This trek is an excellent alternative for those who want to get off the ‘beaten track’. This trail is still mainly used by the locals and less a commercially trek like the Inca-Trail. You will have the opportunity to visit authentic Andean communities, while being surrounded by terraced valleys, astonishing snow-covered mountains, glaciers and lakes. Here the farmers still work on their lands as their ancestors did, talk to the “Apus (sacred mountains). The trek begins from a small village in the Sacred Valley and ascends over two passes, walking through traditional and colorful villages, passing relaxing hot springs with an unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu.
1st day: Huaran – Cancha Cancha
At 5 am, you will be picked up at the hotel by our private transport, to take you to Huaran in the Sacred Valley, where we will have breakfast. We also meet with the horsemen and horses, to carry all the necessary luggage. From Huaran, our trail ascents steadily for 4 hours, following the river Cancha Cancha to a small community of the same name. Along the way we’ll be able to see the traditional farmland of the locals, enjoy the view into the impressive valley of the river. The vegetation is really interesting due to its abounding wildlife. Cancha Cancha is at 3,800 m and the only Andean village that lacks modern technology. With no cars or electricity, this village is a beautiful place to enjoy nature while learning about the lifestyle of the locals. You can see how they raise their guinea pigs. You will also learn about their traditional hand-woven textiles, made of llama and alpaca wool. Cancha Cancha is also our first campsite and we will have lunch and dinner there.
2nd day: Cancha Cancha – Quishuarani
This day will be the most challenging day of the trek. We will leave Cancha Cancha in the morning and continue up the valley, passing small thatched stone houses. After half an hour, the trail flattens out before we climb steepy up to the Pachacutec Pass at 4,758m. From this pass, you’ll be rewarded with superb views of Pachacutec Lake and the snowy peak of Pitusiray. The trail continues for a while along a narrow ridge, until it descends to a beautiful isolated glacial lake, where we will have lunch. On the way to our night camp at Quisuarani at 3,700 m, we will see several waterfalls, surrounded by amazing landscapes.
3rd day: Quisuarani – Hot Springs
After our breakfast we walk down to the village Lares, known for its medicinal hot springs, where we can enjoy a well-earned hot bath. After lunch, we go by car to Ollantaytambo, where you have time to explore the historic town or even the amazing ruins, a site that is mostly intact and showing the typical inca- architecture. In the late afternoon, we go by train to Aguas Calientes, located at the base of Machu Picchu. Here we enjoy a tasty diner and stay overnight.
4th dayFourth day: Machu Picchu!
Ahead, an unforgettable day. For those, who are not too tired yet, can hike 1 1/2 hours to Machu Picchu or just take a short bus ride. When you up early, you might witness a magnificent sunrise at this ancient Inca city. At Machu Picchu, you will have a guided tour for approximately 2 hours to all important sites of this amazing place and afterwards you will have free time to explore this mysterious city by yourself.
In the afternoon, you will receive your train tickets from the tour guide and head back to Cusco or book another night at this incredible place.
