Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

Overview

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights is a journey created for travelers who want to experience the Andes in a more authentic and meaningful way. At Machulas Journey, this trek is not simply about reaching Machu Picchu. It is about walking through living mountain landscapes, crossing high Andean passes, and discovering communities where tradition is still part of everyday life. Along the way, the route reveals a quieter and more personal side of Peru, where scenic trails, woven textiles, glacial views, and natural hot springs turn the journey itself into the highlight.

What makes the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights so special with Machulas Journey is the balance between cultural immersion and natural beauty. This is the kind of trek where the silence of the mountains, the warmth of local communities, and the rhythm of the trail create an experience that feels far more personal than a busier, more commercial route. Instead of following the crowds, you move through a landscape shaped by highland traditions, remote valleys, and unforgettable views, gradually building toward the final arrival at Machu Picchu. That is why the Lares route continues to stand out in the market as one of the most rewarding alternatives for travelers who want culture, scenery, and a stronger emotional connection to the Andes.

Itinerary

Day 1Cusco – lares hot spring – Cuncani – kiswarani
Day 2Quiswarani – Qoyalay lake – Pachacutec pass – Cancha Cancha
Day 3Canchacancha – Huaran – salt mine – Ollantaytambo
Day 4Machu Picchu – return to Cusco

Day 1Cusco – lares hot spring – Cuncani – kiswarani
Our starting time will be at your hotel at 4.00 am in the morning, and then you will be drive for a 3 hours until lares hot spring in order to enjoy the thermal baths and then continue to our Trail head “Cuncani” before start our hike you have to enjoy breakfast organize by our master chef to recharge the energy to discover your way.

After breakfast we will embarking on our hike, the first uphill will take us 3 hours all the way to top – wilkikasa pass over 4,400 m / 14,436 ft on the way we will have amazing wáter fall, lagoons. From the top we will continue downhill for 1 hour and half until reach our lunch spot and campsite. Here our master chef will be ready to provide organic buffet lunch, and then rest in our tents for nex day.

Trek Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Lares Trek, Peru
- Hiking time: 5 hours
- Transport time: 3 hours
- Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural - History
- Start/End Time: Pickup is at 4.00 am from your hotel and you will be finishing the Hike at 2 pm
- Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
- Starting Altitude: 3400 / 11,155 ft
- Climate: Cold
- Total, Walking Distance: 7 km / 4.35 ml
- Highest Altitude: 4,400 m.a.s.l / 14,435.7ft
- Overall Difficulty: Moderate
Day 2Quiswarani – Qoyalay lake – Pachacutec pass – Cancha Cancha
Our team will weake you up with coca tea in your tent and then enjoy our healthy energetic breakfast in order start our second day hike, the first parto for today will be 4 hours climb until pachacutec pass - 4,700 m / 15,420 ft, a long the way you will see stunning lake qoyalay lagoon - 4140 m / 13,583 ft. Once arrived to the top we will break for our snacks wáter and then continue downhill for a 3 hours until we reach our lunch spot and campsite “Canchacancha” where you will learn with locals families their traditions, custums. Here also our master chef will provide deliciuos organic buffet lunch and then in the afternoon dinner.

Trek Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Lares Trek, Peru
- Hiking time: 7 hours
- Transport time: none
- Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural - History
- Start/End Time: at 6.00 am and you will be finishing the Hike at 1.30 pm
- Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
- Starting Altitude: 3850 m / 12,631 ft
- Climate: Cold
- Total, Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.83 ml
- Highest Altitude: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft
- Overall Difficulty: Challenging
Day 3Canchacancha – Huaran – salt mine – Ollantaytambo
Weakeup up time will at 6.00 am with coca tea in your tent our master chef or our guide will offer this service. Once enjoyed your delicious breakfast you will be able to hike downhill for 1 hour and half to Huaran - spot from where we will take the van to salt mines, but before to take our private van we will recharge our energy with delicious organic buffet lunch provide by our master chef, this place also will be the last moment tos ay Good bye to our trek team, master chef, muleteers.

After that we will continue 30 minute driving to salt mine in order to visit the impressive natural beauty, thausand of salt pools - here our professional tour guide will proud to provide such amazing information about this attraction, with anothe 30 minute driving finally we will arrive to Ollantaytambo hotel acomodation organize by the comapy.

Trek Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Lares Trek, Peru
- Hiking time: 3 hours
- Transport time: 1 hours
- Tour Type: Hiking tour – natural - History
- Start/End Time: at 4.00 am and you will be finishing the Hike at 2 pm
- Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
- Starting Altitude: 3950 m / 12,959 ft
- Climate: Cold - warm
- Total, Walking Distance: 9 km / 5.59 ml
- Highest Altitude: 3950 m / 12,959 ft
- Overall Difficulty: Moderate
Day 4Machu Picchu – return to Cusco
Today will be easy and the most impressive journey at 5.10 am we finally board the train to Aguas Calientes town. The train take us 2 hours approximately, once arrived to aguas calientes train station our tour guide will take you to Bus station where the bus drive 25 minutes and leave you next to Machupicchu entrance. where you will show the original passport and entrance feet to citadel in order to visit.

Once passed the control our tour guide starts with tour guiding for 3 hours in the citadel, where he will teach you the Peruvian, inca history and also, he will show you the most impressive places, such like temple, palace, fountain, plazas, ceremonial places, much more. after you finished to explore the citadel of machupicchu, you will have to return to aguas calientes town together with your guide. Here if you want you can go have lunch with your tour guide or by yourself any restaurant because this last lunch is not included in your trek.
At 3:20 or 4:20 pm according you booking trek you will be returning to Ollantaytambo train station and from Ollantaytambo to Cusco. Our driver will leave you to each of you at door of your hotel.

Trek Overview:
- Tour Location: Cusco Machupiccu, Peru
- Hiking time: Full Day tour
- Transport time: 50 minutes transport by bus in aguas calienets couple hours by train
- Tour Type: Hiking – Cultural, History - nature
- Start/End Time: At 8 am from your Cusco hotel and you will be in your camp at 4 pm
- Consideration: Please remember to take the necessary hiking cloths, boots follow all the company recommendations
- Starting Altitude: 2792 m / 9,160. 1 ft
- Climate: Templete weather
- Total, Walking Distance: 11 km / 6.8 ml
- Highest Altitude: 3,133 / 10278.87 ft
- Overall Difficulty: Easy – Down – flat

Included

Professional English & Spanish speaking tour guide throughout the entire trek and Machu Picchu visit.
Official Lares Trek trail permit.
Muleteers and pack animals to carry camping equipment.
Professional trekking chef (Master Chef) during the trek.
Private transportation to the Lares Trek trailhead.
Private transportation to the Salt Mine and to your hotel in Ollantaytambo.
Salt Mine entrance ticket.
Healthy organic breakfasts.
Organic buffet lunches.
Organic buffet dinners.
Dinner at a tourist restaurant (as specified in the itinerary).
Snacks and drinking water during hiking days.
Train ticket to Machu Picchu.
Round-trip bus tickets in Aguas Calientes (up and down).
Machu Picchu entrance ticket (Circuit #2 – La Diseñada).
Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
Private transportation from Ollantaytambo back to your hotel in Cusco.
First-aid kit and emergency assistance during the trek.

Not included

Trekking poles.
Sleeping bags.
Air mattresses.
Lunch in Aguas Calientes on the Machu Picchu day.
Tips for muleteers, trekking chef, and tour guide (optional and voluntary).
Personal expenses and extra services not mentioned in the itinerary.
Travel insurance (highly recommended).

Recommendations

Arrive in Cusco at least two days before the trek to acclimatize properly.
Bring your original passport for permits, train travel, and Machu Picchu entry.
Wear well-broken-in hiking boots with good grip and ankle support.
Dress in layers to handle cold mornings, warm afternoons, and changing weather.
Carry a waterproof jacket or poncho at all times.
Use sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat due to strong UV radiation.
Bring a warm sleeping bag suitable for cold mountain nights.
Stay well hydrated and drink water frequently during the trek.
Avoid alcohol and heavy meals before and during hiking days.
Carry a small daypack for personal items, water, and snacks.
Bring some cash in Peruvian soles for tips and small expenses.
Consider renting trekking poles for added stability on steep trails.
Purchase travel insurance that covers high-altitude trekking activities.
Respect local communities, archaeological sites, and follow your guide’s instructions.

Route map

Approximate route. Your guide will share the detailed map before departure.

Gallery

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

FAQs

How difficult is the Lares Trek?

The Lares Trek is rated as moderate and is suitable for travelers with good physical condition. While it involves mountain hiking and altitude, it is generally less crowded and slightly less demanding than the Classic Inca Trail. No technical climbing skills are required. Proper acclimatization in Cusco is recommended to fully enjoy the experience, and our guides maintain a comfortable pace throughout the trek.

What is the best time of year to do the Lares Trek?

The best time to hike the Lares Trek is during the dry season, from April to October, when weather conditions are more stable and trails are safer. June to August are the most popular months and require early booking. March and November are good shoulder-season options with fewer travelers, although occasional rain may occur.

Are meals and camping logistics included?

Yes, all meals during the trek are included and prepared by a professional trekking chef. This includes healthy breakfasts, organic buffet lunches, dinners, snacks, and drinking water. Muleteers carry the main camping equipment, allowing you to hike comfortably with only a light daypack. This setup ensures proper nutrition and energy throughout the trek.

What equipment do I need to bring?

You should bring well-broken-in hiking boots, layered clothing, rain gear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a warm sleeping bag. Trekking poles, sleeping bags, and air mattresses are not included but can be rented locally. A small backpack for daily essentials is also recommended to keep personal items accessible during the hike.

Is travel insurance required for the Lares Trek?

Travel insurance is not mandatory, but it is strongly recommended. Your insurance should cover high-altitude trekking, medical emergencies, and evacuation. While our team provides first-aid support and professional guidance, insurance gives you extra peace of mind during this multi-day trek in remote mountain areas.

Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

Overview

Itinerary

Included

Included

Not included

Recommendations

Route map

Gallery

FAQs

Questions about this tour?

Why travel with Machulas Journey

Award-winning local team

Small groups

Permits handled for you

Expert local guides

Responsible travel

Secure booking

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