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Lares Trek 4 Days / 3 Nights
Embark on a breathtaking journey through the lesser-known Lares Trek 4 days 3 Nights, a hidden gem within the Sacred Valley of the Incas. This immersive trek takes you through awe-inspiring Andean landscapes, from towering snow-capped peaks and pristine glacial lakes to lush cloud forests and traditional Quechua weaving communities.
The adventure culminates in the town of Lares, where you can unwind in its famous natural hot springs—a perfect way to relax after days of trekking through the heart of the Andes.
From Lares, we continue to Ollantaytambo, where we board a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, setting the stage for an unforgettable visit to the legendary Machu Picchu on the final day.
Experience the magic of the Andes, where nature, culture, and history unite in an extraordinary trekking adventure!
Overview
Overview:
The Lares Trek 4 Days 3 Nights is a stunning alternative to the Inca Trail, offering a blend of breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural experiences. This lesser-known route takes you through remote Andean villages, where locals preserve their traditional way of life.
As you trek through towering mountains, glacial lakes, and lush valleys, you’ll experience authentic Quechua culture, far from the crowds. With fewer tourists and a deeper connection to the land, the Lares Trek 4 days 3 nights provides a truly unique and immersive Andean adventure.
Key Trekking Details:
- Starting altitude: 2,800 m / 9,186 ft.
- Highest altitude: 4,680 m / 15,682 ft.
- Total trekking distance: 34 km / 21 miles.
- Longest trekking day: Day 1 (approximately 14 km / 8.7 miles).
- Coldest night: Day 1 (temperatures around 0°C).
- Difficulty level: Moderate.
Itinerary
Itinerary
Pre-trek briefing:
Before embarking on your Lares Trek 4 Days 3 Nights, you will have a detailed briefing with your guide 1 or 2 days prior to departure. This session, held at your hotel, provides the perfect opportunity to ask questions, go over final details, and ensure you are fully prepared for the journey ahead.
Day 1: Cusco – Sacred Valley – Huaran – Cancha Cancha – Acopata.
Our staff will pick you up from your hotel in our private transportation for approximately 1 hour and a half, we will arrive in Calca, which is located in the Sacred Valley. Here we will make a stop of approximately 45 minutes to visit the local market or you can have a delicious breakfast (not included), then we will board our transportation for another 30 minutes and we will arrive at the Huaran Community located in the heart of the Sacred Valley, it is located (3,000 m / 9,840 ft).
Here, we will meet our muleteer and pack up the horses and begin walking north. The trail ascends gently following the Cancha Cancha River towards the community of the same name for almost 3 hours. On this walk along the river we will see crop fields and pass through the ancient Polylepis forests. This type of vegetation is very interesting for a wide variety of birds, and the valley itself is very impressive. We will have lunch in the community of Cachacancha (3,956 m / 12,976 ft).
After lunch, we continue our walk for approximately 1 hour and a half to Acopata (4,200 m / 13,780 ft), in this place it will be our first camp.
- Meals: lunch / dinner.
- Accommodations: Camping.
- Maximum altitude: 4,200 m / 13,780 feet.
- Minimum altitude: 3,000 m / 9,840 feet.
- Walking distance: 12 km.
- Approximate walking time: 6 hours.
Day 2: Acopata – Pachacutec Pass – Quishuarani.
Our team will wake you up with a hot cup of tea or coffee to enjoy in your sleeping bag before getting up for breakfast.
We’ll enjoy a breakfast to give us the energy we need for the day before we begin our ascent to the highest point of the whole trek, Pachacutec Pass (4,700 m / 15,420). We’ll take things slowly and get there after two-and-a-half hours of hiking to the Pass.
The views from this height are stunning, and you’ll spot the snowy peaks of Sahuasiray and Pitusiray considered as sacred mountains. After enjoying the scenery and resting our legs, we’ll head downhill for two hours to the lunch spot by the beautiful Qoyalay Lake (4,140 m / 13,583 ).
Once we’re full and rested, we’ll descend for another hour and a half toward the Qiswarani valley. On this stretch, you’ll see several astounding glacial lakes and herds of alpaca, llamas, and sheep calmly grazing. If you’re lucky, you might also catch a glimpse of deer, vizcachas, geese, hawks, and the immense Andean condor, the largest flying bird in the world.
