Lares Trek 4 Days

We understand how important this vacation is for you—it’s not just a trip; it’s a dream adventure. That’s why we are committed to ensuring your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is as seamless and unforgettable as possible. To give you peace of mind and answer all your questions, we go the extra mile to prepare you for this incredible journey.

Your experience begins even before you set foot on the trail. A day or two before your departure, your dedicated guide will meet you at your hotel to review every detail of your Lares Trek 4 days itinerary. This personalized session is designed to address any questions or concerns, confirm essential logistics, and share valuable insights about the trek. Whether it’s a question about the trail conditions, packing tips, or special dietary needs, your guide will ensure you feel completely prepared and confident.

We know that plans can change, so we stay in close contact with you before the trek. Should adjustments be needed—whether for your schedule, preferences, or special requests—our team is ready to accommodate. We are here to make your Lares Trek 4 days  as smooth and stress-free as possible, giving you the freedom to focus on the adventure ahead.

Your unforgettable Lares Trek to Machu Picchu begins with a private transport service that picks you up from your hotel in Cusco. As we leave the bustling city behind, the scenic journey takes us into the heart of the Sacred Valley of the Incas, renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage. After approximately 1.5 hours, we arrive at Huaran (3,000 meters / 9,840 feet), the official starting point of this epic adventure.

Here, you’ll meet our dedicated trekking team, including our friendly porters and skilled cooks, all of whom hail from the nearby community of Cancha Cancha. Their warmth and expertise will set the tone for an incredible journey ahead.

The first day’s trek introduces you to the natural beauty and tranquility of the Andes. As you walk through this pristine environment, you’ll be surrounded by diverse flora and fauna, including native shrubs and endemic bird species. Along the trail, the Urubamba mountain range reveals its dramatic rock formations, offering panoramic views of the Sacred Valley—a photographer’s dream.

After a few hours of trekking, we arrive at the picturesque community of Cancha Cancha (3,956 meters / 12,976 feet). Here, you’ll have a rare opportunity to witness the authentic daily life of the locals. This remote village remains largely untouched by modernity, allowing you to experience traditional Andean culture up close. From their vibrant clothing to their sustainable farming practices, every moment offers insight into a way of life deeply connected to the land.

After a rewarding day of exploration, you’ll be treated to a delicious meal prepared by our talented cooks, featuring fresh, local ingredients. From a hearty snack to a warm dinner, every bite is designed to fuel your journey and keep your spirits high.

Your first night will be spent at a well-equipped campsite, where you can relax and marvel at the clear Andean skies, dotted with countless stars.

• Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
• Walking Time: 5–6 hours
• Meals: Snack, lunch, coffee break, and dinner
• Accommodation: Camping facilities
• Temperature: Min. -5°C (23°F) / Max. 15°C (59°F)
• Physical Difficulty: Medium (3/5)

Your second day on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is nothing short of extraordinary. After a hearty breakfast to fuel your adventure, we’ll begin a gradual ascent toward the Pachacuteq Pass, standing at an impressive 4,700 meters (15,419 feet). This challenging yet rewarding climb offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Puna region, a unique high-altitude landscape characterized by its rugged beauty and tranquility.

As you ascend, you’ll be treated to spectacular views of the Q’olque Cruz Glacier, soaring to 5,400 meters (17,720 feet). This magnificent natural wonder dominates the skyline, providing the perfect backdrop for memorable photos. The journey also takes you past serene lagoons, sparkling waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks, each revealing the pristine beauty of the Andes.

One of the most heartwarming aspects of this day is witnessing the daily life of the local highland people. You’ll see herds of llamas, alpacas, and sheep grazing peacefully along the trail. These animals are essential to the survival of indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their sustainable way of life.

After a full day of exploration, we’ll arrive at Quiswarani Camp, nestled at 3,800 meters (12,460 feet). This charming campsite is surrounded by stunning landscapes and is home to welcoming indigenous families. Here, you’ll have the chance to interact with the local people, learn about their traditions, and experience their warm hospitality—a highlight of the Lares Trek 5 days.

