Day 4: Trek to Kiswarani

TREK OVERVIEW

Trekkers are picked up from the hotel at 7:00 AM. They’ll drive through the Sacred Valley for three hours to the trailhead called Punta Carretera. After breakfast, they’ll start their trek. They’ll trek for two hours uphill to lunch at Kiswarani village. This part of the hike is through the potato valley where people farm many varieties of organic potatoes. Guides will also point out indigenous plants growing along the way. After lunch, horsemen called llameros will do a ceremony with llamas showcasing their training and skill. The incas considered lamas to be sacred and fundamental to their economy. After the ceremony, trekkers will have time to tour the village. They’ll learn about the traditions of the villagers. If they have time, they’ll also visit the school where the children still speak Quecha. Afterward, they’ll continue uphill for another two hours to camp where they’ll have a hot dinner prepared by the expedition chef.

TREK STATS

Starting elevation 10,120 feet

Ending elevation 12,795 feet

Elevation gain 2,675 feet

Distance hiked 6.2 miles

Average hiking time 4 hours

Lindsay McConnell