Lares

Trek through remote, roadless Quechua-speaking villages untouched by modern developments, soak in mineral-rich volcanic hot springs, and cross high mountain passes with herds of alpacas and llamas.

Key Sites & Experiences Included:

• Lares Hot Springs (3,200m / 10,498ft): Relax in natural, volcanic mineral pools with temperatures ranging from cool to hot.
• Pachacutec / Condor Pass Summit (4,680m / 15,354ft): Cross the highest point of the trek with 360-degree views of alpine lakes, waterfalls, and Pitusiray Mountain (5,700m / 18,700ft).
• Off-Grid Village of Cancha Cancha (3,750m / 12,303ft): Explore an isolated hamlet with traditional stone and grass-thatched architecture, completely free of cars and electricity.
• Meet Andean Families & Quechua Culture: Connect directly with local Quechua-speaking families, visit village elementary schools, and see traditional hand-woven textiles made from llama and alpaca wool.
• Maras Salt Mines (3,380m / 11,090ft): Tour over 3,000 terraced salt evaporation pools fed by a subterranean saline spring and continuously worked by local families since pre-Inca times.
• Machu Picchu Citadel (Circuit 2): End with a 2-hour guided tour of the ancient sanctuary (2,430m / 7,972ft), including the classic postcard photo vantage poin

Descend from high alpine tundra into the warm, fertile Sacred Valley before visiting historic salt pans and catching the scenic train to Machu Picchu.

Key Sites & Experiences Included:

• Huaran Valley Descent: A downhill walk transitioning into fruit orchards, corn fields, and warm valleys.
• Maras Salt Mines (Salineras): Over 3,000 terraced evaporation pools fed by a natural saline spring, in continuous use since pre-Inca times.
• Ollantaytambo: Exploration of the “Living Inca Town” before taking the evening train to Aguas Calientes.
• Machu Picchu Citadel (Circuit 2): Guided tour of the lost city including classic vantage points, temples, and agricultural terraces.