Why Choose Our Lares Valley Trek to Machu Picchu

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days / 3 Nights

Explore the Lares Valley, discover traditional Andean communities, cross spectacular mountain landscapes, and visit Machu Picchu on a 4-day trekking adventure in Peru.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights is an excellent alternative for travelers looking to combine high-altitude hiking, Andean culture, natural hot springs, and the archaeological wonder of Machu Picchu.

Departing from Cusco, this guided trekking experience takes you through the beautiful landscapes of the Lares region, past waterfalls, mountain lakes, and traditional farming communities where Quechua culture remains an important part of daily life.

Along the way, you will encounter llamas and alpacas, enjoy panoramic views of the Andes, and experience the hospitality of the Peruvian highlands. Your adventure concludes with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, one of South America's most remarkable archaeological sites.

At Inca Land Adventures, we are a locally based tour operator in Cusco, committed to personalized service, knowledgeable local guides, and responsible trekking experiences.

Book your Lares Trek for 2027 and discover another side of the Peruvian Andes.

Tour Overview

• Tour: Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

• Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights

• Departure: Cusco, Peru

• Destination: Machu Picchu

• Tour type: Guided trekking and cultural experience

• Difficulty: Moderate to challenging

• Maximum altitude: Approximately 4,200–4,735 m / 13,780–15,535 ft, subject to confirmation of the exact route

• Accommodation: Mountain campsites and a hotel in Aguas Calientes

• Best season: April to October is generally preferred for trekking conditions

• Service: Small-group or private service, subject to availability

• Guide: Professional English-speaking trekking guide

• Machu Picchu entrance: Included according to the confirmed package and available circuit

Highlights of the Lares Trek

• Explore the spectacular Lares Valley in the Peruvian Andes.

• Enjoy the natural hot springs of Lares.

• Hike to Kiswarani and admire its scenic waterfall.

• Cross the high mountain terrain around Condor Pass.

• Discover beautiful Andean lakes and dramatic mountain scenery.

• Walk through the landscapes of Cancha Cancha.

• Experience traditional Andean culture and local farming traditions.

• Observe llamas, alpacas, and high-altitude wildlife.

• Travel through the Sacred Valley region to Ollantaytambo.

• Take a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes.

• Explore Machu Picchu with a professional guide.

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Cusco – Calca – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Campsite near Kiswarani

Your Lares Trek begins with an early morning pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We travel through the beautiful Sacred Valley region toward Calca, continuing by road toward Lares and the surrounding Andean mountains.

Upon reaching the Lares area, you will have the opportunity to relax at the natural hot springs, subject to local operating conditions and the time available. These thermal waters offer a pleasant way to unwind before beginning your trek.

After lunch, we meet our trekking support team and begin walking through the Andean countryside. The route follows mountain trails and rural landscapes where local families raise livestock and cultivate traditional crops.

As we continue toward Kiswarani, enjoy views of the surrounding mountains, streams, and waterfalls. Your guide will introduce you to the region's geography, traditional livelihoods, and cultural heritage.

We arrive at our campsite in the afternoon, where the trekking team prepares dinner and helps you settle in for your first night in the Andes.

Trekking details: Approximately 7 km / 4.3 miles; around 3–4 hours of walking, depending on conditions and the confirmed route.

Day 2: Kiswarani – Condor Pass – Andean Lakes – Cancha Cancha

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Accommodation: Campsite in the Cancha Cancha area

After breakfast, we begin our most demanding trekking day. The trail climbs through high-altitude terrain toward Condor Pass, where the landscape opens to expansive views of the surrounding Andean mountain range.

The ascent requires a steady pace, regular rest stops, and adequate hydration. At the highest point, take time to appreciate the mountain scenery before beginning the descent toward the Andean lakes.

Along the route, you may see llamas and alpacas grazing in highland pastures. Depending on weather and season, the lakes and surrounding wetlands may also provide opportunities to observe Andean birds.

We stop for lunch in a scenic location before continuing through the mountain landscape toward Cancha Cancha. During the descent, your guide will explain how local communities adapt their farming and herding practices to the high-altitude environment.

Upon arrival at camp, enjoy a freshly prepared dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Trekking details: Approximately 15–16 km / 9.3–9.9 miles; around 7–8 hours of walking. These figures must be confirmed against the final route and campsite location.

Day 3: Cancha Cancha – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Meals: Breakfast and lunch
Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we continue our descent through the Cancha Cancha valley. The trail passes rural landscapes, agricultural terraces, traditional homes, and mountain scenery that reveal the close relationship between local communities and their environment.

As we descend, the climate gradually becomes milder. Your guide will explain traditional crops, irrigation practices, and aspects of everyday life in the Sacred Valley region.

After completing the trekking section, we continue by road toward Ollantaytambo. This historic town is known for its Inca stonework, narrow streets, and enduring cultural heritage.

According to the confirmed transport and train schedule, you will have time to rest or explore the town before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival, check in at your hotel and prepare for the following day's visit to Machu Picchu. Your guide will explain the entry arrangements and remind you of the documents and personal items required.

Trekking details: Approximately 10 km / 6.2 miles; around 3–4 hours of walking, subject to confirmation of the route and transfer arrangements.

Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco

Meals: Breakfast

Today is the highlight of your Lares Trek adventure: visiting Machu Picchu.

After breakfast, travel by shuttle bus from Aguas Calientes to the entrance of the archaeological sanctuary, subject to the confirmed ticket arrangements.

Meet your professional guide for an informative visit to Machu Picchu. Explore the designated areas of the citadel and learn about Inca architecture, agricultural terraces, ceremonial spaces, and the historical significance of this remarkable site.

The exact route inside Machu Picchu depends on the entrance ticket and circuit assigned at the time of booking. Additional mountain hikes require separate tickets and must be arranged in advance when available.

After your visit, return by bus to Aguas Calientes and board your scheduled train to Ollantaytambo. From there, continue by tourist transport to Cusco, where the tour concludes with a transfer to your hotel.

Important: Machu Picchu entrance tickets, train schedules, and circuit availability must be confirmed before the booking is considered finalized.

Why Choose Inca Land Adventures?

Inca Land Adventures is a locally based tour operator in Cusco with a focus on personalized trekking experiences in Peru.

We aim to provide a professional, well-organized journey supported by knowledgeable local staff, careful itinerary planning, and respect for the communities and landscapes we visit.

Our approach emphasizes:

• Local knowledge of trekking routes and Andean culture.

• Professional guiding and organized trekking logistics.

• Small-group and private travel options, subject to availability.

• Respectful interactions with local communities.

• Clear information about inclusions, exclusions, and optional services.

• Support before your departure and throughout your journey.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Lares Trek a good alternative to the Classic Inca Trail?

Yes. The Lares Trek is an excellent alternative for travelers interested in Andean culture, mountain landscapes, and trekking before visiting Machu Picchu. It follows a different route from the Classic Inca Trail and does not provide the same Sun Gate entrance experience.

Do I need an Inca Trail permit for the Lares Trek?

The Lares trekking route itself does not require the Classic Inca Trail trekking permit. However, a valid Machu Picchu entrance ticket is required for the archaeological site. Train tickets and any additional mountain entrances must also be arranged when applicable.

How difficult is the Lares Trek?

The trek is moderate to challenging because of the high altitude, long walking days, and mountain passes. We recommend spending at least two days acclimatizing in Cusco or another suitable high-altitude destination before the trek.

What is the highest point of the Lares Trek?

The highest point depends on the precise route. Our published itinerary currently references Condor Pass, but the exact elevation must be confirmed before the tour is advertised. High-altitude conditions can vary, and all trekkers should walk at a comfortable pace.

What accommodation is provided?

The standard itinerary includes mountain camping during the trekking section and a hotel night in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu. The hotel category and room arrangements should be confirmed in your booking.

Can I book a private Lares Trek?

Yes, private departures can be offered subject to availability. A private tour allows your group to travel with its own guide and enjoy a more personalized experience.

When should I book the Lares Trek for 2027?

We recommend booking in advance, especially if you have specific travel dates or wish to visit Machu Picchu on a particular day. Machu Picchu tickets and train services are subject to availability.

Book Your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu for 2027

Experience the Peruvian Andes through traditional communities, high mountain landscapes, and the extraordinary history of Machu Picchu.

Contact Inca Land Adventures to check availability, confirm the itinerary, and receive a personalized quotation for your preferred travel dates.

Your Lares Trek adventure begins in Cusco.

What's Included

Your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu package includes the following services, subject to the final confirmed itinerary and booking conditions.

• Hotel pickup in Cusco: Pickup from your hotel at the scheduled departure time.

• Tourist transportation: Transportation between Cusco and the Lares trekking starting point, plus the return transfer from Ollantaytambo to Cusco.

• Professional English-speaking trekking guide: Guidance throughout the trekking itinerary.

• Machu Picchu guided tour: Professional guiding inside the archaeological sanctuary, subject to the confirmed entrance ticket.

• Machu Picchu entrance ticket: Admission for the agreed circuit, subject to availability and confirmation.

• Round-trip train tickets: Tourist-class train between Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes, according to the confirmed schedule.

• Round-trip shuttle bus: Bus service between Aguas Calientes and the entrance to Machu Picchu.

• Camping equipment: Shared or individual tents according to the confirmed package.

• Sleeping mattress: Standard camping mattress for the trekking nights.

• Trekking cook and kitchen equipment: Support for preparing meals during the camping section.

• Trekking meals: Meals specified in the final itinerary.

• Muleteers and pack animals: Transport of camping equipment and the agreed baggage allowance.

• Hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes: One night in a standard hotel, based on the confirmed room arrangement.

• First-aid equipment: Basic emergency supplies carried by the trekking team.

• Boiled drinking water: Provided during the trek according to the operational plan.

• Luggage support: Transport of the agreed personal baggage allowance during the trekking section.

• Personalized pre-departure information: Guidance about packing, acclimatization, and preparation.

What's Not Included

• Flights to and from Peru.

• Accommodation in Cusco before or after the tour.

• Meals not specified in the itinerary, including lunch and dinner on Day 4.

• Personal snacks, bottled drinks, and additional beverages.

• Sleeping bag and trekking poles, unless specifically included in your confirmed package.

• Personal travel insurance and emergency evacuation insurance.

• Additional entrance tickets, including Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain.

• Optional hotel upgrades or single-room supplements.

• Extra baggage beyond the agreed allowance.

• Tips for the guide, cook, muleteers, and other trekking staff.

• Personal expenses and services not explicitly listed under What's Included.

Booking note: All included transport, accommodation, entrance tickets, meals, and equipment will be confirmed in writing before payment of the final balance. Optional services and exclusions must be clearly explained at the time of booking.

Price per person Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 2027

1 traveler (private)$1,490

2 travelers $890

3 travelers $850

4 travelers $820

5 travelers $800

6 travelers $780

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