from which to choose.
- The support team consists of porters and horses who carry all luggage so that travelers can continue the trek without any weight issues, carrying only the personal items they feel comfortable
- Upon arrival at the designated accommodation or camp, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a massage session. A specialist within the group will be present to help you recover after each long day.
2.3.- Cultural Experiences
- During the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru, you’re sure to enjoy a personalized and intimate encounter with local families, helping you learn more about their lifestyle, traditions, and customs, passed down through generations. Each of these communities maintains its essence intact in its remote location.
- You can also participate in ceremonies or rituals of Andean origin, intended to give thanks to Mother Earth, or Pachamama, for all that she gives. This always depends on the season of the year in which you visit, but these are always led by a spiritual guide known as an Andean priest.
- You can learn various weaving, ceramics, and culinary techniques of ancestral origin, as most towns encourage interaction through in-person demonstrations, where travelers have the opportunity to interact directly with this art form.
- Every moment of the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru has been specially designed to provide the most exclusive and discerning travelers with the opportunity to enjoy complete cultural immersion, learning about the local culture and participating in daily activities for a closer connection.
3.- WHY CHOOSE THE LARES LUXURY TREK OVER OTHER OPTIONS?
Of all the trekking options and experiences available within the Andean region, the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru is recognized as one of the most exclusive and comfortable optional options when it comes to discovering more about the Peruvian Andes and the culture that remains alive. This place boasts a unique balance between nature and culture, showcased through various activities and moments enjoyed by each traveler. Compared to other options, this trek undoubtedly offers greater privacy and flexibility, complemented by high-quality services. Despite being in a remote location, it never neglects the essence of nature and the precious Andean communities.
3.1.- Comparison with the Inca Trail
- The clearest difference compared to the Inca Trail is that this version of the trek does not require a special permit or access control process. This trek offers greater availability and freedom when it comes to designing and planning the experience. However, it does require an entrance ticket to visit the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
- Due to its location, this experience has a lower percentage of crowds and fewer travelers, ensuring a more pristine nature experience and a closer connection with the opportunity to enjoy unique landscapes.
- The classic Inca Trail focuses on an immersive experience in history and nature, as the trek offers visits to various archaeological sites that date back to the Inca culture. The Lares Luxury Trek in Peru experience, on the other hand, seeks to connect travelers with the culture of Andean communities, which have living traditions passed down for generations.
- It is more flexible in terms of date options and scheduled departures, as it is not tied to a calendar or income availability. This allows the trip to be tailored to each traveler’s availability.
- With exclusive camping options and boutique lodges, the Lares Luxury Trek in Peru stands out for being a unique and comfortable experience that allows you to enjoy one of Peru’s most incredible destinations. Despite the location, comfort and exclusivity are never compromised.
3.2.- Comparison with the standard version
- The quality of service is clearly different. The standard version aims to allow travelers to connect with the culture in a way that is limited by the location. However, when considering the luxury version, more spacious premium tents, constant heating, private bathrooms, and a more modest style of food are included, making the experience even more enjoyable for travelers.
- More detailed planning is included, considering high-quality equipment for the activities, as well as improved options in the rest areas, including comfort accessories such as bedding; every detail is considered.
- In addition to exclusive services enjoyed after long days of hiking, here you can enjoy massage sessions, mountain swords at the boutique resorts, select beverages, and, of course, personalized attention at all times.
- The tour has a flexible pace and includes a private guide who fully adapts to each traveler’s interests and needs, ensuring complete satisfaction from the very beginning.
4.- DETAILED ITINERARY BREAKDOWN
4.1.- Pre-Trek Preparation in Cusco
Before starting this trek, travelers always arrive first in the city of Cusco, where they can enjoy an exclusive stay that prepares the mind and body. The goal is to enjoy not only the natural beauty but also the extensive cultural heritage of the ancient capital of the Inca culture. Once in the city, the first thing to consider is a suitable place to rest while the body adjusts to the altitude. For this purpose, exclusive options at five-star hotels, some of the best in the city, are considered, such as the Belmond Monasterio, Palacio del Inca, or JW Marriott. Of course, it’s also important to consider activities that don’t require excessive physical effort, such as hiking around the city or its surrounding areas. Visiting important sites such as the Temple of the Sun, the Cathedral, and even the collection of museums located within the city are also considered important.
