Lares Trek to Machu Picchu

4 Days & 3 Nights

  • Camping & HotelAccommodation
  • Up to 12 PeopleGroup Size
  • 4,700 m / 15,420 ftMax. altitude
  • ChallengingDifficulty

Tour route: Cusco - Lares Hot Springs - Kiswarani - Blue Lagoon - Condor Pass - Canchacancha - Huaran - Ollantaytambo - Aguas Calientes - Machu Picchu

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu – 4 Days is one of the most authentic cultural trekking experiences in Peru, offering a unique alternative route from Cusco away from the crowded trails and deep into the heart of the Andes. This incredible journey combines breathtaking mountain landscapes, ancient traditions, and meaningful encounters with local Quechua communities while leading you to the unforgettable wonder of Machu Picchu.

The Lares Valley Trek is perfect for travelers seeking an authentic connection with Peru’s culture and nature. Throughout this adventure, you will explore remote Andean villages, visit traditional communities, observe llamas and alpacas grazing in the highlands, discover beautiful waterfalls, and cross spectacular mountain passes surrounded by snow-capped peaks and pristine landscapes.

Overview

EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS

  • Complete the scenic 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.
  • Relax in the natural Lares Hot Springs before beginning the trek.
  • Visit traditional Andean communities including Kiswarani and Canchacancha.
  • Walk through mountain valleys, waterfalls, lakes, and high-Andean landscapes.
  • Observe llamas, alpacas, and native birdlife along the trekking route.
  • Cross Condor Pass, the highest point of the trek.
  • Camp for two nights in remote Andean settings.
  • Descend from the high Andes into the Sacred Valley and continue to Ollantaytambo.
  • Travel by train to Aguas Calientes and spend the final night in a hotel.
  • Explore Machu Picchu with a professional guide on the final day.

JOURNEY OVERVIEW

DAY
01

Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani – Blue LagoonTravel from Cusco to the Lares Hot Springs before continuing to the trailhead. Hike through Kiswarani Village and the surrounding Andean landscapes to the first campsite near Blue Lagoon.

DAY
02

Kiswarani – Condor Pass – CanchacanchaAscend through the high Andes toward Condor Pass before descending through mountain scenery to the traditional community of Canchacancha for the second night of camping.

DAY
03

Canchacancha – Huaran – Ollantaytambo – Aguas CalientesDescend from the highlands into the Sacred Valley, finish the trekking section at Huaran, and continue by transportation to Ollantaytambo before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.

DAY
04

Machu Picchu – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo – CuscoTravel from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu for a guided visit before returning by bus, train, and private transportation to Cusco.

Itinerary

DAY01

Cusco – Lares Hot Springs – Kiswarani – Blue Lagoon

Your adventure begins with pick-up from your hotel in Cusco at approximately 5:00 a.m. From there, travel by private transportation toward the Lares Hot Springs, where you will have time to enjoy the natural thermal pools surrounded by mountain scenery.

After visiting the hot springs, continue by vehicle for approximately 30 minutes to the trailhead. Begin with an approximately two-hour hike toward Kiswarani Village, where lunch will be prepared by the trekking team.

After lunch, continue hiking for approximately two more hours through high-Andean landscapes, passing potato fields, waterfalls, and mountain scenery on the way toward Blue Lagoon.

Arrive at the first campsite near the lake at approximately 3,900 m / 12,795 ft. During the day, you will also have opportunities to experience the landscapes of the Lares District and interact with local residents in Kiswarani Village.

  • Trekking Distance10 km / 6 miles
  • Duration6 hours
  • Campsite Altitude3,900 m / 12,795 ft
  • MealsLunch and dinner
  • AccommodationCamping
  • DifficultyModerate
DAY02

Kiswarani – Condor Pass – Canchacancha

Begin the morning at approximately 5:00 a.m. with a hot drink before breakfast. From the campsite, enjoy views of the surrounding lake and Kiswarani Valley before preparing for the most demanding ascent of the Lares Trek.

After breakfast, begin an approximately four-hour ascent toward Condor Pass. Along the route, pass mountain lakes and high-Andean landscapes where llamas, alpacas, Andean geese, and other native birdlife may be observed.

Upon reaching Condor Pass, take time to rest and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before beginning the descent.

Continue downhill for approximately two hours toward Acopata, where lunch will be served. After lunch, descend for approximately another hour through the Andean landscape until reaching Canchacancha Village at 3,750 m / 12,303 ft.

Spend the second night camping near the community, with time to rest and experience the surrounding mountain scenery.

  • Trekking Distance16 km / 10 miles
  • Duration7 hours
  • Campsite Altitude3,750 m / 12,303 ft
  • Highest Altitude4,700 m / 15,354 ft
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • AccommodationCamping
  • DifficultyModerate to Challenging
DAY03

Canchacancha – Huaran – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes

Begin the morning with a hot drink in your tent before breakfast. You will have time to enjoy the mountain scenery and experience Canchacancha Village before beginning the descent toward the Sacred Valley.

The route is predominantly downhill and takes approximately four hours. As you descend, observe the gradual transition from the colder high-Andean environment toward the greener landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

The trekking section finishes at Huaran, located at approximately 2,700 m / 8,856 ft. Here, enjoy a picnic lunch and say goodbye to the trekking chef and muleteer team.

Continue by private transportation to Ollantaytambo. After the activities planned there, enjoy dinner at a local restaurant before boarding the train to Aguas Calientes.

Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, check in to your hotel and rest before the following day’s visit to Machu Picchu.

  • Trekking Distance12 km / 7.4 miles
  • Duration4 hours
  • Huaran Elevation2,700 m / 8,856 ft
  • Aguas Calientes Elevation2,000 m / 6,561 ft
  • MealsBreakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • AccommodationHotel
  • DifficultyEasy to Moderate
DAY04

Machu Picchu – Cusco

After breakfast at the hotel, take the bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu. Your entrance time and visit will follow the official ticket and circuit assigned to your reservation.

Explore Machu Picchu with your guide during an approximately three-hour visit, learning about the archaeological site’s history, architecture, and cultural significance while following the route permitted by your assigned circuit.

Optional visits to Huayna Picchu Mountain or Machu Picchu Mountain require separate entrance tickets and advance reservations and are not included in the standard tour package.

After visiting Machu Picchu, return to Aguas Calientes. Lunch will be on your own before boarding the train to Ollantaytambo. Upon arrival, private transportation will take you back to your hotel in Cusco, with arrival scheduled for approximately 7:30 p.m.

  • Guided Tour DurationApproximately 3 hours
  • Machu Picchu Elevation2,430 m / 7,972 ft
  • MealsBreakfast at hotel
  • DifficultyEasy

Inclusions

At Experience Colibri Peru, we believe every great journey begins with clear and transparent information. That’s why each of our tours includes a detailed list of what’s included and what’s not, so you can book with confidence and know exactly what to expect.

We carefully organize every aspect of your experience from transportation and professional local guides to the services and activities included in your itinerary allowing you to relax and fully enjoy your adventure.

Because every tour is unique, included services may vary depending on the itinerary you choose. We encourage you to review each program carefully before booking to ensure you have all the information you need and can prepare for an unforgettable experience in Cusco and Peru.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

Permits & Entrance Tickets

  • Entrance ticket to the Lares Hot Springs.
  • Entrance ticket to the Machu Picchu Archaeological Site according to the circuit assigned to your reservation.

Circuit 2 is requested when available. If it is unavailable, another available circuit may be assigned according to ticket availability.

Quality Service & Safety

  • Pre-departure briefing with your guide before the tour, either at your hotel or by phone depending on the itinerary and arrangements.
  • Experienced professional tour guide.
  • Private camping equipment.
  • Dining tent, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment.
  • Sleeping pads / foam mattresses.
  • One duffle bag for your personal belongings.
  • Medical or first aid kit.
  • 24/7 customer service.

Accommodation

  • 2 nights of accommodation in tents.
  • 1 night of hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes.

Meals

  • 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners.
  • Water on the trail.
  • Wake-up tea.
  • Daily snacks on the trail.
  • One cloth snack bag per person.
  • Hygiene products.

Transportation

  • Day 1: Pick-up from your hotel in Cusco and private transportation to the Lares Hot Springs.
  • Day 3: Transportation from Huaran to Ollantaytambo.
  • Day 3: Train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.
  • Day 4: One-way Consettur bus ticket from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu.
  • Day 4: Train ticket from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.
  • Day 4: Transportation from Ollantaytambo train station to your hotel in Cusco.
  • Pack mules during the trekking days for camping equipment and your permitted personal luggage, up to 5 kg / 11 lb.

WHAT IS NOT INCLUDED?

  • Huayna Picchu Mountain entrance ticket.
  • Machu Picchu Mountain entrance ticket.
  • Sleeping bag.
  • Trekking poles.
  • Breakfast on Day 1.
  • Lunch and dinner on Day 4.
  • Travel insurance.
  • Tips for our staff.
  • Additional costs or delays beyond our control, including landslides, adverse weather conditions, itinerary modifications required for safety, illness, changes in government regulations, political instability, strikes, or other unforeseen circumstances.

Before you go

At Experience Colibri Peru, our goal is to provide safe, authentic, and unforgettable experiences throughout Peru. Whether you’re exploring the Sacred Valley, hiking the Inca Trail, or discovering Machu Picchu, we want you to feel well prepared before your adventure begins.

