Discover the most authentic Machu Picchu hiking tour through the Lares Valley. This 4 day adventure combines Andean culture, remote villages, and natural hot springs, offering a unique alternative to the traditional Inca Trail hike tours.
- Duration: 4 Days / 3 Nights
- Max Altitude: 4,830 m / 15,850 ft (Sicllakasa Pass)
- Total Hiking Distance: 31 km / 19.2 miles
- Physical Level: Moderate to Challenging (Requires acclimatization)
- Trip Style: High-Altitude Trekking & Authentic Cultural Immersion
- Meals: 4 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners (Buffet Style + Daily Tea Time)
- Departure: Daily Departures from Cusco (4:30 AM Pick-up)
- Group Size: Small Groups (Max 8) or Private Tailor made trips
Overview
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
If you are searching for an "off-the-beaten-path" adventure, you’ve found it. The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is the perfect alternative for those who want to avoid the permit-restricted Classic Inca Trail without sacrificing the majesty of the Andes. Often called the "Weaver's Trail," this route takes you through the Lares Valley, where time seems to have stood still. You won't just hike; you will engage with Quechua-speaking communities, visit local schools, and witness ancient textile traditions.
Why the Lares Route is the Top Alternative for 2026?
Unlike other treks, the Lares Valley Trek to Machu Picchu offers a rare balance of high-altitude challenge and cultural intimacy. With 75% fewer hikers than other routes, you’ll enjoy private vistas of turquoise glacial lakes, wandering llamas, and the massive Sicllakasa Pass. The journey concludes with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, ensuring you arrive at Machu Picchu refreshed and ready for a world-class guided tour.
Unmissable Tour Highlights
- Lares Valley Hot Springs: Start your trek by detoxing in medicinal volcanic waters.
- Cultural Immersion: Meet the "Huayruros" (local weavers) in their red-and-black traditional dress.
- Wildlife Spotting: Massive herds of Alpacas and Llamas against snow-capped backdrops.
- High-Altitude Glory: Crossing the Sicllakasa Pass at nearly 16,000 feet.
- The Salt Mines of Maras: Witness over 3,000 ancient salt evaporation ponds.
- Exclusive Small Groups: We focus on quality service, not mass tourism.
Itinerary
Itinerary trip
Your journey begins at 4:30 AM with a private transfer to the trailhead in Pumahuanca. After a fresh Andean breakfast, we start a gradual 3-hour ascent through an ancient forest of Polylepis trees. We’ll break for a gourmet lunch before pushing another 3 hours to our highest campsite: Puyoc. This is a remote, quiet spot with zero light pollution—perfect for stargazing at the Milky Way.
Feature Data Distance 12 km / 7.5 miles Hiking Time 6 - 7 Hours Max Altitude 4,300 m / 14,107 ft Accommodation High-Altitude Camping (4-season tents)
Today is the most rewarding day of the Lares Trek. We tackle a 3-hour zigzag ascent to the Sicllakasa Pass (4,830 m / 15,850 ft). From here, the glaciers of the Urubamba range look close enough to touch. We descend past seven turquoise lagoons to reach Cuncani, where we’ll have a traditional lunch. The day ends with a short transfer to the Lares Valley hot springs for a celebratory soak.
Feature Data Distance 14 km / 8.7 miles Hiking Time 8 - 9 Hours Max Altitude 4,830 m / 15,850 ft Accommodation Community-based Camping
Today is about people. We visit a local home to see how the famous Andean textiles are dyed using plants and minerals. After a final lunch with our horsemen and chefs, we travel by private van to the living Inca city of Ollantaytambo. In the late afternoon, we board the train following the Urubamba River to Aguas Calientes, where you’ll check into a comfortable 3-star hotel.
Feature Data Distance 5 km / 3.1 miles Hiking Time 3 Hours Max Altitude 3,800 m / 12,467 ft Accommodation 3-Star Hotel in Aguas Calientes
We take the early bus to the citadel to beat the day-trippers. Your expert guide will lead a 2.5-hour tour exploring the Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Royal Quarters. After the tour, if you’ve booked Huayna Picchu, you’ll head to the trailhead. Finally, we return to Cusco by train and private van, arriving around 7:00 PM.
Feature Data Tour Duration 2.5 - 3 Hours Guided Altitude 2,430 m / 7,972 ft Return Scenic Train + Private Bus to Hotel
Inclusions
Inclusions & Exclusions for your Lares Expedition
What is Included?
