4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu With Optional Hot Springs

The 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers an immersive adventure into the heart of the Andes. Trekkers will discover remote Andean villages, camp amidst breathtaking landscapes, and explore the iconic Machu Picchu. Along the way, they can indulge in the soothing hot springs of Lares, blending cultural exploration with moments of relaxation. This trek provides a well-rounded experience, catering to adventurers seeking a balance between challenging hikes and opportunities to unwind. With careful planning and the right gear, trekkers can embark on an unforgettable journey that showcases the true essence of the Sacred Valley.

About Your Stay

• The Lares Trek is a 4-day hike through the Andes Mountains, offering an alternative experience to the Inca Trail with remote Andean villages and stunning landscapes.
• The trek includes two nights of camping, one night in Aguas Calientes hostel, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu at the end.
• Camping gear, round-trip train tickets, and all meals are provided, with the option to visit thermal baths in Lares.
• A moderate fitness level is required for the trek, which includes hiking durations of 4-6 hours per day and reaching a maximum altitude of 4,450 meters.
• Various dietary requirements can be accommodated, and additional items like water bottles can be purchased along the route.

Trek Overview

The Lares Trek is an alternative to the renowned Inca Trail, offering a 4-day hike through the Andes Mountains and remote Andean villages.

It provides a chance to explore the daily life and culture of locals in places like Kiswarani and Cancha Cancha. Trekkers will discover the stunning natural landscapes of the Sacred Valley, including high-altitude lakes and snow-capped peaks.

The trek culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

While the Lares Trek isn’t as well-known as the Inca Trail, it offers a more off-the-beaten-path experience for adventurous travelers seeking an authentic Andean adventure.

Itinerary and Activities

Travelers embark on a guided tour of Machu Picchu, the iconic Inca citadel, after hiking through the Sacred Valley.

The 4-day Lares trek includes two nights of camping and one night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes. Hikers can enjoy the optional visit to the thermal baths in Lares.

The trek offers an alternative to the popular Inca Trail, allowing explorers to discover the remote Andes villages of Kiswarani and Cancha Cancha.

Trekkers gain insight into the daily life of the local communities while seeing the stunning natural landscapes of the Sacred Valley.

Accommodations and Dining

During the 4-day Lares trek, trekkers enjoy two nights of camping and one night’s stay in a hostel in Aguas Calientes.

The camping gear, including tents, mats, and sleeping bags, is provided for the camping nights, and horses transport the gear.

For the hostel stay, the trek includes round-trip tourist train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes.

All meals are provided, with 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, including the final meal in Aguas Calientes.

Special dietary requirements, such as vegetarian options, can be accommodated.

The trek offers an immersive experience, allowing trekkers to explore the remote Andean villages and the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Gear and Equipment

Trekkers receive all the necessary camping gear for the two nights spent in tents during the Lares trek. This includes high-quality tents, comfortable sleeping mats, and warm sleeping bags.

The gear is provided by the tour operator and transported by horses, allowing trekkers to hike without carrying heavy loads. Rental of this camping equipment is included in the overall trek price.

Plus, hikers are encouraged to bring their own water bottles, which can be refilled at various points along the route.

The tour also provides basic first-aid supplies, should any minor injuries occur during the trek through the Andes Mountains.

Physical Fitness Requirements

A moderate level of physical fitness is required for the Lares trek to Machu Picchu. The trek involves hiking for 4-6 hours per day, with some steep ascents and descents. Trekkers should be able to handle the rigors of hiking at high altitudes, with the highest point reaching 4,450 meters (14,600 feet). To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, the tour operator recommends the following fitness criteria:

Criteria	Requirement
Minimum Age	7 years
Maximum Weight	No limit
Mobility	No wheelchairs
Medical Conditions	No serious conditions
Fitness Level	Moderate

Dietary Considerations

The tour operator accommodates various dietary requirements for the Lares trek. Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options are available upon request.

Participants with food allergies or other dietary needs can be catered to as well. The meals provided during the trek are freshly prepared and include:

• Hearty breakfasts to fuel the day’s hike
• Nutritious packed lunches for the trail
• Wholesome dinners to enjoy in the evening

Communicating any dietary restrictions in advance ensures an enjoyable and comfortable trekking experience for all.

The local guides work closely with the kitchen staff to meet the needs of every traveler on the Lares trek to Machu Picchu.

Additional Information and Costs

Travelers have the option to purchase additional items and services during the Lares trek. Water bottles are available for purchase along the route, and bus tickets for the round-trip journey from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu must be secured separately.

While meals and camping gear are included, travelers should budget for gratuities and any personal medication they may need.

The tour operator recommends booking a hotel near the main square in Cusco for added convenience at the start and end of the trek. Optional school supplies to donate to local children are also welcomed.

Questions About Your Stay

Can I Bring My Own Camping Gear on the Trek?

Yes, you can bring your own camping gear on the trek. However, rental equipment is also available, including tents, mats, and sleeping bags. The tour operator can transport your personal gear during the hike.

Is There an Option to Hike One-Way Instead of Round-Trip?

The trek offers a round-trip hike only. There’s no option to hike one-way. The tour includes transportation to and from the trailhead, as well as train tickets for the return journey from Aguas Calientes to Ollantaytambo.

Do I Need to Bring Extra Cash for Tips and Other Expenses?

Yes, travelers should bring extra cash for tips, bus tickets to Machu Picchu, and any optional activities like visiting the thermal baths. The trek’s inclusions don’t cover all expenses, so budgeting for additional costs is recommended.

Can I Visit Machu Picchu Independently After the Trek?

Yes, travelers can visit Machu Picchu independently after the trek. The trek includes round-trip train tickets to Aguas Calientes, the town below Machu Picchu, allowing hikers to explore the ruins on their own schedule.

Is There a Weight Limit for the Horses That Carry Our Gear?

The Lares trek has no set weight limit for the horses carrying the gear. However, the tour operator recommends packing light, as the horses can typically handle up to 20 pounds per person of personal belongings.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure through the Andes, showcasing remote villages and breathtaking landscapes. This immersive experience includes camping, a hostel stay, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu. Adventurers can also enjoy optional visits to the soothing hot springs in Lares, creating a perfect blend of cultural exploration and relaxation amidst nature.