The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days is the perfect tour for families or people who not only want to hike through amazing landscapes but also want to immerse themselves in the authentic Andean culture of remote villages.
On this tour, you will visit quaint villages, such as Huacawasi, Calca, Ollantaytambo, or Aguas Calientes, bath in the medicinal hot springs of Lares and explore different archeological sites such as Sondor or the world-renowned UNESCO World Heritage of Machu Picchu.
Let yourself be mesmerized by the astonishing beauty of the Andean landscapes and the hospitality of the Andean people. Experience the culture, marvel at ancient Inca ruins, and let yourself be fascinated by the magnificence of nature. Book your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu now!
Overview
Day 1: Cusco – Paso Huacawasi – Lares – Cuncani – Huacawasi
- 6 AM Pickup at your Hotel
- Meals: (optional Breakfast), 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner & Snacks
- Approximate hiking time: ~4 hrs.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Climate: Warm and Cold at night
- Highest elevation: 3600 m / 11811 ft
- Sleepover in local family’s house in Huacawasi
Day 2: Huacawasi – Sondor – Paso Sacsayllame – Aruray Cocha – Yurak Cocha – Miski Inu
- Meals: 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner & Snacks
- Approximate hiking time: ~7 hrs.
- Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
- Climate: Cold
- Highest elevation: 4400 m / 14435.7 ft
- Sleepover in campingsite in Miski Inu
Day 3: Miski Unu – Queshuarchalloc – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Meals: 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner & Snacks
- Approximate hiking time: ~4 hrs.
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Climate: Warm
- Highest elevation: 3550 m / 11647 ft
- Sleepover in Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Meals: 1 Breakfast
- Approximate hiking time: ~3 hrs.
- Difficulty: Easy
- Climate: Temperate to Warm
- Highest elevation: 2400 m / 7874 ft
- Transportation back to Cusco
Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Paso Huacawasi – Lares – Cuncani – Huacawasi
We will begin the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu by picking you up from your respective hotel at 6 AM. You can relax in the car as we drive to Calca (2926 m / 9600 ft) where we will make our first stop to visit the local market. Your guide can advise you on things to buy for your trip and also on gifts or food to distribute to the children you will meet during the trip. After that, we will have breakfast in some of the local stands.
Fully energized we will continue our journey toward Lares (3150 m / 10334.7 ft) where we will visit the medicinal thermal baths and take a delightful swim in the pools before we get ready for the trek. Whilst you are bathing our cooks will prepare you a delicious lunch that you can enjoy right after the hot springs.
After lunch, we will drive to Cuncani (3810 m / 12500 ft) where we will start to hike towards our first camp in Huacawasi (3600 m / 11811 ft). For about 3 hours you will gradually ascend the mountain until you reach the highest point of the day, this will be good exercise and warm-up for the second day.
Finally, we will arrive at the Huacawasi community where our dear local companions will host you for the night. You will be able to learn about the Andean culture and experience their warm hospitality while savoring some snacks and hot tea. Finally, we will serve you a tasty dinner to end the first day.
- Visit Calca (2926 m / 9600 ft)
- Optional Visit medicinal hot springs of Lares (3150 m / 10334.7 ft)
- Visit Cuncani (3810 m / 12500 ft)
- Visit Huacawasi and the local community (3600 m / 11811 ft)
Day 2: Huacawasi – Sondor – Paso Sacsayllame – Aruray Cocha – Yurak Cocha – Miski Inu
On the second day, we will start with a nutritious breakfast to strengthen us for the hardest part of the trek. We will ascend the Sacsayllame pass (4,400 m / 14435.7 ft) a very steep and high passage, so take it easy, remember to take enough breaks and if you feel it is too hard, don’t worry we have some emergency horses as a safety backup.
However hard the effort, the astonishing scenery will make it up to you. You will hike through some of the most astonishing landscapes, surrounded by colossus mountains, dazzling panoramic views, and idyllic farmland. Yet, beware of the cold, as we are trekking through high altitudes it can get really cold.
