Experience the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu — a Practical, Authentic Adventure for Curious Travelers

Traveling the less-trodden path from Cusco to Machu Picchu via the Lares Trek offers a unique way to experience Peru’s natural beauty and vibrant local customs. For $850 per person, this 4-day journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, colorful communities, and relaxing thermal baths, culminating in the awe-inspiring discovery of Machu Picchu. Guided by knowledgeable local guides and supported by a professional chef, this tour balances adventure with comfort, making it a compelling choice for travelers seeking authentic cultural encounters without sacrificing safety or organization.

What makes this trek stand out are the spectacular mountain views and the chance to connect with local communities, sharing moments that go beyond the typical tourist experience. We also appreciate the inclusion of thermal baths in Lares, offering a healthful, outdoor soak after a day of hiking. However, keep in mind that the route involves a fair bit of physical effort, so it’s best suited for those with a reasonable level of fitness. This tour is ideal for travelers who want to venture off the beaten path, enjoy scenic hikes, and learn about traditional Andean life firsthand.

Key Points

Authentic Cultural Interactions: Engage with local communities and learn about traditional textiles, livestock, and agriculture.
Stunning Landscapes: Expect breathtaking mountain vistas, lakes, waterfalls, and picturesque valleys.
Relaxing Thermal Baths: Enjoy healthful, volcanic-origin hot springs in Lares after your first day’s hike.
Balanced Itinerary: Combines hiking, cultural visits, and a visit to Machu Picchu, with comfortable overnight stays.
Value for Money: All essential tickets, accommodations, and transfers are included, making it a convenient package.
Physical Demand: Requires some stamina; suitable for active travelers ready for varied terrain.

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The Journey Begins: From Cusco to Lares

On the first day, you’ll be picked up early from your hotel in Cusco — around 6:00 AM — and transported through the scenic Sacred Valley, a corridor of Incan history and stunning scenery. Your first stop is at the archaeological site of Huamanmarca, which predates the Incas, offering an intriguing glimpse into Peru’s ancient past. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of the temples, streets, and terraces—this isn’t just sightseeing; it’s an introduction to the land’s deep roots.

The trip continues towards Lares, where a hearty breakfast awaits with spectacular mountain views. After breakfast, you visit the thermal baths of Lares, which are a real highlight. The water is volcanic, naturally warm, and reputed to have healing properties; a perfect way to relax after your initial exploration and before the hike. The baths are outdoors, and soaking in them under the open sky with panoramic mountain vistas is a genuinely memorable experience.

Lunch at Lares features local flavors, giving you a taste of Andean cuisine before you start your trek. The first day’s walk lasts around three hours, during which you’ll hike through landscapes dotted with alpacas, traditional farming scenes, and colorful local communities. Your guide will share insights about the customs, textiles, and livestock of the area, enriching your understanding of rural life in the Andes. The camp at Huaca Wasi (at 3770 meters) offers a rustic but comfortable base for the night.

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Day Two: Mountain Passes and Mountain Lakes

The second morning begins with breakfast, then a trek to Huacarpunku — an impressive mountain pass with views of waterfalls, lakes, and distant peaks. The trail is challenging but rewarding, and you’ll love how the scenery shifts from lush green to more rugged terrain. The guide will point out flora and fauna along the way, making each step an educational experience.

After lunch, you’ll have a brief rest before continuing your walk to Yanahuara, where you’ll set up camp at 3,400 meters. Here, the landscape becomes even more striking, with dramatic mountain ranges framing your campsite. The sense of achievement after crossing high-altitude passes is palpable, especially when you realize how many local communities rely on this rugged land for their livelihoods.

Day Three: Descending into the Sacred Valley

On the third day, you’ll wake up to a delicious breakfast before descending along a scenic trail. This part of the trek is characterized by lush vegetation and the opportunity to see how traditional chicha de Jora (a fermented corn drink) is made — a taste for those interested in local customs. The guide will explain the process, and you’ll have a chance to sample this traditional beverage.

The trail offers spectacular views from the Yanahuara viewpoint, overlooking the Sacred Valley—a landscape of terraced hills and vibrant green fields. After a farewell to your trekking crew, you’ll board transportation to Ollantaytambo. From there, you’ll take a train to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. We love the train ride; it’s a smooth, scenic transition from wilderness to the bustling town, setting the stage for the next day’s exploration.

In Aguas Calientes, you’ll enjoy a well-earned dinner and settle into your hotel, a comfortable base for the early morning visit to Machu Picchu.