The information below will help you plan your trip, understand how our tours operate, and enjoy a smooth travel experience from the moment you arrive in Cusco until the end of your journey.

Preparing for Your Adventure

A little preparation can make a big difference. We recommend reviewing your itinerary, packing according to the season, and making sure you have all the required travel documents before your tour begins.

If you have any questions before your arrival, our team will be happy to assist you.

Acclimatization in Cusco

Many destinations in the Peruvian Andes are located above 3,000 meters (9,840 feet), making altitude an important factor for travelers.

To help your body adjust, we recommend arriving in Cusco at least two days before beginning any trekking adventure. Staying hydrated, eating light meals, and avoiding intense physical activity during your first day are simple ways to improve acclimatization.

Briefing or Informative Meeting

One day before your departure, our operations team will contact you to confirm your pick-up time, meeting point, and any final details related to your tour.

Please make sure your contact information is available and active during your stay in Cusco.

Trek Balance Payment

If your reservation has an outstanding balance, the remaining payment must be completed before your tour departure according to the terms of your booking confirmation.

For your convenience, we accept payments in Peruvian soles (PEN) or US dollars (USD). You may also pay by credit or debit card or through other available online payment methods. Please note that electronic payments may be subject to a processing fee, depending on the payment platform used.

If you prefer to pay in cash, our team will provide the meeting location and payment instructions before your tour begins.

If you have any questions regarding your balance or payment options, our reservations team will be happy to assist you prior to your arrival.

Hotel Pick-Up

We provide hotel pick-up for most tours within the city of Cusco.

Because the historic center has narrow streets and some areas with limited vehicle access, certain accommodations may require a short walk to the nearest meeting point.

Your exact pick-up time will be confirmed before your tour.

During Your Experience

Our professional guides are committed to providing a safe, enjoyable, and informative experience throughout your journey.

Whether you are joining a cultural excursion or a multi-day trek, we encourage you to travel at your own pace and communicate with your guide if you need assistance at any time.

Group Tours

Group tours bring together travelers from different countries, ages, and fitness levels.

Everyone is welcome to enjoy the experience at a comfortable pace while respecting the group’s schedule and the guide’s instructions. Any operational decisions during the tour will always prioritize safety and the overall experience of all participants.

Weather Conditions

Mountain weather in Peru can change quickly, even during the same day. We recommend wearing layered clothing and carrying rain protection regardless of the season.

Being prepared for changing conditions will help you enjoy every destination comfortably.

Sustainable Travel

We believe that responsible tourism helps preserve Peru’s extraordinary landscapes and cultural heritage.

We encourage our travelers to reduce plastic waste, respect local communities, stay on designated trails, and help protect the natural environment for future generations.

Every small action contributes to a more sustainable travel experience.

Personal Belongings

Please keep your personal belongings with you at all times.

Before leaving transportation, restaurants, campsites, or attractions, check that you have collected all your items.

Experience Colibri Peru cannot be held responsible for personal belongings that are lost, forgotten, or damaged during the tour.

Unexpected Situations

Occasionally, weather conditions, transportation delays, road closures, or circumstances beyond our control may require adjustments to an itinerary.

If this happens, our operations team will always work to provide the best possible alternative while prioritizing your safety and ensuring you continue to enjoy your experience.

We’re Here to Help

Your satisfaction is our priority. From your first inquiry until the end of your journey, the Experience Colibri Peru team is available to answer your questions and provide support whenever you need it.

We look forward to sharing the beauty, history, and culture of Peru with you.

Packing list

Essential

  • Valid PassportValid Passport
  • Extra money (recommended soles)Extra money (recommended soles)
  • Personal medicationPersonal medication
  • Water bottle or CamelBakWater bottle or CamelBak
  • Sunblock: factor 70 or moreSunblock: factor 70 or more
  • Insect repellentInsect repellent
  • Personal Care ProductsPersonal Care Products

Clothing

  • Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)Hiking boots or shoes (preferably waterproof)
  • Light footwear or sandalsLight footwear or sandals
  • Trekking pantsTrekking pants
  • Trekking socksTrekking socks
  • Pair of thermal pantsPair of thermal pants
  • Long sleeve t-shirtsLong sleeve t-shirts
  • Warm jacketWarm jacket
  • Rain ponchoRain poncho
  • Sun hatSun hat
  • GlovesGloves

Equipment

  • Trekking polesTrekking poles
  • Medium trekking backpack (15 – 25 liter)Medium trekking backpack (15 – 25 liter)
  • Sleeping bagSleeping bag
  • HeadlampHeadlamp

Recommended

  • Camera and chargerCamera and charger
  • Power bankPower bank
  • Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.Snacks: Energy bars, chocolate, candies, dried fruits, etc.

Pricing

Lares Trek To Machupicchu 4 Days

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