We will arrive at our campsite in the community of Quishuarani (3,850 m / 12,631 ); this is a small and picturesque place with typical houses built of stone. In the evening, we will enjoy another tasty dinner before going to rest.
- Meals: breakfast / lunch / dinner
- Accommodations: Camping
- Maximum altitude: 4,780 m / 15,678 feet
- Minimum altitude: 3,870 m / 12,694 feet
- Walking distance: 12 km
- Approximate walking time: 7 hours.
Day 3: Quishuarani – Cuncani – Lares hot springs – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes.
After enjoying our breakfast, we begin our walk with an ascent for 3 hours until we reach the Willqaqasa pass (4,200 m/13,779 feet), where we can observe the Vilcanota mountain range and the snow-capped mountains of Colquecruz and Pitusiray.
After that, We continue our walk through the Puna grasslands, productive agricultural sites and pristine natural lakes for 2 hours to the community of Cucani. In this community we will try to visit and interact with local indigenous children, you may have the opportunity to visit a local school and share some quality time with the students.
From Cuncani, we meet our driver and descend through a lush valley with extensive agricultural areas, fruit trees and native flowers such as begonias and wild orchids. Finally, we arrive at our destination, Termas de Lares (3,100 m/10,170 ft), where we will soak in the natural volcanic hot springs for an hour, have lunch, and relax. It’s time to say goodbye to our notable chef and muleteer.
After lunch in Lares, we take our 2.5-hour private transportation to Ollantaytambo, where we have dinner. Then we take the train to Aguas Calientes where we will spend the night.
- Meals: breakfast / lunch / dinner
- Accommodations: Hotel
- Maximum altitude: 4,458 m / 14,622 feet
- Minimum altitude: 2,792 m / 9,158 feet
- Walking distance: 13 km
- Approximate walking time: 6-7 hours.
Day 4: Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
On our last day, you will get up very early to visit one of the 7 wonders of the World – ¨Machu Picchu¨. At 5:30 am. We will go directly to the line to wait for the first buses to Machu Picchu.
We will arrive at the gate when the sky lights up and ascend to the top of Machu Picchu, while taking in the impressive views of the city. On a clear morning, the sunrise over Machu Picchu is magnificent; This moment is unforgettable.
Our tour guide will take you on a 2-3 hour guided tour, where we will visit the Sun Temple, Royal palace, Main Temple, Three Windows Temple and Sun Dial. It will be an unforgettable experience.
If you have booked Wayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain, you will need to coordinate with your guide for Machu Picchu visiting depending on your scheduled time to the mountain, for people not hiking any of the mountains there are some other optional activities on your own (not included in the price).
Train back to Cusco: In the afternoon you will return to the train station in Aguas Calientes for the trip back to Ollantaytambo. Upon your arrival to train station you will be transferred by car to your hotel in Cusco.
- Meals: Breakfast.
- Lowest Elevation: 2,040 m/ 6,691 ft.
- Highest Elevation: 2,440 m/ 8,052 ft.
Inclusions
Included:
- A pre-trek briefing the night before the start of your Lares trek.
- Collection from your hotel in the morning of the trek departure.
- Private transport from Cusco to Huaran.
- Entry fee to Machu Picchu.
- Entrance fee to Lares trek.
- English speaking, experienced professional guide.
- Comfortable tents (sleeping 2 people in a 4 person tent).
- All camping equipment.
- Bus ticket from Aguas Calientas – Machu Picchu – Aguas calientes.
- Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to aguas calientes.
- Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
- Private transport from Ollantaytambo to your hotel in Cusco.
- 1 Dinner at Ollantaytambo Town.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes with private room and bathroom.
- Mules and horses (for equipment and personal items) including horsemen – 7 kilos of your personal items.
- Basic foam sleeping mattress.
- Excellent Meals (3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches and 3 Dinners).
- Food includes pancakes, omelets, soups, fresh fruit, avocado, pasta, chicken, fish, meat, rice, all before rich in carbohydrates and suitable for trekking (Vegetarian, vegan or special diet meals upon request).
- Tea time before dinner (tea, coffee, coco, biscuits and popcorn).
- Boiled water provided from 2nd day (for drinking).
- Wake up coca tea in your tent.
- Walkie-talkies on all treks.