We will take a quick rest when reaching the highest point. Take in the breathtaking views and congratulate yourself on the ascent. Then we will descend passing by a beautiful lagoon and astonishingly beautiful landscapes before our cooks will prepare you a delicious lunch, right next to a riverbank.
Then we will descend further down through an enchanting forest of «Queuñas» (Polylepis), the typical native tree in this region of the Peruvian Andes. We will descend for about an hour before reaching our camp in Inu Miski (3550 m / 11647 ft).
Here you will have enough time to relish the incredible landscape while our guides will serve you hot tea and some snacks before dinner will be served.
- Visit Sacsayllame pass (4,400 m / 14435.7 ft)
- Visit Queuñas Forest.
- Visit Inu Miski (3550 m / 11647 ft)
Day 3: Miski Unu – Queshuarchalloc – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
The third day will be a spectacular day for learning about the native flora and fauna. After a tasty breakfast, we will walk for about 3 hours through an incredible forest where you can observe the rich biodiversity. Accompanied by the chirping of a variety of birds, you will enter the Sacred Valley of the Incas. However, beware to take mosquito repellent as the climate will get warmer and provides thus the perfect habitat for mosquitos as well.
We will reach Queshuarchalloc where we will have our last lunch together with our cooks, assistants, and horses. After saying goodbye we will take a local bus to reach Ollantaytambo (2792 m / 9160.1 ft). We will have enough time to visit this idyllic little town before we will have a delicious dinner at one of the local restaurants.
At 7 PM we will take the train to travel to the final destination of the day, the famous town of Aguas Calientes (2040 m / 6692.9 ft), where we will spend the night in a hotel.
- Visit Sacred Valley of the Incas.
- Visit Queshuarchalloc.
- Visit Ollantaytambo (2792 m / 9160.1 ft)
- Visit Aguas Calientes (2040 m / 6692.9 ft)
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
On the last day, we will get up early at 5:30 AM, have a quick breakfast, and leave for the lost city of the Incas, the citadel of Machu Picchu (2400 m / 7874 ft). We will catch the tourist bus to drive up to the sanctuary and try to get there at 6 AM in order to be one of the first visitors to this magical place.
You will have a guided tour by one of our expert guides who will explain to you all the archeological background information, its cultural significance, and its historical importance during the Incan Empire. After the guided tour you will have enough time to explore Machu Picchu on your own or do an optional visit to Huayna Picchu (2693 m / 8835 ft).
After visiting Machu Picchu Sanctuary we will return to Aguas Calientes, you can walk down the stairs that lead you through a gorgeous forest with some astonishing views or optionally book a Bus down. In Aguas Calientes, you will have some free time until we will meet at the previously coordinated time to meet at the train station. Take your time to enjoy the last moments of the tour by strolling around the cozy little streets, checking out some of the shops, having lunch in a local restaurant, or even taking a swim in the hot springs.
Finally, we will take the train to return back to Ollantaytambo and from there to Cusco where we will drop you off at your respective Hotel.
- Visit Machu Picchu Sanctuary (2400 m / 7874 ft)
- Optional Visit to Huayna Picchu (2693 m / 8835 ft)
Included
Tour Includes
- Tourist Transportation Cusco – Calca – Lares.
- Professional bilingual guide service (language on request)
- This tourist train. Ollanta to Aguas Calientes – Est. Ollanta, depending on availability.
- Bus Consettur Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu.
- Entrance of houses with hot water.
- The entrance citadel of Machu Picchu.
- 01 nights in Basic Accommodation in Aguas Calientes.
- Camping equipment (bedroom tent, dining tent, mats, tables, chairs).
- Crutches and crutches (camping equipment and food).
- Cook and Assistant (kitchen team)
- Food 3 breakfasts – 3 lunches – 3 dinners.
- First aid kit – Oxygen balloon.
- Emergency horse (minimum 2 people)
Not Included
- Sleeping bag.
- First breakfast, last lunch in Aguas Calientes.
- Extra tips for horses.
- Expenses not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Entrance to Huaynapicchu (+ 30.00 USD – depending on availability)
- Bus ticket to Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes. (This is possible on foot and takes 1:20 Hrs. Or also the possibility of buying a ticket and it costs $12.00 per person)
Contact Us
More Information
Did you know that the Lares Trek is a traditional and immersive adventure? This experience offers us the 4-day, 3-night Lares Trek along a path steeped in history and the living traditions of the communities we’ll encounter during our hike.
This journey provides endless emotions from the very first day, starting with a visit to the beautiful Lares hot springs, located in a valley abundant with local flora and fauna. It allows us to discover that nature is our greatest refuge from the routine and stress of our daily lives.
What is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek is an adventure and cultural journey that takes you through the Lares Valley, a less-touristed Andean region where Quechua communities preserve their traditions, textiles, and ancestral way of life. Unlike the Inca Trail, this trek doesn’t follow the official Inca path, but it offers a deep human connection, mountain landscapes, and final access to Machu Picchu. It’s ideal for those seeking authenticity.
What does the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu include?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a comprehensive 4-day tour that combines hiking, community interaction, and a visit to Machu Picchu. It includes transportation from Cusco, a bilingual guide, all meals, camping equipment, mules, entrance to Machu Picchu, and the train from Ollantaytambo. At the end of the trek, you’ll explore the citadel with an expert guide. Everything is organized so you can enjoy worry-free.
What is the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu like?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is an experience that begins in an Andean community, where you’re welcomed with music and dances. You’ll hike past mountain lagoons, hot springs, and textile villages. On the fourth day, you take the train to Aguas Calientes and visit Machu Picchu the next day. It’s a beautiful way to reach the citadel without hiking the Inca Trail, with more human connection.
How long is the 4-day Lares Trek?
The 4-day Lares Trek lasts 4 days and 3 nights. The first three days involve hiking through the valley, with daily stretches of 5 to 7 hours. On the fourth day, you take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. You spend the night there and visit Machu Picchu on the fifth day. It’s the most complete version of the trek, with plenty of time to enjoy at a relaxed pace.
What is the Lares Trek Peru?
The Lares Trek Peru is simply another way to refer to this trek within the country. It’s one of the most respected adventure tours for its community-focused approach. Located in the Cusco region but in a less-known area, many international travelers search for it by this name to identify it as an authentic experience in the Peruvian Andes.
What is the Classic Lares Trek?
The Classic Lares Trek is the traditional 4-day route through the Lares Valley. It includes stops at communities like Huacahuasi, Cuncani, and Huayracunde, hot springs, high-altitude lagoons, and local markets. It’s the most established and secure route, with well-organized campsites and expert guides. Many consider it the gold standard for this type of trek.
What will I see on the Lares Trek itinerary?
On the Lares Trek itinerary, you’ll see unique Andean landscapes: snow-capped mountains, green valleys, crystal-clear lagoons, and villages where families weave with alpaca wool. You’ll learn how colors are dyed with natural plants, participate in simple ceremonies, and enjoy Andean hospitality. Each day offers a new connection with living culture.
How difficult is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek difficulty is moderate. It’s not as demanding as the classic Inca Trail, but it does require good physical condition. There are steep climbs, especially on the second day, and you’ll hike 5 to 7 hours daily. The altitude (up to 4,600 meters / 15,092 feet) can be challenging, but the pace is more relaxed. If you’re acclimatized and go at your own rhythm, you can complete it without issues.
What’s the difference between the Lares Trek vs. the Inca Trail?
In the Lares Trek vs. Inca Trail comparison, the main difference is the focus. The Inca Trail follows the original Inca path, with ruins and direct access to Machu Picchu. The Lares Trek is more community-oriented: you pass through villages, meet families, buy crafts, and bathe in hot springs. It doesn’t end with a hike into Machu Picchu, but it offers a human connection that many value more than the ruins.
What does the 3-day Lares Trek include?
The 3-day Lares Trek is a shortened version of the journey, ideal for those with limited time. It lasts 3 days and 2 nights, with shorter hikes and fewer communities visited. Though not as immersive, it still offers contact with local culture and beautiful landscapes. At the end, you take the train and visit Machu Picchu. It’s a good option if you can’t do the 4-day trek.
What does Lares Trek 4d3n mean?
The term Lares Trek 4d3n means “4 days and 3 nights,” a common way to refer to the trekking trip format. It’s the standard duration for the full journey. It includes three nights of camping and four days of activity, with the last day dedicated to train travel and the Machu Picchu visit.
Where does the Lares Trek from Cusco start?
The Lares Trek from Cusco starts in an Andean community about 3–4 hours from Cusco, such as Huacahuasi or Pampamarca. From there, the hike begins, surrounded by mountains and grasslands. The exact starting point may vary by agency, but all tours include transportation from Cusco the night before or very early in the morning.
What is the best time to do the Lares Trek?
The best time to do the Lares Trek is from May to October, during the dry season. These months have less rain, sunny days, and safer trails. This is when most tourists go, so it’s important to book in advance. From November to April, there’s more rainfall, but the landscape is greener and there are fewer people.
What to do after finishing the Lares Trek?
After finishing the Lares Trek, you’ll take the train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes. That night, you can rest, dine in town, or visit the hot springs. The next day, you ascend to Machu Picchu for the guided tour. It’s the perfect ending to an unforgettable adventure.
What should I pack for the Lares Trek?
Your Lares Trek packing list should include: thermal clothing, a waterproof jacket, a fleece, trekking pants, broken-in hiking boots, a 30–40L backpack, a hat, sunscreen, a flashlight, water (1.5–2 liters), snacks, and your documents. We also recommend trekking poles, a sleeping bag (some agencies rent them), and a camera. Everything else (tent, meals, guide) is included in the tour.
Why choose the Lares Trek as an alternative to the Inca Trail?
The Lares Trek is an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail if you couldn’t get a permit or are looking for something different. It doesn’t require an official permit, has fewer tourists, and offers a more human-centered experience. Though you won’t walk on Inca stones, you’ll still end up at Machu Picchu and enjoy a cultural immersion few other tours provide.
What is the altitude of the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek reaches a maximum altitude of approximately 4,600 meters (15,092 feet), especially at the mountain pass. Most of the trek is between 3,800 and 4,200 meters (12,467–13,780 feet). That’s why it’s crucial to spend 1–2 days in Cusco before the trek to acclimatize. Drink plenty of water, avoid alcohol, and go at your own pace.
What is the weather like on the Lares Trek?
The weather on the Lares Trek can vary greatly throughout the day. Mornings are cold, especially at the campsites. At noon, it can be sunny and warm. Temperatures drop significantly at night. During the rainy season (November to April), there are quick showers, but it rarely rains all day. Always bring a waterproof jacket.
Can I do the Lares Trek without a guide?
No, you cannot do the Lares Trek without a guide. Although it doesn’t require an official permit like the Inca Trail, the route passes through communal lands that require accompaniment by authorized agencies. Additionally, the guide helps you with altitude issues, translates, organizes meals, and shares the history of the area. Going alone is not permitted and is unsafe.
Are there bathrooms during the trek?
Yes, there are basic bathrooms at the Lares Trek campsites. They are simple structures made of stone or wood and are kept clean. There are no showers, but we provide wet towels. We recommend bringing toilet paper, hand sanitizer, and a flashlight for nighttime. Some communities also have communal bathrooms.
What kind of food is served during the trek?
During the trek, you’ll eat fresh, nutritious meals prepared by the cooking team. Breakfast includes fruits, quinoa, eggs, and bread. Lunch is a buffet with soup, rice, pasta, meat, and vegetables. Dinner is lighter, with dishes like lentil stew or ají de gallina. Vegetarian options are available upon request.
