Day 2 is considered the most challenging yet rewarding part of the trek, as we ascend from 3,700 m (12,139 ft) to 4,700 m (15,420 ft)—the highest point of all Lares treks.

Your day begins early at 5:00 am, when our support team will wake you with a warm drink—coca tea or coffee—delivered directly to your tent. After packing your personal belongings, you’ll enjoy a nutritious breakfast prepared by our expert chefs before starting the hike around 6:30 am.

The ascent takes approximately 4 hours uphill, but every step is rewarded with breathtaking scenery: colorful lagoons, dramatic rocky landscapes, snow-capped peaks, and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully, cared for by local Andean shepherds who often spend their time weaving traditional textiles.

Upon reaching the Pachacutec Pass (4,700 m / 15,420 ft), you will be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views and a close view of the majestic Pachacutec Mountain. Here, we will also perform a special Andean ceremony (offering to the mountain spirits)—a unique cultural moment that connects you deeply with the traditions of the Andes.

After enjoying the summit, we descend for about 1 hour to Coyalago, where we will have lunch beside a beautiful lagoon. Following lunch, we continue hiking for approximately 1.5 hours toward our campsite.

Along the way, you’ll admire stunning waterfalls and witness local families preparing for the evening in this remote Andean landscape.

We arrive at our campsite in the Quiswarani Community (3,700 m / 12,139 ft), where you’ll enjoy a warm tea time (“happy hour”), followed by a delicious dinner and a peaceful night of camping surrounded by nature.

Today is a truly special day as we make our way to Aguas Calientes, combining adventure, nature, and relaxation—perfect for mountain lovers.

We start early at 5:00 am with a warm cup of coca tea, followed by breakfast before beginning the final stage of our trek around 6:00 am.

The day begins with an approximate 2-hour uphill hike to the Cuncani Pass (4,200 m / 13,779 ft). From this incredible viewpoint, you’ll enjoy spectacular panoramic views over the Cuncani Valley, with its colorful lagoons surrounded by majestic mountains.

If you’re lucky, you may spot chinchillas and Andean foxes, and you will certainly see plenty of alpacas and llamas, often close enough for amazing photos.

After reaching the summit, we descend for about 2 hours to the Cuncani community, where we will enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

In the afternoon, our private transport will take you to the Lares Hot Springs, where you’ll have time to relax and enjoy the natural medicinal waters—a perfect way to recover after the trek.

We then continue by car for approximately 2.5 hours to Ollantaytambo, where you will have dinner before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, you will check into your hotel and rest, preparing for the highlight of your journey: your visit to Machu Picchu the following day.

Most travelers who visit Machu Picchu arrive by train, focused mainly on reaching the site itself. However, in your case, after completing the Lares Trek, your experience will be much deeper—you will not only visit Machu Picchu, but also truly understand and feel the legacy of the Inca civilization.

After an early breakfast, you will take the bus to Machu Picchu, a scenic journey of approximately 25 minutes to the main entrance. Our goal is to arrive around 6:00 am, allowing you to enjoy the site with fewer crowds and, if weather permits, witness a breathtaking sunrise over Machu Picchu.

Once inside, you will have some time to take photos before starting a guided tour of approximately 2.5 hours, where our expert guide will explain the history, architecture, and mysteries of this iconic Inca citadel.

After the guided tour, you will have free time to explore on your own and fully enjoy the magic of the Lost City of the Incas.

If you wish, you can also hike to:

• Sun Gate (Inti Punku)
• Inca Bridge

Additionally, if you have booked in advance, you may climb:

• Huayna Picchu
• Machu Picchu Mountain

After completing all activities, you will return by bus to Aguas Calientes, where you can enjoy a well-deserved lunch.

In the afternoon, you will board the train back toward Cusco. Upon arrival, our team will transfer you by car directly to your hotel, marking the end of an unforgettable journey through the Andes.