- First Aid kit including emergency oxygen bottle.
- All local taxes.
Not included:
- Breakfast on Day 1, Lunch and Dinner on Day 3.
- Sleeping bag.
- Walking Stick.
- Entrance to the hot spring.
- Extra Energy snacks.
- Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain $75.00 per person.
- Travel insurance.
- Tips: Guide, Cook, Porters.
You will need to bring:
Hiking the Lares Trek 4 Days 3 Nights is a high-altitude adventure, requiring proper preparation. Since the trek begins early in the morning, it’s important to pack the following essentials:
Backpack & Documents
- Daypack (lightweight and comfortable).
- Original passport.
- Travel insurance.
Clothing & Footwear
- Waterproof trekking boots.
- Trekking pants (no jeans)
- Layered clothing for temperature changes.
- Warm jacket for cold nights.
- Rain jacket.
- Thermals (hat, gloves, scarf, wool socks).
- Comfortable clothes for camp.
- Underwear and extra socks.
Sleeping & Personal Care.
- Sleeping bag liner.
- Swimwear (for hot springs).
- Toiletries & wet wipes.
- Sunscreen & bug repellent.
- Altitude sickness medication.
- First aid kit (bandages, Imodium, pain relievers).
- Plastic bags for wet/dirty clothes.
Hydration & Gear.
- Water bottle or hydration pack.
- Water (for the first day, provided after).
- Headlamp with extra batteries.
- Camera & spare batteries.
- Extra cash for tips, snacks, and souvenirs.
This list ensures you’re well-prepared for the Lares Trek 4 days 3 nights, balancing comfort, safety, and essentials for an unforgettable journey.
Prices
We are flexible with departure dates and can depart any day of the week, subject to permit availability. Please note that permits are only required for your selected start date.
Group Price:$559USDPer person
***A shared trek where hikers of different fitness levels join together. Our expert guides ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for all, keeping the group motivated and moving at a comfortable pace.
Private Tour:
A more personalized experience with pricing based on group size. Ideal for those seeking flexibility, privacy, and a customized trekking adventure.
- 2 Persons: $629 per person
- 3 Persons: $609 per person
- 4 Persons: $589 per person
- 5 Persons: $569 per person
- 6 or more Persons: $549 per person
* All our tours are priced in US dollars.
Important: The price includes up to 6 kilos of your personal belongings to be transported by the mules (it is NOT necessary to hire an additional doorman!).
Discounts
- 18 to 25 years old: $25 USD. Information required on student card: name of university, student name, photo of student, expiration date etc. A copy of the card is required at booking for government approval for discount.
- Under 18 years old: $25 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
- Under 11 years old: $30 USD. Please send us a copy of your passport at the time of booking.
Optional extras (Need to book in advance):
- Mountain Machu Picchu: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
- Mountain Huayna Picchu: USD 75.00 (Need to book in advance).
Upgrades:
Hotel Upgrades:
- Inka terra (5 star hotel) – US $ 480 per person per night (double occupancy).
- Hotel el Mapi (4-star hotel) – US $ 145 per person per night (double occupancy).
- Hotel Santuario (hotel with more than 3 stars) – US $ 65 per person per night (double occupancy).
Train Upgrades:
- Vistadome train -US $ 65 per trip from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo (Need to book in advance).
- Hiram Bingham train (deluxe) -US $ 585 per trip from Aguas Calientes to Poroy (Need to book in advance).
Rental:
- Hiking poles – US $ 20.00.
- Sleeping bag – US $ 25.00.
- Private shop – US $ 30.00.
FAQ's
1.- What is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek 4 days 3 nights is a breathtaking alternative to the Inca Trail, taking you through remote Andean landscapes, picturesque glacial lakes, and traditional Quechua villages. It offers a perfect blend of scenic beauty, cultural immersion, and adventure, ending with a visit to Machu Picchu.
2.- How difficult is the Lares Trek?
The Lares Trek 4 days 3 nights is considered moderate to challenging, with high-altitude passes reaching up to 4,800m (15,748 ft). While no technical climbing is involved, altitude and long trekking hours require good physical fitness and proper acclimatization.
3.- What is the best time to do the Lares Trek?
The ideal trekking season is from April to October, during the dry months when the weather is clearer, and the views are stunning. The wet season (November to March) sees fewer hikers but brings more rain and muddy trails.
