Lares Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days / 3 Nights

Code: CSCT4D3N
4 DAYS - 3 NIGHTS
Category:
  • Valle de Santa Cruz (1)-convertido-a-1920x1356
  • Valle de Santa cruz
  • Taulliraju 5 (1)-convertido-a-1920×1356
  • Taulliraju_peak-peru-inkaland-treks (1)-convertido-a-1920×1356

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Location: Lares Valley → Sacred Valley → Machu Picchu, Peru
Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging
Best Season: April – October

The Lares Trek offers a breathtaking alternative to the classic Inca Trail — combining high-Andean scenery, traditional Quechua villages, turquoise glacial lakes and the dramatic descent into the cloud forest before culminating at Machu Picchu. Starting from the thermal springs of Lares and weaving through remote communities like Quiswarani and Huaran, this 4-day journey is rich in culture, nature and adventure.

With Inkaland Treks, you’ll enjoy expert guiding, carefully paced altitude acclimatization, small-group service and full logistics — making this route an ideal blend of off-the-beaten-path trekking, Andean authenticity and unforgettable exposure to the world’s most iconic archaeological site.

Quick Facts Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

  • Route: Lares Valley → Quiswarani → Huaran → Ollantaytambo → Machu Picchu
  • Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
  • Max Elevation: Approx. 4,450 m – 4,600 m (depending on pass version)
  • Difficulty: Moderate → Challenging (altitude / terrain)
  • Season: April – October (dry season)
  • Start / End: Cusco ↔ Machu Picchu
  • Group Size: Small groups / Private departures
  • Focus: Cultural immersion + high-Andean landscapes + Machu Picchu finale

📩 Ready to explore the Lares Valley & Machu Picchu?

Join Inkaland Treks for the Lares Trek - a journey of tradition, high peaks, Andean villages and one of the most iconic destinations on Earth

Book your 2026 spot now and trek smarter, culturally richer and deeper into the Andes.

Highlights Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

  • Cross ancient Andean landscapes through traditional weaving communities and high passes
  • Visit the remote village of Quiswarani and interact with weaving families
  • Experience a dramatic altitude shift from glacial terrain to tropical cloud forest
  • Finish at the majestic Machu Picchu with a guided tour of the Sun Gate and terraces
  • Trek with certified Inkaland Treks guides who tailor pace to your comfort
Join Group 2026

Itinerary at a Glance

Day Route Max Elevation Trek Time Highlights
1 Cusco → Lares Springs → Huaran Village ~3,850 m ~4-5 h Thermal springs, first high valley trek
2 Huaran → Quiswarani Pass → Community Camp ~4,600 m ~5-6 h High Andean pass & cultural interaction
3 Quiswarani → Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes ~2,700 m ~4-5 h Descent into the Sacred Valley, train to Aguas Calientes
4 Machu Picchu sunrise guided visit → Cusco 2,430 m – Iconic Machu Picchu final day

1

Day 1 – Cusco → Lares Springs → Huaran Village (~3,850 m)

You’ll be picked up early from Cusco and head into the Lares Valley, passing through scenic Andean farmlands. Visit the soothing thermal baths of Lares to prepare your body for altitude. Continue to the charming village of Huaran and trek approximately 4–5 hours to camp near a small Andean settlement. Evening included cultural exchange with local weaving families.

Overnight: Community camp near Huaran (≈3,850 m)

2

Day 2 – Huaran → Quiswarani Pass (~4,600 m) → Camp

After breakfast, set out early for the most challenging section: the climb to the pass above 4,500 m where panoramic views unfold across snow-topped peaks, glacial lakes and remote valleys. Descend into a high alpine campsite near Quiswarani where you’ll spend the night amongst traditional herding communities.

Overnight: High-camp near Quiswarani (~4,600 m)

3

Day 3 – Quiswarani → Ollantaytambo → Aguas Calientes (~2,700 m)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at altitude before descending through the lush Sacred Valley, past historic Inca sites and vibrant villages. Reach Ollantaytambo where you board a train along the Urubamba valley to Aguas Calientes – the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Free evening in Aguas Calientes.

Overnight: Hotel in Aguas Calientes (~2,040 m)

4

Day 4 – Machu Picchu Sunrise → Return to Cusco

Very early morning transfer to Machu Picchu. Catch sunrise over the citadel, enjoy a guided tour of the terraces, temples and Sun Gate. Afterward, return by train to Ollantaytambo and drive back to Cusco. Arrival in Cusco in the evening marks the end of your expedition.

End of services

Departure

📅 Departures & Pricing

  • Season: April – October
  • Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
  • Service: Small-group or Private departures
  • Price: Available upon request (depends on group size & gear rental)

FAQ

Good to Know

  • How fit do I need to be?
    You should have good fitness for 4–6 hour hikes at altitude; prior acclimatization in Cusco is recommended.
  • Why choose the Lares route?
    Less crowded, culturally rich, high-Andean scenery and a more authentic Andean village experience than many other treks.
  • Does the trek reach Machu Picchu?
    Yes — Day 4 is a full guided morning at Machu Picchu before return to Cusco.

What to bring

  • Comfortable trekking boots + warm layers
  • Rain jacket & waterproof pants
  • Sun hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
  • Day-pack (20–30 L), refillable water bottle (1.5–2 L)
  • Headlamp, personal first aid items, power bank
  • Passport (needed for train & Machu Picchu entry)

INCLUSION

✅ Included

  • Professional bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
  • Private transfers Cusco ↔ Lares trailhead & return from Ollantaytambo
  • 3 nights accommodation (2 nights camp, 1 night hotel)
  • All meals from Day 1 dinner to Day 4 breakfast
  • Trains Ollantaytambo ↔ Aguas Calientes
  • Duffel transport (max 7 kg)
  • Entrance to Machu Picchu Sanctuary
  • Equipment (camp tents, mats, dining tents)
  • Altitude/medical support kit

❌ Not Included

  • Sleeping bag or personal clothing gear (rentals available)
  • Travel & cancellation insurance (mandatory)
  • Tips for guide & staff
  • Meals outside included program

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