Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

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Discover the perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure on the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu in 4 days. This unforgettable journey takes you off the beaten path through stunning Andean landscapes, crystal-clear lakes, and remote Quechua-speaking villages, offering authentic cultural encounters and breathtaking views at every step. Unlike crowded routes, the Lares Trek lets you experience the true heart of the Andes, culminating with a magical visit to the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. If you’re looking for a more intimate, scenic, and culturally rich alternative to the Inca Trail, this 4-day trek is your perfect choice.

During our Machu Picchu day trip By Train from Cusco, you’ll dedicate a day to the exploration of Machu Picchu, the famous Inca Citadel. This comprehensive day trip departs from Cusco and offers a chance to uncover the secrets of this iconic mountaintop Inca site with the guidance of a local expert. Gain insights into its construction, historical significance, and the daily routines of its inhabitants. The tour maintains a leisurely and non-taxing pace, making it an excellent choice for newcomers, families, and solo adventurers alike.

From

670

USD

This price is applicable for groups of 02 people or more. If you are traveling alone, please consult with our travel consultants.

What’s Included in the LaresTrek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

3 Breakfast, 3 Lunch, 3 Dinner
Transportation
Expedition train service
Entrance to Machu Picchu

Last lunch on the 4th day in Aguas Calientes.
Trekking poles: $15
Sleeping bags: $30
Gratuity for guides, cooks, and horsemen.
Entrance to Wayna Picchu Or Machu Picchu Mountain

Itinerary – LaresTrek to Machu Picchu 4 days

Day 1

Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Huacawasi

Your adventure begins early in the morning with a 4:00 a.m. pick-up from your hotel in Cusco. You’ll enjoy a scenic drive through the lush Sacred Valley, passing traditional villages like Calca, Totora, and Maucaupata, before arriving at the Lares hot springs (3,200 m / 10,496 ft).

Here, you’ll have time to relax in the natural thermal baths surrounded by mountains, followed by a nourishing lunch. In the afternoon, you’ll meet your trekking team—including muleteers—and begin a gradual uphill hike to the remote village of Huacawasi, where you’ll camp for the night.

Trek Distance: 4 km / 2.5 miles
Campsite Altitude: 3,930 m / 12,795 ft
Duration: 3 hours approx.
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: Tents

Day 2

Huacawasi – Ipsaycocha Pass – Patacancha

After a hearty breakfast, the most challenging and rewarding day of the trek begins. You’ll hike towards the Ipsaycocha Pass, the highest point of the route at 4,735 m (15,541 ft), where panoramic views of snow-capped peaks await.

Along the trail, you’ll encounter isolated Andean communities, alpaca herds, and colorful handwoven textiles unique to each village. After lunch near the crystal-clear Ipsaycocha Lagoon, you’ll continue downhill to Patacancha, a quiet village where you’ll camp for the second night.

Trek Distance: 16 km / 9.9 miles
Highest Altitude: 4,735 m / 15,541 ft
Campsite Altitude: 3,742 m / 12,277 ft
Duration: 8 hours
Difficulty: Challenging
Accommodation: Tents

Day 3

Patacancha – Willoq – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Today’s route takes you through living history. After breakfast, you’ll descend through lush terrain to Willoq, a small Andean town where customs and traditional clothing are still preserved. You’ll also explore archaeological sites such as Qochapata, Pumamarca, and ancient Inca terraces along the way.

You’ll arrive at Ollantaytambo around 2:00 p.m. for lunch. This charming Inca town is known as a “living museum.” Later, you’ll board the train to Aguas Calientes, where your guide will meet you at the station and take you to your hotel. In the evening, you’ll receive a detailed briefing for the next day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

Trek Distance: 10 km / 6.2 miles
Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
Duration: 4 hours
Difficulty: Moderate
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes

Day 4

Machu Picchu Guided Tour – Return to Cusco

After an early breakfast at your hotel, you’ll take the bus up to Machu Picchu, the Lost City of the Incas. Upon entry (with passport and ticket), you’ll enjoy a guided tour of around 2.5 to 3 hours, exploring the most important temples, plazas, and viewpoints of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

If you’ve booked in advance, you may also climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain—both offering spectacular views and a more adventurous extension to your experience.

After the tour, descend to Aguas Calientes, enjoy lunch (not included), and then take your train back to Ollantaytambo, where private transport will return you to your hotel in Cusco. Arrival time will depend on your train schedule (usually 2:30 p.m. or 4:20 p.m.).

Highest Altitude: 2,452 m / 8,044 ft
Tour Duration in Machu Picchu: 3 hours
Difficulty: Easy
Return to Cusco: Train + vehicle transfer

Meeting and pick-up

Pickup points

Free pickup from hotels, hostels, houses, and apartments near the historic center of Cusco.

Start time

5:00 a.m.

Pickup details

After making your reservation, you can contact us to provide the necessary information for pickup. It is very important that your hotel has vehicle access; otherwise, we will arrange a meeting point.

LaresTrek to Machu Picchu 4 days Price

From $670 USD – General Price

Cancellation Policy

Cannot be canceled.

Frequently Asked Questions About the LaresTrek to Machu Picchu 4 days

What is the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?

The Lares Trek is an alternative hiking route to Machu Picchu that combines stunning mountain scenery with deep cultural immersion. Unlike the Inca Trail, the Lares Trek takes you through remote Andean villages where you can interact with local communities, see traditional farming and weaving, and enjoy breathtaking landscapes with fewer crowds.

How difficult is the Lares Trek?

The trek is considered moderate to challenging due to the altitude and mountain terrain. While it doesn’t involve technical climbing, some steep sections and high elevations (up to 4,700 m / 15,420 ft) require good physical condition and proper acclimatization.

FAQs

How many days does the Lares Trek take?

Most versions of the trek last 4 days and 3 nights, including the visit to Machu Picchu on the final day. The itinerary includes 3 days of trekking and 1 day exploring the citadel.

Do I need to book the Lares Trek in advance?

While it doesn’t require a government permit like the Inca Trail, it’s still recommended to book at least a few weeks in advance, especially during peak season (May–September) to ensure train tickets, hotel availability, and logistics.

Is the Lares Trek crowded like the Inca Trail?

No. The Lares Trek is much less crowded and offers a more peaceful, off-the-beaten-path experience with authentic cultural encounters.

What is the highest point of the trek?

The highest point is usually the Ipsaycocha Pass, which reaches approximately 4,700 meters (15,420 feet) above sea level.

Do I sleep in tents or hotels during the trek?

You’ll sleep in tents for the first two nights, in mountain campsites. On the third night, you’ll stay in a hotel in Aguas Calientes before visiting Machu Picchu.

Are the Lares hot springs part of the tour?

Yes! Most itineraries begin with a stop at the Lares thermal baths, where you can enjoy a relaxing soak before starting the trek.

Do I need to be acclimatized before the trek?

Yes. It’s strongly recommended to spend at least 2 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before starting the trek to adjust to the altitude.

Can I hike Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain at the end of the trek?

Yes, but tickets are limited and must be booked in advance. Let your tour operator know during booking if you’d like to add one of these hikes to your Machu Picchu visit.

What should I pack?

Essentials include:

Passport
Good hiking boots
Warm clothing (layers)
Rain gear
Reusable water bottle
Sunscreen and insect repellent
Sleeping bag (can often be rented)
Personal toiletries and a small towel

When is the best time to do the Lares Trek?

The best time is during the dry season (April to October). While the trek runs year-round, the rainy season (November to March) can bring muddy trails and limited visibility.

Is the Lares Trek family-friendly?

Yes, especially for families with older children or teens. The cultural experiences and flexibility of the route make it a great option for adventurous families.