Cusco is located at 3,400 meters above sea level, so it’s common to experience altitude sickness if it’s your first time visiting such a place. It’s always recommended to keep your body hydrated so it can oxygenate properly. You can supplement this by drinking herbal teas like coca tea, which greatly helps with altitude adjustment. Finally, it’s also important to monitor your diet and, during the first few days of your stay, only consider light meals like chicken. It’s also important to avoid alcohol. All of this will help make your hiking experience unique and incredible.
| “Escape to paradise with a touch of luxury.” |
4.2.- Day 01: Cusco to Lares Village
The first day of this adventure begins with pickup from your hotel in a private, luxury vehicle. You will depart from the city and head to the incredible Sacred Valley, where you can appreciate a unique combination of landscapes between snow-capped mountains and vast valleys where agriculture is still considered one of the main activities. You will also have the opportunity to visit traditional villages where you can enjoy brief stops to enjoy the views and a cultural visit, as well as learn about Andean rural life. The journey continues to the village known as Lares, which is quite popular and renowned for its natural hot springs surrounded by mountains. The best part is that inside the facilities, you can enjoy a traditional healing ceremony with a spiritual guide who will guide you throughout the ritual. Finally, the ceremony is complemented by a gourmet lunch outdoors with a direct view of the Andes mountain range.
Those where you enjoy the first day of camping. This version includes a premium camp with equipped tents distinguished by their spacious beds, heating, and complete top-quality equipment. Each traveler is welcomed with refreshments, and while time passes, a personalized orientation begins regarding the experience, which ends with a gourmet multi-course dinner and an incredible view under the stars, where there is also a special astronomical interpretation.
4.3.- Day 02: Lares to Ipsaycocha High Camp
This day is the most special as it is considered the moment of the trip where the up-close cultural encounters begin. Travelers have the opportunity to participate in local ancestral weaving demonstrations. Continuing the hike, they will visit extensive farms where llamas and alpacas are the main protagonists. They will interact directly in the homes of local families, where there are also handicraft options for those seeking to learn about this ancient technique. Meanwhile, the experienced guide leads the hiking group as they begin the ascent toward the Ipsaycocha Pass. During this trek, the support group, consisting of porters and horses, takes full responsibility for the luggage, ensuring that travelers do not carry anything that might hinder their journey, as this part of the trail provides a unique opportunity to take photographs of the vast mountains and also to appreciate the wildlife that lives in its natural environment.
The day culminates upon arrival at the exclusive campsite set up in front of Lake Ipsaycocha, where the views offer a unique panorama of the snow-capped peaks. However, there’s no need to worry about the details, as the tents are fully heated and have high-quality bedding, ensuring comfort while you rest. This is complemented by a gourmet mountain dinner accompanied by select wines, an evening of cocktails, and a nighttime bonfire where some of the most popular traditions and legends of this place are shared.
4.4.- Day 03: Ipsaycocha to Ollantaytambo
Our day begins quite early with the opportunity to have a photo shoot witnessing the sunrise over the mountains and its special reflection on the vast lake. For many travelers, this moment represents an ideal moment for personal reflection and observation, as well as an ideal time to appreciate wildlife while enjoying a delicious breakfast outdoors with a spectacular view. After packing, the descent begins through a cloud forest, and it’s clear how the microclimates change. This allows the environment to change as well, moving from the heights to a more tropical zone where orchids, birds, and a set of agricultural terraces that are still used by many Andean communities begin to appear. This opportunity to interact with people adds a special touch of culture to this trip and allows for a special connection.
