Embark on an unforgettable 4-day Andean Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, an incredible alternative route that immerses you in the heart of authentic Quechua culture and breathtaking Andean landscapes. This challenging yet rewarding journey begins with a scenic drive from Cusco to the soothing Lares Hot Springs, where you’ll enjoy breakfast before starting your trek. You’ll traverse stunning valleys, discover cascading waterfalls, and witness diverse flora and fauna.
Experience intimate interactions with local communities in villages like Cuncani and Huacawasi, gaining insights into their traditional lifestyles. Conquer the majestic Condor Pass, the highest point of the trek, offering panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and the chance to spot native wildlife like alpacas and llamas. The trek culminates in a journey by train through the picturesque Sacred Valley to Aguas Calientes, setting the stage for an early morning ascent to the magnificent citadel of Machu Picchu. Explore this ancient Inca marvel with a knowledgeable guide before returning to Cusco, carrying memories of an extraordinary Peruvian adventure.
Lares Hot Springs & Cuncani Village
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Your adventure begins with an early pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at 5:30 AM. Enjoy a scenic 3-hour drive, passing through the city of Calca and its local market, until you reach the trailhead at Lares Hot Springs (3,200 m.a.s.l.). Here, you’ll savor a delicious breakfast before indulging in the therapeutic medicinal waters of the hot springs for approximately two hours. Afterward, the trek officially starts with a gradual uphill hike for about 2.5 hours to our lunch spot, where a freshly prepared buffet awaits. After a short siesta, continue another 3-hour gradual ascent to our campsite in the local village of Cuncani (3,800 m.a.s.l.). This day offers stunning views of the Lares Valley, including streams, waterfalls, and diverse flora and fauna. At camp, your guide will help you settle into your tents, and you’ll have the opportunity to interact with local Quechua-speaking children over hot chocolate and cake. Later, visit a family home to experience the authentic lifestyle of people living at this high altitude. The day concludes with dinner and an optional stargazing session, where your guide will point out amazing Inca constellations. Total walking distance: 11 km / 6.8 miles. Elevation gain: 600 meters.
Condor Pass
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Wake up around 5:30 AM to a hot cup of coca tea. After packing your duffel bag, enjoy a hearty breakfast prepared by your professional chef, along with snacks and water for the day. At approximately 7:30 AM, you’ll depart from Huacawasi camp towards the highest point of the trek: the majestic Condor Pass. This challenging uphill section lasts about 4 hours, offering incredible views of snow-capped peaks, deep valleys, grazing alpacas and llamas, and serene lagoons. If you’re lucky, you might even spot condors, the largest birds of the Andes. Upon reaching the pass, relax with some coca tea and admire the charming vistas of both the Sacred Valley and the Lares Valley. From here, begin a 1.5-hour descent to our lunch spot, where your chef will serve delicious family-style food and hot drinks, accommodating all dietary restrictions. After a brief siesta, continue another 2-hour downhill trek to our next campsite in Queunayoc (3,600 m.a.s.l.), nestled among trees and streams. After settling into your tents, enjoy a small happy hour with hot drinks, followed by dinner. Retire early, well-deserved after conquering the ‘big mountain.’ Total walking distance: 15 km / 8 miles.
Descending to Pumahuanca & Aguas Calientes
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Today’s wake-up call is at 6:30 AM, accompanied by a hot glass of coca tea or chocolate. After packing, a delicious breakfast awaits you. Around 8:00 AM, you’ll begin your final day of trekking, a 4-hour downhill journey towards Pumahuanca, the end of the trail. Along the way, explore beautiful waterfalls, impressive rocky mountains, and an ancient Inca ruin, where your guide will share its fascinating history. Upon completing the trek, you’ll bid farewell to your cook, horsemen, and porters. From here, you’ll continue with just your guide by car to Ollantaytambo, a charming town in the Sacred Valley. In Ollantaytambo, you’ll board a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway town to Machu Picchu. Train departure times (3:36 PM, 4:36 PM, or 7:00 PM) depend on availability. Dinner will be arranged based on your train schedule. You’ll spend the night at a ** star hotel in Aguas Calientes (2,000 m.a.s.l.), featuring private rooms, hot showers, and Wi-Fi. Upgrades are available upon request. Total walking distance: 10 km / 4.5 miles.
Machu Picchu Sunrise
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Day four is the most anticipated and magical day: your visit to Machu Picchu! You’ll wake up extra early to catch one of the first buses up to the citadel, aiming to witness the breathtaking sunrise over the ancient ruins. Your guide will provide a comprehensive 2-hour tour of Machu Picchu (2,400 m.a.s.l.), explaining its history, architecture, and significance. Afterward, you’ll have free time to explore on your own or, if you choose and have pre-booked a permit, hike Huayna Picchu (an additional entrance ticket of $25 USD per person is required). Later, you’ll take a bus back down to Aguas Calientes, then board a train to Ollantaytambo, and finally, a bus back to Cusco. Upon arrival in Cusco, we will transfer you directly to your hotel, concluding your unforgettable Lares Trek and Machu Picchu adventure. This area is considered a high cloud forest, known for its warm and very humid weather. Walking distance: Approximately one hour uphill to Machu Picchu.
A valid passport is required for the trek and Machu Picchu entry. Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain permits are separate and must be booked several months in advance, incurring an additional fee. It is highly recommended to bring a high-quality sleeping bag rated for -5°C (23°F) to -10°C (14°F).
The best time to do the Lares Trek is during the dry season, from April to October. During these months, you can expect sunnier days and less rainfall, making for more comfortable trekking conditions and clearer views. The shoulder months of April, May, September, and October often offer pleasant weather with fewer crowds than the peak months of June, July, and August.
For the Lares Trek, we recommend packing warm layers, including thermal underwear, a fleece jacket, and a waterproof/windproof outer shell, as temperatures can vary greatly, especially at night and at higher altitudes. Essential items include a good quality sleeping bag (rated for -5°C to -10°C), comfortable hiking boots, a daypack, headlamp, water bottle, sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen), insect repellent, personal first-aid kit, and toiletries. Don’t forget your passport!
Yes, altitude sickness (Acute Mountain Sickness) can be a concern on the Lares Trek, as you’ll reach altitudes up to 4,750 m.a.s.l. To prepare, it’s crucial to spend at least 2-3 days in Cusco (3,400 m.a.s.l.) before starting the trek to allow your body to acclimatize. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and heavy meals, and consider consulting your doctor about altitude sickness medication like Diamox. Our guides are trained to recognize and manage symptoms.
For the Lares Trek, porters and horsemen will carry all the camping equipment, food, and your personal duffel bag. You will be provided with a duffel bag, typically allowing up to 7 kg (15 lbs) of personal belongings, including your sleeping bag. You will only need to carry a small daypack with essentials like water, snacks, camera, and extra layers for the day’s hike.
While there are no strict age restrictions, participants should be in good physical condition and have previous hiking experience, especially at higher altitudes. The trek involves sustained uphill climbs and descents over challenging terrain. Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult, and we recommend that participants be at least 12 years old. Consult with your doctor if you have any pre-existing health conditions.
Traveler Experiences
Recent comments
A very enriching experience, full of history and good coordination even with changing weather during the route.
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