4-DAY LLAMA RETREAT TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
4-DAY LLAMA RETREAT TREK TO MACHU PICCHU
Lares, Perú
Up to 10 in group
4 Days Package (3 nights)
Retreat Highlights
- Authentic Llama Trekking Experience
- Hike alongside friendly llamas through breathtaking Andean landscapes while learning about their important role in local culture and traditions that have been preserved for centuries.
- Immersive Cultural Encounters
- Connect with Indigenous communities, visit traditional villages and local markets, and gain a deeper understanding of the Andean way of life through meaningful interactions with local families.
- Relax in the Natural Hot Springs of Lares
- After days of trekking through the Andes, enjoy a well-deserved soak in the famous Lares Hot Springs. Surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, these mineral-rich thermal waters provide the perfect opportunity to relax your muscles, recharge your energy, and experience one of the region's most treasured natural attractions.
- Spiritual & Wellness Journey
- Experience the spiritual essence of the Andes through a traditional Pachamama ceremony, moments of reflection in nature, and a relaxing visit to the natural hot springs of Lares.
- Machu Picchu & Hidden Andean Trails
- Explore remote mountain paths far from the crowds before reaching the awe-inspiring citadel of Machu Picchu, the perfect finale to an unforgettable adventure through Peru's sacred landscapes.
About this Retreat
Your Guides
Alfredo Huari, a soft-spoken but resolute young man who was born in the tiny Indigenous community of Chillipahua, far from the city of Cusco. His father, mule driver Ignacio Huari, was and continues to be a great example for him, both sharing a passion for preserving the local cultural and natural environment and creating beautiful experiences for visitors to the area.
Alfredo studied tourism in the city of Cusco, mastered the English language and worked as a tour guide at several respected tourist agencies in Cusco. During the time he worked for other tour providers, he saw how the services could be more personalized and how much visitors wanted to get really close to the indigenous people and their culture, a desire that was often not met by the tours and experiences they were offered. This is what motivated him to start guiding, and since then, feedback from clients confirms that we have been consistently meeting or exceeding visitors’ expectations.
Details of this retreat
An Authentic Andean Journey with Llamas, Living Culture & Spiritual Connection
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes, where breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancestral traditions, sacred ceremonies, and meaningful encounters with local communities create a unique path to Machu Picchu.
The Llama Retreat Trek is more than just a hike; it's an immersive experience that blends adventure, culture, spirituality, and an authentic connection to the Andean way of life. Accompanied by llamas and surrounded by snow-capped peaks, crystalline lagoons, and remote indigenous villages, you'll trek along ancient trails while discovering traditions and customs that have been preserved for generations.
Throughout the trek, you'll have the opportunity to interact with local families, relax in the soothing hot springs of Lares, and experience the tranquility of the Andes far from the crowds. This thoughtfully designed trek offers the perfect balance of nature, cultural immersion, personal reflection, and comfort.
Your adventure culminates with a guided tour of the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, where the beauty, history, and mystery of the Inca civilization provide a truly unforgettable end to this extraordinary Andean experience.
Why llamas: Llamas are currently an underutilized eco-friendly way to transport gear and supplies in the high mountains. With the growth of tourism, vulnerable mountain ecosystems are in jeopardy and require responsible management. This is why we use the native llamas just as the ancient Incas did.
In ancient times llamas were key to the success and survival of the Inca culture. Now we can utilize them to carry our supplies with minimal impact. Once on the trail, you will truly understand the power of these animals and why people have been packing with them for centuries, it’s just in their DNA. Their feet have a leather pad similar to that of a dog, and a split toe that allows for larger surface area and gripping ability. When it comes to rocky, steep, and tough-to-navigate terrain llamas excel where some pack stock might fall short. They are smaller than horses and thus they eat and drink much less in comparison, making them much more low-impact and eco-friendly animals.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Peruvian Andes, where breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancestral traditions, sacred ceremonies, and meaningful encounters with local communities create a unique path to Machu Picchu.
