Lares Hike Homestay + Machu Picchu

Before embarking on your unforgettable 4-day Lares Hike to Machu Picchu, we’ll meet you at your hotel in Cusco for a pre-departure briefing. This session is designed to give you all the information you need for a successful and enjoyable journey. The briefing will take place the evening before your trek at 7:00 PM, where our expert guides or experienced staff will walk you through the itinerary, share tips for preparation, and answer any last-minute questions you may have.

During this informative session, you’ll learn about the key highlights of the Lares Trail to Machu Picchu, including must-see sites, trail conditions, and cultural insights. Whether you’re opting for a Lares hike home stay experience or a hotel stay, our team will provide professional recommendations on packing, what to expect along the trek, and how to prepare physically and mentally for the adventure.

We understand that schedules can vary, so if the standard briefing time doesn’t work for you, simply let us know in advance. We’ll be happy to adjust the timing to fit your needs, ensuring that you feel completely prepared and confident before setting out on the trail.

This essential briefing ensures you’re ready for your Lares trek, with clear guidance and expert support every step of the way.

Kickstart your unforgettable Lares Trek with a pick-up from your Cusco hotel, where you’ll begin your journey in a private vehicle. First, stop in the town of Calca for a 1-hour visit to the local market, where you’ll have the chance to explore and appreciate authentic products of the Sacred Valley. Afterward, continue your Lares hike Peru adventure for a scenic 2-hour drive to the natural Lares Hot Springs, the hottest in the entire Cusco region. Here, you can unwind and relax before your hike truly begins.

Your trek starts towards Wacahuasi, a charming Andean village that offers an authentic look into local life. Along the way, you’ll pass through the peaceful Chancachaca area and stop for a delightful lunch made with fresh local ingredients. After a brief rest and time to take in the stunning surroundings, you’ll continue your Lares Hike for another 2 hours, reaching Wacahuasi, where a warm and welcoming local family awaits to greet you.

They’ll show you to your comfortable room in one of the traditional Lares hike lodges, where you’ll feel right at home. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner prepared with locally-sourced products, providing a truly immersive cultural experience as you share in the rich traditions of the area.

After enjoying a delicious Andean breakfast, your Lares hike adventure continues as you hike through the stunning Lares Valley. You’ll make your way to the impressive Ipsaycocha Pass, located at an altitude of 4,650 meters (15,255 feet). This section of the Lares trail Peru lasts 3-4 hours and is a physically challenging yet rewarding journey, offering breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks, lush valleys, and towering mountain landscapes.

Along the Lares hike to Machu Picchu, you’ll pass by humble local Andean houses where Andean camelids, such as llamas and alpacas, graze peacefully. The sight of hundreds of these magnificent creatures, along with the opportunity to observe Andean wildlife like geese, gulls, ducks, and vizcachas, will undoubtedly captivate your attention and add to the adventure.

Upon reaching the highest point, Ipsaycocha Pass, you’ll feel a great sense of accomplishment. From here, the Lares hike Machu Picchu continues its descent, offering spectacular views of the Ipsaycocha Lagoon. The lagoon is nestled among local communities who rely on fishing and alpaca grazing for their livelihood. This is where we’ll be warmly welcomed by local families, who will serve us a delicious, traditional lunch.

After lunch, we embark on a two-hour downhill hike through the Lares Valley trek, eventually arriving at Patacancha. Here, we’ll be greeted by the warmth and hospitality of the descendants of the Inca civilization. The local people will invite us into their society, dressing us in their traditional attire, and provide an insightful demonstration of their rich cultural heritage. You’ll also learn about the intricate handcrafted textiles that have been passed down through generations since pre-Hispanic times—an experience that adds a deeply cultural element to your Lares trail.

After a day filled with scenic beauty and cultural exploration, you’ll settle into your lodge and enjoy a refreshing shower. In the evening, an organic dinner will be served under the stars, allowing you to reflect on the unforgettable experiences of the day.

On the third day of your unforgettable Lares hike to Machu Picchu, the pace slows down as you explore the captivating Lares Hike. This relaxed day takes you to the ancient Inca site of Pumamarca, followed by a visit to the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo. After enjoying a hearty breakfast with your welcoming Andean hosts, you’ll say your goodbyes and embark on a short 30-minute drive to the archaeological site of Pumamarca, located at 3,400 meters (11,800 feet). Here, your expert guide will lead you through the ruins, rich in cultural significance and historical mystery.

Next, you’ll embark on a scenic Lares Peru hike for three hours, trekking through stunning landscapes to reach Ollantaytambo, where time seems to stand still. As you wander through the narrow streets of this ancient Inca village, you’ll discover impressive stone foundations and marvel at the fusion of past and present. Afterward, you’ll indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the area’s renowned restaurants, a perfect pause before continuing your journey.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to the train station to board the panoramic train to Aguas Calientes (Machu Picchu Town). The scenic train ride, lasting about 1 hour and 40 minutes, offers stunning views of the Urubamba River as it winds through the valleys below. Upon arrival, you’ll check into your comfortable hotel**, ready to relax before your upcoming adventure.

In the evening, your guide will provide insights about your upcoming visit to the legendary Machu Picchu, the grand finale of your Lares hike home staying Machu Picchu experience. This day strikes the perfect balance between hiking and relaxation, allowing you to enjoy the final moments of your Lares hike before the breathtaking views of Machu Picchu.

This day of the Lares trek 4 dias will leave you with cherished memories of Andean culture, history, and awe-inspiring landscapes, setting the stage for an unforgettable exploration of Machu Picchu.

On the final day of your Lares hike to Machu Picchu, you’ll experience the awe-inspiring wonder of Machu Picchu. After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you for a short 30-minute walk to the bus station. From there, you’ll enjoy a scenic bus ride from Aguas Calientes to the legendary Machu Picchu ruins. Once you arrive, your expert guide will lead you through the ancient site, sharing fascinating historical insights that will transport you back in time.

For those looking to extend their adventure, we highly recommend adding a climb up Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak that offers breathtaking panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Please note that to secure this option, you must book in advance as availability is limited.

After your exploration of the Machu Picchu ruins, return to Aguas Calientes by bus, where you’ll board the scenic train back to Ollantaytambo station. From there, a comfortable transfer will take you back to Cusco, where your journey ends at your hotel.

Important Information: The return trip from Aguas Calientes to Cusco typically takes around four hours, combining both the train and bus rides. Train schedules usually start around 2:30 p.m. (depending on availability) with services such as Peru Rail Expedition or similar.