Trek to Machu Picchu: Lares Trek

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The spectacular Lares trek route is perfect for trekkers looking for adventure and wanting to get off the beaten tourist path to explore a part of Peru that has changed little over the last 500 years. This remote and rarely visited region offers the traveler an exceptional insight into the lives of the Andean farmers, who still dress in their traditional brightly-colored ponchos.

As you follow the trail through the picturesque scenery of the Lares Valley, you will have the opportunity to see thatched stone houses surrounded by herds of llamas and alpacas, while inside the houses you’ll see guinea pigs running loose. The trek itself is rated at moderate difficulty, similar to the Inca Trail. There are, however, two passes over 13,000 feet (4,000 meters), so it is important to be well acclimatized to the altitude before starting the trek.

After the trek ends in Ollantaytambo, you will take the short train ride to Aguas Calientes to visit the spectacular and mysterious Machu Picchu citadel, the highlight of Peru and one of the Seven New World Wonders. The Lares trail to Machu Picchu is challenging yet rewarding and among the most spectacular trekking routes in Peru.

Day 1 : Begin the Lares Trek - Lares
Day 2 : Lares Trek - Arurayccocha
Day 3 : Lares Trek - Aguas Calientes
Day 4 : Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco

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Day 1 : Begin the Lares Trek - Lares

• After breakfast, you will be met at your hotel in Cusco and taken on a scenic drive into the beautiful Sacred Valley. You will pass the quaint villages of Pisac, renowned for its bustling market, and Calca, both places of extreme importance during the Inca reign. You will follow the route as the valley begins to ascend into the mountains, passing indigenous communities where you will have the opportunity to stop and observe the local way of life and beautiful craft work.
• You will reach the Huaca pass, located at a towering height of 14,435 feet (4,400 meters) before descending toward the lovely town of Lares at 10,662 feet (3,250 meters). Enjoy a delicious dinner prepared by the trek chef and soak up in the town’s relaxing natural hot springs before retreating to your tent to rest before your next day’s hike. 

Day 2 : Lares Trek - Arurayccocha

• After a filling breakfast early in the morning, you will start your trek with a hike uphill through the picturesque Lares Valley. The trail goes past several lovely villages where you can observe communities that still live like their ancestors did 500 years ago. You will have the chance to observe the locals’ fascinating way of life and admire their exquisite handicrafts. The morning’s hike ends in Wacawasi, where you will have some time to rest and enjoy a well-deserved lunch.
• In the afternoon, you will continue up through small passes until you reach the highest pass of the Lares trek, located at a dizzying height of 14,100 feet (4,310 meters). Once you have had your fill of the magnificent view, you will start your descent toward your campsite, located next to beautiful Andean lakes. Enjoy a quiet evening and delicious dinner in the Lares Valley. 

Day 3 : Lares Trek - Aguas Calientes

• For your last hiking day, enjoy a hearty breakfast early in the morning before setting off on the trail that will take you downhill, facing the wide and picturesque valley. Take some time to appreciate your gorgeous surroundings, dominated by massive snow-capped mountains, and admire the rich wildlife along the way.
• In the afternoon, you will reach the Yanahuara community, where you will take the bus to Ollantaytambo. Located in the fertile Sacred Valley, this ancient Inca village is home to a fascinating archeological site. In the evening, you will take the train to Aguas Calientes, the town near Machu Picchu, where you will be transferred to your confirmed hotel. You can spend the evening at your leisure in Aguas Calientes.

Day 4 : Machu Picchu Tour & Return to Cusco

• Rise early for your visit to the wonderful Machu Picchu citadel and head to the bus station for the 20-minute drive to the hidden ruins perched in the mountains above. Once you arrive in Machu Picchu, you will enjoy a guided tour of this world wonder.
• You will be able to appreciate the intricate stonework carved into the fantastic Andean scenery. The giant mortarless stones were hauled by hand to the top of the mountain centuries ago, and yet their foundations still remain. You will have the chance to explore the 3 zones of this centuries-old city: the urban, agricultural, and adjacent zones. The Temple of the Sun, the Intihuatana, and the Principal Bath are only a few of the impressive sights that you will see.
• After your tour, you can wander the many Inca trails that lead to the main site or head into town for a late lunch. You will return to the station in the mid-afternoon to take the train back to Cusco and transfer back to your hotel.