The Llama Retreat Trek is more than just a hike; it's an immersive experience that blends adventure, culture, spirituality, and an authentic connection to the Andean way of life. Accompanied by llamas and surrounded by snow-capped peaks, crystalline lagoons, and remote indigenous villages, you'll trek along ancient trails while discovering traditions and customs that have been preserved for generations.
Throughout the trek, you'll have the opportunity to interact with local families, relax in the soothing hot springs of Lares, and experience the tranquility of the Andes far from the crowds. This thoughtfully designed trek offers the perfect balance of nature, cultural immersion, personal reflection, and comfort.
Your adventure culminates with a guided tour of the legendary citadel of Machu Picchu, where the beauty, history, and mystery of the Inca civilization provide a truly unforgettable end to this extraordinary Andean experience.
Why llamas: Llamas are currently an underutilized eco-friendly way to transport gear and supplies in the high mountains. With the growth of tourism, vulnerable mountain ecosystems are in jeopardy and require responsible management. This is why we use the native llamas just as the ancient Incas did.
In ancient times llamas were key to the success and survival of the Inca culture. Now we can utilize them to carry our supplies with minimal impact. Once on the trail, you will truly understand the power of these animals and why people have been packing with them for centuries, it’s just in their DNA. Their feet have a leather pad similar to that of a dog, and a split toe that allows for larger surface area and gripping ability. When it comes to rocky, steep, and tough-to-navigate terrain llamas excel where some pack stock might fall short. They are smaller than horses and thus they eat and drink much less in comparison, making them much more low-impact and eco-friendly animals.
Schedule
ITINERARY
Day 1: Cusco/Urubamba - Chupani - Cuyoq
Sacred Valley Exploration & First Andean Encounter
Your adventure begins with a 6:00 a.m. pickup in Cusco or Urubamba.
We recommend spending the night before your trek in Urubamba, as it's at a lower altitude than Cusco, making it one of the best places to acclimatize and allowing for a more comfortable start to your trip.
As we trek through the Sacred Valley, we'll stop at several panoramic viewpoints to admire spectacular landscapes and take memorable photos. Depending on the season and local activities, we may also have the opportunity to visit and interact with a community of traditional weavers in Chinchero, where ancestral textile techniques have been preserved for generations.
Upon arrival in Urubamba, we'll enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
On other days, we will explore the local market, which is open daily and offers a taste of the Sacred Valley's culinary traditions.
Around 9:00 a.m., we will continue our journey to the remote Andean community of Chupani, where our trekking experience begins.
As we ascend ancient mountain trails, we will hike through spectacular valleys, traditional farmlands, native vegetation, and panoramic views of snow capped peaks. Along the way, your guide will share stories about Andean cosmology, local traditions, and the spiritual significance of the surrounding mountains, known as the Apus.
After approximately 4 to 5 hours of hiking, we will arrive at our comfortable mountain lodge in Cuyoq.
Before dinner, guests are invited to participate in a ceremony offering thanks to Mother Earth and asking for blessings for the journey ahead.
Enjoy a hot dinner prepared with local ingredients and spend a peaceful evening surrounded by the serenity of the Andes.
Distance: 8–10 km / 5–6 mi
Steps: 14,580 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 4–5 hours
Lowest altitude: 2,870 m / 9,416 ft (Urubamba)
Highest altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Elevation Gain: + 500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Cuyoq - Indigenous Community of Cuncani
Walking with llamas Through Sacred Landscapes
Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy a nutritious Andean breakfast.
Our hike begins between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., following ancient trails used by local communities for centuries. Today's trek offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery on the route. We'll cross high-altitude valleys, crystal-clear streams, glacial lakes, and traditional pastures where llamas and alpacas graze freely.
A special moment of the day will be our interaction with the llamas that accompany us. These gentle animals have played a vital role in Andean culture for thousands of years and continue to symbolize harmony, resilience, and connection with nature.
Along the way, we'll have the opportunity to learn about traditional herding practices, medicinal plants, and the daily lives of the local families who inhabit these remote mountains. After approximately 6 to 7 hours of hiking, we will arrive at the Indigenous Community of Cuncani, one of the most authentic and culturally well-preserved villages in the Lares region.
In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked meal and share stories while experiencing genuine Andean hospitality.
Distance: Approx. 12–14 km / 7.5–8.7 mi
Steps: 21,060 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 6–7 hours
Lowest altitude: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
Highest altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Elevation Gain: +650 m/ +2,133 ft
Campsite Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Day 3: Cuncani - Local School Visit - Lares Hot Springs - Ollantaytambo
Culture, Community & Relaxation
After breakfast, we begin the day with a meaningful visit to the local school in Cuncani . This experience provides insight into the educational life of children living in remote Andean communities and creates an opportunity for respectful cultural exchange.
Following the visit, we continue toward the town of Lares, famous for its natural hot springs.
Upon arrival, you will have time to relax in the therapeutic thermal waters while surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. The mineral-rich waters are the perfect reward after several days of trekking and are known for their relaxing and restorative properties.
After lunch, we travel through the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved living Inca towns in Peru.
We expect to arrive around 4:00 PM.
The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore the charming cobblestone streets, traditional Inca architecture, local cafés, artisan shops, and vibrant atmosphere of this historic village.
Enjoy a comfortable night's rest in Ollantaytambo in preparation for the final highlight of your journey: Machu Picchu.
Distance: Approx. 4–5 km / 2.5–3 mi
Steps: 8,100 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 1 -2 hours
Lowest altitude: 3,850 m / 12,631 ft
Highest altitude: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft
Elevation Gain: +50m / +164 ft
Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
The Grand Finale : Machu Picchu
Your final day begins early as you board one of the first trains from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying spectacular views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River along the way.
Upon arrival, we take the shuttle bus to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. Accompanied by your expert guide, you will explore the most important sectors of this world-famous Inca sanctuary while learning about its fascinating history, architecture, and spiritual significance.
Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and cloud forest landscapes, take time to admire the breathtaking scenery, capture unforgettable photographs, and reflect on the incredible journey through the Andes that has led you to this extraordinary place.
After the guided tour, we return to Aguas Calientes before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will take you to Urubamba or Cusco.
As your adventure comes to an end, you will leave with unforgettable memories, authentic cultural experiences, and a deep connection to the spirit of the Andes.
Distance: 4 km / 2,4 miles
Steps: 6,480 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 2–3 hours (guided tour)
Lowest altitude: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft (Aguas Calientes)
Highest altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft (Machu Picchu)
Elevation gain:+390 m (2,132 ft)
Difficulty: Easy
Important information regarding Machu Picchu entrance tickets:
If you book several months in advance, you may be able to secure Circuit 2 at the time of confirmation, as it is the most popular choice. However, entry to Machu Picchu is subject to availability on the official platform, and you may be assigned Circuit 1, 2, or 3. Regardless of the circuit assigned, we guarantee that your visit will be carefully organized to provide you with the best possible experience within the Inca citadel.
Day 1: Cusco/Urubamba - Chupani - Cuyoq
Sacred Valley Exploration & First Andean Encounter
Your adventure begins with a 6:00 a.m. pickup in Cusco or Urubamba.
We recommend spending the night before your trek in Urubamba, as it's at a lower altitude than Cusco, making it one of the best places to acclimatize and allowing for a more comfortable start to your trip.
As we trek through the Sacred Valley, we'll stop at several panoramic viewpoints to admire spectacular landscapes and take memorable photos. Depending on the season and local activities, we may also have the opportunity to visit and interact with a community of traditional weavers in Chinchero, where ancestral textile techniques have been preserved for generations.
Upon arrival in Urubamba, we'll enjoy a delicious breakfast prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
On other days, we will explore the local market, which is open daily and offers a taste of the Sacred Valley's culinary traditions.
Around 9:00 a.m., we will continue our journey to the remote Andean community of Chupani, where our trekking experience begins.
