Lares Valley Trek with Hot Spring 4-Day & 3-Night

Starting with the basics, the Lares Valley Trek with Hot Spring is a four-day adventure based in Cusco, Peru, designed for those seeking more than just the typical tourist trail. For $600 per person, you’ll journey through picturesque Andean villages, meet local Quechua communities, soak in geothermal hot springs, and finally stand in awe at Machu Picchu. Led by experienced indigenous guides and supported by a professional team of chefs and porters, this trek offers a balanced mix of culture, natural beauty, and manageable hiking distances.

What we really love about this experience is how it prioritizes authentic cultural interactions—visiting local farms, elementary schools, and traditional villages—giving you a real glimpse into daily life in the Andes. Plus, the hot springs break up the trekking with a relaxing soak, adding a unique natural spa experience. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that the tour is non-refundable, so you’ll want to be comfortable with the fixed schedule and weather-dependent nature of outdoor adventures.

Ideal for multi-generation groups or travelers who prefer a slower pace with shorter daily distances, this trek suits those looking for a genuine cultural connection combined with scenic hiking. If you appreciate expert guides with deep local knowledge and good food along the way, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Cultural immersion in Quechua villages and local farms
• Relaxing hot springs as a highlight of the trek
• Expert indigenous guides bring local traditions to life
• Comfortable pacing with manageable daily hikes and shorter distances
• Inclusion of all major sites: Sacred Valley, Ollantaytambo, Machu Picchu
• Supports local communities through a 100% local, indigenous-owned company

Exploring the Lares Valley Trek in Depth

The Itinerary Breakdown

Day 1: Cusco to Lares via Hot Springs
Your journey begins early with a hotel pickup in Cusco. Expect to start your trek with a two-hour gradual uphill walk through the potato-rich landscapes of Kiswarani, a village known for its organic potatoes and medicinal plants. This part alone offers a chance to spot local farming practices and indigenous flora, which guide Manuel or Yanira will happily point out, making the experience both educational and scenic.

Lunchtime at Kiswarani is a highlight—your chef will serve delicious local cuisine, giving you a taste of Peruvian flavors. The afternoon features a charming ceremony with llamas—sacred animals to the Incas—where you’ll learn about their historical importance as symbols of privilege and economic backbone. One reviewer called this “an outstanding team” that made the trek unforgettable, emphasizing the warm hospitality and authenticity of the experience.

Day 2: Climbing Pachacute (Condor Pass)
Waking up around 5 a.m. with hot drinks in hand, you’ll enjoy the morning views of a colorful lake and the sweeping valley below. The day involves a three to four-hour climb over Pachacute, or Condor Pass, with stunning vistas—perfect for photography and soaking in the dramatic scenery. The descent into Canchacancha is about three hours, where you camp overnight amid the peaceful Andean landscape.

Expect an immersive experience—your guides will explain local culture and history, making the day more than just a hike. Several reviews mention how knowledgeable guides like Angel and Sergio help keep spirits high, even when the trek gets challenging.

Day 3: Descending through traditional farms
This is the last full trek day, with a four-hour downhill walk passing fields where farmers still use Inca-style farming tools. You’ll see crops like potatoes and fava beans, and get a chance to chat with locals who continue time-honored agricultural practices. Many reviews praise the warmth and expertise of guides Manuel and Yanira, and Chef Raul’s meals, which are consistently described as “the best food eaten in Peru.”

You’ll visit a local elementary school and get a glimpse into community life—an aspect that’s truly appreciated by travelers seeking genuine cultural exchanges. The descent brings you into warmer, more biodiverse areas, setting the stage for the visit to Machu Picchu.

Day 4: Machu Picchu and Return
An early start takes you via bus into the cloud forest to arrive at Machu Picchu. Your guide will lead a comprehensive two-hour tour, highlighting the site’s key features and history. If you’ve booked Huayna Picchu (which requires advance reservation), you can add a challenging hike for a panoramic view of the ruins. After exploring, you’ll enjoy lunch in Aguas Calientes before catching the train back to Ollantaytambo and then a private transfer to Cusco.

This final day brings everything together—combining your trek’s cultural insights with the breathtaking spectacle of Machu Picchu, making it a fitting grand finale.

