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985

4Days 3 Nights

Departure Location : Cusco

Destination Location : Machu Picchu

Min Age : 4+

Max People : 8

Tour Details

The Lares Trek is a unique alternative route to Machu Picchu, perfect for travelers seeking breathtaking mountain scenery, authentic cultural experiences, and fewer crowds. Unlike the Classic Inca Trail, this hike takes you deep into the heart of the Andes, where you’ll walk through traditional Quechua villages, interact with local families, see herds of llamas and alpacas, and soak in natural hot springs — all before reaching the majestic citadel of Machu Picchu.

This trek is not just about the destination — it’s about the journey through a timeless world of living culture, snowy peaks, and vast landscapes.

📋 Tour Details

Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
Difficulty Level: Moderate (no technical experience required)
Highest Altitude: 4,700 m / 15,420 ft (Ipsayccocha Pass)
Total Trekking Distance: Approx. 33 km (20.5 miles)
Start/End: Cusco – Machu Picchu – Cusco
Group Size: Max 10 people (small group experience)
Accommodation: 2 nights camping, 1 night hotel in Aguas Calientes

Why Choose the Lares Trek?

🚫 No crowds – Peaceful trails and authentic encounters
🏘️ Cultural immersion – Visit remote Andean communities
💧 Thermal hot springs – A relaxing bonus on the trek
🦙 Wildlife encounters – Llamas, alpacas, and majestic condors
🛖 Support local communities – Your trip directly benefits the people you meet
🥾 Perfect for those who want nature + culture
🏞️ Ends with Machu Picchu – A magical reward after your journey

And best of all, this unforgettable adventure is operated by AllPackers Expeditions, a 100% local, experienced, and passionate team based in Cusco. We believe in small groups, personalized service, and authentic travel.

Departure & Return Location

Where does the Lares Trek start?

The Lares Trek adventure begins early in the morning—either from Cusco or the Sacred Valley, depending on where you’re staying.

If you’re staying in Cusco:
Our team from Allpackers Expeditions will pick you up from your hotel at approximately 5:00 AM. We’ll make sure you’re fully prepared and ready for the journey ahead, then drive you to the train station in Ollantaytambo.
If you’re staying in the Sacred Valley (Ollantaytambo, Urubamba, or nearby):
Allpackers Expeditions will pick you up about an hour later, depending on your hotel’s location. It’s a more relaxed start, and you’ll be closer to the trailhead.

No matter where you’re staying, our team handles all the logistics—so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Just get your backpack ready and leave the rest to us.

If you’re still deciding where to stay before the trek, feel free to ask—we’ll gladly recommend ideal options to make your adventure smoother.

Departure Time

5:00 am

Price Includes

Private Transportation : Pick-up from Cusco and transfer to the starting point of the trek (Lares Valley). All transportation during the tour is included, ending with your return from the train station to your hotel in Cusco.
Professional Bilingual Tour Guide : Professional English Speaking Tour Guide (at AE we are committed to providing you with an unforgettable travel experience and all this is thanks to our select staff of guides, porters, cooks who have the preparation and training to make your trip a memorable one.)
All Meals During the Trek : You’ll be served freshly prepared meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks) by a professional trekking chef. Vegetarian and special dietary options available on request.
Camping Equipment : Includes spacious 2-person tents, foam sleeping mats, a dining tent, kitchen tent, tables, chairs, and all necessary gear for a comfortable camp setup.
Pack Horses : Our horses will carry all camping equipment and up to 7 kg of your personal belongings, so you can hike light with just your daypack.
Chef and Assistant Cook : A dedicated cook team prepares delicious, nutritious Andean meals using local ingredients — including tea time and desserts.(In case you have dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, gluten free, and even vegan) it will be no problem to make your trip memorable. Our staff of cooks have years of experience and we have a variety of options for you.)
Tea Time & Snacks : Each afternoon at camp, you’ll enjoy hot drinks and snacks to relax and recharge after hiking.
Machu Picchu Entrance Ticket : Includes your official entry to Machu Picchu on Day 4. Our guide will give you a complete tour of the citadel, exploring its most iconic sites.
Bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu :Comfortable shuttle service up to Machu Picchu on the morning of your visit, avoiding the long uphill walk., Round Trip Bus ticket up- down from Machu Picchu to Aguas Calientes
Train from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo : After visiting Machu Picchu, you’ll return to Ollantaytambo by Expedition tourist train, enjoying scenic views through the Sacred Valley.
Transfer Back to Cusco : Private vehicle pick-up at the train station and drop-off at your hotel in Cusco.
Hotel in Aguas Calientes (1 Night) :One night stay in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes (private room with hot shower and breakfast included).
Emergency Horse : An emergency horse will be available in case someone in the group needs assistance during the trek.
Assistant Tour Guide for groups of 9+
Mules / Personal porters to carry 7 kg of your personal belongings
Entrance Fees , The required trekking permits and your Machu Picchu entrance ticket are included. Please note that these permits are personal and cannot be modified once confirmed.
Pick-up from your hotel
Drinking Water & Snacks-We provide safe, filtered drinking water throughout the trek, as well as energy snacks to keep you fueled during the hike.(does not include water for the first 4 hours of the trek when you need to bring your own)
First aid kit , Our team carries an emergency first aid kit and oxygen to ensure everyone’s safety in case of altitude-related or medical issues.
Oxygen bottle
Walking Sticks (01 Pair per person)
Duffle Bag for Personal Belongings - A duffle bag will be provided for you to pack your essential items, which will be carried by porters or horses (up to 10 kilos)
Personalized Attention & Small Group Experience - We ensure small group sizes for a more personalized experience, allowing you to enjoy better interaction with your guide and fellow travelers."SMALL GROUPS BIG CONNECTIONS"
Eco-Friendly & Sustainable Experience We follow strict environmental practices, ensuring that we leave no trace and support local communities through fair tourism practices.

Price Excludes

Sleeping bag (can be hired by us) Not included by default. You can rent a high-quality, warm sleeping bag from us for the entire trek. (Recommended, especially during the dry season when nights are cold.)
Breakfast on the first day and Lunch on the last day , After the visit to Machu Picchu, you’ll have free time in Aguas Calientes before catching the train. Lunch is not included on this day, allowing you to choose a restaurant of your preference.
Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain (Needs to be booked in advance)
Entrance to Machu Picchu Mountain (Needs to be booked in advance)
Travel Insurance
Tips: Voluntary tips for your guide, cook, and muleteers are not included in the tour price. Though not mandatory, they are customary and appreciated as a thank-you for their hard work.
Personal Travel Insurance : We do not provide insurance coverage. We strongly recommend that you have travel insurance that includes hiking/trekking and emergency medical coverage.
Personal Toiletries & Snacks : Toiletries, energy bars, and other personal items are not included. You should bring your own, especially for remote camp nights.

WHAT YOU NEED TO TAKE FOR THE LARES TREK

Passport (must be valid)
Student Card (if you booked as a student)
Daypack (small and lightweight for comfort)
Hiking Boots – Lightweight, comfortable, and with good grip
Water Storage – A Camelbak-style reservoir is recommended, or bottles with a capacity of at least 2-3 liters
3-4 Sets of Undergarments Bring enough breathable, moisture-wicking underwear for the trek
1 Fleece Jacket A warm fleece is great for layering and provides insulation during cooler temperatures.
1 Warm Down Jacket Nights can be extremely cold, so a lightweight, insulated down jacket is essential for staying warm.
1 Sun Hat A wide-brimmed hat or cap is necessary for sun protection at high altitudes.
1 Wool Hat (Beanie) Bring a warm wool hat to protect against the cold, especially at night and in the early mornings.
Waterproof Gloves Even if they are ski gloves, waterproof gloves will help keep your hands warm in cold and wet conditions.
Headlamp (Essential!) A headlamp with extra batteries is necessary for navigating in the dark, especially at camp or for early morning hikes.
Warm layers (thermal shirts, fleece, down jacket – it gets cold!)
Hiking pants (quick-dry)
Comfortable Shoes for Camp After a long day of hiking, you'll want to wear comfortable, lightweight shoes to relax in at camp.
Battery Charger/Power Bank There are no places to charge electronics during the trek, so bring a portable battery charger for your phone or camera
Extra Money (Cash) for Souvenirs, Drinks & Tips Bring cash in Peruvian soles for small purchases, drinks, souvenirs, or tips for your guide and porters. ATMs are not available during the trek.
Walking Sticks/Trekking Poles Trekking poles reduce strain on your knees and improve balance. (Can be rented from us if needed).
Insect Repellent A strong insect repellent (with DEET or natural alternatives) is essential, especially in lower-altitude areas
Toiletries & Hand Sanitizer Pack biodegradable toiletries, including soap, wipes, and hand sanitizer for hygiene during the trek.
Toothbrush & Toothpaste Pack a small toothbrush and toothpaste for personal hygiene during the trek.
Personal Medication Bring any prescribed medication you need, plus altitude sickness tablets if recommended by your doctor.

