Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 Days

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a remarkable 4-day journey that offers an alternative to the classic Inca Trail. This physically demanding trek immerses adventurous travelers in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of the Lares Valley, with challenging mountain passes reaching up to 4,850 meters. From culture in remote Quechua villages to the awe-inspiring exploration of the iconic Inca citadel, this trek promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure in the heart of the Andes. Discover why this trek is quickly becoming a must-do for those seeking a truly authentic Peruvian experience.

Key Points

• The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day trekking adventure that offers an alternative to the classic Inca Trail.

• The trek immerses travelers in the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes of the Lares Valley.

• The trek features challenging mountain passes up to 4,850 meters and requires proper preparation and precautions.

• Highlights include culture in remote Quechua villages, scenic landscapes, and exploration of the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

• Accommodations and meals are comfortable, and camping equipment is provided throughout the trek.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day, challenging trekking adventure that immerses travelers in the region’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural landscapes.

The trek takes hikers through the Lares Valley, offering a less crowded alternative to the classic Inca Trail. Along the way, you will encounter traditional Quechua villages, cross high mountain passes up to 4,850 meters, and witness breathtaking vistas of glacial lakes and peaks.

While physically demanding, the Lares Trek provides an authentic cultural experience and the opportunity to explore Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

This trek is ideal for adventurous travelers seeking an immersive and unforgettable journey through the Andes.

Highlights of the Trek

This trek offers a unique culture, as hikers traverse through remote Quechua villages and engage with the local communities along the way.

Challenging mountain passes up to an elevation of 4,850 meters test trekkers’ endurance, rewarding them with stunning vistas of serene glacial lakes and majestic Andean peaks.

The trek’s scenic landscapes provide a captivating alternative to the classic Inca Trail, allowing adventurous travelers to explore Machu Picchu through a less crowded route.

Hikers can look forward to experiencing the beauty of the Lares Valley, with its beautiful lakes and remote communities, before reaching the iconic Inca citadel of Machu Picchu.

Detailed Itinerary

The 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu starts with a hike from Pumahuanca through the Pumahuaca Valley, where trekkers will visit the village of Chupani before camping in Puyoc for the night. On day two, the group will trek to the Siclla Qasa Pass and Yanacocha Lake, then descend to Cuncani for camping. The third day involves hiking through remote villages, visiting the Lares Hot Springs, and traveling by bus to Ollantaytambo and then by train to Aguas Calientes. Finally, on the fourth day, trekkers will take a bus to Machu Picchu, enjoy a guided tour, and have the option to hike additional peaks before returning to Cusco.

Day	Destination	Activities
1	Puyoc	Hike from Pumahuanca, visit Chupani, camp
2	Cuncani	Trek to Siclla Qasa Pass, Yanacocha Lake, descend
3	Aguas Calientes	Hike remote villages, Lares Hot Springs, bus/train

Accommodation and Meals

Throughout the 4-day Lares Trek, trekkers will enjoy comfortable accommodations and satisfying meals. Campsites are set up with durable tents, and hot meals are provided for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Vegetarian and other dietary options are available upon request.

During the first two days of the trek, trekkers will camp at scenic locations like Puyoc and Cuncani. On the third day, after visiting the Lares Hot Springs, trekkers will stay overnight in the town of Ollantaytambo before taking the train to Aguas Calientes.

All camping equipment, including sleeping bags and mattresses, is provided as part of the tour. This ensures trekkers can focus on the journey and enjoy the stunning landscapes of the Lares Valley.

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Trekking Difficulty and Precautions

While the Lares Trek offers a remarkable cultural experience and scenic landscapes, it’s important to note that the trek can be quite challenging. Trekkers should be prepared for demanding ascents up to an altitude of 4,850 meters, requiring a good level of physical fitness and acclimatization to the high-altitude environment.

Difficulty Level	Precautions
Strenuous Hikes	Proper Hiking Gear
High Altitude	Altitude Sickness Medication
Remote Locations	Hire a Qualified Guide
Unpredictable Weather	Dress in Layers

The trek is not recommended for pregnant women, those susceptible to altitude sickness, or individuals over 95 years of age. Proper preparation and adherence to safety guidelines are essential for an enjoyable and successful Lares Trek experience.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour package includes a range of essential services to ensure a seamless and comfortable Lares Trek experience. Travelers can expect comprehensive inclusions such as Cusco hotel transfers, professional guides, porters and horsemen, emergency horse support, all necessary trekking and camping equipment, meals, and even a train ticket to and from Aguas Calientes.

The tour also provides oxygen and a first aid kit for safety, as well as an air mattress for comfortable camping.

However, the tour does exclude any private expenses, and isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with altitude sickness, or those over 95 years old.

This level of detail ensures travelers can focus on the journey itself without worrying about logistics.

Gear and Equipment

The Lares Trek tour provides all the necessary trekking and camping gear for a seamless experience, including high-quality equipment to ensure comfort and safety throughout the journey.

Trekkers will be equipped with sturdy hiking boots, moisture-wicking base layers, and weatherproof jackets to shield them from the elements.

The tour also includes reliable camping gear like spacious tents, insulated sleeping bags, and self-inflating sleeping pads for cozy nights under the stars.

Plus, the tour supplies essential items like trekking poles, headlamps, and water purifiers to enhance the overall experience.

With this comprehensive gear, participants can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and cultural encounters that make the Lares Trek so remarkable.

Booking and Pricing

With flexible booking options, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu tour is priced at $889.00 per person. Interested travelers can secure their spot on this captivating 4-day journey through the scenic Andes by contacting the tour operator directly or utilizing their user-friendly online booking platform.

Booking Option	Price	Availability
Early Bird Discount	$789.00	Limited
Standard Pricing	$889.00	Open
Solo Traveler	$1,039.00	Open
Family/Group (4+)	$799.00	Limited
Private Tour	Custom Quote	Upon Request

Regardless of the booking method, the Lares Trek offers an immersive cultural experience and stunning natural landscapes leading to the iconic Machu Picchu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Group Size for This Trek?

The group size for this trek typically ranges from 2 to 12 participants. The exact number may vary depending on the specific tour package and the availability of spots at the time of booking.

Can I Bring My Own Trekking Poles?

You can bring your own trekking poles for the trek. The tour company provides trekking equipment, but you’re welcome to use your personal gear if you prefer. Bringing your own poles can help with stability and balance on the challenging terrain.

Is It Possible to Customize the Trek Itinerary?

Yes, the trek itinerary can be customized. Most tour operators offer flexibility to modify the route, length, and difficulty level based on traveler preferences and physical abilities. However, core activities and sites are typically fixed for logistical reasons.

How Much Extra Time Should I Allocate for Acclimatization?

To properly acclimate, travelers should allocate at least 2-3 days in Cusco or the Sacred Valley before beginning the trek. This allows the body to adjust to the high altitude and reduces the risk of altitude sickness.

Can I Store My Luggage in Cusco During the Trek?

Yes, travelers can typically store their extra luggage at their hotel in Cusco during the trek. Most hotels offer this service for free or a small fee, allowing hikers to travel light on the Lares Trek.

Recap

The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers an adventurous alternative to the classic Inca Trail. Travelers will enjoy Quechua culture, witness stunning Andean landscapes, and explore the iconic Inca citadel.

Though physically demanding, this 4-day trek rewards trekkers with a truly unique and unforgettable experience in Peru’s Sacred Valley. Proper preparation and precautions are essential to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey on the Lares Trek.

You can check availability for your dates here: