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Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 3 Days / 2 Nights
The Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights is one of the best alternative treks to the Inca Trail, offering a real connection with Andean culture and local Quechua communities. This beautiful adventure leads you through spectacular valleys, ancient trails, and breathtaking mountain scenery in the heart of the Cusco region.
The Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights takes you off the beaten path, surrounded by snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and traditional highland villages. Along the way, you will encounter friendly locals, women weaving colorful textiles, and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing freely in the fields.
Known for its peaceful atmosphere and genuine cultural exchange, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu combines natural beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure. Each step reveals authentic Andean life, where ancient traditions are still alive.
The journey ends with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, one of the greatest wonders of the world, where you’ll explore the ancient Inca citadel, admire its stunning stone architecture, and feel the powerful energy of this sacred place.
The Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights offers the opportunity to spend a night under the stars while trekking off the beaten path through the Andes. Along the route, you will pass through traditional Quechua communities such as Wacawasi, gaining insight into local lifestyles while surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. The journey continues across high mountain passes and scenic valleys before reaching Ollantaytambo, where you will board the train to Machu Picchu, the perfect ending to this authentic Andean experience. The Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights is more than just a hike — it’s a cultural journey through the heart of the Andes. Surrounded by nature, tradition, and peace, this route lets you discover the real Peru before arriving at the majestic Machu Picchu. Begin your adventure early with a drive through the Sacred Valley toward Calca, where you’ll enjoy breakfast at the local market. Continue to the Lares Hot Springs for a relaxing soak before starting your first hike through the Lares Valley. Pass traditional Andean villages and scenic valleys before arriving at your first campsite in Wacawasi, surrounded by alpacas and mountain views. Trek through breathtaking Andean landscapes as you climb to the Ipsay Pass (4,500 m / 14,763 ft), the highest point of the route. Enjoy stunning views and descend to Ipsaycocha Lake for lunch. Continue toward Patacancha village to meet our transport to Ollantaytambo. After dinner, take the train to Aguas Calientes and rest for your visit to Machu Picchu. Take one of the first buses up to Machu Picchu to explore the most iconic sectors, such as the Temple of the Sun, Temple of the Three Windows, Sacred Plaza, and Inca Palace. After your guided visit, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch before taking the train to Ollantaytambo and continuing by tourist bus back to Cusco.
We will pick you up from your hotel at 5:30 am and travel by private transport through the Sacred Valley of the Incas toward the town of Calca. Here, you will enjoy a traditional breakfast at the local market, with time to use the facilities and explore the colorful farmers’ stalls. Afterward, we continue ascending toward the Hualcapunku Pass (4,500 m / 14,847 ft), where you will take in breathtaking views of snow-capped Andean peaks, rural villages, and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing along the slopes. We then descend to the town of Lares, surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes. Here, we meet our muleteers before beginning our hike through the Lares Valley. After a short break, we start a gradual uphill walk of approximately 1.5 hours to reach our lunch spot at Chanca Chaca. Following lunch, we continue along a gentle ascending trail, passing small settlements and open landscapes where alpacas and llamas roam freely, until we reach our first campsite at Wacawasi (3,800 m / 12,377 ft). Along the way, you will observe the daily life of Andean farming communities on the hillsides. Upon arrival at camp, you will have time to relax, interact with local families, enjoy afternoon tea, and later, a well-deserved dinner under the stars. After breakfast at camp, we begin our hike through the heart of the Andes. The trail starts with a steady ascent of about 3 hours to the Ipsay Pass (4,500 m / 14,763 ft), the highest point of the trek. From the top, you will enjoy wide panoramic views of snow-capped mountains and high Andean valleys. We then descend for about 1 hour to reach our lunch spot near the beautiful Ipsaycocha Lake, a peaceful setting surrounded by mountains and native wildlife. With some luck, you may spot Andean geese, puna ibis, and other high-altitude bird species in the area. After lunch, we continue descending through open landscapes and traditional farmlands until we reach the community of Patacancha, known for its authentic Quechua culture and weaving traditions. Our private transport will be waiting to take us down the valley to the Inca town of Ollantaytambo, where you will have time to rest and enjoy dinner. In the evening, we board the train to Aguas Calientes, following a scenic route that gradually transitions from the highlands into lush cloud forest as we approach Machu Picchu. The train journey takes approximately 1.5 hours. Upon arrival, we check into our hotel in Aguas Calientes and rest early in preparation for the visit to Machu Picchu the next day. Start the day early with breakfast at your hotel before taking one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, your guide will provide a two-hour guided tour of the citadel, visiting its most important sectors and learning about its history and architecture. During the visit, you will explore key highlights such as the agricultural terraces, the Temple of the Sun, the Main Plaza, the Sacred Rock, and the residential areas, gaining a deeper understanding of how the Inca civilization organized life within this mountain sanctuary. After the visit, return to Aguas Calientes, where you will have free time for lunch or to explore the town.cIn the afternoon, board the train through the Sacred Valley to Ollantaytambo, followed by transportation back to Cusco, where you will be dropped off at your hotel. This final day offers a balanced conclusion to the trek, combining cultural exploration with a comfortable return journey. Arriving at Machu Picchu after several days of trekking creates a more meaningful and rewarding experience. Important Note: The Machu Picchu archaeological site is different from Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain. These hikes require separate permits. Please let us know in advance if you wish to add one to your visit.
Hiking the Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights involves high-altitude conditions and changing weather, so it is important to be well prepared. We recommend bringing the following items:
The Lares Trek 3 days 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. To confirm your reservation for the Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights, a deposit is required in advance. We accept credit cards, PayPal, and bank transfers. If you prefer a different payment method, feel free to contact us for alternative options.
Yes, this trek is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a more authentic and less crowded experience. It combines cultural interaction, scenic mountain landscapes, and a rewarding journey through the Andes. It is ideal if you want a balanced adventure with both nature and local culture. The Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights focuses more on cultural experiences and local communities rather than archaeological sites along the trail. It offers a quieter environment with fewer crowds and more direct interaction with Andean traditions. It is a great option if you prefer a more personal and less commercial trek. The trek covers approximately 35 km (21.7 miles) over three days through high mountain terrain. It combines scenic hiking routes with transportation and a train journey toward Machu Picchu. It is a compact itinerary that still offers a complete trekking experience. The Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights can be suitable for beginners with good physical condition and proper acclimatization. The altitude is the main challenge, but the pace is manageable with guide support. It is a good option if you are prepared and looking for your first multi-day trek. Along the route, you will pass through traditional villages where local communities maintain ancient customs. You may observe weaving techniques, farming practices, and everyday life in remote Andean regions. It is an immersive cultural experience that connects you with local traditions. Yes, the experience ends with a guided visit to Machu Picchu, one of the most important Inca sites. You will explore key sectors and learn about its history and significance. It is a perfect combination of trekking and visiting an iconic destination. The highest point of the Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights is the Ipsay Pass, reaching approximately 4,500 meters above sea level. From here, you can enjoy wide panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is one of the most scenic highlights of the route. Yes, it is highly recommended to book in advance, especially during the high season. Machu Picchu entrance tickets and train availability can sell out quickly due to high demand. Booking early ensures you secure your preferred dates and avoid last-minute issues. You should bring warm clothing, rain gear, trekking shoes, and essential personal items. Weather conditions can change quickly, especially at high altitude. Proper preparation will help you stay comfortable throughout the trek. The best time to hike the Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights is during the dry season from April to October. During these months, the weather is more stable and views are clearer. It can still be done year-round with proper preparation and flexibility.
At Cusco Journeys, we’re committed to making your adventure in Peru memorable, safe, and easy to enjoy. This brief guide includes the most important details to review before starting your trek or tour — from altitude preparation and luggage management to Machu Picchu entry and health tips. Take a moment to read it carefully; it will help you get ready and experience the magic of the Andes with comfort and confidence. All pre-trek briefings are personally conducted at your hotel in Cusco around 5:00 pm, one or two day before your trek or tour begins. The meeting lasts approximately 30 to 45 minutes and is an essential part of your preparation. During this session, our guide will go over the itinerary in detail, provide your duffel bag, and answer any final questions to ensure you’re fully prepared for your adventure. It’s very important to be well acclimated to the altitude before starting any trek. Cusco lies at 3,400 meters (11,150 ft) above sea level, and your body needs time to adjust to the thinner air. We recommend that you arrive in Cusco at least 2 or 3 days before your trek begins to prevent altitude sickness and to enjoy your trip without discomfort. During your acclimatization days, take it easy and explore some nearby attractions: These short tours are perfect for getting used to the altitude while discovering the region’s rich history. If you have an outstanding balance, please make the payment at least two days before your trek or tour. Otherwise, your reservation cannot be confirmed. Whenever possible, we kindly ask you to settle the remaining balance in cash (USD or Peruvian Soles) during your briefing session. There are several ATMs along Avenida Sol where you can withdraw both currencies. You may also pay by credit/debit card or PayPal, either online or in person; however, please note that a 5% service fee will be applied by our payment gateways (Niubiz and PayPal). You’ll receive a duffel bag or canvas case during the briefing. Size: 60 × 24 × 22 cm (23.6 × 9.45 × 8.66 in), Maximum weight: 6 kg / 13 lb, including clothes and personal items. Our team of porters will carry your bag throughout the trek and hand it back to you at each camp. Remember that this limit includes your sleeping bag and any personal belongings you wish to take. Absolutely! During your trip, you may store your main luggage safely at our office (arrange it with us during your briefing or by email) or at your hotel, both free of charge. Any items you won’t need during the trek can remain at your hotel — most hotels offer secure luggage storage. Please avoid leaving valuables in your bags; instead, place them in the hotel safe and request an itemized receipt, as many insurance companies require this in case of loss. For added security, you can also store important items such as credit cards in a sealed and signed envelope. Machu Picchu now operates with specific timed entries and fixed circuits to preserve the site and ensure an enjoyable experience for all visitors. Main Circuits For our Inca Trail groups, the standard visit is usually Circuit 3, around 8:00 or 9:00 a.m., depending on ticket availability and government regulations. After completing your route, park rangers will guide you toward the exit — re-entry is not allowed. If you wish to explore another route or stay longer, you can request an additional entrance ticket (subject to availability and extra cost). All pick-ups are made from your hotel within Cusco City. We recommend staying in the historic center for easier access. Our guide will confirm your pick-up time one day before the tour, but please note that it may vary by 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic and hotel locations. Cusco is an ancient city with narrow, cobbled streets, and some hotels or Airbnbs may not have direct vehicle access. If your accommodation is in such an area, we’ll coordinate the closest possible meeting point for your convenience. Returning from Machu Picchu involves several steps, but don’t worry — everything is included in your tour. After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll take a 25-minute bus down to Aguas Calientes (buses operate on a first-come, first-served basis). From there, you’ll board a train to Ollantaytambo; your guide will provide the tickets and indicate your departure time. Please arrive at the platform 30 minutes before departure. The train ride takes about 1 hour and 45 minutes, followed by a 2-hour bus journey back to Cusco City. Occasionally, strikes or protests may occur in Peru, which can affect roads or train schedules. In these cases, Cusco Journeys will make every effort to maintain your itinerary or adjust departure times if needed. Your safety always comes first, and all decisions will be made to protect it. You are responsible for your personal belongings throughout the tour. Please be mindful of where you leave your items and make sure to remove everything from our vans, tents, and restaurants after each stop. Avoid leaving anything unattended during the hike, as other trekkers or staff might mistake it for lost property. Lares Trek and Inca Trail 5 Days 4 Nights to Machu Picchu combines two important trekking routes in Peru: the cultural Lares Trek and the… Discover the highlights of Peru with our Cusco Tours 4 Days 3 Nights, a carefully planned itinerary that combines the history of Cusco, the beauty…Overview
Overview of the Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights
⭐Highlights
Lares Trek 3 Days at a Glance
Day 1: Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Wacawasi
Day 2: Wacawasi – Ipsaycocha Pass – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco
Itinerary
Detailed Itinerary of the Lares Trek 3 Days / 2 Nights
Day 1: Cusco – Lares Hot Spring – Wacawasi.
Day 2: Wacawasi – Ipsaycocha Pass – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes.
Day 3: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
Includes
✅ Included
❌ Not included
🎒What You Need to Bring – Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights
Prices
💰 Prices
Price (per person):
Booking and Payment
Discounts
Optional Extras (Pre-booking required)
Hotel Upgrades (per person / double occupancy)
Train Upgrades
Equipment Rental
FAQs
FAQs – Lares Trek 3 Days 2 Nights
1.- Is the Lares Trek worth it?
2.- What makes this trek different from the Inca Trail?
3.- How long is the Lares Trek?
4.- Is this trek suitable for beginners?
5.- What kind of cultural experience can I expect?
6.- Does the trek include a visit to Machu Picchu?
7.- What is the highest point of the trek?
8.- Do I need to book the trek in advance?
9.- What should I pack for the trek?
10.- When is the best time to do this trek?
Before You Go
Important Travel Information
Briefing Before the Trek
Acclimatization in Cusco
What to Do Before Your Trek
Trek Balance Payment (in Cusco)
Unfortunately, we are unable to accept bank checks or traveler’s checks for balance payments.Duffel Bag or Canvas Case
Can I store my luggage at your office?
Machu Picchu Entrance Circuits and Schedule
Pick-Up of Guests
Return from Machu Picchu to Cusco
Strikes and Demonstrations
Lost Objects
Contact Us
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