What to Expect from the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

Great question, Joel. Here’s a detailed and engaging section titled “What to Expect from the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu” — perfect for including on your website, sales materials, or briefings to clients:

Spectacular Scenery : From dramatic snow-capped peaks and glacial lakes to lush valleys and traditional farmlands, the Lares region offers a wide variety of jaw-dropping landscapes far from touristy crowds. Expect to be surrounded by raw, untouched nature every single day.
Authentic Cultural Encounters :One of the biggest highlights of the Lares Trek is the chance to interact with remote Andean communities, where people still live according to ancient customs. You'll visit villages where Quechua is the first language, watch traditional weaving, and see how people thrive in the highlands.
Local Wildlife & Andean Life : ou’ll hike alongside herds of llamas and alpacas, and with a bit of luck, spot Andean condors soaring overhead. The trek gives you a real connection to the rural lifestyle of the Andes.
Relaxing in Hot Springs :The trek kicks off with a dip in the Lares thermal baths, a perfect way to unwind before the real hiking begins. Natural hot springs surrounded by mountains? Yes, please.
Camping Under the Stars : Enjoy cozy, scenic campsites far from the noise of the city. At night, you’ll sleep under a sky filled with stars, and wake up to the sounds of nature and the smells of breakfast prepared by your trekking chef.
Delicious Meals on the Trail : Expect hearty and tasty meals prepared by our trekking cook team — including local dishes made with fresh Andean ingredients. You won’t believe you’re eating like this in the middle of the mountains!
Challenging but Rewarding Hikes : The trek includes high-altitude passes, including the stunning Ipsaycocha Pass (4,700 m / 15,420 ft). While the hike is moderately challenging, our pace is designed for all levels, and the support of our guide and horses makes it doable even for beginners with a good fitness level.
The Grand Finale: Machu Picchu : After three days in the mountains, your final reward is a guided visit to the awe-inspiring Machu Picchu. Arrive by train, rest in a hotel, and then explore the Lost City of the Incas with fresh eyes and a deep appreciation for the journey that got you there.
A Meaningful, Off-the-Beaten-Path Experience : This trek is perfect for travelers who want to avoid the crowds, connect with local culture, and discover a more intimate path to Machu Picchu. You’ll return with not just photos — but stories, memories, and a true connection to Peru.

Itinerary: Operated by AllPackers Expeditions

Day 1Day 1: Cusco to Lares Hot Springs & Kiswarani Village

Your adventure begins with an early morning pick-up directly from your hotel in Cusco by the AllPackers Expeditions team. After a scenic drive through the Sacred Valley (around 3 hours), we reach the Lares hot springs. Here, you can relax in the natural thermal pools surrounded by stunning mountains, which is perfect for acclimatizing before the trek.

Following a nutritious lunch prepared by our trekking chef, we start the first stretch of our trek, a 3-hour hike through the beautiful Lares Valley to Kiswarani Village (3,700 m). This village remains traditional, and you’ll get a real feel for rural Andean life. We camp here for the night, surrounded by nature and under a sky full of stars. Our team will take care of everything, allowing you to rest and enjoy your journey.

Day 2Ascend to Ipsaycocha Pass & Descend to Cancha Cancha Village

After a hearty breakfast and coca tea, we embark on a challenging climb toward the Ipsaycocha Pass (4,700 m), the highest point of the trek. Along the way, you’ll be immersed in stunning views of snow-capped peaks, crystal-clear lakes, and fields of grazing alpacas. This day is physically demanding but incredibly rewarding.

At the summit, you’ll have time to soak in the magnificent views of the Andes. Then, we descend to Cancha Cancha Village, one of the most remote communities in the region. Our campsite is located in this peaceful valley, and after a delicious dinner prepared by our chef, you’ll have time to rest in this beautiful, quiet spot.

Day 3Downhill to Huaran, Ollantaytambo, and Train to Aguas Calientes

After breakfast, we begin a downhill walk through the scenic valley, passing by farmland, rivers, and lush greenery. Along the way, you’ll experience the unique beauty of the Andes while seeing the traditional agricultural practices of the locals.

Once we reach Huaran, we’ll take a private vehicle to Ollantaytambo, where we’ll enjoy a relaxing lunch. In the afternoon, we board the Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, you’ll check into a comfortable 3-star hotel, where you can rest and enjoy a hot shower after the trek. Your guide will also brief you on your visit to Machu Picchu the next day.

Day 4Explore Machu Picchu – The Lost City of the Incas

The grand finale of your journey begins with an early bus ride up to Machu Picchu, where your AllPackers Expeditions guide will take you on a 2-hour guided tour of the citadel. You’ll explore the Temple of the Sun, the Sacred Plaza, and the famous Intihuatana stone, learning about the history and significance of this wonder of the ancient world.

After the guided tour, you’ll have free time to explore on your own, or you can take an optional hike to the Sun Gate or Inca Bridge. In the afternoon, we take the bus back to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll board the train to Ollantaytambo. From there, a private transfer will bring you back to Cusco, where you’ll arrive in the evening with unforgettable memories from your adventure.

Why Choose the Lares Trek with AllPackers Expeditions?

✅ Less crowded than the traditional Inca Trail
✅ Authentic cultural encounters with local Andean communities
✅ Personalized service with expert local guides, chefs, and porters
✅ Private transport and high-quality services throughout your journey
✅ 100% locally operated — we ensure every detail is taken care of for you

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Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days/ 3Nights

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