As we ascend ancient mountain trails, we will hike through spectacular valleys, traditional farmlands, native vegetation, and panoramic views of snow capped peaks. Along the way, your guide will share stories about Andean cosmology, local traditions, and the spiritual significance of the surrounding mountains, known as the Apus.
After approximately 4 to 5 hours of hiking, we will arrive at our comfortable mountain lodge in Cuyoq.
Before dinner, guests are invited to participate in a ceremony offering thanks to Mother Earth and asking for blessings for the journey ahead.
Enjoy a hot dinner prepared with local ingredients and spend a peaceful evening surrounded by the serenity of the Andes.
Distance: 8–10 km / 5–6 mi
Steps: 14,580 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 4–5 hours
Lowest altitude: 2,870 m / 9,416 ft (Urubamba)
Highest altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Elevation Gain: + 500 m
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2: Cuyoq - Indigenous Community of Cuncani
Walking with llamas Through Sacred Landscapes
Wake up to the sounds of nature and enjoy a nutritious Andean breakfast.
Our hike begins between 6:00 and 7:00 a.m., following ancient trails used by local communities for centuries. Today's trek offers some of the most breathtaking mountain scenery on the route. We'll cross high-altitude valleys, crystal-clear streams, glacial lakes, and traditional pastures where llamas and alpacas graze freely.
A special moment of the day will be our interaction with the llamas that accompany us. These gentle animals have played a vital role in Andean culture for thousands of years and continue to symbolize harmony, resilience, and connection with nature.
Along the way, we'll have the opportunity to learn about traditional herding practices, medicinal plants, and the daily lives of the local families who inhabit these remote mountains. After approximately 6 to 7 hours of hiking, we will arrive at the Indigenous Community of Cuncani, one of the most authentic and culturally well-preserved villages in the Lares region.
In the evening, enjoy a home-cooked meal and share stories while experiencing genuine Andean hospitality.
Distance: Approx. 12–14 km / 7.5–8.7 mi
Steps: 21,060 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 6–7 hours
Lowest altitude: 3,650 m / 11,975 ft
Highest altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 ft
Elevation Gain: +650 m/ +2,133 ft
Campsite Altitude: 3,800 m / 12,467 ft
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Day 3: Cuncani - Local School Visit - Lares Hot Springs - Ollantaytambo
Culture, Community & Relaxation
After breakfast, we begin the day with a meaningful visit to the local school in Cuncani . This experience provides insight into the educational life of children living in remote Andean communities and creates an opportunity for respectful cultural exchange.
Following the visit, we continue toward the town of Lares, famous for its natural hot springs.
Upon arrival, you will have time to relax in the therapeutic thermal waters while surrounded by beautiful mountain scenery. The mineral-rich waters are the perfect reward after several days of trekking and are known for their relaxing and restorative properties.
After lunch, we travel through the Sacred Valley toward Ollantaytambo, one of the best-preserved living Inca towns in Peru.
We expect to arrive around 4:00 PM.
The remainder of the afternoon is free to explore the charming cobblestone streets, traditional Inca architecture, local cafés, artisan shops, and vibrant atmosphere of this historic village.
Enjoy a comfortable night's rest in Ollantaytambo in preparation for the final highlight of your journey: Machu Picchu.
Distance: Approx. 4–5 km / 2.5–3 mi
Steps: 8,100 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 1 -2 hours
Lowest altitude: 3,850 m / 12,631 ft
Highest altitude: 2,792 m / 9,160 ft
Elevation Gain: +50m / +164 ft
Accommodation: Hotel in Ollantaytambo
Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4: Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu - Cusco
The Grand Finale : Machu Picchu
Your final day begins early as you board one of the first trains from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, enjoying spectacular views of the Sacred Valley and the Urubamba River along the way.
Upon arrival, we take the shuttle bus to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. Accompanied by your expert guide, you will explore the most important sectors of this world-famous Inca sanctuary while learning about its fascinating history, architecture, and spiritual significance.