The Grand Finale: Machu Picchu

The fourth day begins with an early bus ride up to the Machu Picchu Sanctuary, where a guided tour will unveil the mysterious citadel’s main sites: the Plaza de Armas, Circular Tower, and the Sacred Solar Clock. Our guide shared fascinating details about the architecture and significance of each area, enriching our visit beyond just taking photos.

This experience is a highlight for many travelers, and the tour’s inclusion of an expert guide ensures you don’t miss the details. You’ll have time to explore on your own afterward, soaking in the ambiance of this iconic site. Afterward, you’ll descend back to Aguas Calientes for optional sightseeing or relaxing.

The return journey involves a train back to Ollantaytambo and a bus or private transport back to Cusco, completing your adventure. The entire process is well-organized, minimizing fuss and maximizing your time in the Sacred Valley and Machu Picchu.

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What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour package covers essentials such as entrance tickets to Lares hot springs and Machu Picchu, two nights camping in tents supported by a professional kitchen team, and all transportation—making it a hassle-free experience. Meals are thoughtfully prepared, with breakfasts, lunches, and dinners included, giving you energy for each leg of the journey.

Not included are lunch and dinner on the last day, thermal bath entrance in Aguas Calientes, walking sticks, and Consettur bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu (costing around $24 USD round-trip). These are common extras, so plan accordingly.

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The Experience: Pros, Cons, and Practical Tips

We found the stunning views to be the real highlight—every day offers new vistas of mountains, lakes, and waterfalls that make the effort worth it. The chance to connect with local communities and learn about traditional textiles and agriculture adds depth to the trek, transforming it from just a hike into an immersion into Andean life.

The thermal baths in Lares were appreciated as a relaxing break, especially after the initial ascent. The inclusion of a professional chef and good-quality camping equipment makes the experience more comfortable than many similar treks, though it still requires a moderate level of fitness.

One aspect to consider is the physical effort involved—the trek involves high-altitude walking and some steep sections. For travelers with mobility issues or low stamina, this might be a challenge. Also, the cost of optional extras (like bus tickets) and the tips for guides and staff are not included, so budget planning is wise.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This 4-day Lares Trek is perfect for active travelers eager for authentic cultural exchanges and stunning scenery away from the crowds. It suits those with a reasonable fitness level who want a balance of adventure and comfort, and who appreciate local traditions and natural beauty. It’s also a good option if you prefer a structured, well-organized tour with expert guide support.

Final Thoughts: Is it Worth It?

Absolutely, if you’re after a more personal, scenic, and cultural route to Machu Picchu, this trek delivers. You’ll enjoy breathtaking landscapes, friendly local encounters, and the satisfaction of reaching Machu Picchu after days of rewarding effort. The inclusion of thermal baths and professional logistics makes it a solid choice for travelers who want more than just a bus ride.

While it’s a physically demanding adventure, the payoff is enormous: memories of mountain lakes, traditional villages, and a once-in-a-lifetime glimpse of Machu Picchu from a less-populated trail. It’s a chance to see Peru’s highland life up close and to experience some of the most beautiful scenery the Andes have to offer.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

How long is each day’s walk?
The hikes vary but typically last around 3 hours on the first day and involve some uphill and downhill sections, especially at high altitudes.

Is the trek suitable for children or seniors?
It requires a moderate level of physical effort and stamina. Older travelers or children should assess their comfort with altitude and long walks.

What should I bring?
Essentials include sunglasses, camera, snacks, sunscreen, water, personal medication, passport or ID, and comfortable footwear. Walking sticks are optional but recommended.

Are meals included?
Yes, the tour provides 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, and 3 dinners, prepared by a professional chef. Lunch and dinner on the last day are not included.

Can I buy additional tickets?
Yes, you can purchase the Consettur bus tickets from Aguas Calientes to Machu Picchu separately if you prefer to avoid the early bus.

What is the price of the tour?
$850 per person, including most logistics, accommodations, and entrance fees.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your plans.

Is there support in case of emergency?
Yes, a first aid kit and oxygen bottle are on hand, and guides are trained to handle emergencies.

In summary, the Lares Trek to Machu Picchu offers a rewarding blend of natural beauty, culture, and logistical convenience. It’s best suited for travelers who want a meaningful trekking experience without sacrificing comfort and who enjoy learning about local traditions. If you’re craving a scenic, authentic adventure that takes you away from the crowds, this tour might just be what you’re looking for.