4.- Do I need a permit for the Lares Trek?
Unlike the Inca Trail, the Lares Trek does not require a special permit. However, you must secure Machu Picchu entrance tickets in advance, especially during peak season.
5.- What is included in the Lares Trek package?
- Most tour operators include:
- Professional bilingual guide
- Transport (from Cusco to the starting point and back from Machu Picchu)
- Train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek)
- Camping equipment (tents, sleeping mats)
- Mules/horses to carry equipment.
- First aid and oxygen supply for emergencies
Check with your tour operator for exact details.
6. What should I pack for the Lares Trek?
- Essential gear: Comfortable trekking boots, warm layers, waterproof jacket, and a good backpack
- Personal items: Sunscreen, sunglasses, insect repellent, and a hat
- Sleeping gear: Sleeping bag (can be rented)
- Documents: Passport, Machu Picchu entrance ticket, and extra cash for tips or souvenirs
7.- What is the itinerary like?
Day 1-3: Trek through scenic Andean landscapes, meet local Quechua communities, and enjoy breathtaking views.
Day 3 Afternoon: Arrive in Lares, relax in the hot springs, then drive to Ollantaytambo.
Day 3 Evening: Board the scenic train to Aguas Calientes.
Day 4: Visit Machu Picchu, explore the ruins with your guide, and return to Cusco.
8.- Is altitude sickness a concern?
Yes, altitude can be a challenge since the trek reaches high elevations. To prevent altitude sickness:
- Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek for acclimatization.
- Stay hydrated and avoid alcohol before trekking.
- Drink coca tea (a natural remedy for altitude).
- Walk at a steady pace and listen to your body.
9.- Can I do the Lares Trek without a guide?
Yes, but it is not recommended. The route is less marked than the Inca Trail, and a guide ensures safety, logistics, and a richer cultural experience. Guided treks also include local interactions and history insights you might miss on your own.
10.- Is the Lares Trek family-friendly?
Absolutely! The Lares Trek 4 days 3 nights is a fantastic family adventure, especially for those looking for a less crowded and culturally enriching experience. However, children should be comfortable with hiking, and families should choose an itinerary with a slower pace and support options like mules.
11.- Are there alternative routes for the Lares Trek?
Yes! Different routes can be taken, each offering unique landscapes and experiences. Some versions of the trek last three days, while others extend to five days.
12.- Can I combine the Lares Trek with other activities?
Yes! Many travelers add:
- A Sacred Valley tour before or after the trek
- A visit to Rainbow Mountain
- Extra time in Cusco to explore historical sites.
If you have more questions, feel free to ask—we’re happy to help you plan an unforgettable Lares Trek adventure!
Terms and conditions
By booking or participating in a tour and any related products or services (a “Tour”) with Cusco Journeys, you agree to these Terms & Conditions.
Booking:
- Your booking is confirmed and a contract exists when the Tour Operator or your travel agent issues a written confirmation after receipt of the applicable deposit amount. Please check your confirmation carefully and report any incorrect or incomplete information to the Tour Operator or authorized agent immediately. Please ensure that names are exactly as stated in the relevant passport.
- You will pay a deposit which is completely non-refundable in any situation. There are no exceptions.
- You will be required to show the original passport (not a copy) that you booked with, at the checkpoint to enter the Inca Trail. If you originally booked with an old passport and then renewed your passport, you must also bring your expired passport along with your new, valid passport to permit entry or they will refuse your entrance to the trail.
- The only acceptable ID to receive a Student Discount is your University Card with a clear expiration date that must be the same year as trek. IDs with expiry dates the following year, even though clearly valid, will not be accepted by the Peruvian government. You must submit a copy of this card at time of booking.
Cancellations:
- Cancellations: In order to confirm this trip, a deposit of 40% is required per person at time of booking. The balance of the trip price is due 90 days before the departure date. Special holiday payment and cancellation terms may apply. Guests who must cancel their trip for any reason must do so in writing (we do not accept medical notes of any kind) as our out of pocket expenses are non-refundable to us.. Standard cancellations are subject to the following per-person penalties, based on number of days prior to departure:
ONCE BOOKED, DEPOSITS ARE NON-REFUNDABLE. CHART BELOW OUTLINES WHAT FURTHER FEES WILL BE DUE.
Cancellation By |
Terms |
| 91 days or more before departure | we will retain 50% of your deposit. |
| 90 – 30 days before departure | we will retain 75% of the total tour cost. |
| 29 – 0 days before departure | we will retain 100% of the total tour cost. |
Inca Trail Tours:
- Permits: Permits for the Inca Trail are in your name and can not be transferred to anyone else under any circumstances. Change of dates is also not possible once a permit has been purchased. Permits are non-refundable and non-transferable. The deposit will be forfeited. Please note that this is a regulation of the Peruvian government and not Cusco Journeys (or any agency).
- In extreme cases when the “Inca Trail to Machu Picchu” is declared closed for safety reasons, Cusco Journeys will replace your trek with an alternative trek.
- Those who booked PERMITS with a Student ID must bring that ID with them on the trek. If they fail to show this card to the Park Rangers, they will not be allowed entry onto the trail.
Medical Information:
- You must advise Cusco Journeys of any medical problems or allergies you may have. You need to be in good physical health, and if your health is questionable, then you should consult a doctor. If you are over the age of 70 years old, then you will need to present us with a current good health medical certificate.
- You are responsible for assessing whether a Tour is suitable for you. You should consult your physician to confirm your fitness for travel and participation in any planned activities. You should seek your physician’s advice on vaccinations and medical precautions. The Tour Operator does not provide medical advice. It is your responsibility to assess the risks and requirements of each aspect of the Tour based on your own unique circumstances, limitations, fitness level and medical requirements.
- Cusco Journeys reserves the right to deny you permission to travel or participate in any aspect of a Tour at any time and at your own risk and expense where the Tour Operator determines that your physical or mental condition renders you unfit for travel or you represent a danger to yourself or others.
- Pregnancy is considered a medical condition and must be disclosed to the Tour Operator at the time of booking. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry pregnant women over 24 weeks. The Tour Operator may refuse to carry anyone with certain medical conditions if reasonable accommodation or alternatives cannot be arranged.
- It is strongly encouraged to purchase Travel Insurance to protect you in case of medical emergency or any tour cancellations.
Tours and Treks:
- All balances need to be paid in either cash, Western Union, Transfer Bank or PayPal (in full) prior to the briefing which will be held the night before your tour. Visa incurs a 5% service fee and if you need to use another card, it must be through PayPal which incurs a 5.5% service fee.
You must advise your guide if you wish to leave the group or the camping area for independent walks or sightseeing. If you are experiencing any problems with the services of the guide or tour, please advise the guide in that moment, so that he can resolve any problems. - All Adventure Treks include transportation to Cusco. The return train route depends on train availability.
- If you become ill or injured on the trail and are unable to continue, a porter will be provided to accompany you back to an area with emergency assistance capabilities. Helicopter air lifts and medical assistance are at the expense of the trekker. If you are unable to complete the tour due to illness, we will assist you in meeting your group at Machu Picchu to recommence your tour at that point. There will be no refund of the original payment. However, we will prepare a document to certify illness which can be presented for your travel insurance.
- Cusco Journeys will take all reasonable care in providing to our clients avoidance of accident, illness, and loss of personal property, and will only employ suitably qualified staff. We accept responsibility for the actions of our own employees. Cusco Journeys cannot, however, be responsible for any action of third parties. You are totally responsible for your own personal property and rented equipment.
- Cusco Journeys does not take responsibility for unfavorable weather conditions, natural catastrophe, strikes, accidents, illness, injury, loss of personal ítems, etc. It is the client’s responsibility to carry insurance to cover these types of events. We reserve the right to modify or cancel the program due to any of the unforeseen conditions listed above.
- Cusco Journeys may modify your itinerary where reasonably required in its sole discretion.
- Group tours might be as large as 16 participants. Groups are open to everyone no matter skill or age. By accepting a Group Tour you acknowledge that others might change the speed and timing of the tour.
- All tours are done in English.
Delays:
- Any costs, whether direct or incidental, incurred by the Customer as the result of delays caused by bad weather, trail conditions, river levels, road conditions, transportation delays, sickness, government intervention or other contingencies which are beyond the control of southern explorations will not be reimbursed.
Thank you so much for choosing Cusco Journeys!!!
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