Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days / 3 Nights

Day 01: Begin Lares Trek

The Lares trek is an encounter with indigenous Andean communities that still practice traditional weaving, potato farming, and llama grazing in the high mountain valleys outside of Cusco.

After breakfast, meet your trekking guide for the transfer from Cusco into the Lares Valley. At Lares town, you can dip your toes into the therapeutic hot springs. Enjoy lunch before beginning the ascent up to your first campsite at Huacahuasi.

Hike distance: 5 mi (8 km) | Minimum altitude: 9,645 ft (2,940 m) | Maximum altitude: 12,300 ft (3,750 m) | Approximate time: 3 to 4 hrs

Day 02: Lares Trek – Huacahuasi to Pumamarka

Wake to the chilled, but invigorating dawn of the altiplano. Fuel up with a hearty breakfast and then continue your walk through the valley.

Your major challenge is the high pass at Ipsayccasa, situated at 14,600 ft (4,450 meters). After the breathtaking climb, take in the heart-stirring mountain views and then descend to the traditional weaving village of Patacancha. Board a bus for the 30-minute ride to Huallata. From here, it’s a 45-minute walk to the campsite at Pumamarka.

Hike distance: 8 mi (13 km) | Minimum altitude: 12,300 ft ( 3,750m) | Maximum altitude: 14,600 ft (4,450 m) | Approximate time: 6 to 7 hr

Day 03: Lares Trek – Pumamarka to Aguas Calientes

After breakfast and a visit to the Pumamarka archaeological site, continue on a downhill trail through a gorgeous valley. The trail ends at Ollantaytambo, a living Inca city where fresh spring water from the mountains you’ve just descended courses through original pre-Columbian channels.

After lunch, board the train to Aguas Calientes and meet our representative for the short walk to your comfortable hotel.

Hike distance: 8 mi (13 km) | Minimum altitude: 6,690 ft (2,040 m) | Maximum altitude: 12,300 ft (3,750 m) | Approximate (hike) time: 6 to 7 hours

Day 04: Lares Trek – Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco

Rise early for your visit to the wonderful Machu Picchu citadel. After breakfast at your hotel, walk a short distance to the Aguas Calientes bus station for the 20-minute drive up to the Inca ruins. Once you arrive in Machu Picchu, you will enjoy a guided tour (2-3 hrs) of this world wonder and appreciate the intricate stonework that strikes absolute harmony with the fantastic Andean scenery.

After your Machu Picchu tour, return to Aguas Calientes for lunch and walk around, after that you going to take the train back to Cusco and transfer back to your hotel.

Hike Distance to Machu Picchu: 2 mi (3 km) | Approximate Time: About 1 hr | Gradient: Moderate

*Customize this package:

• Get a bird’s eye view of the ruins when you hike Huayna Picchu, the iconic peak that forms the backdrop of many Machu Picchu photos. Permits are limited and must be booked in advance, so let us know asap if you’re up for the challenge.
• Add an extra day. Spend the night in Aguas Calientes and return to Machu Picchu the next day or explore the surrounding area.