Upon arriving at the town of Ollantaytambo, you have a reasonable amount of time to rest after the long journey. Upon arrival at the scheduled time, you board one of the trains available for this trip. For this, we consider the panoramic versions or the luxury train, which has various types of carriages, making this part of the trip a luxurious and exclusive cultural immersion while you enjoy the Andean landscape. Inside, you can enjoy various amenities while waiting to reach the town of Aguas Calientes, where a small group will board a private tourist bus to finally arrive at the accommodation located at the gateway to Machu Picchu. The Sanctuary Lodge is the best option to enjoy the Inca city in an exclusive way the next day. Here, you can enjoy a more elaborate dinner and a comfortable space to rest.
4.5.- Day 04: Machu Picchu Exploration
The trip finally allows you a privileged visit to the interior of the world wonder of Machu Picchu. You enter during the first hours of the day to take advantage of the low presence of visitors and thus enjoy the citadel without crowds. As we advance, our specialized guide will interpret the archaeological site in a professional manner, allowing you to learn about the beauty and importance of each of the enclosures, temples, terraces, viewpoints, and other spaces considered sacred. Although they are not traditionally considered sacred, you can always choose to include a visit to one of the natural viewpoints found in the citadel, also known as Huayna Picchu Mountain and Machu Picchu Mountain, where a panoramic photo will be the best reward of the entire trip. At the end of the visit, you will return by tourist bus to the town at the base of the mountain to board a train that will later allow you to return to the city of Cusco.
5.- RELAXATION IN HOT SPRINGS
“One of the most popular features of this experience is undoubtedly the presence of the hot springs located in the town of the same name, Lares. However, few people know that these waters are characterized by a large amount of minerals, which are considered curative for people suffering from muscle or respiratory pain.”
6.- FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
- How difficult is the Lares luxury trek compared to the Inca Trail?
This trek is considered moderately difficult, with a wide terrain and ascents of over 4,000 meters above sea level. However, the hikes are less demanding compared to the Inca Trail. It’s also important to note that the full-service trek includes porters and horses, who carry your luggage, making the experience more comfortable.
- How much does a luxury Lares trek cost?
Prices always vary depending on the season and the company you choose. However, an experience of this type can cost from $2000.00 dollars to $2500.00 dollars per person, always considering each traveler’s requests when personalizing details such as accommodations, transportation, and more.
- What’s the difference between luxury and standard Lares treks?
The traditional experience seeks to provide you with the opportunity to immerse yourself in the culture; however, the luxury version offers the same benefits, considering the comforts and exclusivity of Ica, including premium accommodations, gourmet meals, assistance from private guides, personalized transfers, and other exclusive services.
- How long is the Lares luxury trek?
The traditional version lasts 4 days and 3 nights, also including a visit to the Inca city of Machu Picchu. However, there are other, much more extensive versions that can last up to 7 days.
- What’s the maximum group size for luxury Lares treks?
There is a standard limit of 10 people for this type of experience, with the intention of making it more exclusive and personalized. Of course, if there are more travelers, we opt to increase the number of guides so that each group can have a parallel experience.
- Can the Lares luxury trek be customized?
Yes, this itinerary is primarily tailored to each traveler’s interests and needs, as well as their pace to enjoy it properly. This is the main reason why each itinerary may vary.
- Is the Lares trek suitable for beginners?
Yes, this experience is designed for all types of travelers; however, it is always recommended that travelers be in moderate physical condition and willing to walk around five to seven hours a day.
- What’s included in a luxury Lares trek package?
As a luxury experience, it also includes all services, including premium accommodations, gourmet food, selected beverages, support staff, private transfers, admission to sites such as Machu Picchu, train tickets, full assistance from a professional guide, and ongoing communication. If you require more specific services, you can request them during the planning process.
- How far in advance should I book a luxury Lares trek?
It is recommended to book 3 or 4 months in advance, as there are no permit restrictions and you do need an entrance ticket to the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.
Now you are ready to begin the best trip of your life in one of the most important cultural destinations in the Peruvian Andes. Auri Peru can be your best ally from the planning stage, considering every important detail you need and allowing you to enjoy this wonderful destination in a special way. Contact us and you’ll enjoy a unique trip.
“A world of luxury awaits.”
