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Epic Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: 4-Day Adventure
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is one of the best alternative treks in Peru for travelers seeking a less crowded and more authentic hiking experience. Over 4 days, this adventure combines stunning Andean landscapes, encounters with traditional Quechua communities, and a guided visit to the world wonder of Machu Picchu.
Unlike the famous Inca Trail, the Lares Trek Peru takes you off the beaten path, through high mountain passes, turquoise lagoons, alpaca and llama grazing fields, and remote villages where Andean traditions remain alive. This trek is ideal for hikers looking for a cultural and scenic route to Machu Picchu.
Spanish
Map
Inclusions
Tour includes:
- Professional English-speaking guide experienced in high Andean treks and Machu Picchu tours
- ✅ Private transportation from Cusco to Lares Valley (starting point of the trek)
- ✅ Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- ✅ Round-trip train tickets (Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo)
- ✅ Bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (round-trip)
- ✅ Accommodation: 2 nights camping in the Andes + 1 night in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
- ✅ Camping equipment: high-quality tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, and mattress
- ✅ Cook and muleteers/horsemen to carry food, equipment, and camping gear
- ✅ Meals during the trek: 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners (vegetarian options available)
- ✅ First-aid kit and oxygen bottle for emergencies
- ✅ Duffel bag for personal belongings (up to 7 kg carried by pack animals)
- ✅ Briefing in Cusco before departure with your trekking guide
Not included:
❌ Entrance ticket to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (optional, must be booked in advance)
❌ Sleeping bag and trekking poles (available for rent)
❌ Travel insurance (recommended)
❌ Tips for guides, cooks, and porters
❌ Extra snacks, bottled water, or personal expenses
What to expect
Expect to be amazed. This journey offers a unique combination of extreme sports and spiritual discovery, all framed by breathtaking landscapes. You’ll feel the high-altitude wind during your bike descent, paddle through jungle rapids, zip across canyons, and walk ancient Inca paths shrouded in mist.
The trek is physically demanding but emotionally rewarding. Every day brings a new thrill, and the final climb to Machu Picchu at sunrise is nothing short of magical. It’s not just a tour—it’s a story you’ll tell for the rest of your life.
What to Bring
For a successful and comfortable trek, be sure to pack:
- Passport (needed for entry)
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothing for varied climates
- Good trekking shoes or boots
- Rain poncho or waterproof jacket
- Swimsuit, sunscreen, insect repellent
- Refillable water bottle
- Personal medicine and toiletries
🗺️ Tour Itinerary – Day by Day Breakdown
Day 1: Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Huacawasi
- Pick up in Cusco and drive through the Sacred Valley towards Lares.
- Relax in the Lares hot springs before starting the trek.
- Begin the hike surrounded by valleys, farmlands, and snowcapped peaks.
- Arrive at Huacawasi village, a community known for weaving and alpaca herding.
- Dinner and camping under the stars.
Meals: Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Camping
Day 2: Huacawasi – Ipsay Pass – Patacancha
- Trek uphill to the Ipsaycocha Pass (4,450 m / 14,600 ft), the highest point of the route.
- Incredible views of glaciers, colorful lagoons, and herds of llamas and alpacas.
- Descend to Ipsaycocha Lake for lunch and continue to Patacancha community.
- Experience Andean traditions and spend the night camping.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Camping
Day 3: Patacancha – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
- Hike downhill through scenic valleys and ancient Inca terraces.
- Reach Ollantaytambo, one of the most important Inca towns in the Sacred Valley.
- Take the panoramic train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Pueblo).
- Overnight stay in a hotel with dinner included.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
Day 4: Machu Picchu – Cusco
- Early bus to Machu Picchu to enjoy the sunrise over the citadel.
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu, exploring temples, terraces, and sacred plazas.
- Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (with prior booking).
- Afternoon train to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast
Price
460
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Tour: Epic Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: 4-Day Adventure
Group service
Tour guide
Tourist Transportation
Train
Transfer
Bicycle
Biking Equipment
Hostel
Meals mentioned
Entrance tickets
Group service: Daily departures, in a maximum group of 8 passengers.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The Lares Trek Peru is less crowded, more cultural, and doesn’t require special permits. You’ll hike through authentic Andean villages and enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery.
It’s a moderate to challenging trek with daily hikes of 5–7 hours. The highest point is 4,450 m (14,600 ft). Good physical condition and acclimatization are recommended.
The dry season (April–October) is the best time, offering clear skies and excellent trekking conditions.
Professional bilingual guide
All transportation (bus, train, and transfers)
Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
Camping equipment, porters, and cook service
Hotel night in Aguas Calientes
Meals during the trek
Yes, especially if you want to add Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain tickets, which sell out months in advance.