Lares Trek To Machu Picchu 4 Days And 3 Nights

Offering a captivating 4-day, 3-night adventure through the stunning Peruvian Andes, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu promises an unforgettable experience. Discover the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a captivating 4-day, 3-night adventure through the stunning Peruvian Andes. Trekkers can expect breathtaking mountain vistas, charming Andean villages, and a culminating visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. With cozy camping accommodations, delectable meals, and a scenic drive from Cusco, this journey offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and history – an unforgettable experience not to be missed. What makes this trek truly unique, however, is the opportunity to take in the local Andean way of life.

Key Points

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  • The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day, 3-night guided tour that offers a unique Andean mountain experience with stunning vistas and traditional villages.
  • The moderate hike covers diverse landscapes, including the Lares Pass (4,540 m/14,900 ft), lush cloud forests, and the Hydroelectric Station before reaching Machu Picchu.
  • Accommodations include four-person tents with mattresses and pillows, as well as communal dining and kitchen tents for meals prepared by an experienced chef.
  • The tour includes private transportation, an early 6:30 am start, and flexible pickup locations to ensure a comfortable and reliable journey through the Andes.
  • Recommended gear includes a warm sleeping bag, sturdy hiking boots, layers of clothing, and essential items like a headlamp, sunblock, and trekking poles.

Tour Highlights

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The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers travelers a unique and immersive experience in the Peruvian Andes. Trekkers will be captivated by the stunning mountain vistas, traditional Andean villages, and the chance to interact with local communities.

The four-day trek features moderate hiking through diverse landscapes, from lush valleys to high mountain passes. Campers will enjoy cozy nights under the stars, hearty meals prepared by the trek crew, and the ultimate reward – reaching the iconic Machu Picchu.

This journey provides an authentic cultural encounter and the opportunity to take in the beauty of the Andes.

Itinerary Overview

On the first day, travelers embark on a scenic drive from Cusco to the trailhead in the Lares Valley. They’ll begin the trek through stunning mountain landscapes, passing by traditional Andean villages and herds of alpacas. The second day takes them higher, climbing to the Lares Pass (4,540m/14,900ft) for breathtaking views before descending to their campsite. On the third day, the trail leads through lush cloud forests before arriving at the hot springs of Lares. The final day has them trekking to the Hydroelectric Station and taking the train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu.

| Day | Distance | Duration | Elevation |

| — | — | — | — |

| 1 | 12 km | 5-6 hrs | 3,800 m |

| 2 | 16 km | 7-8 hrs | 4,540 m |

| 3 | 12 km | 5-6 hrs | 3,150 m |

| 4 | 12 km | 4-5 hrs | 2,040 m |

Accommodation and Meals

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Travelers on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu can look forward to comfortable accommodations and delicious meals throughout their journey.

Travelers on the Lares Trek can expect comfortable accommodations and delicious meals throughout their journey.

The tour includes:

  • One night stay at a bed and breakfast in Aguas Calientes, in double occupancy rooms

  • Four-person tents for every two trekkers, complete with mattresses and pillows

  • Kitchen and dining tents with tables and chairs for communal meals

  • Meals prepared by an experienced chef, including 3 dinners, 3 lunches, and 3 breakfasts

  • Lunch on the final day in Aguas Calientes

These amenities ensure a pleasant and well-supported trek for all participants.

Gear and Packing List

Packing the right gear is crucial for a successful Lares Trek to Machu Picchu. Trekkers should bring a warm sleeping bag, sturdy hiking boots, and layers of clothing to stay comfortable in the changing mountain climate.

Other essential items include a headlamp, sunblock, sunglasses, and trekking poles for stability. Bug repellent and personal hygiene products are also recommended.

Renting gear like sleeping bags is an option for those who don’t want to transport extra equipment. With the right preparation, trekkers can focus on enjoying the stunning landscapes and cultural experience of the Lares Trek.

Transportation and Pickup

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The tour includes private transportation for pick-up and drop-off at hotels or Airbnbs in Cusco. The tour begins early at 6:30 am, ensuring travelers reach their destination on time. The transportation is comfortable and reliable, making the journey to the starting point of the trek a smooth experience.

Private transportation from Cusco hotels or Airbnbs ensures early 6:30 am start and comfortable, reliable journey to trek starting point.

  • The tour vans are well-maintained and driven by experienced, professional drivers.

  • Pickup locations are flexible, accommodating travelers’ needs and preferences.

  • The vehicles are equipped with safety features, providing a secure and enjoyable ride.

  • Travelers can relax and enjoy the scenic drive through the Andes, taking in the breathtaking landscapes.

  • The transportation service is included in the tour package, eliminating the need for additional arrangements.

Tour Inclusions and Exclusions

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu tour package includes a comprehensive set of amenities to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience.

Travelers will have a dedicated tour guide, a pre-trek briefing, and comfortable four-person tents with mattresses and pillows. The tour also provides a kitchen tent, dining tent, and a team of chefs, wranglers, and horses to transport equipment.

Additional inclusions are private transportation, meals, and tips for the crew.

Travelers will need to bring their own personal gear, such as sleeping bags, trekking clothes, and toiletries.

The tour isn’t suitable for those with certain medical conditions or physical limitations.

Participant Considerations

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Certain individuals may be better suited for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu tour than others.

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu tour may be better suited for some individuals than others.

This challenging trek isn’t recommended for:

  • Travelers with back problems or serious medical conditions

  • Pregnant women

  • Those requiring wheelchair accessibility

  • Travelers with low physical fitness levels

  • Children under 12 years old

While the trek is private and tailored to your group, it requires a moderate level of fitness and ability to navigate uneven terrain for several hours each day.

Prospective participants should carefully consider their capabilities before booking this immersive Andean hiking experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Tour?

This is a private tour, so the group size is limited to just your party. The tour is designed for a personalized experience with no other participants beyond your group.

Can I Rent Gear From the Tour Company?

Yes, the tour company offers rentals for key gear like sleeping bags and trekking poles. Travelers can rent these items directly from the company, providing convenience and ensuring they have the necessary equipment for the trek.

Do I Need to Have Previous Trekking Experience?

No, previous trekking experience is not required. The tour company provides comprehensive gear and equipment, and the guides are skilled at accommodating trekkers of varying experience levels. However, a moderate level of physical fitness is recommended for the Lares trek.

Can I Book This Tour for a Solo Traveler?

Yes, this tour can be booked for solo travelers. The tour operator provides a shared tent, allowing solo travelers to connect with others on the trek. Single supplements may apply for those who prefer a private tent.

Is There an Option to Upgrade Accommodations?

Yes, travelers can upgrade their accommodations for this tour. An upgraded option is available to stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes instead of the included bed and breakfast. Additional fees may apply for the hotel upgrade.

The Sum Up

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a unique blend of nature, culture, and history. With stunning mountain vistas, traditional Andean villages, and the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu, this moderate hiking journey provides a perfect adventure through the breathtaking Peruvian Andes. Travelers can look forward to cozy nights under the stars, delicious meals, and a scenic drive from Cusco, creating a truly memorable experience.