Embarking on a 4-day Lares Trek from Cusco, Peru, is a chance to take in the stunning Andean landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Trekking through the UNESCO-listed Lares Valley, adventurers will reach the majestic Condor Pass at 4,800 meters, all while enjoying personalized guidance from a small group of fellow explorers. The journey culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, offering a truly unforgettable adventure. With limited group sizes, this trek promises an intimate and authentic experience that may leave you eager to discover more about the Lares Valley’s remarkable history and its vibrant local community.
Key Points
- The 4-day Lares Trek starts from Cusco and covers approximately 20 miles, reaching the highest point at Condor Pass (4,800 meters).
- The trek includes exploration of the Lares Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu.
- The tour is limited to a maximum of 10 participants and is priced starting at $1,039.17 per person with a non-refundable cancellation policy.
- The trek itinerary involves a mix of hiking, cultural engagement, and scenic views, including visits to waterfalls, local communities, and the ancient Inca citadel.
- Necessary trekking equipment and transportation are provided, and the tour operator offers a pre-trek briefing and the option to climb Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview and Pricing
- Trek Details and Itinerary
- Inclusions
- Important Information
- Recommendations
- Machu Picchu Accessibility
- Lares Valley Experience
- How to Book
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What Are the Accommodations Like During the Trek?
- Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?
- What Is the Group Size and Guide-To-Participant Ratio?
- Do I Need Any Special Permits or Permissions to Do This Trek?
- Is There an Option to Extend or Shorten the Trek Duration?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
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Overview and Pricing
The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu is a 4-day trekking adventure that starts from Cusco.
This small group trek, limited to 10 participants, is priced from $1,039.17 per person. It features a non-refundable cancellation policy.
The trek covers a distance of approximately 20 miles, with the highest point reaching 4,800 meters above sea level at the Condor Pass.
Travelers will have the opportunity to explore the Lares Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the Cancha Cancha community to engage with local traditions.
The trek culminates with a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the Seven Wonders of the World.
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Trek Details and Itinerary
Over the course of the 4-day Lares Trek, adventurers will embark on a captivating journey through the Andes. On the first day, they’ll hike to Quishuarani, visit 7 waterfalls, and set up camp, covering 4.72 miles in about 4 hours. The next day, trekkers will reach the Condor Pass at 4,800 m.a.s.l. and visit the Cancha Cancha community, covering 9.32 miles in around 7 hours. On the third day, the group will hike to Huaran, explore Ollantaytambo, and take the train to Aguas Calientes, spanning 5.59 miles in approximately 4 hours. The final day begins with an early bus to Machu Picchu for a guided tour and optional climbs.
| Day | Distance | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4.72 mi | 4 hrs |
| 2 | 9.32 mi | 7 hrs |
| 3 | 5.59 mi | 4 hrs |
| 4 | N/A | N/A |
Inclusions
Included in the Lares Trek package is a pre-trek briefing held one day prior, allowing participants to get acquainted with the trek and have any questions addressed.
The package also includes:
- Transportation from Cusco to the trek’s starting point
- Meals (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners, and daily snacks) served in a dining tent
- Round-trip bus tickets to Machu Picchu and train tickets (Expedition class) from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back
- Essential trekking equipment such as high-mountain tents, a kitchen tent, sleeping bags, walking sticks, and hot water for washing.
These inclusions ensure a seamless and well-supported experience for participants throughout their four-day Lares Trek journey to the magnificent Machu Picchu.
Important Information
Travelers are advised to bring along their passport, sunglasses, swimwear, sunscreen, rain gear, insect repellent, a sun hat, a daypack, proper trekking gear, gloves, a jacket, and sandals for the Lares Trek.
All traveler passport details are required for Machu Picchu entry. The trek isn’t recommended for children 12 and younger.
Requests for mountain climbs, such as Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu mountains, should be made during booking.
Travelers should note that train schedules may vary by season and availability.
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When planning for the Lares Trek, it’s advisable to pack sunglasses, swimwear, and sunscreen to protect against the region’s intense UV rays.
Plus, it’s crucial to bring the following:
- A rain jacket or poncho to stay dry during unexpected showers.
- A warm jacket or fleece for the chilly mountain temperatures, especially at night.
- Comfortable, broken-in hiking boots to handle the rugged terrain.
- Insect repellent to ward off pesky bugs.
Travelers should also ensure they’ve all necessary passport details ready for Machu Picchu entry.
It’s important to note that the trek isn’t recommended for children 12 and younger.
Machu Picchu Accessibility
On the final day of the Lares Trek, travelers arrive at the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the most renowned archaeological sites in the world.
To access Machu Picchu, trekkers take an early bus from Aguas Calientes to the site’s entrance. Once there, they enjoy a guided tour, exploring the ancient Inca citadel and learning about its rich history and cultural significance.
Travelers can also opt to climb either Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountains, which offer stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
With its well-preserved ruins, spiritual atmosphere, and breathtaking setting, Machu Picchu provides a truly remarkable conclusion to the Lares Trek adventure.
Lares Valley Experience
The Lares Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offers trekkers a captivating glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of the Andes.
This 4-day trek allows adventurers to enjoy the stunning landscapes and traditional Andean communities.
Some of the highlights include:
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Witnessing the breathtaking vistas of the Condor Pass, standing at an impressive 4,800 meters above sea level.
-
Visiting the remote Cancha Cancha community, where travelers can engage with local traditions and gain a deeper understanding of the region’s cultural fabric.
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Marveling at the serene beauty of the seven waterfalls encountered on the first day.
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Capping off the journey with the awe-inspiring tour of the iconic Machu Picchu, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.
How to Book
Booking the 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu can be done through the tour operator’s website.
The process is straightforward – simply select the desired travel dates, number of participants, and any optional add-ons like mountain climbs.
All traveler passport details are required for Machu Picchu entry. The non-refundable cancellation policy should be reviewed prior to completing the booking.
Once the reservation is confirmed, hikers will receive a detailed briefing one day before the trek.
It’s important to note that this small-group experience is limited to 10 participants, so early booking is recommended to secure a spot on this popular Lares Valley adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Accommodations Like During the Trek?
The trek features comfortable camping accommodations, with high-quality tents and a dining tent provided. Bedding is also included, with sleeping bags available. Campsites are set up by the tour operator to ensure a pleasant and well-equipped experience for trekkers.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Snacks on the Trek?
Yes, you can bring your own food and snacks on the trek. The tour includes three meals per day, but extra personal snacks are allowed and recommended to supplement the provided meals.
What Is the Group Size and Guide-To-Participant Ratio?
The group size is limited to 10 participants, with a professional English-speaking guide leading the trek. This ensures a personalized experience and allows the guide to provide attentive support throughout the 4-day journey.
Do I Need Any Special Permits or Permissions to Do This Trek?
No special permits or permissions are required for the trek. However, all traveler passport details must be provided for Machu Picchu entry. It’s also not recommended for children 12 and younger.
Is There an Option to Extend or Shorten the Trek Duration?
There may be options to extend or shorten the trek duration, but it’d depend on the tour operator’s policies. Travelers should inquire about any flexibility in the itinerary when booking the trek.
From Cusco: 4- Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu
Recap
The Lares Trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu offers a unique and immersive adventure. Traversing stunning Andean landscapes, travelers can connect with the rich cultural heritage of the region. With personalized guidance and a small group size, this 4-day trek is an unforgettable way to experience the UNESCO-listed Lares Valley and culminate in a guided tour of the iconic Machu Picchu. It’s a breathtaking journey that showcases the best of Peru’s natural and cultural wonders.
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