Surrounded by dramatic mountain peaks and cloud forest landscapes, take time to admire the breathtaking scenery, capture unforgettable photographs, and reflect on the incredible journey through the Andes that has led you to this extraordinary place.
After the guided tour, we return to Aguas Calientes before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will take you to Urubamba or Cusco.
As your adventure comes to an end, you will leave with unforgettable memories, authentic cultural experiences, and a deep connection to the spirit of the Andes.
Distance: 4 km / 2,4 miles
Steps: 6,480 approx steps
Hours of hiking: 2–3 hours (guided tour)
Lowest altitude: 2,040 m / 6,692 ft (Aguas Calientes)
Highest altitude: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft (Machu Picchu)
Elevation gain:+390 m (2,132 ft)
Difficulty: Easy
Important information regarding Machu Picchu entrance tickets:
If you book several months in advance, you may be able to secure Circuit 2 at the time of confirmation, as it is the most popular choice. However, entry to Machu Picchu is subject to availability on the official platform, and you may be assigned Circuit 1, 2, or 3. Regardless of the circuit assigned, we guarantee that your visit will be carefully organized to provide you with the best possible experience within the Inca citadel.
Note: Schedule is approximate and may change
Getting Here
Wari Retreats, Lares, Perú
Directions
CUZ Teniente Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport
Accommodation
2 nights camping 1 night hotel
Program Price
Venue & Amenities
A/C in Rooms
Free Wifi
Spa
Sauna
Pool
Towels
Free Parking
Kitchen
Tour Assistance
Hot Tub
Coffee/Tea
Cafe
Restaurant
Fitness Center
Yoga Studio
Housekeeping
Bicycles For Rent
The Sacred Valley, Cusco, Peru
It's not luck that this place is called sacred. The whole region of Cusco has a mystical feel to it. The moment you step out of the airport, you'll feel that the energy here is special. Even though there's hustle and bustle as you drive through the city on your way to the valley, you'll also notice a quiet energy.
There's palpable peace emanating from the Andes mountains in this region, and the feeling of peace here is undeniable.
Cusco comes from the Quechua wo
It's not luck that this place is called sacred. The whole region of Cusco has a mystical feel to it. The moment you step out of the airport, you'll feel that the energy here is special. Even though there's hustle and bustle as you drive through the city on your way to the valley, you'll also notice a quiet energy.
There's palpable peace emanating from the Andes mountains in this region, and the feeling of peace here is undeniable.
Cusco comes from the Quechua wo
Meals
Menu Types
Vegan
Vegetarian
Pescetarian
Ayurvedic
Includes Meat
Organic
Gluten Free
Dairy Free
Nut Free
You will have a memorable dining experience while you’re on the Trail with us. We strive to provide you healthy and sustainable food at every single meal; the products are grown on our organic farm.
What's Included
- Briefing
- - Your adventure will begin with a personalized meeting with our professional guide at your hotel.
- Transportation
- - Airport pickup from Cusco to your hotel (round trip).
- - Tourist bus and transfer to the start of the adventure.
- - Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round trip).
- - Tourist train departing from Ollantaytambo.
- - Tourist train departing from Aguas Calientes in the afternoon.
- - Pick-up at the train station and transfer to your hotel in Cusco or Urubamba.
- Staff during the Tour
- - Professional tour guide fluent in English.
- - Professional chef and kitchen assistant.
- - Muleteers
- Entrance Fees
- - Tourist ticket to Machu Picchu.
- Note: Entrance fees are subject to availability, and we will confirm availability at the time of your booking.
- Camping Equipment
- - Eureka high-altitude tent, waterproof and thermal, with capacity for up to 4 people (although for greater comfort, we only used it for two).
- - Sleeping bag (clean and warm).
- - Inflatable mattress (Therm-a-Rest).
- - Dining tent.
- - Kitchen tent.
- - Toilet tent and portable toilet.
- - Camping tables and chairs.
- - First aid kit.
What's Not Included
- - Hotels in Cusco
- - Tips
- - Travel insurance
- - Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain (Optional)
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