4-Day Trek From Lares to Machu Picchu

The 4-Day Trek from Lares to Machu Picchu offers adventurous travelers a chance to enjoy the stunning Andean landscapes of Peru. Starting at just $812 per person, this guided trek features a unique blend of natural and cultural highlights that will leave participants in awe. From ascending the Amparaes Pass to relaxing in natural hot springs, each day presents an opportunity to disconnect from the everyday and connect with the breathtaking beauty that surrounds. But the real highlight awaits at the end of the journey, where the iconic Machu Picchu stands as a testament to the ingenuity of the Inca civilization.

Key Points

• This 4-day trek covers the route from Lares to the iconic Machu Picchu, offering breathtaking scenery and culture along the way.
• The trek includes hiking through the Andes, viewing glaciers, visiting a local fish farm, and an early morning exploration of Machu Picchu.
• The starting price is $812 per person, which covers hotel pickup, transport, camping, an expert guide, and meals.
• Optional extras such as sleeping bag rental, private tents, and hiking sticks are available for additional costs.
• The trek provides opportunities for cultural exchange with indigenous communities and experiencing traditional Andean lifestyles.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Trek Overview and Pricing

What does the 4-Day Trek to Machu Picchu entail?

It’s a memorable adventure that takes travelers from Lares to the iconic Inca citadel. Priced from $812 per person, the trek includes hotel pickup, transport, camping accommodations, an expert guide, and meals.

Highlights include hiking to Amparaes Pass, relaxing in natural hot springs, and witnessing stunning glacier views. On the third day, participants visit a local fish farm before taking the train to Aguas Calientes.

The final day culminates with an early morning ascent and guided tour of the legendary Machu Picchu. Flexible booking and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance make this trek an attractive option.

Itinerary Highlights

The 4-day trek to Machu Picchu takes adventurers on a stunning journey through the Sacred Valley of the Incas.

On the first day, trekkers ascend to the Amparaes Pass at an elevation of 4,650 meters, then relax in the Lares Natural Hot Springs before camping at Cuncani.

The second day involves hiking to the Pumahuanca Pass, offering views of the Colque Cruz glacier and lagoons, with a camp at Paccha.

On the third day, the group visits a local fish farm in Pumahuanca before traveling to Ollantaytambo and taking the train to Aguas Calientes, where they stay in a 3-star hotel.

The final day features an early morning ascent to explore the iconic Machu Picchu site.

Included Services

This 4-day trek to Machu Picchu includes a comprehensive set of services to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The package includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by bus, 2 nights of camping and 1 night in a 3-star hotel. An English-speaking guide will accompany the group, providing expert insights throughout the journey.

Meals are also included, with 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners. Porters will carry the group’s gear, and a roundtrip train ticket from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes is provided.

Adventurers can also opt for additional services, such as a sleeping bag, private tent, and walking sticks, for a small fee.

Optional Extras

Along With the included services, adventurers can customize their trek experience with a selection of optional extras.

For $20 per person, they can rent a high-quality sleeping bag to stay cozy in the chilly mountain nights.

Travelers who prefer more privacy can opt for a private tent for $30 per person.

To tackle the uneven terrain, walking sticks are available for $20 per person.

Those seeking the ultimate Machu Picchu experience can purchase admission to the challenging Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain hikes for $70 per person.

Lastly, hikers can choose to have lunch on the final day for an additional cost.

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Cultural Immersion

Immersing oneself in the local culture of the Sacred Valley of the Incas is a profound highlight of this 4-day trek to Machu Picchu.

Trekkers will have the opportunity to engage with indigenous communities, learning about their traditional way of life. This includes visiting a local fish farm in Pumahuanca, where they can gain insights into sustainable aquaculture practices.

Throughout the journey, the breath-taking vistas of the Andes mountains and the iconic Machu Picchu provide a stunning backdrop, further enriching the cultural experience.

Gear and Equipment

Outfitting oneself with the right gear and equipment is key to having a comfortable and enjoyable 4-day trek to Machu Picchu.

Trekkers can rent a sleeping bag for $20 per person or opt for a private tent for $30 per person. Walking sticks are also available for $20 each, which can provide extra stability on the rugged terrain.

For those seeking an enhanced Machu Picchu experience, admission to Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain can be added for $70 per person.

With the proper preparation, travelers can focus on seeing the stunning landscapes and cultural experiences along the way.

Booking and Cancellation

Travelers can typically reserve their 4-day trek to Machu Picchu without an upfront payment, taking advantage of the flexible booking policy.

The trek price starts from $812 per person and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, ensuring full refunds. This provides travelers with the freedom to finalize their plans closer to the departure date.

Plus, the trek includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, camping accommodations, an English-speaking guide, and all meals.

Hikers can also opt for additional services like sleeping bags, private tents, and admissions to attractions like Huayna Picchu and Machu Picchu Mountain for a supplementary cost.

Getting to the Trek

The trek to Machu Picchu begins with a departure from Cusco, the historic capital of the Inca Empire. Participants are transported by bus to the trailhead in Lares, where the 4-day hike commences.

The first day’s route takes trekkers to the Amparaes Pass, reaching an elevation of 4,650 meters (15,255 feet). After crossing this high pass, the group enjoys a relaxing soak in the Lares Natural Hot Springs before setting up camp in Cuncani.

The trek continues the next day with a hike to the Pumahuanca Pass, offering spectacular views of the Colque Cruz glacier and surrounding lagoons before reaching the campsite at Paccha.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Do This Trek?

The best time to do this trek is during the dry season, which typically runs from May to September. This period offers ideal weather conditions, clear skies, and fewer crowds at Machu Picchu.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Fit My Needs?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to fit the traveler’s needs. The tour operator offers flexible booking and allows for modifications to the trek details to accommodate personal preferences and requirements within the overall 4-day framework.

How Difficult Is the Trekking on a Scale of 1-10?

The trekking difficulty ranges from a 5 to an 8 on a scale of 1-10. The hikes involve challenging ascents up to high mountain passes, but the trek is manageable for fit individuals with some hiking experience.

Do I Need to Be in Excellent Physical Condition for This Trek?

The trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness, but it’s not necessary to be in excellent condition. The trail has some challenging sections, but the pace is manageable for most able-bodied hikers with some prior trekking experience.

Are There Any Recommendations for Acclimatizing Prior to the Trek?

It’s recommended to acclimatize for 1-2 days in Cusco before the trek. This allows your body to adjust to the high altitude. Drink plenty of water, rest, and consider taking altitude sickness medication if needed.

Recap

The 4-day Lares to Machu Picchu trek offers an unparalleled Andean adventure. Traversing stunning landscapes, trekkers can enjoy Peruvian culture, marvel at glacier views, and relax in natural hot springs. With expert guidance and inclusive services, this trek provides an enriching experience culminating in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. For those seeking an unforgettable journey through Peru’s breathtaking highlands, this trek is a must-consider option.

You can check if your dates are available here: