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Lares Trek To Machu Picchu

3 reviews

96 hrs

From

1.429.555 ARS

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers a fantastic alternative to the classic Inca trail for reaching Machu Picchu.

It is perfect for those who wish to veer off the traditional path and immerse themselves in genuine communities, all while being surrounded by breathtaking mountains, lakes, and valleys.

The trek begins in a quaint village nestled in the Sacred Valley and ascends over two passes at 4,000 meters, weaving through vibrant traditional villages, enjoying the soothing hot springs in Lares, and culminating in a visit to Machu Picchu on the final day.

For those seeking a unique challenge, we highly recommend embarking on the hike through the Lares Valley.

Tour Description

Day 1 CUSCO - QUISHUARANI (LARES) - 7 WATERFALLS - CAMPSITE

We will pick you up from your hotel in Cusco and head towards the Andean village of Calca in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, you'll have the final opportunity to purchase any last-minute essentials.

Our journey continues by bus for an additional 2 hours until we reach the Lares hot springs. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing bath and take in the surrounding mountain views (optional). Experience the soothing properties of these thermal waters.

Next, we proceed to the starting point of the Lares trek to Machu Picchu. Our hike lasts about an hour and a half until we arrive at Quishuarani (3,700 meters above sea level) for lunch. Enjoy the sight of alpacas and llamas in the area.

Post-lunch, we will explore the 7 waterfalls and hike around stunning lakes before reaching our campsite for the night. Dinner and overnight stay. Distance covered: 4.72 miles – Approximate walking time: 4 hours.

Day 2 CAMPSITE - CONDOR PASS – CANCHA CANCHA

After a hearty breakfast, we begin our trek on an uphill path towards the Condor Pass, situated at 4,800 meters above sea level. Following a zigzag trail, we'll make a traditional offering to the mountains using coca leaves for protection. This location offers breathtaking views of the snow-capped Sahuasiray and local wildlife, including vizcachas.

We will descend for about 1.5 hours to our lunch spot, where you'll see picturesque lagoons and wildlife such as llamas and alpacas. After resting, the Lares trail to Machu Picchu continues until we reach the community of Cancha Cancha at 3,800 meters above sea level, where our campsite is located.

Before tea time, we'll visit the locals to learn about their traditions. Dinner and overnight stay. Distance covered: 9.32 miles – Approximate walking time: 7 hours.

Day 3 CANCHA CANCHA - HUARAN - OLLANTAYTAMBO - AGUAS CALIENTES

After breakfast, we'll set off at 07:30 am towards the town of Huaran, trekking downhill amidst breathtaking mountains until we reach 3,000 meters above sea level. Observe the changing weather and view the agricultural fields of corn, potatoes, and other vegetables.

A transport will then take you to the town of Ollantaytambo in a 1-hour journey. Explore this enchanting Andean town through a walking tour and, if desired, take an optional tour of the Ollantaytambo Fortress. Savor a delightful dinner at a local eatery.

Later, a bus will take you to the Ollantaytambo train station to board the train to Aguas Calientes, a 2-hour journey. Upon arrival, we'll head to the hotel for an overnight stay. Distance covered: 5.59 miles – Approximate walking time: 4 hours.

Day 4 AGUAS CALIENTES– MACHU PICCHU - CUSCO

Early in the morning, we'll board the tourist bus to the entrance of Machu Picchu, finally arriving at one of the 7 wonders of the world. You'll be among the first to arrive, enjoying the serene atmosphere.

Witness the sunrise if you arrive at the right time, and embark on a 2-hour guided tour to uncover the mysteries and stories of the Inca citadel. We will visit Intiwatana, located at the top of Machu Picchu.

Afterward, you may choose to climb the Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains (optional). Experience the thrill of scaling Huayna Picchu for 2 hours for unparalleled views of this magnificent site.

We'll return by bus to Aguas Calientes, then take the train back to Ollantaytambo, where our transport will be waiting to take you back to your hotel in the city of Cusco.

What’s included?

What’s included:

* Briefing time one day before the trek  * Transportation from Cusco to the start of the trek  * Professional English speaking guide  * Meals as mentioned in the itinerary (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, daily snack) * High Mountain Tents   * Dining tent with tables and chairs  * Kitchen tent  * Cook and cooking equipment  * Round trip bus ticket to the entrance of Machu Picchu (confort service) * Mules (to carry tents, food and cooking equipment).  * Vegetarian or special menus are available at no extra cost   * Others: hot water every morning and evening for washing purposes / boiled water to fill in your water bottle every morning and night.  * Comprehensive first aid kit including oxygen bottles   * 01 night of standard hotel at Aguas Calientes (confort service) * Train ticket (Expedition class) from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes on day 3 * Train ticket (Expeditions class) from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo on day 4

What’s NOT included:

* Sleeping bag * Extra Mules   * Ticket entrance to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu mountains * Ticket entrance to the Fortress of Ollantaytambo * Lunch in Aguas Calientes on day 4 * Walking sticks * Meals not mentioned in the itinerary   * Extra services not mentioned in the program  * Tips for guides, porters or chefs and extra expenses * Travel insurance

Frequently Asked Questions

The Lares to Machu Picchu Trek is of moderate to challenging difficulty. It involves hiking at high altitude, with passes reaching approximately 4,400 to 4,600 meters above sea level, and treks of 6 to 8 hours per day. It is recommended to acclimatize for 2 or 3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley, stay hydrated, and maintain a steady pace. This trek is suitable for active travelers with basic mountain hiking experience; it is not technical and follows traditional Andean trails. There is a risk of altitude sickness; consult your doctor about acetazolamide. A certified tour guide, muleteers, and packhorses provide support.

Typically includes: pre-trek briefing, transfers from Cusco to the start of the trek, bilingual tour guide, all meals en route, tents and camping equipment, muleteers and horses for luggage, first-aid kit and oxygen, train ticket to the Sacred Valley/Aguas Calientes, tourist bus to the citadel, and entrance to Machu Picchu with a guided tour. Usually excludes: sleeping bag, trekking poles, extra drinks, tips, travel insurance, entrance to hot springs, and optional activities such as Huayna Picchu. Inclusions may vary depending on the agency; please request a detailed written itinerary and confirm policies regarding changes, group size, and special dietary requirements.

The typical Lares Trek itinerary lasts 4 days and 3 nights, plus a visit to Machu Picchu. The trek begins in Lares (with the option to enjoy its hot springs) and continues through remote valleys, visiting weaving communities like Huacahuasi and Patacancha, passing turquoise lagoons and high mountain passes. Overnight stays are generally in Andean camps. After completing the trek, you connect with the train in Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night. At dawn, a tourist bus takes you to Machu Picchu for a guided tour and free time. The return trip is by train and transfer to Cusco. The itinerary may be adjusted depending on weather conditions.

The best time for this excursion in Peru is during the dry season, from May to September: more stable days, clear skies, and great photo opportunities. April and October are transitional months with variable weather but fewer tourists. From November to March is the rainy season: wet trails, possible snowfall at high passes, and a greater likelihood of logistical changes; a good raincoat is required. At high altitudes, nights are cold, even below freezing. Book well in advance during peak season (June-August) to secure train tickets, entrance fees, and accommodation in Aguas Calientes. Check the forecast and the operator's updates before you leave.

To enjoy the trekking tour, bring: waterproof hiking boots, technical socks, a -10°C sleeping bag, a thermal or down jacket, base layers, trekking pants, a rain jacket, a hat and gloves, trekking poles, a headlamp and power bank, water bottles or a hydration pack and purification tablets, energy snacks, sunscreen, UV sunglasses, and insect repellent. Add a swimsuit and towel for the Lares hot springs, cash for local purchases and tips, and your passport for train and entrance fees. Health and safety: acclimatize for 2-3 days, stay hydrated, hike at a steady pace, consider travel insurance, and inquire about altitude sickness. Cell phone coverage is limited along the route.

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