- Pre-trek Briefing: A full orientation at our Cusco office the night before.
- Professional Staff: WFR-certified lead guide, assistant guide (for groups 8+), and professional trekking chef.
- Transport: All pickups, private vans to trailheads, and return drop-off at your hotel.
- Train Tickets: Expedition or Voyager class (Ollantaytambo-Aguas Calientes round trip).
- Machu Picchu Entry: Machu Picchu cost is fully covered (Standard Circuit 2 included).
- Safety Gear: Medical oxygen tanks, first-aid kit, and satellite phones for remote areas.
- Camping Equipment: 4-season tents, dining tent, kitchen tent, and self-inflating foam mattresses.
- Porters & Mules: We carry all the gear plus a 7kg (15 lbs) duffel bag for your personal items.
- Water: Boiled, filtered, and cooled water provided from Day 1 lunch to Day 4 breakfast.
What is NOT Included?
- Rentals: Sleeping bag ($20), walking sticks ($15), or air mattresses.
- Meals: Breakfast on Day 1, Lunch/Dinner on Day 4 in Aguas Calientes.
- Upgrades: Huayna Picchu/MP Mountain ($60), Vistadome Train ($40).
- Travel Insurance: Mandatory for all hikers.
- Tips: For the crew (porters, chefs, and guides).
Personalize Your Experience: Add-ons & Upgrades
- Vistadome Class Train ($40): Upgrade your return journey to enjoy panoramic windows and live dance performances.
- Wayna Picchu Mountain Hike ($60): The iconic steep climb for the best aerial view. Must book 4 months in advance!
- Machu Picchu Mountain ($60): A higher, less steep trek for panoramic citadel vistas.
- Single Tent Supplement ($35): If you prefer your own private 4-person tent for the nights of camping.
- Massage Service in Aguas Calientes: Ask your guide to book a post-trek session upon arrival.
Seamless Booking Process with Machu Picchu Tours
- Check Availability: Select your 2026 dates on our live calendar.
- Submit Passport Info: We need your full name, number, and nationality for government permits.
- Secure with a Deposit: A $200 USD deposit (via Visa, Mastercard (We travel), or PayPal) is required to buy non-refundable tickets.
- Confirm Your Hotel: Let us know where you are staying in Cusco for your pickup.
- Final Balance: Pay the remaining amount upon arrival in Cusco (Cash or Card).
Packing List
Lares Trek Packing List
Useful Info
- Level of difficulty: Moderately difficult / Challenging
- Walking Distance – 31 km / 19.2 miles
- Accommodation: Camping & 3 star Hotel (3 rd Night)
- Consideration: Entrance fee required
- Tour availability: Daily departures min 2 people
- Weather: dry from May to October, wet from November to April
- To climb Huayna Picchu mountain you need to book in advance
2 or 3 days Acclimatization is Recommended
- Service offered: Group service, Private Service and Luxury Service
Price
Lares Trek 4 Days: 2026 Prices & Service Options
| Service Category | Group Size | Price Per Person |
|---|---|---|
| Small Group Tour (Personalized Experience) | 2 - 3 People | $645.00 USD |
| 4+ People | $625.00 USD | |
| Children / Students | $595.00 USD | |
| Exclusive Private Tour (Fully Customizable) | 2 - 3 People | $795.00 USD |
| 4+ People | $745.00 USD | |
| Children / Students | $735.00 USD |
Note: Students must present a valid University ID card (under 25) at the time of booking to access the discount. All prices are final for the 2026 season.
FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions – 4 Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
What is the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day hike that combines stunning Andean scenery, turquoise lakes, and visits to traditional Quechua villages, ending with an unforgettable visit to Machu Picchu by train. It’s a quieter alternative to the Classic Inca Trail.
How difficult is the Lares Trek?
It’s rated as a moderate trek, suitable for travelers with good fitness levels and some hiking experience at high altitude.
When is the best time to do the Lares Trek?
The best season is from April to October, during the dry season. The rainy season (November to March) can make trails slippery and less enjoyable.
Should I acclimatize before doing the Lares Trek?
Yes. Spend at least 2 days in Cusco before the trek to adapt to the altitude and reduce the risk of altitude sickness.
What should I pack for the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu?
Original passport
Warm layered clothing
Waterproof jacket and rain poncho
Sunscreen and sunglasses
Water bottle and snacks
Sleeping bag and trekking poles (if not rented)
Camera and extra batteries