This 4-day trek from Cusco to Machu Picchu via the Lares Valley offers an immersive experience into Peru’s captivating landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Trekkers will traverse stunning Andean scenery, interact with local communities, and culminate their journey with a guided tour of the iconic Inca citadel. With a focus on small group intimacy and comprehensive support, this trek promises an unforgettable escape into a world of natural beauty and ancient wonder. But the true allure lies in the personal connections and insights that await those willing to embark on this transformative adventure.
Key Points
- This 4-day trek offers an immersive experience in the Andes, featuring a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Machu Picchu.
- The trek includes transportation, accommodation, meals, and entrance fees, with the option to book without an upfront payment.
- The route involves hiking at high altitudes, with a moderate to challenging physical difficulty level, requiring a good fitness level.
- The tour provides opportunities for culture, including interaction with local communities and exploration of the Lares hot springs.
- The tour has a free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance and a small group size of 15 participants for a personalized experience.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary Highlights
- Included Services and Equipment
- Group and Guide Details
- Important Information and Tips
- Physical Difficulty and Preparation
- Cultural Immersion and Experiences
- Booking and Cancellation Policies
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Leave My Luggage in Cusco During the Trek?
- What Items Should I Pack for the Trek?
- Can I Charge My Electronic Devices During the Trek?
- Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Bag?
- Do I Need Any Special Permits or Permissions for This Trek?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Cusco
- More Hiking & Trekking Tours in Cusco
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Tour Overview and Pricing
This Lares + Machupicchu trekking tour lasts for 4 days and is priced from K19,961 per person.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy, allowing them to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
The tour also offers a reserve now and pay later option, where participants can book their spot without any upfront payment.
Whether you’re seeking a challenge, tranquility, or stunning landscapes, this trek promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Andes.
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Itinerary Highlights
The Lares + Machupicchu trekking tour begins with a pickup from Cusco, where you will embark on a trek to Canchacancha and set up camp for the first night.
On the second day, the group will trek to lago Coyalayo and ascend to Queuñaqocha, where they’ll set up camp again.
On the third day, the group will hike to the Willkiccasa pass and have the option to visit the Lares hot springs before taking a train to Aguas Calientes.
On the final day, the group will have an early breakfast, hike to Machupicchu, participate in a guided tour, and then have free time before returning to Aguas Calientes.
Included Services and Equipment
The tour package includes a comprehensive set of cooking and camping equipment to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable trekking experience. Transportation from Cusco to the Lares Valley and from Ollantaytambo to Cusco, as well as round-trip train tickets from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes, are provided. Participants will also receive an entrance ticket to Machu Picchu and lodging in Aguas Calientes. Plus, the tour includes a first aid kit, a cook, an assistant cook, and porters to handle the equipment and food. Meals are included for the duration of the trek, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided on most days.
| Included Services | Included Equipment |
|---|---|
| Mobility | Cooking Gear |
| Train Tickets | Camping Gear |
| Machu Picchu Entrance | First Aid Kit |
| Aguas Calientes Lodging | Porters |
| Meals | Guide/Assistants |
Group and Guide Details
The tour group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a personalized and intimate trekking experience.
You’ll be accompanied by an experienced, multilingual guide who’ll lead the way in English and Spanish.
Pickup from your Cusco hotel is included, so you won’t have to worry about transportation to the starting point.
The guide will meet you in the hotel lobby 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
With a small group size and knowledgeable guide, you can look forward to a immersive, tailored journey through the Lares Valley and to Machu Picchu.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information and Tips
Enter your WhatsApp number and correct country code when making a reservation – this ensures the tour operator can easily contact you with any updates or changes.
While the tour includes a variety of services, some items aren’t covered, such as:
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
- Travel insurance
- Entrance fees to other mountains or attractions not listed
This trek offers the chance to experience the tranquility of nature, challenge your physical capacity, and witness stunning landscapes and Andean lakes.
Remember to bring appropriate hiking gear and be prepared for the high-altitude environment.
Physical Difficulty and Preparation
This trek presents a moderate to challenging physical difficulty level.
The route involves hiking up to high altitudes, reaching over 4,300 meters (14,100 feet) at the Willkiccasa pass. Participants should have a good level of fitness and be prepared for strenuous hiking over uneven terrain.
Proper acclimatization is crucial, as the high elevations can cause altitude sickness. It’s recommended to arrive in Cusco a few days prior to the trek to allow your body to adjust.
Trekking poles, proper hiking boots, and layered clothing are essential. Hydration, nutrition, and rest are also important for a successful and enjoyable experience.
Cultural Immersion and Experiences
Along the Lares + Machupicchu trek, travelers enjoy the rich cultural heritage of the Andes. The journey offers a unique opportunity to connect with local communities and experience their centuries-old traditions.
Some highlights include:
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Visiting the Lares hot springs, where indigenous communities have gathered for relaxation and healing for generations.
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Interacting with weavers and artisans in the Lares Valley, learning about their intricate textile techniques and purchasing handcrafted souvenirs.
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Exploring the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and gaining insights into the Inca civilization from the knowledgeable local guide.
Booking and Cancellation Policies
Booking the Lares + Machupicchu trek is a straightforward process. You can reserve your spot with no upfront payment, paying later. The tour is priced at a reasonable K19,961 per person.
What’s more, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering great flexibility. The small group size is limited to 15 participants, ensuring personalized attention from the English and Spanish-speaking guide.
Pickup from your Cusco hotel is included, so you can relax and let the experts handle the logistics. The booking experience is hassle-free, allowing you to focus on anticipating an unforgettable trek through the stunning Andes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Leave My Luggage in Cusco During the Trek?
Yes, you can leave your luggage in Cusco during the trek. The tour provider offers storage services for your extra luggage while you’re on the trek to Machu Picchu.
What Items Should I Pack for the Trek?
For the trek, one should pack warm layers, hiking boots, waterproof jacket, sun protection, snacks, water bottle, and any personal medications. It’s also wise to bring a small backpack for day hikes and any additional necessities.
Can I Charge My Electronic Devices During the Trek?
Charging electronic devices during the trek may be limited due to the remote nature of the hike. It’s recommended to bring portable power banks or additional batteries to ensure devices remain charged throughout the journey.
Is There an Option to Hire a Porter to Carry My Bag?
Yes, porters are available to carry participants’ bags during the trek. Porters are included in the tour services and can be hired to lighten the load for trekkers. This service comes at an additional cost.
Do I Need Any Special Permits or Permissions for This Trek?
No special permits or permissions are required for this Lares + Machupicchu trek. The tour operator handles all necessary arrangements, including Machu Picchu entrance tickets, so travelers can focus on enjoying the journey.
From Cusco: Trekking the Lares + Machupicchu Route 4d/3n
Recap
The "From Cusco: Trekking the Lares + Machupicchu Route 4d/3n" offers an immersive and unforgettable adventure. Blending physical challenge with cultural exploration, this trek promises stunning Andean landscapes, visits to local communities, and a guided tour of Machu Picchu. With a focus on small group intimacy and comprehensive support, this trek is an exceptional escape into Peru’s rich heritage.
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