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The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a scenic alternative to the Inca Trail that combines breathtaking Andean landscapes with authentic Quechua culture. As you hike through the remote Lares Valley, you’ll pass traditional villages, see llamas and alpacas grazing, and meet skilled weavers preserving ancient traditions. Moreover, you’ll cross a high mountain pass at 4,450 m / 14,600 ft, relax in the natural Lares hot springs, and finally continue your journey to the legendary Machu Picchu. This moderate 3–5 day trek is perfect for travelers who want fewer crowds, cultural immersion, and an unforgettable adventure in Peru.
Trip Type: Hiking, adventure, history, culture and nature
Trip Length: 4 Days/3 Nights
Group Size: 2-12 Hikers
Difficulty Level: Moderate to Semi-challenging, but rewarding hike.
Weather: Dry season (Cold & sunny days) – Rainy season (Changeable weather)
Hiking Distance: 32 km
Your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu begins with an early pickup from your hotel or lodging in Cusco around 4:30 a.m. We set off on a 3.5-hour scenic drive to Lares, passing through the bustling Calca market, where we’ll gather fresh produce and small goods to share with local families along the route.
Before arriving at Lares, we make a stop at the rarely visited Inca ruins of Ancashmarca, an impressive site of ancient warehouses and terraces that once regulated trade across the Sacred Valley.
On reaching Lares Village, you’ll have time to unwind in the renowned Lares Hot Springs, soaking in warm thermal pools while admiring snow-covered peaks. Meanwhile, your trekking chef prepares a delicious breakfast.
A short transfer then takes us to Pampacorral, the trailhead. From here, the afternoon hike begins gently, meandering through fertile valleys lined with potato fields and grazing alpacas. After about two hours, we arrive at the traditional community of Quiswarani for a freshly made lunch. Recharged, we continue with a steady uphill walk alongside the picturesque Quiswarani waterfall until we reach our first campsite at the Blue Lagoon (3,900 m / 12,795 ft). Here, llamas wander freely by the lakeshore, and—weather permitting—you’ll enjoy a spectacular night sky filled with stars.
Trekking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
Included Meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
Overnight Stay: Camping
Level of Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
Begin your morning with a steaming cup of coffee or coca tea brought to your tent, then get ready for the most demanding section of the Lares Trail. After breakfast, we’ll collect some snacks prepared by the chef and embark on a 4-hour hike to the highest point of the route. Climb to Condor Pass (4,750 m / 15,583 ft), the highest point of the Lares Trek, with stunning views of Andean peaks, lakes, llamas, and alpacas. After a spiritual ceremony at the summit, descend to Acopata for lunch, then continue to the Canchacancha community (3,750 m / 12,303 ft) for an overnight stay, cultural exchange, and a peaceful mountain evening.
Hiking distance: 16 km / 10 mi
Included meals: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
Overnight stay: Camping
Level of difficulty: Moderate–Challenging
After conquering the highest mountain passes of the Lares Trek, we’ll begin the day by packing up and enjoying a nutritious breakfast with breathtaking views of the snow-capped Andes. Before setting off, you’ll have a little extra time to wander around the village of Canchacancha, connect with locals, and immerse yourself in authentic Andean life. After that, we descend for 4 hours into the Sacred Valley of the Incas, visiting local homes and a village school along the way. The trek shifts from high Andean farmlands to the lush valley, ending in Huaran (2,700 m / 8,856 ft) with a picnic lunch and farewell to our trekking team.
In the afternoon, we explore the dazzling Maras Salt Mines, followed by Ollantaytambo, the “Last Living Inca Town,” with its temples, ruins, and original Inca streets. After dinner, we board the evening train to Aguas Calientes (2,000 m / 6,561 ft), where a 3-star hotel awaits before our visit to Machu Picchu.
Hiking Distance: 12 km / 7.4 mi
Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m / 6,561 ft
Meals Included: Breakfast, snacks, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel stay
Difficulty Level: Moderate
Day 4 is one of the most remarkable highlights of the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, as you’ll explore one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. After enjoying a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Aguas Calientes, you’ll head to the bus station and ascend to the legendary Machu Picchu citadel (2,430 m / 7,972 ft).
Accompanied by your professional English-speaking guide, you’ll enjoy a 2-hour walking tour of the “Lost City of the Incas.” Discover the most important temples, terraces, and ceremonial areas while learning about the history, architecture, and mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take time for breathtaking photos and soak in the magical scenery of the surrounding Andean peaks.
After the guided tour, return to Aguas Calientes to prepare for your journey back to Cusco. In the afternoon, you’ll board the Expedition Train at 14:55 or 15:20 to Ollantaytambo, where our private transport will be waiting to transfer you to your hotel in Cusco. Expected arrival is around 7:00 pm.
Tour Duration: Approx. 3 hours at Machu Picchu
Machu Picchu Elevation: 2,430 m / 7,972 ft
Included Meal: Breakfast
Accommodation: 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
Difficulty Level: Easy / Relaxing but busy
The Lares Trek is available year-round thanks to its favorable geography. Peru also hosts vibrant annual festivals and events like Inti Raymi (Feast of the Sun), Easter processions, Carnival, and Christmas celebrations. Booking in advance guarantees your departure date and ensures availability during these special occasions. Secure your spot today for the Lares Trek & Machu Picchu.
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