Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days
4 Days Starting in Lares and ending in Cusco
Visiting: Lares, Cancha Cancha, Ollantaytambo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
57976
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Age range:
3-65
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Gluten free
Tour operated in:
English , SpanishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Step off the beaten path and into the heart of the Andes with the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. This unique adventure allows you to explore the breathtaking Andes in peaceful solitude while connecting with traditional Andean communities. Discover the daily lives, culture, and traditions of these remote villages, where you’ll hike alongside llamas and alpacas and even visit a local school to support their educational efforts.Your journey culminates in an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, one of the world's most awe-inspiring wonders.Tour Highlights:Relax in the soothing natural hot springs of LaresExplore the fascinating Salineras of Maras and the ancient Inca town of OllantaytamboTake in panoramic views aboard the exclusive Vistadome or 360° trainContribute to social projects that directly benefit the communities we visitBook with confidence and flexibility, ensuring a stress-free adventure
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Day 1: Cusco – Lares Thermal Baths – Blue Lagoon
Location: Lares
Accommodation: Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4:30 AM: Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. We'll head to the natural wonder of Lares Hot Springs, with a scenic stop at the vibrant Calca market, where you’ll experience local culture firsthand. After a brief drive, immerse yourself in the soothing, mineral-rich pools of Lares, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. To kick-start your day, our trekking chef will prepare a hearty breakfast just for you.
Next, a short 30-minute drive takes us to Pampacorral, where our journey on foot begins. Enjoy a leisurely 2-hour hike to the remote Kiswarani Village, where a freshly prepared lunch awaits. As we continue our trek, a 2-hour hike through mesmerizing landscapes—potato fields, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas—leads us to our peaceful campsite by the stunning Blue Lagoon, nestled at an altitude of 3900m (12,795 ft).
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with your tents already set up, and a steaming cup of Coca-Cola tea or coffee to help you relax. As the day winds down, refresh yourself with warm water and enjoy tea time while gazing at the breathtaking starry sky before retreating to your cozy tent for the night.
Highlights of the Day:
- Soak in the relaxing Lares Hot Springs, surrounded by incredible mountain scenery
- Trek through charming villages, pristine nature, and stunning landscapes
- Enjoy expertly prepared meals by our trekking chef at every stop
- Stargaze from your campsite by the serene Blue Lagoon
Tour details:
- Campsite Altitude: 3900m (12,795 ft)
- Trekking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
- Trekking Time: 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping under a blanket of stars
- Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Canchacancha Community
Location: Cancha Cancha
Accommodation: Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea, delivered right to your tent, as the fresh mountain air energizes you for the day ahead. After a nourishing breakfast and grabbing some snacks from our chef, you'll embark on a 4-hour hike to the highest point of your trek—Condor Pass, perched at a breathtaking 4750m (15,583 ft).
As you ascend, be mesmerized by serene Andean lakes, the sight of geese gliding across the water, and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully. The stunning backdrop of the towering Andes Mountains will leave you speechless. At the summit, you'll experience a unique moment—a 360° panoramic view of the mountains and lakes surrounding you. Here, your guide will perform a traditional spiritual offering ceremony honoring the sacred mountains and Pachamama (Mother Earth). Sip on a refreshing cup of coca tea, soaking in this incredible moment.
Begin your descent with a gentle 2-hour hike to Acopata, where a delicious, freshly-prepared lunch awaits. After refueling, continue downhill through awe-inspiring landscapes for another 2 hours to the remote village of Canchacancha (3750m / 12,303 ft).
Upon arrival, unwind with hot drinks as you settle into the charming village. Immerse yourself in the local culture—engage with the friendly villagers, chase llamas and alpacas, join the children for a game of soccer, or exchange language lessons, making meaningful connections with the community.
Highlights of the Day:
- Summit Condor Pass and take in breathtaking 360° views at the top
- Witness local wildlife, including Andean geese, llamas, and alpacas
- Participate in a spiritual offering ceremony led by your guide at the summit
- Engage with the welcoming community of Canchacancha Village
Tour details:
- Campsite Altitude: 3750m (12,303 ft)
- Highest Altitude: 4750m (15,583 ft)
- Trekking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
- Trekking Duration: 7 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping under the stars
- Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging
Day 3: Canchacancha – Salineras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Location: Ollantaytambo
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee or coca tea, served right in your tent, and savor your breakfast with panoramic mountain views as your backdrop. After exploring the quaint village of Canchacancha, where time seems to stand still, begin a leisurely 4-hour descent into the beautiful Sacred Valley. Along the way, you'll visit local homesand learn about the villagers' traditional way of life and their Quechua language, which has beenpassed down through generations. You'll also have the meaningful opportunity to visit the elementary school, where we donate educational supplies and support the next generation of this remote community.
As you trek downhill, you'll notice the landscape changing—from the highland fields of potatoes and beans to the warmer, lush lands filled with corn and avocado. The transition is mesmerizing. Your journey concludes in Huaran (2700 m / 8,856 ft) with a delightful picnic lunch, where you'll bid farewell to your amazing chef and arrieros (horsemen) who have accompanied you on this unforgettable adventure.
But the day doesn’t end there! From Huaran, a private van will whisk you away to the fascinating Salineras of Maras, where you'll explore the ancient salt pools that have been harvested since Incan times. Next, visit Ollantaytambo, the remarkable Last Living Incan Citadel, recently recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages by the UNTWO. Here, you’ll explore the magnificent Inca fortress, take in the rich history, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
As the day winds down, board the 7:00 pm Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, where you'll stay the night in a cozy 3-star hotel, preparing for the ultimate experience—Machu Picchu.
Highlights of the Day:
- Visit the remote, traditional village of Canchacancha and connect with locals
- Trek through changing landscapes, from highlands to the fertile Sacred Valley
- Explore the Salineras of Maras and the historic Incan Citadel of Ollantaytambo
- End the day with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu
Tour details:
- Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m (6,561 ft)
- Trekking Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
- Trekking Duration: 4 hours
- Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
- Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate
Day 4 : Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return to Cusco
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel before catching one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving early gives you the chance to watch the sunrise over the ancient citadel, a truly unforgettable moment. After passing through the entrance, you’ll take a short walk to the best spots to enjoy the views.
Next, you’ll go on a 2-3 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Your guide will explain the amazing history and incredible engineering of this Inca site, sharing its secrets and special features. After the tour, you’ll have time to explore on your own, or you can choose to hike up to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu for even more stunning views (these hikes must be booked in advance and are omitted).
When you’re ready, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (on your own). In the afternoon, board the Vistadome Panoramic train for a beautiful ride through the Sacred Valley. After arriving in Ollantaytambo, you’ll be driven back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.
Highlights of the Day:
- Watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu
- Enjoy a guided tour exploring the history and wonders of the site
- Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu
- Scenic ride on the Vistadome Panoramic train through the Sacred Valley
Tour Details:
- Highest Altitude: 2430m (7972 ft)
- Tour Duration: 3 hours
- Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
- Difficulty Level: Easy
What's Included
- Safety briefing the day before your trek to ensure you're prepared
- Hotel pickup to start your journey hassle-free
- All transportation throughout the trek
- A duffle bag (up to 8 kilos) for your belongings, carried by our team
- Free luggage storage in Cusco during the trek
- Professional tour guides to lead you every step of the way
- Experienced chefs and porters to make your trek comfortable and enjoyable
- Horses and muleteers to carry food, equipment, and camping gear
- 2 nights of camping with top-quality equipment for a restful night under the stars
- 1 night in a cozy 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- All meals during the trek, freshly prepared by our chefs
- Entrance tickets to the Lares Hot Springs, Salineras of Maras, and Machu Picchu
- Bus tickets for the ride up and down to Machu Picchu
- Return aboard the Panoramic Vistadome train, with stunning views of the Sacred Valley
- All taxes and booking fees are included for a worry-free experience
What's Not Included
- Sleeping bags, air mattresses, or trekking poles
- Lunch on the last day
- Huayna Picchu Mountain tickets
- Montaña Machu Picchu tickets
- Tips for porters, chefs, and guides
Requirements
- Passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu)
- Rain gear (jacket and pants) to stay dry in the Andes
- Warm layers (fleece, long-sleeved tops) for chilly evenings and mornings
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) for the high-altitude sun
- Personal medication (don’t forget any prescriptions you need)
- Camera with extra batteries to capture the stunning scenery
- Head torch for nighttime at the campsite
- Extra snacks (power bars, chocolate) for extra energy on the trail
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, tips, and small change for using village toilets on the first day
Please Note
- Confirmation will be received after the booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Please advise any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking
- Vegetarian option is available, please advise at the time of booking if required
- A current valid passport is required on the day of travel
Check out our Q&As
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Are children permitted to take part in the tour?
Children must be always with their parents,
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Are vaccinations required for this tour?
Please visit your doctor and see what vaccines are required
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What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is absolutely optional.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Guest must have a moderate fitness leve
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When is the best time to travel to Cusco?
The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring the city, with clear skies and little chance of rain. This is also the peak travel season, so it can be busier. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a little rain, the shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be great times to visit.
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When do you have to arrive in Cusco?
It’s a good idea to arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts. This gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, which is crucial since Cusco sits pretty high up at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters). The extra days also give you time to explore the city and its surroundings before your big adventure begins.
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How to prevent altitude sickness?
Altitude sickness is pretty common when you head to places like Cusco, so it’s smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to avoid or lessen it: - Arrive early: Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate. - Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. - Try coca tea: Locals swear by it. It's made from coca leaves and can help with altitude adjustment. - Avoid heavy meals and alcohol: These can make it harder for your body to adjust. - Take it easy: Don’t push yourself too hard on the first day or two. - Medication: Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness pills like Diamox if you're worried. If you start feeling dizzy, tired, or get a headache, slow down, rest, and stay hydrated.
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Which is better, Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?
Both treks offer incredible experiences, but they’re different in key ways: - The Inca Trail is all about history, as you’ll walk the same paths the Incas did and pass through several archaeological sites. It’s a shorter trek but highly regulated, with limited permits. - The Salkantay Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. It’s longer and tougher but offers stunning scenery, including glaciers and cloud forests. There are fewer crowds, and no permit is required. If you want the classic Machu Picchu experience, go for the Inca Trail. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Salkantay might be the better choice.
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How many people are allowed in each group?
The size of each group on the Inca Trail is typically limited to 16 people. This ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier management on the narrow paths of the trail. TreXperience, like most tour operators, adheres to this limit to comply with government regulations and to preserve the environment along the trail.
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Low Deposit
TreXperience requires a minimum deposit of 140 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 2 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trexperience charges.
Up to 3 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 2 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 0 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