Transportation and Support

Support during the trek is top-notch: certified guides, professional chefs, and porters carrying gear, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery and cultural sites. The group size is capped at 14, ensuring personalized attention. Round-trip train tickets are included, with travel on the popular Expedition tourist class train, which balances comfort and value.

Safety features like a first aid kit, oxygen tank, and satellite phone are standard, providing peace of mind amid rugged terrain. The accommodation includes two nights of camping—well-equipped and comfortable—and one night in a hotel, which many travelers find a good balance between adventure and comfort.

What the Tour Feels Like

Many reviews describe the trek as relaxing yet engaging—not overly strenuous, but still enough to feel like a proper adventure. The shorter daily mileage makes it accessible to a broader range of hikers, including families and older travelers, as long as they’re in good shape. Guides like Angel and Manuel are praised for their deep knowledge, friendly attitude, and attention to individual needs, which can make a big difference when hiking through remote and sometimes challenging terrain.

Expect to encounter less crowded paths than the Salkantay or Inca Trails, with some reviewers referring to it as a “hidden gem,” thanks to the peaceful environment. The scenery is truly stunning—mountains, lagoons, waterfalls, and the chance to spot wildlife—and the cultural stops deepen your understanding of Andean life.

Food and Accommodation

The meals are consistently highlighted as a major plus—delicious, hearty, and local-style—prepared by professional chefs who take pride in their craft. Many travelers comment that the food exceeds expectations, especially given the remote setting. Camp meals often include traditional dishes, fresh fruits, and hot drinks, making the long days more bearable.

The hotel stay on the last night offers a welcome rest after several days of camping, and reviews emphasize the hospitality and comfort.

Cost and Value

At $600, this tour offers excellent value considering the included transportation, guided visits, entrance fees, accommodations, and meals. The culture and the chance to support local communities add intangible value—you’re not just trekking, but contributing to sustainable tourism that benefits the Quechua villages.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trek suits those who want a more authentic and relaxed experience than the crowded Inca Trail. It’s perfect if you enjoy cultural exchanges, scenic hiking, and local food. It’s also well-suited for multi-generational groups or travelers who appreciate a slower pace and want time to absorb their surroundings.

If you’re looking for an adventure that combines nature, culture, and comfort, this tour hits the mark. You’ll leave with a deeper appreciation for Andean traditions and the stunning landscapes that surround Machu Picchu.

Final Thoughts

The Lares Valley Trek with hot springs provides a unique window into Quechua life and incredible landscapes, all supported by a dedicated, knowledgeable team. From participating in local ceremonies to soaking in geothermal waters, the experiences are crafted to be both enriching and enjoyable.

While the non-refundable policy requires some commitment, many reviews highlight how well-organized and rewarding the trip is—making it a worthy investment for travelers craving genuine cultural depth and scenic beauty. The combination of authentic villages, spectacular views, and delicious food makes this a standout choice for those seeking a side of Peru that’s more real and less touristy.

If you value personalized guides, support for local communities, and a balanced mix of adventure and culture, this trek could very well be your most memorable Peruvian journey.

FAQs

Is this trek suitable for families or older travelers?
Yes, thanks to its slower pace and manageable daily distances, this trek is suitable for multi-generation groups and travelers who prefer a more relaxed hiking experience.

What’s included in the price?
The $600 fee covers guides, porters, meals, entrance fees, transport, and accommodations (camping and one hotel night). It also includes round-trip train tickets and safety gear like a first aid kit.

Do I need to bring my own sleeping bag?
No, but sleeping bags are available for rent if you prefer to use your own. The tour includes camping gear, and most meals are provided, so packing light is encouraged.

Can I book Huayna Picchu for the day?
Yes, but it requires advance booking and an additional fee of $75. Make sure to reserve early, as spots are limited.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent. If conditions are poor and the trek needs to be canceled, you’ll be offered an alternative date or a full refund.

Is there any physical fitness requirement?
Yes, travelers should have a moderate to strong physical fitness level. The terrain can be rugged, especially at higher elevations, but the shorter daily hikes make it accessible for many.

In the end, this trek balances adventure, culture, and comfort beautifully. It’s an excellent choice for travelers who want to step off the beaten path and truly connect with Peru’s Andean roots.