Embarking on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu with Bamba Travel was a journey that went beyond the physical realm. As an interior designer hungry for unconventional inspiration, I anticipated an adventure that would not only test my endurance but also open my eyes to the profound design embedded in nature and culture. This four-day exploration turned out to be a saga of discovery, weaving together the threads of history, tradition, and the unparalleled beauty of the Andean landscape.
Day 1: Cuzco to Wakawasi - A Symphony of Nature's Palette
The inaugural day, commencing with a pre-dawn pick-up, set the stage for what lay ahead. Lares Town, our starting point, greeted us with promises of natural wonders and cultural encounters. The Hot Springs, a therapeutic prelude to our ascent, offered a glimpse into the therapeutic harmony the locals shared with their surroundings. The subsequent 6-hour trek to Wakawasi, punctuated by a zigzagging climb, unfolded a symphony of glaciers, wildlife, and traditional Quechua villages. As I marveled at the views and immersed myself in the unique way of life, my perspective on design began to shift.
Day 2: Wakawasi to Patacancha - A Canvas of Peaks and Valleys
Day 2, characterized by a 4-hour ascent to Ipsayccocha Pass, became a canvas of peaks and valleys. Standing at 4,400 meters, the pass provided a vantage point for reflection, surrounded by the untouched beauty of the Andes. The descent to Patacancha, adorned with encounters with llamas and alpacas, felt like descending into a living painting of vibrant crop plantations. Camping in the midst of this natural spectacle became a moment of communion with ancient traditions, a theme that would echo throughout the trek.
Day 3: Patacancha to Aguas Calientes - Bridging Time and Tradition
Day 3 unfolded as a journey through time, bridging ancient traditions with modern wonders. The 4-hour walk to Ollantaytambo became a transition from the serene heights of Patacancha to the bustling energy of Aguas Calientes. A train journey whisked us away, providing a moment to reflect on the cultural tapestry woven during the trek. Exploring the streets of Aguas Calientes, I found unexpected design inspiration in the fusion of local charm and tourist vibrancy, a juxtaposition that fueled my creative spirit.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu - Unveiling the Mysteries in Stone
The grand finale awaited as we ascended to Machu Picchu in the ethereal morning mist. A guided tour unveiled the historical richness of this ancient city, and as I navigated its stone alleys, I couldn’t help but marvel at the architectural ingenuity of the past. The return journey, marked by a visit to the local marketplace, became a reflective moment before bidding farewell to Aguas Calientes.
Final Word
The Lares Trek, with its physical challenges and cultural revelations, proved to be a transformative journey that expanded my understanding of design. Beyond aesthetics, it highlighted the intricate relationship between nature, tradition, and the timeless allure of ancient architecture. Each step was not just a physical trek but a profound exploration into the essence of design, reminding me that true inspiration is found in the uncharted territories of our world and within the echoes of history. The Lares Trek had become not just a trail but a design odyssey, a testament to the enduring beauty of the world we inhabit.
Check out the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4D/3N itinerary from Bamba Travel.
Guest post written by Gazini Hennesy
With an insatiable love for travel, Gazini draws inspiration from diverse cultures and aesthetics around the globe.
