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tourhub | TreXperience | Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days | 57976 | Map

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4 Days From

~~$680~~

$648

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

4 Days Starting in Lares and ending in Cusco

Visiting: Lares, Cancha Cancha, Ollantaytambo

Tour operator:

TreXperience

Tour code:

57976

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

MODERATE

Age range:

3-65

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Vegans, Meat, Gluten free

Tour operated in:

English , Spanish

From: $680 $648 Travel Club discount: -$32

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Step off the beaten path and into the heart of the Andes with the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. This unique adventure allows you to explore the breathtaking Andes in peaceful solitude while connecting with traditional Andean communities. Discover the daily lives, culture, and traditions of these remote villages, where you’ll hike alongside llamas and alpacas and even visit a local school to support their educational efforts.Your journey culminates in an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, one of the world's most awe-inspiring wonders.Tour Highlights:Relax in the soothing natural hot springs of LaresExplore the fascinating Salineras of Maras and the ancient Inca town of OllantaytamboTake in panoramic views aboard the exclusive Vistadome or 360° trainContribute to social projects that directly benefit the communities we visitBook with confidence and flexibility, ensuring a stress-free adventure

Highlights

Step off the beaten path and into the heart of the Andes with the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
This unique adventure allows you to explore the breathtaking Andes in peaceful solitude while connecting with traditional Andean communities
Discover the daily lives, culture, and traditions of these remote villages, where you’ll hike alongside llamas and alpacas and even visit a local school to support their educational efforts
Your journey culminates in an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu, one of the world's most awe-inspiring wonders
Tour Highlights:Relax in the soothing natural hot springs of LaresExplore the fascinating Salineras of Maras and the ancient Inca town of OllantaytamboTake in panoramic views aboard the exclusive Vistadome or 360° trainContribute to social projects that directly benefit the communities we visitBook with confidence and flexibility, ensuring a stress-free adventure

Itinerary

tourhub | TreXperience | Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days | 57976 | Route Map

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Day 1 : Day 1: Cusco – Lares Thermal Baths – Blue Lagoon

Location: Lares

Accommodation: Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

4:30 AM: Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. We'll head to the natural wonder of Lares Hot Springs, with a scenic stop at the vibrant Calca market, where you’ll experience local culture firsthand. After a brief drive, immerse yourself in the soothing, mineral-rich pools of Lares, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. To kick-start your day, our trekking chef will prepare a hearty breakfast just for you.

Next, a short 30-minute drive takes us to Pampacorral, where our journey on foot begins. Enjoy a leisurely 2-hour hike to the remote Kiswarani Village, where a freshly prepared lunch awaits. As we continue our trek, a 2-hour hike through mesmerizing landscapes—potato fields, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas—leads us to our peaceful campsite by the stunning Blue Lagoon, nestled at an altitude of 3900m (12,795 ft).

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with your tents already set up, and a steaming cup of Coca-Cola tea or coffee to help you relax. As the day winds down, refresh yourself with warm water and enjoy tea time while gazing at the breathtaking starry sky before retreating to your cozy tent for the night.

Highlights of the Day:

Soak in the relaxing Lares Hot Springs, surrounded by incredible mountain scenery
Trek through charming villages, pristine nature, and stunning landscapes
Enjoy expertly prepared meals by our trekking chef at every stop
Stargaze from your campsite by the serene Blue Lagoon

Tour details:

Campsite Altitude: 3900m (12,795 ft)
Trekking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Trekking Time: 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping under a blanket of stars
Difficulty Level: Moderate

Day 2: Blue Lagoon – Condor Pass – Canchacancha Community

Location: Cancha Cancha

Accommodation: Camp

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea, delivered right to your tent, as the fresh mountain air energizes you for the day ahead. After a nourishing breakfast and grabbing some snacks from our chef, you'll embark on a 4-hour hike to the highest point of your trek—Condor Pass, perched at a breathtaking 4750m (15,583 ft).

As you ascend, be mesmerized by serene Andean lakes, the sight of geese gliding across the water, and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully. The stunning backdrop of the towering Andes Mountains will leave you speechless. At the summit, you'll experience a unique moment—a 360° panoramic view of the mountains and lakes surrounding you. Here, your guide will perform a traditional spiritual offering ceremony honoring the sacred mountains and Pachamama (Mother Earth). Sip on a refreshing cup of coca tea, soaking in this incredible moment.

Begin your descent with a gentle 2-hour hike to Acopata, where a delicious, freshly-prepared lunch awaits. After refueling, continue downhill through awe-inspiring landscapes for another 2 hours to the remote village of Canchacancha (3750m / 12,303 ft).

Upon arrival, unwind with hot drinks as you settle into the charming village. Immerse yourself in the local culture—engage with the friendly villagers, chase llamas and alpacas, join the children for a game of soccer, or exchange language lessons, making meaningful connections with the community.

Highlights of the Day:

Summit Condor Pass and take in breathtaking 360° views at the top
Witness local wildlife, including Andean geese, llamas, and alpacas
Participate in a spiritual offering ceremony led by your guide at the summit
Engage with the welcoming community of Canchacancha Village

Tour details:

Campsite Altitude: 3750m (12,303 ft)
Highest Altitude: 4750m (15,583 ft)
Trekking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
Trekking Duration: 7 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Camping under the stars
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

Day 3: Canchacancha – Salineras – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Location: Ollantaytambo

Accommodation: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee or coca tea, served right in your tent, and savor your breakfast with panoramic mountain views as your backdrop. After exploring the quaint village of Canchacancha, where time seems to stand still, begin a leisurely 4-hour descent into the beautiful Sacred Valley. Along the way, you'll visit local homesand learn about the villagers' traditional way of life and their Quechua language, which has beenpassed down through generations. You'll also have the meaningful opportunity to visit the elementary school, where we donate educational supplies and support the next generation of this remote community.

As you trek downhill, you'll notice the landscape changing—from the highland fields of potatoes and beans to the warmer, lush lands filled with corn and avocado. The transition is mesmerizing. Your journey concludes in Huaran (2700 m / 8,856 ft) with a delightful picnic lunch, where you'll bid farewell to your amazing chef and arrieros (horsemen) who have accompanied you on this unforgettable adventure.

But the day doesn’t end there! From Huaran, a private van will whisk you away to the fascinating Salineras of Maras, where you'll explore the ancient salt pools that have been harvested since Incan times. Next, visit Ollantaytambo, the remarkable Last Living Incan Citadel, recently recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages by the UNTWO. Here, you’ll explore the magnificent Inca fortress, take in the rich history, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

As the day winds down, board the 7:00 pm Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, where you'll stay the night in a cozy 3-star hotel, preparing for the ultimate experience—Machu Picchu.

Highlights of the Day:

Visit the remote, traditional village of Canchacancha and connect with locals
Trek through changing landscapes, from highlands to the fertile Sacred Valley
Explore the Salineras of Maras and the historic Incan Citadel of Ollantaytambo
End the day with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu

Tour details:

Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m (6,561 ft)
Trekking Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
Trekking Duration: 4 hours
Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Day 4 : Day 4: Explore Machu Picchu - Return To Cusco

Meals Included: Breakfast

Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel before catching one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving early gives you the chance to watch the sunrise over the ancient citadel, a truly unforgettable moment. After passing through the entrance, you’ll take a short walk to the best spots to enjoy the views.

Next, you’ll go on a 2-3 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Your guide will explain the amazing history and incredible engineering of this Inca site, sharing its secrets and special features. After the tour, you’ll have time to explore on your own, or you can choose to hike up to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu for even more stunning views (these hikes must be booked in advance and are omitted).

When you’re ready, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (on your own). In the afternoon, board the Vistadome Panoramic train for a beautiful ride through the Sacred Valley. After arriving in Ollantaytambo, you’ll be driven back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.

Highlights of the Day:

Watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu
Enjoy a guided tour exploring the history and wonders of the site
Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu
Scenic ride on the Vistadome Panoramic train through the Sacred Valley

Tour Details:

Highest Altitude: 2430m (7972 ft)
Tour Duration: 3 hours
Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
Difficulty Level: Easy

What's Included

Safety briefing the day before your trek to ensure you're prepared
Hotel pickup to start your journey hassle-free
All transportation throughout the trek
A duffle bag (up to 8 kilos) for your belongings, carried by our team
Free luggage storage in Cusco during the trek
Professional tour guides to lead you every step of the way
Experienced chefs and porters to make your trek comfortable and enjoyable
Horses and muleteers to carry food, equipment, and camping gear
2 nights of camping with top-quality equipment for a restful night under the stars
1 night in a cozy 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
All meals during the trek, freshly prepared by our chefs
Entrance tickets to the Lares Hot Springs, Salineras of Maras, and Machu Picchu
Bus tickets for the ride up and down to Machu Picchu
Return aboard the Panoramic Vistadome train, with stunning views of the Sacred Valley
All taxes and booking fees are included for a worry-free experience

What's Not Included

Sleeping bags, air mattresses, or trekking poles
Lunch on the last day
Huayna Picchu Mountain tickets
Montaña Machu Picchu tickets
Tips for porters, chefs, and guides

Requirements

Passport (required for entry to Machu Picchu)
Rain gear (jacket and pants) to stay dry in the Andes
Warm layers (fleece, long-sleeved tops) for chilly evenings and mornings
Sun protection (hat, sunscreen, sunglasses) for the high-altitude sun
Personal medication (don’t forget any prescriptions you need)
Camera with extra batteries to capture the stunning scenery
Head torch for nighttime at the campsite
Extra snacks (power bars, chocolate) for extra energy on the trail
Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, tips, and small change for using village toilets on the first day

Please Note

Confirmation will be received after the booking
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please advise any specific dietary requirements at the time of booking
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at the time of booking if required
A current valid passport is required on the day of travel

Videos

Check out our Q&As

Are children permitted to take part in the tour?

Children must be always with their parents,
Are vaccinations required for this tour?

Please visit your doctor and see what vaccines are required
What is the tipping policy?

Tipping is absolutely optional.
What is the fitness level required to do this tour?

Guest must have a moderate fitness leve
When is the best time to travel to Cusco?

The best time to visit Cusco is during the dry season, which runs from May to September. The weather is perfect for trekking and exploring the city, with clear skies and little chance of rain. This is also the peak travel season, so it can be busier. If you prefer fewer crowds and don’t mind a little rain, the shoulder seasons (April and October) can also be great times to visit.

When do you have to arrive in Cusco?

It’s a good idea to arrive in Cusco at least 2 to 3 days before your trek starts. This gives your body time to adjust to the high altitude, which is crucial since Cusco sits pretty high up at 11,152 feet (3,400 meters). The extra days also give you time to explore the city and its surroundings before your big adventure begins.
How to prevent altitude sickness?

Altitude sickness is pretty common when you head to places like Cusco, so it’s smart to be prepared. Here are a few things you can do to avoid or lessen it: - Arrive early: Give yourself a couple of days to acclimate. - Drink plenty of water: Staying hydrated is key. - Try coca tea: Locals swear by it. It's made from coca leaves and can help with altitude adjustment. - Avoid heavy meals and alcohol: These can make it harder for your body to adjust. - Take it easy: Don’t push yourself too hard on the first day or two. - Medication: Talk to your doctor about altitude sickness pills like Diamox if you're worried. If you start feeling dizzy, tired, or get a headache, slow down, rest, and stay hydrated.
Which is better, Inca Trail or Salkantay Trek?

Both treks offer incredible experiences, but they’re different in key ways: - The Inca Trail is all about history, as you’ll walk the same paths the Incas did and pass through several archaeological sites. It’s a shorter trek but highly regulated, with limited permits. - The Salkantay Trek is a bit more off the beaten path. It’s longer and tougher but offers stunning scenery, including glaciers and cloud forests. There are fewer crowds, and no permit is required. If you want the classic Machu Picchu experience, go for the Inca Trail. If you're looking for a more rugged adventure, Salkantay might be the better choice.
How many people are allowed in each group?

The size of each group on the Inca Trail is typically limited to 16 people. This ensures a more personalized experience and allows for easier management on the narrow paths of the trail. TreXperience, like most tour operators, adheres to this limit to comply with government regulations and to preserve the environment along the trail.

Reviews from travellers on this tour

Heidemarie H

Lares Trek

08-Jan-2021

A magnificent experience for cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Every detail was planned to exquisite perfection, every need was provided with friendly expertise, and the meals - OMG we ate like Kings even though we were high in the Andes! And our guide was fantastic! A fountain of fascinating knowledge. The Lared trek, while not so famous, is absolutely worthwhile - a great combination of deep immersion in nature high in the Andes and the culture of the people who still live in the traditional ways. Highly recommended!!!!

Josh K

Excellent Experience from Start to Finish

19-Jan-2021

Had an absolutely amazing time on our Lares trek. Very enthusiastic guide and delicious cooking from our private chef. The company gives back to the local community to keep the culture alive and well. Recommend for anyone wanting to experience trekking in the Andes!!

Carolyn S

Absolutely amazing - top marks from start to finish

19-Jan-2021

Me and my three friends opted for the Lares Trek (4D3N) with Trexperience and we had an absolutely fantastic experience from start to finish. The views were unbelievable and we loved experiencing the local villages and culture. Our two guides were so brilliant - they were patient, helpful, empathetic and extremely knowledgeable. Our main guide was Juan Carlos Coronel and we had such a great time with him - you are in for a treat if you get this guy. He used to be a porter and has worked for many years trekking to Machu Picchu. We absolutely loved listening to his stores about his experiences. We had some fast walkers and some slower walkers in our group but Juan Carlos managed this so well. He staggered our starting times for the walks so that we ate lunch together every day and nobody was left alone the whole trip. He made sure we were challenged as that's what we wanted but the other group wasn't pushed too hard. Everyone was extremely well looked after. Another great thing was that all the porters and guides genuinely seemed to enjoy working for Trexperience. The company really looks after its workers - treats them fairly, pays them properly and provides them with high quality equipment. Juan Carlos told us that being a porter is a very difficult job but Trexperience has done a lot to support and look after them, for example they are provided with accommodation in Cusco for when they are away from home and with all their meals for the duration of the trek. The company also does a lot of community work - supporting the poor villages around Machu Picchu. I really liked this about Trexperience and it was one of the key reasons I chose them. They are dedicated to sustainability and conservation as well as giving its customers the best possible experiences. I could go on and on - the food was absolutely amazing, and there was lots of it! They provide you with all the equipment you need which is really good quality. They are extremely well organised - I had A LOT of questions before the trek and they got back to me really quickly and were always extremely polite and helpful. Every part of the trek from the booking process to the last drop off at your hotel was extremely well and professionally managed. I can't think of a single negative thing to say about Trexperience and cannot recommend them enough. You won't be disappointed!

Alberto L

Great company great service

19-Jan-2021

Have nothing but positive things to say about my Lares Trek with Trexperience. The guide we spent most of our time with, Edwin, was knowledgable and charming and always made sure we were having a great time while taking care of us. The food the chef made us while camping was abundant and delicious, they even gave us hot water bottles to keep us warm for the cold nights in the tents while camping. The entire tour, from pickup to drop off at Machu Picchu, was great fun - all needs taken care of by the team and it was certainly the highlight of my time in Peru. If you’re looking for a good and reliable team to do a trek and visit Machu Picchu I would absolutely recommend these guys!

Lulu_Wi_2018

Lares trek with Vicente is the best!!

05-Dec-2019

We enjoyed the amazing 4 days Lares trek to Machu Picchu! Our tourguide Vicente was the best! We felt safe and comfortable all the time and he could answer all of our tons of questions about the nature, culture, country and everything. The trek was awesome, we were sometimes the only people in the mountain and the views were breathtaking. The first day is quite easy, it starts with a very early ride to the local market where our fantastic cook (Julio Caesar) and his assistant (Abel) bought the food for the next 3 days. After that we visited some hot thermal pools where we could swim and enjoy the thermal water. Then we made a little trek to our first camp site at a small lake in the mountains. The second day is quite hard but the view on the top of the mountain is worth it😍😍 We recommend to take many warm clothes with you since the temperatures can be very cold at night (minus 5 degrees on the first two nights in the tent!). Besides we had trekking poles, which were a very good support for us!! Trexperience has very good equipment which is provided and included in the price. We additionally rented an air mattress and a sleeping bag for 20$, which is also recommendable since it makes the nights much more comfortable and warmer. The food was fantastic and the cooks were really nice and polite. They could really open their own restaurant!! Even much better than expected! They cooked with so much love and took into account all allergies and special diets or wishes (vegetarian). On the first 3 days, a horseman (Leandro) accompanied us with his horses which carried our stuff. It’s incredible, how he runs through the mountains and supports the tour. Because of him, we only had to carry light backpacks and could concentrate on and enjoy the trek. Staff, food, nature, trip - everything was excellent and we would highly recommend Trexperience, especially the guide Vicente, thank you so much for the experience!! ❤️Misky team❤️

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~~$680~~ $648