How do I get from Cusco to the start of the trek?
You’ll travel from Cusco to the start of the trek by ground transportation. Most agencies depart very early, between 3:00 AM and 5:00 AM, and the journey takes about 3–4 hours on mountain roads. The starting point is usually a community like Huacahuasi or Pampamarca. Transportation is included in all tours.
What animals will I see on the Lares Trek?
On the Lares Trek, you’ll see llamas, alpacas, and sheep grazing in the fields. You might also spot wild vicuñas, especially in higher areas. Some communities raise alpacas for their wool. It’s common to see them near the trails, often tended by children. This is part of the trek’s charm.
What should I do if I feel sick from the altitude?
If you feel sick from the altitude during the trek, notify your guide immediately. All teams carry emergency oxygen, a first-aid kit, and know evacuation points. If it’s altitude sickness, we’ll help you rest, descend to a lower elevation, or arrange transportation. Drink plenty of water, have coca tea, and avoid unnecessary exertion.
Can I charge my phone during the trek?
No, you cannot charge your phone during the trek. There is no electricity at the campsites. We recommend bringing a portable charger or an extra battery. Turn off your phone when not in use to save battery. Some guides have emergency batteries, but they are not always available.
What’s the difference between the 3-day and 4-day Lares Trek?
The main difference is the depth of the experience. The 4-day Lares Trek visits more communities, allows more time to interact with locals, and explores more remote areas. The 3-day version is faster, with fewer days of hiking and less cultural immersion. Both end at Machu Picchu, but the 4-day trek is more comprehensive.
Can I take photos in the communities?
Yes, you can take photos in the communities, but always ask for permission before photographing people. Many families are happy to agree, and some may even pose. If possible, offer a small tip as a thank-you. Your photos will tell a real and respectful story.
What happens if it rains during the trek?
If it rains during the trek, we continue with waterproof gear. The trail doesn’t become dangerous, though it may be slippery. Bring a good jacket, a rain cover for your backpack, and shoes with good traction. Rain also makes the landscape greener and more magical, even if visibility is reduced.
Can I carry my personal backpack?
Yes, you’ll carry your personal backpack throughout the trek. It should be 30–40 liters and hold essentials like clothing, cameras, documents, snacks, and personal items. The mule team carries the tents, food, and cooking equipment, so you won’t have extra weight. Use a backpack with padded straps for comfort.
Price
How Much Does The Lares Trek Cost?
We have price alternatives that accommodate all budgets, prices per person, expressed in US Dollars.
Make your quotes and reservations by email [email protected], you can also communicate with one of our sales executives at the telephones detailed below, we will be happy to assist you.
- Phone – WhatsApp: +51 969 787 221
- Phone – WhatsApp: +51 986 994 218
How To Book The Tour?
To start the reservation process, please send us the following information:
- Name and surname:
- Passport number:
- Nationality:
- Date of Birth:
- Phone:
- Very important – We need the address and information about the hotel that you are staying at, in the city of Cusco, to be able to pick you up at the time when the tour starts.
To confirm reservations it is required to pay 50% in advance and the other 50% can be paid upon arrival at your destination.
Payment Methods
- IZIPAY
- PAYPAL
- WESTER UNION
- MONEYGRAM
- TRANSFER TO OUR BANK ACCOUNT PERU
General Conditions
- All rates for our Peru Packages are expressed in US dollars (subject to currency exchange rates) and are priced per person
- The rates for Peruvians only include VAT
- All our rates are subject to availability and circumstances
- Children under 2 years and 11 months are considered INF (babies) and are not permitted on this tour
- Children from 3 to 10 years and 11 months are considered DCC (child) and thus eligible for special rates and obliged to share the room with their parents
- Children over 11 years old are considered adults
- Minors must travel with an identity document
- Rates do not apply to holidays, Easter, long weekends, national holidays, Christmas, or New Year
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