From Cusco: 4-Day Alternative Lares Trail to Machu Picchu

From Cusco: 4-Day Alternative Lares Trail to Machu Picchu — An In-Depth Review

Traveling through the Peruvian Andes doesn’t have to follow the crowds. This 4-day trek along the Lares Trail offers an alternative route to Machu Picchu that’s both scenic and culturally rich. Guided by knowledgeable local experts, you’ll visit local communities, explore the historic Maras Salt Mines, and hike through breathtaking mountain scenery. For $685 per person, this adventure blends authentic cultural encounters with spectacular vistas—something we find particularly appealing.

What we love most about this experience is how it balances a physically rewarding hike with opportunities to connect with Andean traditions—an immersive journey into both nature and local life. The visit to the Maras Salt Mines is a highlight, offering a glimpse into ancient salt production that dates back to Inca times. Plus, the early morning visit to Machu Picchu provides a quieter, more intimate experience of Peru’s iconic site.

A potential consideration is the physical demands of the trek; hikers should be prepared for high-altitude walking and variable trail conditions. Also, since the tour includes camping and some basic accommodations, it’s best suited for those comfortable with outdoor overnight stays. This tour is ideal for travelers who seek an authentic experience beyond the typical Inca Trail crowds and are eager to see the Andes through local eyes.

This trip is perfect for active travelers, culture enthusiasts, and those looking for a more off-the-beaten-path route to Machu Picchu. If you value stunning mountain views, culture, and a small-group atmosphere, this trek offers all that and more.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Authentic Local Encounters: Visit communities to learn about traditional ways of life.
• Stunning Scenery: Enjoy mountain peaks, lakes, and rural farmlands rarely seen by travelers.
• Cultural Highlights: Explore the historic Maras Salt Mines, still in use since Inca times.
• Physical Challenge: Expect a physically demanding trail, especially at high altitudes.
• Small Group Experience: Limited to 15 participants for a more personalized adventure.
• Value for Money: Includes most meals, guides, transfers, and entry tickets, making it a comprehensive package.

An In-Depth Look at the 4-Day Lares Trail to Machu Picchu

Day 1: From Cusco to Lares Hot Springs and Cuncani

Your adventure begins with a hotel pickup in Cusco, setting out in a comfortable vehicle for a scenic three-hour drive to the Lares Hot Springs area. This initial drive already hints at the journey’s mix of nature and culture—passing through small villages and lush countryside. Upon arrival, you’ll enjoy breakfast at the springs—an ideal way to fuel up before hitting the trail.

The first hike takes around four hours to reach Cuncani, where you’ll camp overnight. The trail here is a gentle introduction to the Andes, with views of rolling hills and distant mountains. We loved the way the route meanders through rural communities, giving you a peek into local life. The sense of anticipation grows as you venture further into less-traveled territory, away from the typical tourist routes.

Day 2: Over the Condor Pass to Kiswarani

Day two is more challenging—climbing roughly 4,700 meters at Condor Pass, an awe-inspiring summit that offers panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and distant glaciers. The ascent takes about four hours, but the effort is rewarded with spectacular scenery. It’s a slow, steady climb—be sure to carry plenty of water and layer appropriately, as the altitude can be taxing.

After reaching the pass, you’ll descend for about two hours to Kiswarani, where your campsite awaits. We appreciated how the guide explained the significance of the terrain and local flora during the hike, adding depth to the experience. The highlight here is the sense of remoteness and the vast, open landscapes—perfect for those who crave peaceful mountain vistas and authentic encounters.

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Day 3: Sacred Valley and Maras Salt Mines

On the third morning, after breakfast, you’ll hike down into the Sacred Valley—a lush, fertile area dotted with ancient terraces and small villages. Your guide will coordinate transportation to the Maras Salt Mines, where salt extraction has been practiced since Inca times. Visiting the salt mines is a treat; you’ll see salt crystals forming in the terraces and learn about traditional methods that are still in use.

Following the salt mines, you’ll head to Ollantaytambo for lunch, a charming town with cobblestone streets and Inca ruins. From there, a scenic train ride takes you to Aguas Calientes, the town at the base of Machu Picchu. The overnight stay in a modest hotel offers a comfortable respite after three days of trekking. Many reviews praise the organization and smooth transportation that make this transition seamless.

Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return to Cusco

The final day kicks off early with a bus ride to Machu Picchu, where a 2-hour guided tour introduces you to this mysterious site’s highlights. We loved how the early morning timing helps avoid the crowds and allows for a more personal experience. You’ll have some free time to explore independently—perfect for capturing photos or simply soaking in the unique atmosphere.

Afterward, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes by bus, then take the train back to Ollantaytambo and transfer to Cusco. The entire journey wraps up with a sense of accomplishment and plenty of stories to share.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour provides hotel pickup and drop-off, all transport between sites, guides fluent in Spanish and English, campsites for two nights, one night in Aguas Calientes, and all entry tickets and most meals. The price of $685 is fair considering the comprehensive nature of the trip, especially since it includes most meals, accommodations, and all logistics.

However, drinks and sleeping bags are not included. Given the camping aspect, you’ll need to bring your own sleeping bag, or rent one if available. This flexibility is helpful, but it’s a small consideration for those who prefer hotel-style comfort.

The Experience: Pros and Cons

Pros:
– The chance to see Machu Picchu from a quieter, less crowded route.
– Visiting local communities provides a meaningful cultural experience that’s often missed on more popular treks.
– Stunning mountain scenery with photo-worthy vistas at every turn.
– The small group size enhances the personal touch and allows for more interaction with your guide.

Cons:
– The altitude and physical effort might not suit everyone—be prepared for challenging climbs.
– The camping nights, though well-organized, require some outdoor acclimation and gear.
– The itinerary’s pace is brisk, so it’s best suited for those with some trekking experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This journey is perfect for active travelers who want to escape the crowds and experience authentic Andean life. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with outdoor overnight stays and high-altitude walking. If your main goal is photographing stunning landscapes while learning about local traditions, this trip offers a wonderful balance. It’s also suited for those who value small-group travel for a more intimate, personalized adventure.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Worth It?

For $685, this 4-day Lares Trek delivers a combination of spectacular scenery, cultural authenticity, and a sense of adventure that’s hard to beat. You’ll visit traditional communities, see ancient salt mines, and walk through landscapes that are as beautiful as they are seldom seen. The experience offers value for those who want more than just a checklist of sites—instead, you get a genuine taste of Andean life.

The trek’s physical demands are real, but if you’re prepared, the rewards are considerable. It’s perfect for those who crave a meaningful connection to the land, dislike large tour groups, and want to see the trail less traveled.

FAQs

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, all transportation from Cusco to the trailhead, between sites, and back to Cusco is included. This ensures a seamless experience without worrying about extra logistics.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
You’ll stay in tents at campsites for two nights and in a hotel in Aguas Calientes for one night. The accommodations are basic but comfortable, designed to support outdoor adventure.

Do I need to bring a sleeping bag?
Yes, sleeping bags are not included, so you should bring your own or rent one in Cusco before your trip.

How physically demanding is the trek?
The trek involves hiking at high altitudes with some challenging ascents and descents. Expect to be hiking for around 4–7 hours each day, with some days reaching over 4,700 meters.

Is this tour suitable for children or older travelers?
Due to the physical demands and altitude, it’s best suited for active adults and teenagers comfortable with outdoor camping and hiking.

Are meals included?
Most meals—three breakfasts, three lunches, and three dinners—are included, giving you good fuel for each day’s adventures.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making your booking flexible.

What languages are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

This Lares Trail to Machu Picchu offers a rewarding blend of adventure, scenery, and cultural connection—perfect for travelers seeking an authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience. Whether you’re after stunning mountain views, meaningful local encounters, or simply a less crowded way to reach the famous ruins, this trip stands out as a compelling choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby