Cusco, Lares
4 days -3 night
Trekking, History, Adventure
12 people
Moderate to Demanding
Camping, Hotel
English, Spanish
| Feature | Info |
|---|---|
| Duration | 4 Days / 3 Nights |
| Difficulty | Moderate to Challenging |
| Max Altitude | 4,750 m / 15,583 ft (Condor Pass) |
| Group Size | Small Groups (2–10 Travelers) |
| Start / End | Cusco / Cusco |
| Accommodation | Mountain Camps + Hotel in Aguas Calientes |
| Meals | 4B – 3L – 3D |
| Best Season | April – October |
Your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early pickup from your hotel. We travel through beautiful Andean roads toward Calca, where we stop at the local market.
Our first cultural stop is the ancient ruins of Ancashmarca (Inca granaries) once supported the empire. Later, we continue to the highlands to visit the impressive Puya de Raimondi, a rare giant Andean plant that blooms only once every hundred years.
In Lares, you can enjoy the famous geothermal hot springs while our trekking chef prepares a fresh breakfast.
After lunch in Quiswarani, we continue past the beautiful waterfall until we arrive at our first campsite at the stunning Blue Lagoon, where hot tea and dinner await.
After breakfast, we begin a 4-hour ascent to the spectacular Condor Pass (4,750 m / 15,583 ft), the highest point of the route. Along the trail, you may spot Andean geese, caracaras, and herds of alpacas.
At the summit, we pause to enjoy breathtaking 360° views of snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes. We then descend for about two hours to Acopata, where a fresh lunch awaits.
In the afternoon, we continue descending toward Canchacancha, one of the most authentic Andean villages on the route.
Tonight, we camp near the village, enjoying another warm dinner and the unforgettable silence of the Andes.
After breakfast, we begin a beautiful downhill hike through remote Andean landscapes where local families still preserve the Quechua language and ancient traditions.
We visit the local school in Canchacancha, one of the few communities without roads or electricity. After about four hours of hiking, we arrive in Huaran for a fresh picnic lunch and say goodbye to our trekking team.
In the afternoon, our private transport takes us to the famous Maras Salt Mines. Later, we explore the historic Inca town of Ollantaytambo and its original stone streets and canals.
After dinner, we board the evening train to Aguas Calientes, where you will spend the night in a comfortable 3-star hotel before your Machu Picchu visit.
After breakfast, we take the first bus to Machu Picchu Sanctuary to arrive early and enjoy the magical moment when the ancient citadel appears through the morning clouds.
Your professional guide will lead a 2 hour exploration, covering the most important temples, terraces, plazas, and sacred spaces of the Inca city. This is the perfect ending to your 4 day trek to Machu Picchu.
For travelers looking for an extra challenge, you may also hike:
(Optional and subject to availability)
After your visit, we return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and free time before boarding the train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transport will take you safely back to your hotel in Cusco, arriving around 7:30 PM.
This incredible trek takes you through remote Andean villages, high mountain passes, hot springs, and breathtaking landscapes before reaching the magical citadel of Machu Picchu. Because the route crosses different altitudes and climates, you should be ready for cold mornings, sunny afternoons, wind, and occasional rain.
To make your 4 day Lares Trek more comfortable, we include:
Your duffel bag will only be available at the campsites, so keep all daily-use items in your daypack.
You will spend several days in remote mountain areas without stores, signal, or regular access to electricity.
The weather during the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu changes quickly between high mountain passes and warmer valleys.
Layering helps you stay comfortable during every part of the trek.
Your daypack is the bag you will carry during the hike, so it should stay light and practical. A backpack between 25 to 35 liters with a rain cover is ideal.
Your duffel bag allows you to bring extra comfort without carrying it yourself during the hike. It will be transported by our trekking team and waiting for you at camp each afternoon.
The lighter your backpack, the more energy you’ll have to enjoy the mountains, the villages, and the unforgettable arrival at Machu Picchu.
Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, the Lares Trek is a quieter and more authentic route through remote Andean villages, mountain passes, hot springs, and traditional Quechua communities before reaching the wonder of Machu Picchu.
The most challenging and rewarding point of the route is the famous Condor Pass, located at:
📍 4,750 m / 15,583 ft
This is not only the highest point of the trek— it is often the most unforgettable moment.
One of the advantages of the Lares Trek is that no special trekking permit is required for the hiking route itself. However, your entrance ticket to Machu Picchu is mandatory and must be reserved in advance.
Because entrance tickets sell out quickly, especially during high season, we strongly recommend booking early to secure the best circuits and entrance times.
The best season for the 4 day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is during the dry months, when the skies are clearer and trail conditions are better.
– May to October: This period offers the best mountain views and safer trekking conditions, although nights can be very cold.
– April and October: Good weather with fewer crowds and slightly changing conditions.
– November to March: The mountains are greener, but trails can be muddy, slippery, and wetter.
No matter the season, proper gear is always essential.
Because the trek reaches high mountain passes above 4,700 meters, proper acclimatization is strongly recommended.
Good acclimatization can make the difference between surviving the trek— and truly enjoying it.
Good preparation makes the trek smoother and more comfortable.
Disconnecting from the internet often helps you reconnect with the journey.
These villages preserve traditions, language, and daily customs that have existed for generations. Respecting local people is an essential part of responsible travel.
This trek is not only about visiting places— it is about meeting people.
Prepare well. Walk slowly. Stay present.
The Lares Trek 4 Days is considered moderate to challenging. The main difficulty comes from the high altitude and the climb to Condor Pass (4,750 m / 15,583 ft). A good fitness level and proper acclimatization are highly recommended.
No. The Lares Trek does not require an Inca Trail permit. However, your Machu Picchu entrance ticket must be booked in advance.
You will camp for the first two nights in beautiful mountain locations, and the third night is in a comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Yes. Freshly prepared meals by our trekking chef are included during the hiking days, plus hotel breakfast in Aguas Calientes.
Yes, if you have reasonable fitness and spend time acclimatizing before the trek. It is ideal for travelers looking for a cultural and less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail.
No proper showers are available during the camping nights. We recommend bringing wet wipes and personal hygiene essentials.
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers fewer crowds, deeper cultural experiences, authentic local communities, and stunning mountain scenery—perfect for travelers seeking a more peaceful and meaningful adventure.
In the Lares district, about 3 hours from Cusco. The trek reaches heights of 4,700 m at Condor Pass.
Use a local operator like The Andean Way to ensure community support. Book as early as possible to secure train and entrance tickets.
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