Ultimate Lares Trek & Inca Trail 5 days

Exploring the Peruvian Highlands: The Ultimate Lares Trek & Inca Trail in 5 Days

Imagine trading the crowds of the classic Inca Trail for a peaceful, authentic journey through Peru’s rugged highlands. This 5-day trek, priced at $980 per person, offers a chance to connect with local communities, soak in stunning scenery, and arrive at Machu Picchu feeling like you’ve truly earned it. Led by experienced guides and supported by hearty local cooks, this adventure takes you away from tourist hotspots onto lesser-trodden paths that reveal the real soul of the Andes.

What we really love about this experience are two key details: first, the personalized nature of the trek—small groups and attentive guides make it feel more like hiking with friends than a commercial tour. Second, the culinary experience, which includes a Pachamanca cooking demonstration and consistently delicious meals prepared on the trail, turns a challenging trek into a feast for the senses.

One consideration is that this trek requires a moderate level of physical fitness, especially since you’ll be hiking at high altitudes and tackling some uphill stretches. The journey is best suited for those who enjoy a mix of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, and who don’t mind a bit of rugged terrain on their way to one of the world’s most iconic sites.

Key Points

• Less Crowded Route: You’ll hike along the quieter Lares trail, avoiding the crowds typical of the Inca Trail.
• Cultural Encounters: Pass through local Quechua-speaking villages and soak in authentic Andean life.
• Stunning Views: Expect breathtaking scenery, including alpine lakes, mountain passes, and lush valleys.
• All-Inclusive Logistics: Accommodation, meals, transportation, and gear transfer are included, making it hassle-free.
• Expert Guides and Support: Knowledgeable guides like Sara, Josè, and others ensure safety and enriching stories.
• Authentic Cuisine: Enjoy hearty, freshly prepared meals and a Pachamanca cooking demo, not just trail snacks.

A Deep Dive into the 5-Day Experience

Starting the Adventure: Day 1 – From Cusco to the Sacred Valley and Lares Hot Springs

The journey begins early, around 5:30 am, with pickup from your hotel in Cusco. We love how this early start means you get a full day of exploration without feeling rushed. Driving into the Sacred Valley, your first stop is the local market—an excellent way to see how indigenous commerce still thrives in the region. Afterward, a dip in the famous Lares thermo-medicinal baths sets the tone—nothing beats soaking in those varying temperatures after a long flight or travel day, especially when aiming to loosen muscles and relax for the hike ahead. The water’s reputed benefits for bones and stress relief make the baths more than just a refreshing break.

Post-bath, you’ll enjoy breakfast before starting a 2-hour uphill trek to Kiswarani village. The trail here begins gently but steadily gains altitude, immersing you in the landscape. The first campsite, nestled beside a beautiful blue lake at 3,750 meters, offers serene views and a great night’s sleep before more challenging days.

Day 2 – The High Pass and Remote Village Life

Day 2 is the toughest—an entire 8-hour hike with a significant ascent to Condor Pass at 4,700 meters. This is the highlight of the trek—standing at the summit, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the mountains and valleys, feeling like you’re on top of the world. We love how the guide explains the significance of each landscape spot, making it more than just a walk.

Descending for three hours brings us to Cancha Cancha, the only village in the Lares Valley untouched by modern technology—no electricity, no internet, only Quechua language and traditional ways of life. The simplicity here is striking, and it offers a rare glimpse into what life was like before the digital age. According to reviews, the guides and staff are attentive, ensuring safety and comfort during these high-altitude climbs.

Day 3 – From Remote Villages to the Sacred Valley

The third day is about easing down from the high altitudes. After breakfast in a llama- and alpaca-filled village, you’ll trek downhill for about four hours to Huaran, a small, authentic town. From there, a private bus transports you to Ollantaytambo, often called the last living Inca city. We love the chance to stroll these ancient streets—still lined with Inca water channels and terraced fields—and get a taste of traditional life.

Dinner in Ollantaytambo offers another chance to enjoy local flavors, and you’ll stay overnight in a comfortable hotel, a well-deserved luxury after days of camping and hiking.

Day 4 – The Crowning Moment: Machu Picchu

By early morning, you’ll hop on a train from Ollantaytambo along the Urubamba River, heading to km 104 at Chachabamba. The train ride alone offers stunning views and sets the scene for the final push to Machu Picchu. The hike from Chachabamba to the famed Lost City is filled with history and natural beauty—you’ll visit the Inca ruins of Chachabamba and hike toward Wiñay Huayna, a site that never seems to grow old.

The highlight? Arriving at the Sun Gate, where you get your first unforgettable glimpse of Machu Picchu. From there, it’s an easy downhill to the citadel, where a guide will offer a 2-3 hour tour. If you’re feeling ambitious, additional tickets for Huayna Picchu or Montaña can be booked in advance, giving you incredible panoramic views.

Day 5 – The Final Marvel: Machu Picchu

The last day is the iconic moment—watching the sunrise over Machu Picchu, a sight that makes all the effort worthwhile. We love how the early buses get you there before the crowds—some reviews describe it as “spectacular.” Your guide will walk you through the main sites, explaining the history and architecture, before leaving you to explore or climb nearby peaks.

Then, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes for lunch and take the train back to Cusco. This part of the trip is a perfect mix of awe-inspiring sights and comfort, wrapping up a deep and authentic experience.

Why This Trek Offers Great Value

Compared to the standard Inca Trail, this trek’s $980 price includes not just the hikes, but also all the logistics—accommodation, most meals, transportation, and even a duffle bag for your gear. The reviews repeatedly praise the delicious food, attentive staff, and knowledgeable guides, making the journey smooth and enjoyable despite the physical demands.

The fact that the Lares route is less crowded means you’ll get more time to absorb the scenery and local culture, which many travelers find deeply rewarding. The support staff’s dedication, from cooks to porters, ensures you’re comfortable and well-fed. The optional additional tickets for Huayna Picchu or Montaña, which need booking ahead, allow for added adventure if you wish to see Machu Picchu from above.

Balancing Cost and Experience

While the tour is non-refundable and requires booking about 13 days in advance, the inclusiveness of the price offers excellent value—especially considering the level of personal service and authentic culture. The small group size (max 12 travelers) makes it more personal than typical tours, with guides who are praised for their enthusiasm and knowledge.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re looking to escape the crowds, enjoy authentic local culture, and are prepared for some physically demanding days, this trek is perfect. It’s suited for travelers with moderate fitness levels who appreciate good food, stunning scenery, and immersive experiences. It also appeals to those who want to arrive at Machu Picchu feeling like they’ve truly earned their visit rather than just ticking a box.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a compelling blend of adventure, culture, and comfort—a chance to see parts of Peru most travelers miss. The expert guides, delicious meals, and authentic villages create a memorable journey that balances challenge and reward. While it’s not the easiest trek, it rewards those who love a bit of rugged beauty and cultural depth with genuine connections and breathtaking scenery.

If you’re after a more tranquil, immersive experience that takes you off the beaten path to see the real Peru, this is a fantastic choice. It’s best suited for travelers eager to explore at a comfortable pace, enjoy hearty local food, and arrive at Machu Picchu with stories and memories that go far beyond the usual snapshots.

FAQ

How physically demanding is this tour?
It requires a moderate fitness level. The trek includes high-altitude hiking, uphill climbs, and long walking hours, especially on days 2 and 4.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the trek, with special features like a Pachamanca cooking demonstration.

Can I rent trekking gear?
Yes, trekking poles, sleeping bags, and air mats can be rented if needed, making packing lighter.

Is transportation included?
Absolutely. All transportation during the trek, including hotel pickups, transfers, and train rides, is covered.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour limits groups to 12 travelers, ensuring more personalized attention.

Are there optional hikes at Machu Picchu?
Yes, tickets for Huayna Picchu or Montaña can be booked in advance, but they are not included in the basic package.

What about accommodation?
You’ll camp in the mountains for two nights and stay in comfortable 3-star hotels in Ollantaytambo and Aguas Calientes.

Is this suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult and should have a moderate physical fitness level.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Do I need to bring my passport?
Yes, a valid passport is required for all participants, especially for train and entrance tickets.

This detailed trek stands out for combining authentic local encounters, stunning scenery, and well-organized logistics. It’s perfect for curious travelers who want a genuine, less touristy route to Machu Picchu, with the added bonus of delicious food and meaningful cultural interactions.