From Cusco: 4- Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

The 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco is a captivating adventure that takes trekkers through the stunning landscapes of the Andes. Priced at £804.26 per person, this trek offers a chance to take in the rich cultural heritage of the region while conquering the Condor Pass and exploring the iconic Machu Picchu. With professional guides, delectable meals, and essential camping gear, the trek promises an unforgettable journey that will leave you yearning for more.

Key Points

• The Lares Trek is a 4-day trekking adventure from Cusco to Machu Picchu, priced at £804.26 per person with a maximum of 10 participants.
• The trek includes transportation, professional guides, meals, camping gear, and visits to Inca ruins, waterfalls, and local communities.
• The itinerary highlights include ascending to the Condor Pass at 4,800 m.a.s.l., exploring Ollantaytambo, and touring Machu Picchu with a guided visit.
• Proper preparation is essential, with sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking layers, sun protection, and altitude sickness remedies recommended.
• The trek is not recommended for children 12 and younger due to the challenging elevation and unpredictable mountain conditions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Lares Trek

The Lares Trek is a 4-day trekking adventure that takes travelers on a scenic journey to the iconic Machu Picchu. Priced at £804.26 per person, this trek is limited to 10 participants and offers live tour guides in Spanish and English.

The non-refundable cancellation policy means travelers must plan carefully. Over the course of the trek, adventurers will traverse mountain passes, visit local communities, explore Inca ruins, and witness the grandeur of Machu Picchu.

With included meals, transportation, and equipment, the Lares Trek provides an immersive experience into the heart of the Peruvian Andes.

Pricing and Inclusions

The starting price for the 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is £804.26 per person.

The trek includes a briefing, transportation to the trailhead, professional guides, meals, camping gear, mules, first aid, and train tickets to Aguas Calientes.

Hikers will visit Inca ruins, waterfalls, and a local community. The tour is limited to 10 participants and is offered in English and Spanish.

Travelers must provide passport details and are responsible for travel insurance, tips, and some meals.

The trek isn’t recommended for young children, and optional mountain climbs require advance booking.

Day 1: Exploring Quishuarani and the Waterfalls

Guests begin their Lares Trek adventure with a pickup from their Cusco hotel.

After reaching Calca, the last chance for supplies, they’ve the option to visit the Lares hot springs.

The trekkers then hike to Quishuarani (3,700 m.a.s.l.) for lunch, where they’re treated to:

• Stunning views of 7 cascading waterfalls

• A sense of remote tranquility in the Andes

• Opportunities to interact with the local community

• The first glimpse of the challenging terrain ahead

The day concludes with the group reaching their campsite, ready to tackle the trek’s demanding ascent to the Condor Pass the next day.

Day 2: Conquering Condor Pass and Visiting Cancha Cancha

On day two, hikers depart for the challenging ascent to the Condor Pass, standing at an impressive 4,800 m.a.s.l.

Before the climb, they offer coca leaves to the mountain spirits for protection.

The hike up Condor Pass is strenuous but rewarding, with panoramic vistas.

After reaching the pass, they descend to their lunch spot and continue to the village of Cancha Cancha at 3,800 m.a.s.l.

Here, they visit the local community and set up camp for the night.

The day’s total distance is 9.32 miles, with an estimated 7 hours of walking time.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Descending to Ollantaytambo and Reaching Aguas Calientes

After departing from Cancha Cancha, the group descends to the town of Huaran at 3,000 m.a.s.l.

The group descends to the town of Huaran at 3,000 m.a.s.l. after departing from Cancha Cancha.

They then transfer to Ollantaytambo to explore the quaint town and its impressive Inca fortress.

Optional, an immersive tour of the fortress provides a glimpse into the Inca Empire.

Dinner is enjoyed at a local restaurant before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

The journey is filled with anticipation as the group prepares to witness the iconic Inca citadel the following day.

• Descend to Huaran

• Explore Ollantaytambo

• Optional fortress tour

• Train to Aguas Calientes

Day 4: Experiencing the Machu Picchu Citadel

The group rises early to catch the first bus up to the entrance of Machu Picchu. They enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel, learning about its history and significance.

After the tour, travelers have time to explore the site on their own, visiting landmark structures like the Intiwatana and opting to hike up Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain for stunning views.

In the afternoon, they take the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to their hotel in Cusco, ending their immersive Lares Trek experience with incredible memories of the ancient wonder of Machu Picchu.

Packing and Preparation Tips

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable Lares Trek experience. Travelers should pack the essentials:

Proper preparation is key to ensuring a successful and enjoyable Lares Trek experience. Travelers should pack the essentials.

• Sturdy, well-broken-in hiking boots

• Moisture-wicking layers for changing weather

• Sun protection like hats, sunglasses, and high-SPF sunscreen

• Snacks and a reusable water bottle to stay fueled and hydrated

Don’t forget your passport, as it’s required for Machu Picchu.

Be mindful of the altitude and pack remedies for altitude sickness.

With the right gear and a positive mindset, trekkers can focus on seeing the stunning Andean landscapes and rich cultural encounters along the way.

Important Considerations for the Trek

While the Lares Trek offers a stunning journey through Andean landscapes, trekkers should be mindful of several important considerations. The trek reaches high elevations, with the Condor Pass topping out at 4,800 m.a.s.l. Proper acclimatization and pacing are crucial. The unpredictable mountain weather also demands prepared gear. Plus, trekkers must confirm their passport details when booking, as access to Machu Picchu requires valid identification. Finally, the trek is not recommended for young children. To help plan, the table below outlines key details:

| Consideration | Detail |

| — | — |

| Elevation | Condor Pass at 4,800 m.a.s.l. |

| Weather | Unpredictable mountain conditions |

| Documents | Passport details required for Machu Picchu |

| Age | Not recommended for children 12 and younger |

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Trek?

The maximum group size for this trek is limited to 10 participants. The small group size ensures a more personalized and intimate trekking experience for the travelers.

Can I Book Solo or Do I Need to Book With a Group?

The group size is limited to 10 participants, so you can book the trek solo. Solo travelers are welcome, as long as the maximum group size is not exceeded.

What Vaccinations Are Required for the Lares Trek?

No specific vaccinations are required for the Lares Trek. However, it’s recommended to consult a travel health professional and ensure routine vaccinations are up-to-date before the trek. They can also advise on any other health precautions.

Can I Store Extra Luggage in Cusco During the Trek?

Yes, you can store extra luggage in Cusco during the trek. Most hotels and travel agencies offer luggage storage services for a small fee, allowing you to leave behind any items you won’t need on the hike.

Is It Possible to Upgrade the Train Tickets to Vistadome Class?

Yes, it’s possible to upgrade the train tickets to Vistadome class. This premium option provides better views and amenities during the journey to Aguas Calientes. The tour operator can assist with this upgrade upon request.

The Sum Up

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu from Cusco offers an unforgettable adventure. Hikers will be rewarded with stunning vistas, cultural interactions, and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. With proper preparation and acclimatization, trekkers can fully enjoy this breathtaking journey. The trek’s affordable price and inclusions make it an excellent choice for those seeking an authentic Peruvian experience.

You can check availability for your dates here: