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

The 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure in the stunning Andes, showcasing remote villages where trekkers can enjoy vibrant local culture. This alternative route culminates in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, with opportunities to explore its intricate stone structures. Accommodations, meals, and equipment are all included, and optional hot springs visits add a touch of relaxation to the experience. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or a first-time trekker, this journey promises to captivate and leave you eager to discover more.

Key Points

• 4-day trekking experience through the Andes with visits to remote Andean villages and a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
• Two nights camping and one night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes, with 3 meals per day provided by a master chef.
• Optional rental of sleeping bags and walking sticks, as well as an entrance fee for the Lares thermal baths.
• Minimum of 2 participants required to book, with a maximum of 10 and a minimum age of 7 years.
• Opportunity for culture and exchange with the friendly residents of Kiswarani and Cancha Cancha villages.

Trek Overview

The Lares trek is a 4-day hiking experience that offers an alternative to the popular Inca Trail for those seeking to explore the Andes Mountains and discover the daily life of remote Andean villages.

Travelers will visit the villages of Kiswarani and Cancha Cancha, getting a glimpse of the local culture and traditions.

The trek also includes a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, providing an opportunity to learn about the history and significance of the Inca Empire.

Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking a unique culture, the Lares trek promises an unforgettable journey through Peru’s stunning landscapes and rich heritage.

Accommodations and Inclusions

The 4-day Lares trek to Machu Picchu includes various accommodations and services to ensure a comfortable and seamless journey.

Travelers will receive a pre-trek briefing in Cusco the day before departure. Ground transportation to the trailhead and Ollantaytambo train station is provided, along with round-trip tourist train tickets.

During the trek, hikers will spend two nights camping and one night in a hostel in Aguas Calientes. A master chef will be on hand to prepare all meals, and camping gear like tents and sleeping mats are included.

The package also covers the entrance ticket to Machu Picchu, allowing travelers to fully enjoy the Inca Empire’s history.

Meals and Dietary Options

During the 4-day Lares trek, travelers can enjoy a variety of included meals. The trek includes 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, all prepared by the master chef.

For the final lunch and dinner, hikers will have the opportunity to dine at the variety of restaurants in Aguas Calientes.

Vegetarian options are available, but you’ll need to advise the tour operator at the time of booking.

Plus, you can bring optional school supplies to donate to local kids along the way.

• 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners included
• Variety of restaurants in Aguas Calientes for last meals
• Vegetarian option available (request at booking)
• Optional school supplies to donate

Equipment and Additional Costs

Travelers can rent a sleeping bag rated to -10°C for $0.25 per day. Trekkers can also rent walking sticks for $15.

While water bottles are available for purchase along the route, it’s recommended to bring a reusable bottle to cut down on waste. Those interested in relaxing at the Lares thermal baths can plan to pay the $20 entrance fee.

Hikers should also budget for personal medications and gratuities as additional costs.

The 4-day Lares trek to Machu Picchu provides a comprehensive experience, with camping gear, meals, and transportation included in the overall price.

Booking and Participation Requirements

A minimum of 2 people is required to book the 4-day Lares trek to Machu Picchu, with a maximum group size of 10 participants.

The minimum age for this trek is 7 years, and it’s not wheelchair accessible. Participants must have a moderate level of physical fitness to manage the challenging terrain.

The trek is a private tour, so only your group will participate. The start time is 5:00 am, and the price starts from $1,299.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.

• Minimum 2 people per booking, maximum 10 participants
• Minimum age: 7 years, not wheelchair accessible
• Moderate physical fitness level required
• Private tour, only your group will participate

Exploring Lares Villages

As the trek progresses, you will have the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant culture and daily life of the remote Lares villages.

These communities, nestled in the heart of the Andes, offer a unique glimpse into the traditional Quechua way of life. Visitors will witness local artisans crafting intricate textiles, farmers tending to their crops, and children playing in the streets.

The trek includes stops in the villages of Kiswarani and Cancha Cancha, where travelers can interact with the friendly residents and learn about their customs and beliefs.

This cultural exchange enriches the overall trekking experience, providing a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage.

Visiting Machu Picchu

Ultimately, the highlight of the Lares Trek is the guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, the legendary Lost City of the Incas.

This awe-inspiring site offers a glimpse into the sophisticated Inca civilization and its architectural marvels. Visitors can:

• Explore the intricate stone structures and terraces that once housed a thriving community
• Climb the iconic Huayna Picchu for spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and the citadel below
• Learn about the site’s rich history and cultural significance from a knowledgeable guide
• Soak in the serene atmosphere and feel a deep connection to the past

The Machu Picchu visit caps off an unforgettable journey through the Andes, providing a fitting finale to the Lares Trek experience.

Recap

The 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers an unforgettable adventure through the stunning Andes, showcasing remote villages and culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. With optional hot springs visits, this trek provides a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes and cultural richness, making it an exceptional experience for adventurous travelers.