Cusco: 4-day Lares Trek Machu Picchu, Panoramic Train

Exploring the 4-Day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu: A Journey of Culture and Nature

Imagine walking through landscapes carved by glaciers, crossing mountain passes at nearly 5,000 meters, and visiting villages that seem untouched by time. All this for $690 per person over four days, with the promise of discovering genuine Andean culture, seeing spectacular mountain vistas, and ending with the iconic Machu Picchu. Led by knowledgeable guides and supported by great food and comfortable camping, this tour is a well-rounded adventure for those seeking something beyond the typical tourist trail.

What drew us to this trek? First, the chance to connect with real remote mountain communities, learning about their traditions and daily lives. Second, the inclusion of natural hot springs and a scenic Vistadome train ride that makes the journey as enjoyable as the destination.

One thing to consider: the trek involves high altitudes and some challenging sections—so it’s best suited for active travelers in good health. If you’re comfortable with physical activity and crave authentic experiences away from crowded tourist spots, this trip will suit you perfectly. It’s especially ideal for those who value local culture, breathtaking scenery, and a mix of adventure and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic cultural encounters in remote Andean villages
• Spectacular mountain landscapes with glaciers and lakes
• Relaxing hot springs for post-hike recovery
• Comfortable camping and a cozy hotel stay in Aguas Calientes
• Scenic train ride on the Vistadome route
• Inclusion of all major entry tickets and support gear for a smooth trip

A Deep Dive into the Lares Trek Experience

The Itinerary: What Makes Each Day Special

Day 1: Cusco to Lares Hot Springs and Blue Lagoon
Our adventure begins early, with a pickup from our Cusco hotel around 4:30 AM. From there, we journey through the Sacred Valley—a lush area filled with terraced fields and traditional villages—before arriving at the famous Lares thermal baths. These natural hot springs are a great way to loosen up after an early start, with water temperatures varying from warm to hot, offering relief for tired muscles and a chance to relax in a beautiful setting.

After soaking, we set off on a relatively gentle 2-hour uphill trek to Kiswarani village, a place where local life thrives amidst stunning scenery. Lunch here is a welcome break in a small community that still lives closely with traditions. The afternoon hike takes us another 2 hours to our campsite, situated beside a striking blue lake—a perfect spot for setting up tents and soaking in the tranquility.

What You’ll Love: The warm waters of Lares and the peaceful lake setting.
Consideration: The early start might be tough for some, but it’s worth it for the quiet beauty of the hot springs.

Day 2: Blue Lagoon to Condor Pass and Cancha Cancha Village
This is where the trek really tests your endurance. We start with an early breakfast, then set out on a 4-hour uphill climb to the highest point of the trek, Condor Pass at 4700 meters. The views from here are truly worth the effort—the snow-capped peaks and expansive valleys stretch as far as we can see. After a well-earned break, we descend for 3 hours through sweeping scenery, passing glaciers, waterfalls, and the occasional herd of llamas and alpacas.

The campsite at 3600 meters offers a chance to rest and enjoy the views. The descent into the highlands is a reminder of how dynamic and unpredictable mountain terrain can be.

What You’ll Love: The panoramic vistas from Condor Pass and the chance to see glaciers and waterfalls up close.
Consideration: The altitude and steep ascent make this the most challenging day, so a good level of fitness helps.

Day 3: Descending into the Sacred Valley and Visiting Ollantaytambo
The morning begins with a delicious breakfast and a descent from the highlands into the Sacred Valley. We’re surrounded by lush farmland and ancient Inca water channels that still flow today—an impressive reminder of Inca engineering. We explore Ollantaytambo, a town famous for its well-preserved Inca ruins and narrow cobblestone streets. Here, we enjoy a hearty dinner in a local restaurant before catching the 7:00 PM train to Aguas Calientes, where we’ll spend the night in a comfortable hotel.

What You’ll Love: The blend of natural beauty and Inca ruins, giving a tangible sense of history.
Consideration: The evening train ride is relaxing but long, so bring a book or some music to pass the time.

Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return Journey
The highlight of the trip—early morning buses take us up to Machu Picchu, arriving just as the sun begins to rise. The sight of the ancient city bathed in dawn’s first light is truly unforgettable. Our guide will lead us through the site, explaining its features during a 2-3 hour tour. Afterwards, you’re free to explore on your own or climb Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu (if you’ve booked tickets in advance).

After soaking in the views, we descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus, then relax on the Vistadome train as we head back to Cusco, arriving late in the evening.

What You’ll Love: The early morning arrival and breathtaking views of Machu Picchu as it awakens.
Consideration: Climbing Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu requires separate tickets and planning.

Authentic Experiences and Cultural Encounters

One of the real strengths of this tour is its focus on genuine Andean culture. You won’t just pass through villages—you’ll visit local schools, meet community members, and see how these communities live today. From the Pachamanca barbecue and cooking class to the coffee experience, every meal and activity is designed to connect you with local traditions.

We loved the guide’s enthusiasm and deep knowledge—reviewers like Franziska praise guides like Manolo, who make the experience special with their storytelling and attentiveness. The cultural richness is complemented by the scenery—remote villages with llamas grazing, women in traditional dress, and stunning mountain backgrounds.

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The Scenic Highlights

Expect to see glaciers, glacial lakes, waterfalls, and endless llamas and alpacas. These natural features create a backdrop that’s hard to beat—each turn of the trail reveals another awe-inspiring vista. The Vistadome train adds to the experience with panoramic windows, allowing you to soak in the mountains from a comfortable seat.

The Comfort and Support

The tour provides all meals on the trail, including snacks and water, which is a major plus—feeding hungry trekkers is a priority. The equipment support—duffle bags, tents, rain ponchos, first aid, satellite phone, oxygen—means you can trek with peace of mind. The two nights camping are surprisingly comfortable with proper tents, and the hotel stay in Aguas Calientes offers a chance to rest properly before the final day.

The Challenges and Considerations

While the trek is described as an excellent alternative to the Inca Trail, it’s still physically demanding. The high altitudes and steep ascents are not suitable for everyone, especially pregnant women, those with back or heart problems, or mobility issues. As some reviews note, lack of oxygen and cold at night can lower your physical capacity, so being in good shape before starting helps.

The Value and Why It’s a Good Choice

At $690, this tour packs a lot of value. It covers all major entry tickets, transportation, meals, support gear, and scenic train rides—costs that often add up if you try to piece them together independently. The inclusion of hot springs, local visits, and cultural activities makes it more than just a hike; it’s an immersive experience.

The group size and guides’ expertise contribute significantly to the trip’s success. As one traveler noted, “the guide follows our pace,” which means you’re not rushed and can enjoy the scenery and cultural interactions.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This trek is perfect for active travelers who want an authentic connection with Andean culture and stunning natural scenery. It’s ideal for those who appreciate small group tours, local traditions, and scenic train rides. If you’re comfortable with high altitude hiking and want an experience that balances adventure with culture, you’ll find this tour rewarding.

However, it’s not suited for pregnant women, people with back or heart problems, mobility issues, or those unprepared for the physical challenge. The early mornings, altitude, and demanding days require a good level of fitness and resilience.

The Sum Up

The 4-day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers a rare chance to see Peru’s Andean heartland away from the crowded Inca Trail routes. It combines spectacular landscapes, authentic village life, and comfort elements like hot springs and scenic trains. The knowledgeable guides and cultural activities enrich the journey, making it a well-rounded adventure.

If you’re seeking a less touristy, more immersive experience that includes mountain vistas, local culture, and a sense of adventure, this trek deserves serious consideration. It’s best suited for active travelers eager to challenge themselves and connect with Peru’s true spirit.

FAQ

How physically demanding is the trek?
The trek involves high altitude and some steep climbs, especially on Day 2 with the ascent to Condor Pass. A good fitness level helps, and the guide adjusts the pace as needed.

Are meals included?
Yes, all meals on the trail are included, along with snacks and water. The meals cater to special diets, including vegan options.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical demands may not suit very young children due to altitude and terrain.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, comfortable shoes, and be prepared for cold nights and variable weather. The tour supplies rain ponchos, but extra layers are advisable.

Can I climb Machu Picchu Mountain or Huayna Picchu?
Yes, but tickets are not included and must be booked separately well in advance.

What is the accommodation like?
Two nights are spent camping in tents, which are provided and set up for you. One night is in a 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes.

Is this tour guided in English?
Yes, guides are available in both Spanish and English.

Are there support facilities in case of emergency?
Yes, the tour includes a satellite phone, first-aid kit, and oxygen supply for emergencies.

How long is the scenic train ride?
The return trip on the Vistadome train is scenic and lasts several hours, providing great views of the mountains.

What’s the best time to do this trek?
While not specified, the best weather for trekking in Peru is generally during the dry season, from May to September, but check local conditions before booking.

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