Lares Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights is an alternative route that combines trekking in the Andes with real cultural encounters on the way to Machu Picchu.
Instead of following a fixed archaeological route, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights passes through highland villages where daily life continues much as it has for generations. You walk across mountain passes above 4,000 meters, alongside herds of llamas and alpacas, with views of glacial lakes and wide valleys.
This trek is a good fit for travelers who prefer a quieter trail and want more than just the final destination, combining trekking, local culture, and a guided visit to Machu Picchu at the end of the journey.
Overview of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights follows a route through the Lares Valley, connecting highland trekking with the Sacred Valley of the Incas.
The journey involves a combination of hiking and transport. Over the first three days, you walk across mountain passes and descend into valleys before reaching Lares Town, where the trekking portion ends.
Then, the route continues by train through the Sacred Valley, following the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes. On the final day, you visit Machu Picchu with a guided tour, completing the full experience from the Andes to the Inca citadel.
Lares Trek 4 Days Highlights
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights offers a different experience in the Andes, combining nature, culture, and a quieter route compared to other treks in Peru.
- Alternative trek to Machu Picchu with fewer crowds
- Walk through remote Andean communities and experience local traditions
- See llamas and alpacas in their natural environment
- Travel by train through the Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes
- Visit Ollantaytambo, an important Inca town
- Guided tour of Machu Picchu at the end of the journey
This trek is a good choice for travelers looking for a cultural trekking experience in Peru with a balanced mix of adventure and local interaction.
Lares Trek 4 Days at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Huaran – Cancha Cancha – Acopata
The journey begins with an early drive from Cusco to the community of Huaran, located in the Sacred Valley. From here, the hike gradually enters the Cancha Cancha Valley, following a quiet trail surrounded by agricultural fields and Andean landscapes. By the afternoon, you arrive at Acopata, where your first campsite is set in a peaceful mountain setting.
Day 2: Acopata – Pachacutec Pass – Quishuarani
After breakfast, the trail climbs steadily toward Pachacutec Pass (4,700 m), the highest point of the trek. From the top, the views open across high-altitude terrain shaped by wind and time. The descent leads toward Quishuarani, passing lagoons and open valleys before reaching the campsite near this traditional Andean village.
Day 3: Quishuarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
This day follows a route that connects different Andean communities, offering a mix of trekking and local interaction. The trail continues through mountain paths toward Cuncani, then descends to the Lares area, where you have time to enjoy the hot springs. Later, transport takes you to Ollantaytambo, where you board the train bound for Aguas Calientes.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
An early start allows you to visit Machu Picchu with your guide, exploring its main sectors and learning about its history and significance. After the visit, you return to Aguas Calientes and later travel back to Cusco by train and bus, bringing the experience to an end.
Included
- Pre-trek briefing the night before your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco
- Private transport from Cusco to Huaran
- Entry ticket to Machu Picchu
- Entrance fee for the Lares Trek
- Professional English-speaking guide
- Comfortable tents (2 people in a 4-person tent)
- Dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, and toilet tent
- Bus ticket Aguas Calientes ⇄ Machu Picchu
- Train ticket Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo
- Private transport from Ollantaytambo to Cusco
- 1 Dinner in Ollantaytambo
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes (private room with bathroom)
- Mules and horses for equipment and personal items (up to 7 kg per person)
- Muleteers (horsemen)
- Foam sleeping mattress
- 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, and 3 Dinners
- Fresh meals prepared for trekking (vegetarian, vegan, and special diets available)
- Afternoon tea time (tea, coffee, snacks)
- Wake-up coca tea each morning
- Boiled drinking water (from Day 2 onward)
- Daily hot water for washing
- Biodegradable soap and hand cleansing gel
- Walkie-talkie communication system
- First aid kit
- Emergency oxygen bottle
Not included
- Breakfast on Day 1
- Lunch and dinner on Day 4
- Sleeping bag
- Walking sticks
- Entrance to the hot springs
- Extra snacks and personal expenses
- Entrance to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain (US$65 per person)
- Travel insurance
- Tips for guide, cook, and muleteers
Lares Trek 4 Days Itinerary
Day 1: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Huaran – Cancha Cancha – Acopata
You start your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights with an early pickup from your hotel in Cusco at 5:30 am. You travel through the Sacred Valley, passing small villages, farms, and terraces that show daily life in the Andes.
You arrive in Huaran (3,000 m), where the hike begins. Here, you meet the muleteer team and prepare your gear before starting the trek.
The trail follows the Cancha Cancha Valley along a gentle ascent. You walk beside the river and pass traditional houses and cultivated fields. As you continue, the landscape becomes quieter and more remote, offering your first real connection with the Andes.
After about three hours, you reach Cancha Cancha, where you stop for lunch and rest. In the afternoon, you continue uphill for around 1.5 hours.
As you gain altitude, the valley opens up and the views become more expansive. You arrive at Acopata (4,200 m), where your campsite is set in a wide mountain area. In the evening, you enjoy dinner surrounded by the silence of the highlands.
- Meals: Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Walking Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: ~6 hours
- Max Altitude: 4,200 m
Day 2: Acopata – Pachacutec Pass – Qoyalay Lake – Quishuarani
You wake up early with a hot drink and breakfast prepared by your trekking team. This is the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek.
After breakfast, you begin a steady ascent toward Pachacutec Pass (4,700 m). The climb takes around three hours. As you move higher, the air becomes thinner and the landscape more open, with wide views in every direction.
At the summit, you reach the highest point of the Lares Trek 4 Days. From here, you enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including Sahuasiray and Chicón.
After a short rest, you begin the descent. The trail leads toward Qoyalay Lake, where you stop for lunch beside the water. This is a peaceful spot to recover and enjoy the scenery.
In the afternoon, you continue descending through open valleys. You will see herds of alpacas and llamas grazing freely, along with occasional Andean wildlife.
You arrive at Quishuarani (3,850 m) in the late afternoon. After settling into camp, you can walk around the village or relax before dinner.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation: Camping
- Walking Distance: 12 km
- Hiking Time: ~7 hours
- Max Altitude: 4,700 m
Day 3: Quishuarani – Cuncani – Lares – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
After breakfast, you begin the day with a gradual ascent toward Willqaqasa Pass (4,200 m). The climb takes about three hours and offers clear views of the Vilcanota mountain range.
From the pass, you descend through highland terrain toward the community of Cuncani. Along the way, you pass small lakes, grazing areas, and agricultural fields used by local families.
In Cuncani, you observe daily life in the Andes. You may see locals working in the fields or caring for animals, offering a closer look at traditional lifestyles.
After the hike, transport takes you to the Lares hot springs. Here you can relax in the thermal waters and recover after the trek. Lunch is served in this area.
In the afternoon, you travel by road to Ollantaytambo. This historic town marks the transition from trekking to train travel.
Later, you board the train to Aguas Calientes. The scenery changes as you move from highlands into a more lush environment near Machu Picchu.
- Meals: Breakfast / Lunch / Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel
- Walking Distance: 13 km
- Hiking Time: ~6–7 hours
- Max Altitude: 4,200 m
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Cusco
You wake up early to begin your visit to Machu Picchu. After breakfast, you take one of the first buses from Aguas Calientes to the entrance.
You arrive early, when the site is quieter and the light is ideal for panoramic views. From the upper viewpoints, you get your first full view of Machu Picchu and the surrounding mountains.
Your guide leads you through the main sectors of the citadel. You explore terraces, temples, and ceremonial areas while learning how the site functioned during the Inca period. The guided tour lasts around 2 to 3 hours.
After the guided visit, you have time to continue exploring on your own or simply enjoy the atmosphere of the site. If you have pre-booked Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you can coordinate your entry time with your guide.
Later, you return by bus to Aguas Calientes. You have free time to walk around the town, relax, or have lunch before your return journey.
In the afternoon, you take the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, private transport takes you back to Cusco and your hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Not included
- Tour Duration: 2–3 hours guided visit
Prices – Lares Trek 4 Days
The Lares Trek can depart any day of the week from March through January. We do not operate this itinerary in February due to the rainy season and route maintenance.
Group Price
-
US$579 per person
We recommend booking early to secure your preferred travel date.
Private Tour Prices
- 2 people: US$629 per person
- 3 people: US$619 per person
- 4 people: US$609 per person
- 5 people: US$589 per person
- 6+ people: US$579 per person
Booking and Payment
- Deposit: US$200 per person (to reserve your spot)
- The remaining balance can be paid online or at our office in Cusco
- Payment methods: credit card, PayPal, or wire transfer
- Contact us for alternative payment options
Discounts
- Ages 18–25: US$25 (valid student ID required)
- Under 18: US$25 (passport copy required)
- Under 11: US$30 (passport copy required)
Optional Extras (Pre-booking required)
- Machu Picchu Mountain: US$75
- Huayna Picchu Mountain: US$75
Hotel Upgrades (per person / double occupancy)
- Inkaterra (5★): US$185 per person per night
- Hotel el Mapi (4★): US$95 per person per night
- Santuario Hotel: US$45 per person per night
Train Upgrades
- Vistadome Train: US$65 per trip
- Hiram Bingham Train (luxury): US$585 per trip
Equipment Rental
- Hiking poles: US$20
- Sleeping bag: US$20
- Private tent: US$30
What to Bring – Lares Trek 4 Days
- A comfortable daypack to carry your personal items
- Original passport
- Travel insurance
- Lightweight trekking boots
- 2–3 pairs of trekking pants (avoid jeans)
- T-shirts and long-sleeve shirts for layering
- Warm jacket for cold nights
- Rain jacket or waterproof layer
- Thermal clothing (gloves, hat, scarf, warm socks)
- Underwear and extra socks
- Sleeping bag liner (lightweight recommended)
- Swimwear for hot springs
- Sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen SPF 35+)
- Insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle or hydration pack
- Water for the first day (refills provided afterward)
- Personal snacks (energy bars, chocolate, nuts)
- Toiletries and personal hygiene items
- Wet wipes and tissues
- Headlamp with extra batteries
- Basic first aid items (bandages, blister care)
- Personal medication (including altitude sickness tablets)
- Flip-flops or sandals for camp
- Plastic bags for wet or dirty clothes
- Camera or phone for photos
- Extra money for souvenirs, drinks, and tips
Travel Information
At Info Machu Picchu, we want you to be fully prepared for your experience. This guide includes essential information to help you get ready for your trek, from acclimatization and logistics to Machu Picchu entry and practical travel tips.
Pre-Trek Briefing
All briefings are held at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 PM, one or two days before your tour. The session lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes.
During the briefing, your guide will explain the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any questions to ensure you are fully prepared.
Acclimatization in Cusco
Proper acclimatization is essential before starting your trek. Cusco is located at 3,400 m (11,150 ft) above sea level.
We recommend arriving at least 2 to 3 days in advance to help your body adjust and avoid altitude sickness.
Recommended Activities Before Your Trek
During your acclimatization days, you can enjoy light tours in the region:
- Cusco City Tour:Â Main Square, Cathedral, and Qoricancha
- Sacred Valley Tour:Â Pisac, Ollantaytambo, and Maras Salt Mines
- Moray and Maras Tour:Â Inca agricultural terraces
- Q’eswachaka Bridge Tour: Traditional Inca rope bridge
- Rainbow Mountain Tour: One of Peru’s most unique landscapes
These activities help you adjust to the altitude while exploring the region.
Balance Payment in Cusco
If you have an outstanding balance, it must be paid at least 1 or 2 days before your tour.
We recommend payment in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing. ATMs are available along Avenida Sol.
Credit/debit cards and PayPal are also accepted, with a 5% service fee applied.
Bank checks and traveler’s checks are not accepted.
Duffel Bag Information
You will receive a duffel bag during your briefing.
- Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm
- Weight limit:Â 6 kg (13 lb), including personal items
Our porters will carry your bag during the trek.
Luggage Storage
You may store your main luggage at your hotel or coordinate storage with us during your briefing.
We recommend keeping valuables in the hotel safe and requesting a receipt if needed for insurance purposes.
Machu Picchu Entry Circuits
Machu Picchu uses timed entry tickets and fixed circuits to preserve the site.
- Circuit 1:Â Panoramic viewpoints
- Circuit 2:Â Main citadel route
- Circuit 3:Â Lower sector and temples
For Inca Trail tours, the visit is usually assigned to Circuit 3 in the morning, depending on availability.
Re-entry is not allowed after exiting the site.
Pick-Up Information
All pick-ups are from your hotel in Cusco. We recommend staying in the historic center.
Pick-up times are confirmed the day before and may vary slightly.
If your hotel is not accessible by vehicle, we will arrange a nearby meeting point.
Return from Machu Picchu
After your visit, you will take the bus to Aguas Calientes (approximately 25 minutes).
You will then take the train to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco.
Please arrive at the train station 30 minutes before departure.
Group Tours
Group tours include travelers of different ages and fitness levels. Everyone can walk at their own pace, and the guide will ensure a comfortable experience for all participants.
Strikes and Demonstrations
Occasionally, local strikes may affect transportation schedules. In such cases, Info Machu Picchu will adjust logistics as needed, always prioritizing your safety.
Personal Belongings
You are responsible for your personal items at all times. Please check your belongings after each stop and avoid leaving items unattended during the trek.
Frequently Asked Questions – Lares Trek 4 Days
Yes, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights is a great option for travelers who want a quieter and more cultural experience. You hike through remote Andean communities while enjoying mountain landscapes and local traditions. The trek finishes at Machu Picchu, making it a complete and rewarding journey.
The Lares Trek is considered moderate to challenging due to altitude and daily hiking distances. You will cross mountain passes above 4,000 meters, which requires good physical condition. Proper acclimatization in Cusco before the trek is highly recommended.
You do not need a special permit to hike the Lares Trek itself. However, entry tickets to Machu Picchu are limited and must be booked in advance. It is important to secure your ticket early to guarantee availability.
The best time to hike the Lares Trek is during the dry season from April to October. These months offer clearer skies and more stable weather conditions for trekking. The route is still possible in other months, except February due to heavy rains.
The highest point of the Lares Trek reaches approximately 4,700 meters above sea level. Altitude is one of the main challenges of this route and can affect your performance. Spending time in Cusco before the trek helps your body adjust properly.
The Lares Trek focuses more on cultural interaction and local Andean communities. Unlike the Inca Trail, it has fewer visitors and offers a quieter hiking experience. It is a good choice if you prefer less crowded routes and more local connection.
Yes, the Lares Trek includes a visit to natural hot springs on the third day. This is a great moment to relax your muscles after several days of hiking. The thermal waters are located in the Lares area and are easily accessible.
You will camp during the first two nights with full trekking equipment provided. On the third night, you stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu. This combination offers both outdoor experience and comfort.
You can bring up to 6 kg of personal items, which are carried by mules during the trek. This allows you to hike with only a light daypack. It is important to pack efficiently and bring only essential items.
Yes, you can add an extra hike to Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These options require advance booking due to limited availability. They offer different views and perspectives of the Machu Picchu site.
Starting From: USD 579 per person
Trip details:
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