The Upper Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure is a journey into the soul of the Andes. Its thoughtfully crafted itinerary allows travelers to intimately discover a place that took centuries to create and has remained unchanged. This lodge-to-lodge experience is a gateway to the lesser-explored regions of Peru, where ancient traditions thrive and natural beauty abounds.
The Lares adventure combines immersive hikes, visits to traditional Andean communities, and stays at deluxe lodges carefully positioned to highlight the area’s extraordinary heritage. Each lodge provides a warm and welcoming retreat, offering travelers the perfect blend of comfort, cultural connection, and exploration.
Lamay Lodge: Your Gateway to the Sacred Valley
Nestled in the heart of the Sacred Valley at 9,709 feet (2,960 meters), Lamay Lodge serves as the starting point for your journey. The lodge’s tranquil setting and thoughtful design create a serene atmosphere where guests can unwind and acclimatize before embarking on their adventure.
Surrounded by lush gardens and the charming town of Lamay, the lodge offers a perfect introduction to the region’s vibrant culture. Guests can explore nearby archaeological sites like Pisac or visit local villages such as Chinchero where age-old weaving techniques are still practiced. After a day of exploration, enjoy a gourmet meal featuring locally sourced ingredients and relax in the outdoor hot tub beneath the starry Andean sky.
Huacahuasi Lodge: A Remote Sanctuary
Perched at 12,585 feet (3,835 meters), Huacahuasi Lodge provides a deep connection to the Andean way of life. Located in the remote Lares Valley, this lodge is a testament to the partnership between MLP and the local community. Together, they have built a model of tourism that creates immersive experiences for guests while providing sustainable economic support for the Huacahuasi community at-large.
Here guests have the opportunity to engage with highland communities, learning about traditional weaving techniques and Quechua customs. The lodge’s architecture reflects the heritage of the region, blending traditional materials with modern comforts, including private outdoor hot tubs overlooking the town below.
Las Qolqas: A Signature Partner Lodge
Las Qolqas Lodge, the third stop on the Upper Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure, is a tranquil retreat. This partner eco-lodge offers guests an immersive experience that combines comfort with sustainability, set against the backdrop of the ancient Incan storage structures, or “qolqas,” from which the lodge takes its name. Its location, above the historic town of Ollantaytambo, serves as the perfect base before embarking on the train ride to Machu Picchu.
Conclusion:
The lodges of the Upper Sacred Valley and Lares Adventure are more than places to rest; they are gateways to the region’s history, culture, and landscapes—a journey into the soul of the Andes.
