Lares to Machupicchu Trek 4 Days

Discover the trek from Lares to Machu Picchu

4 Days

TRIP SUMMARY

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers hikers enchanting landscapes and interaction with Andean peasants dressed in their traditional ponchos with distinctive local colors. You will see stone houses with thatched roofs, magical mountain scenery, llamas and alpacas roaming freely in the mountains, and a total absence of frantic crowds of tourists, the beautiful Lares Valley has all the natural beauty of the Inca Trail – magical mountain scenery and the legacy of the Incas – but without the hectic crowds of tourists. The advantage of this route is that no permits are required and, in theory, it is enough to show up in Cuzco and make a reservation 2 or 3 days in advance. A wonderful hike that offers a unique insight into the lifestyles and traditions of the Andean peoples.

Lares to Machupicchu Trek Itinerary 4 Days

Day 1: Cuzco to Huaran- Cancha Cancha

We leave Cusco early and travel through the Sacred Valley for approximately 1 ½ hour to Huaran (2900m.) Our hike begins here in a fertile valley and follows a small river through the mountain. After hiking for approximately 4 ½ hours, we begin to see the glacier peaks of CanchaCancha Casa (4984m.) and Chicón (5530m.) We know we have reached camp when we see the thatched-roof stone houses of the village of CanchaCancha (3900m.)

Distance to Cover: 9K / 5.4 miles
Approximate hiking time: 4 hours.

Day 2: Cancha Cancha to Quiswarani

Shortly after starting our hike in the morning, we arrive at two brilliant glacial lakes, Suirococha and Yuraccocha. Here we can see several species of birds, including Andean ibis and Andean geese. From the lagoons, the trail ascends steeply for about 2 ½ hours to the first pass, called Pachacutec (4700m.). Near the top, we enjoy a spectacular view of the snow-capped peaks of Pitusiray (5750m.) and Chicón (5530m.). An original Inca stone path will lead us along the ridge to the opposite corridor. We follow a series of waterfalls to the village of Quiswarani, where we camp for the night.

Distance to Cover: 13.5K / 8 miles
Approximate hiking time: 8 hours

Day 3: Quisuarani to Lares Hot Springs - Aguas Calientes

After a hearty breakfast and a brief time to interact with the community, we begin our hike up through the high puna to the Huillquicasa pass (4400m). From this high point on the mountain, one can contemplate the extensive Vilcanota mountain range and the farmlands and lagoons below. The well-marked trail zig-zags down to greener pastures, where llamas, alpacas, and sheep graze alongside flocks of Andean waterfowl. The rare Peruvian viscacha, a medium-sized rodent related to the chinchilla, can be seen darting in and out of the rocky mountain crags. Continuing down further, we arrive at the picturesque village of Cuncani (3700m.) our private transport will be waiting to take us where we will have lunch at the hot medicinal baths of Lares (3100m.) A relaxing soak in these thermal pools is an excellent way for trekkers to rest their tired bodies after such a challenging and exhilarating trek. From the village of Lares, our private transportation will be waiting to take us back to Ollantaytambo where we will catch a train to Aguas Calientes. Upon arrival in Aguas Calientes, a representative will take you to your hotel.

Day 4: Machu Picchu

After spending the previous night in a comfortable hotel, we can take the early bus from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu, arriving around 6:00 am. After having an interesting 2-hour guided tour of the ruins, you will have some extra time to explore the ruins on your own. In the late afternoon, you will board a train that will take you back to Cusco, where you will arrive in the evening.

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THE TRIP?

Includes

Hotel Collection and transport to the trailhead.
Professional, bilingual tour guide and trek staff.
Plentiful, nutritious meals (Vegetarian option available) and snacks.
Drinking water is provided throughout the trek.
Overnight stay in Aguas Calientes.
Round-trip train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo
Entrance fees to Machu Picchu.
Round trip bus tickets from Aguas Calientes-Machu Picchu-Aguas Calientes.
Professionally guided tour of Machu Picchu.
Hot water for washing in the morning.
High-quality, double-occupancy tents, and equipment (includes dining tent, kitchen tent, and latrine tent).
Pack animals (horses and llamas) to carry baggage and equipment.
Emergency horse(s) for riding in case of illness or injury.
Entrance fees to hot springs.
Transport back to Cusco or Ollantaytambo.
Duffle Bag.
Camping mattress.
First aid kit and oxygen tank