Prepare for your Sacred Valley & Lares adventure with answers to common questions about difficulty, altitude, lodges, packing, flexibility, and what to expect on the journey to Machu Picchu. Our Travel Specialists are also available to support you at any stage of your planning
The 5-day program offers a more condensed journey through Pisaq, the Lares Valley, Huacahuasi and Ollantaytambo before continuing to Machu Picchu.
The 7-day program includes additional time in the Sacred Valley and Huacahuasi. It also offers more activity choices, including Chinchero, Moray and Maras, a cooking class, a short waterfall hike and an optional challenging full-day trek from Quiswarani to Cuncani.
Both programs include Machu Picchu and follow the same lodge-based approach.
The level of activity depends largely on the experiences you select.
Options range from cultural visits and easy walks to moderate hikes of approximately four hours. The 7-day program also offers a challenging 6.5-hour high-mountain trek for more experienced hikers.
Previous trekking experience is not required for the standard program, but a reasonable level of fitness is recommended for guests choosing the more demanding hikes.
Yes. Flexibility is one of the defining features of this journey. On several days, guests may choose between hiking and cultural experiences such as visiting local communities, traditional markets, archaeological sites, artisan centers and Andean villages.
The available options vary by day, and some activities may be subject to availability or an additional cost. Your guide will explain each choice so you can select the experience that suits you best.
We recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before departure to begin acclimatizing.
The highest lodge on the journey is Huacahuasi Lodge, located at 3,835 m or 12,585 ft. During your first days at altitude, drink plenty of water, eat light meals, avoid excessive alcohol and limit strenuous activity.
Your guides are experienced in recognizing altitude-related symptoms and will monitor your wellbeing throughout the journey.
Ground transportation and meals specified in the itinerary are included from the beginning of the journey until the return to Cusco.
Airport transfers and accommodations before or after the program are not automatically included but may be arranged through your Travel Specialist.
Meals during the experience are included and food accommodations can be applied. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and most dietary requirements can be accommodated with advance notice. Guests should inform their Travel Specialist of any allergies, intolerances or dietary restrictions before arriving in Peru.
You will carry only a daypack containing your water, waterproof layers, sun protection, camera and personal essentials.
Your luggage will be transported between lodges. For the Machu Picchu portion of the journey, train regulations permit a maximum of 10 kg or 22 lb of luggage per guest. Additional luggage can be stored securely at your hotel in Cusco.
Reserve your Sacred Valley & Lares Adventure
Starting At $2,495
Your trip includes accommodation, full-board dining, expert guides, excursions, entrance tickets and transportation.
Starting At $2,495
Your trip includes accommodation, full-board dining, expert guides, excursions, entrance tickets and transportation.