• Distance Covered: 12 km (7.2 miles).
• Walking Time: Approximately 8 to 9 hours.
• Meals Provided: Breakfast, water, lunch, coffee break, and dinner, all prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
• Accommodation: Comfortable camping facilities with breathtaking views of the Andes.
• Elevation: Maximum height of 4,700 meters (15,419 feet) and minimum height of 3,800 meters (12,460 feet).
• Temperature Range: Expect a minimum of -5°C (23°F) and a maximum of 15°C (59°F).
• Physical Difficulty: Rated 5/5

As the sun rises on another breathtaking day of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, we’ll enjoy a hearty breakfast, fueling us for the incredible adventure ahead. The day begins with a challenging yet rewarding uphill climb, taking approximately 2.5 hours to reach the summit of the Q’allaqasa Pass at an altitude of 4,400 meters (14,430 feet). Standing at this incredible height, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the majestic Urubamba mountain range and picturesque valleys below—an awe-inspiring sight that will leave you speechless.

After soaking in the beauty of the summit, we’ll take a well-deserved break before beginning our descent toward the charming Andean community of Cuncani, located at 3,800 meters (12,460 feet). Along the way, you’ll witness the traditional herding practices of the locals, with hundreds of sheep, llamas, and alpacas dotting the landscape. This is an incredible opportunity to capture the essence of life in the Peruvian highlands and connect with the vibrant culture of the Andes.

Our hike culminates at the renowned Lares thermal medicinal baths, located at 3,120 meters (10,266 feet). Here, you’ll soak in the soothing hot waters, a perfect reward after a day of trekking through the rugged Andean terrain. The natural thermal springs are known for their healing properties and are surrounded by stunning mountain scenery, offering a moment of pure relaxation and rejuvenation.

While you unwind, we’ll serve a delicious lunch to refuel your energy for the next leg of the journey. This is a chance to relax, connect with fellow adventurers, and bask in the tranquility of this unique Andean oasis.

Feeling completely refreshed, we’ll board our private transport for a scenic three-hour ride back to the historic town of Ollantaytambo, located at 2,792 meters (9,158 feet). In this charming town, we’ll enjoy a hearty dinner before embarking on the final stretch of our journey.

A short, picturesque train ride to Aguas Calientes town (1 hour and 45 minutes) awaits, taking us through lush valleys and along the banks of the roaring Urubamba River. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, we’ll head to a comfortable hotel for a well-earned rest, preparing for the grand finale: exploring the iconic Machu Picchu the next day.

• Distance: 11 km / 7 miles
• Walking Time: 5 to 6 hours
• Meals Provided: Breakfast, water, snacks, lunch, coffee break, and dinner
• Accommodation: Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Maximum Altitude: 4,400 meters / 14,430 feet
• Minimum Altitude: 3,800 meters / 12,460 feet
• Temperature Range: 0°C (23°F) to 18°C (59°F)
• Difficulty Level: Moderate (3/5)

After completing your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, the magic continues with an unforgettable visit to the iconic Inca Citadel of Machu Picchu. Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel before your guide picks you up to embark on the next phase of your journey.

Board a bus that will take you to the entrance of Machu Picchu, where you’ll witness the enchanting sunrise over the Andes. This serene moment is the perfect way to begin your exploration of this ancient wonder, as the early morning tranquility allows you to fully appreciate the breathtaking beauty of your surroundings. The fresh mountain air and golden light create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Your guide will lead you on a comprehensive two-hour tour of Machu Picchu, showcasing its most important and awe-inspiring areas. From its impressive terraces to its intricate stone temples, you’ll uncover the fascinating history and cultural significance of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Every step reveals a new layer of the Inca Empire’s brilliance, leaving you in awe of their ingenuity.

To make the most of your experience, we recommend booking Circuit 2, one of the best routes for exploring Machu Picchu’s highlights. Ensure your reservation is made well in advance to secure your preferred schedule.

Optional Adventure: Climb Huayna Picchu

If you’re looking to extend your adventure, consider climbing the famed Huayna Picchu Mountain, which offers panoramic views of Machu Picchu and its surroundings. This additional trek is highly sought-after, so be sure to inquire about availability when planning your trip.

Return Journey

After your visit, you’ll board a bus back to the charming town of Aguas Calientes. Here, you’ll have time to relax and reflect on your incredible experience before catching your train. Depending on your EXPEDITION train service reservation, departures are typically scheduled between 2:55 PM and 6:20 PM.

The scenic train ride will take you to the station at Ollantaytambo, where our private transportation will be waiting to ensure a smooth journey back to your hotel in Cusco. The return trip, including the train and private transfer, takes approximately 4 hours, allowing you ample time to rest and relive the highlights of your journey.

• Meals: Enjoy a nourishing breakfast to fuel your day of exploration.
• Temperature: lows of 8°C (46.4°F) and highs of 26°C (78.8°F).