See our Machu Picchu Guide for more information on what see and do, as well as Machu Picchu Restaurants that we recommend for tasty dining.

Check our Trekking & Adventure FAQs to help you prepare for your Lares Trek and contact your travel advisor for any additional questions.

Price per Person	$ 629
Prices may vary according to the season, availability, and client preferences. Certain transport costs may not be included. Please contact one of our expert travel advisors for more information.

Price per Person	$ 629
Prices may vary according to the season, availability, and client preferences. Certain transport costs may not be included. Please contact one of our expert travel advisors for more information.

Top Pick Machu Picchu Hotel

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel 5*

Kilometer 110 Via Ferrea, Aguas Calientes

The Inkaterra Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel is a naturalist's haven. Conveniently nestled in the verdant Andean cloud forest, this lovely hotel is the perfect place to catch a glimpse of the astonishing flora and fauna of the region. The eco-friendly hotel resembles an Andean village and is comprised of charming white-washed cottages decorated with modern indigenous art as well as authentic pre-Columbian artifacts. With a commitment to indulging the whims of its guests, this luxury hotel expertly combines nature and comfort to create a one-of-a-kind Machu Picchu experience. Try some regional dishes at the excellent restaurant overlooking the Urubamba River.

Restaurant Room Service Internet Laundry Service Parking

Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel Photos & Info »

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El MaPi Hotel 4*

Av. Pachacutec 109 - Aguas Calientes

Ideally located near the Aguas Calientes train station and close to where the buses depart for the short ride to Machu Picchu, the recently renovated El MaPi Hotel is perfect for travelers who want to catch the sunrise over the ruins. The modern and stylish hotel aims to be the best in its category and offers great value services and décor. It also boasts beautifully landscaped gardens and a hot tub where guests can relax at night with a cocktail after a delicious dinner.

Restaurant Room Service Laundry ServiceInternet

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Andina Luxury Hotel

Avenida Imperio de los Incas S/N, Aguas Calientes

Travelers looking for convenience and a touch of luxury during their Machu Picchu travels will be pleased with this excellent hotel. Situated just 200 meters from the train station, this wonderfully appointed establishment boasts 31 fully-equipped and tastefully decorated rooms. Each accommodation features wooden furnishings, a large bed covered with comfortable bed linens, and some rooms even feature breathtaking views of the river. Three walls are an immaculate white, while one wall is left in its natural exposed brick state to give the room an elegant but rustic appeal. Andean art adds the finishing touch to the room. All accommodations come with Internet, an LCD screen cable TV, and air conditioning, while the hotel itself serves guests with a restaurant, bar, sauna, and gym. Guests cannot ask for more modern convenience and comfort during their Machu Picchu vacation.

Restaurant Room Service Internet Laundry Service Gym Parking Spa Swimming Pool

Andina Luxury Hotel Photos & Info »

See all Machu Picchu hotels

Included

• Private transportation from Cusco to Lares
• English-speaking professional guide
• All meals on trek & snacks (3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners)
• Trek chef & cooking equipment
• Mules & mule handlers to carry equipment
• One emergency horse
• Transportation from Huilloc to Ollantaytambo (3rd day)
• Roundtrip bus ticket Aguas Calientes – Machu Picchu
• Entrance to Machu Picchu
• Train from Aguas Calientes – Cusco
• All trekking equipment (except sleeping bag)

Not Included

• Lunch on day four
• Hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Train transportation from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes
• Sleeping bag (can be rented in Cusco)
• Optional tips for guide & trek team

Packing List

• Water-resistant trekking shoes and sandals
• Warm clothing (thermal underwear, fleece, hat, gloves, socks)
• Waterproof clothing (poncho)
• Synthetic or cotton clothing (socks, trousers, shorts, t-shirts)
• Sunhat and sunglasses
• Sun cream and insect repellent
• Water bottles
• Any required medications
• Walking sticks
• Swimsuit and towel
• Personal items
• Personal snacks
• Original Passport