Scenic train ride
Enjoy one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.
TREKS TOUR
Discover Lares Trek 4-Day Tour with Expert Local Guides
Trek the Lares Valley through Quechua villages and alpine lakes, then reach Machu Picchu on a cultural alternative to th...
- Train Included
- Expert Guide
- Small Groups
Free Cancellation
From
USD
659
per person
Live the magic
Why you'll love this tour
Explore Machu Picchu
Discover the incredible citadel with an expert local guide.
Unforgettable views
Capture breathtaking panoramic views and unique moments.
Small groups
Personalized attention and a more meaningful experience.
About this tour
Trek the Lares Valley through Quechua villages and alpine lakes, then reach Machu Picchu on a cultural alternative to the Inca Trail.
Full description
The Lares Trek combines mountain scenery with authentic community encounters in a valley where traditional weaving and llama herding still define daily life. Cross high passes above 4,400 m, camp near turquoise lakes, and visit villages rarely touched by mass tourism.
The trek ends in Ollantaytambo, where you board the train to Aguas Calientes for a hotel night before touring Machu Picchu. Fewer crowds, rich culture, and the same iconic finale.
Ideal for travelers who value human connection as much as mountain views.
What you'll experience
- Trek through the Lares Valley and Quechua communities
- Cross Ipsaycocha pass (4,450 m)
- Visit traditional weaving villages
- Train to Aguas Calientes and Machu Picchu tour
- Camping with full porter and chef support
Tour preview
Day-by-day itinerary
Detailed schedule for each day of the tour.
-
Day 1
Drive to Lares hot springs, then hike to Huacawasi village (3,880 m). Visit local families and camp nearby. Approx. 4 hours hiking.
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Day 2
Ascend to Ipsaykasa pass (4,450 m) and descend to Ipsaycocha Lake for lunch. Continue to Patacancha village camp (3,780 m). 6–7 hours.
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Day 3
Hike via Pumamarca ruins along an original Inca trail to Ollantaytambo. Lunch, then afternoon train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel overnight.
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Day 4
Early bus to Machu Picchu for a 3-hour guided tour. Return to Aguas Calientes, train to Ollantaytambo, and transfer to Cusco.
4,800+
Happy travelers
4.9/5
Average rating
15+
Years experience
98%
Would recommend
Meeting point
Pick-up from Cusco city center hotels (6:00 a.m., Day 1)
Why choose Cuzco Travels?
- Local experts Passionate local guides
- Direct operator No intermediaries, better value
- 24/7 support We are here for you always
What's included
- Transportation to Lares (where the trek starts)
- Train tickets Ollantaytambo – Machu Picchu – Ollantaytambo
- Camping equipment: tents, sleeping mats, dining tent, kitchen, tables, and chairs
- 01 night of hotel accommodation in Aguas Calientes
- Round-trip bus transportation to Machu Picchu
- Entrance ticket to Machu Picchu
- Professional guide
- First aid kit and oxygen
What's not included
- First breakfast
- Last lunch
- Sleeping bag and walking sticks
- Entrance ticket to the Lares Hot Springs
- Tips for the staff
Travelers love this tour
“The best experience of my life! Everything was perfectly organized.”
— Sarah J. / Canada
Good to know
Before you go
Meeting point
Pick-up from Cusco city center hotels (6:00 a.m., Day 1)
What to bring
- Original passport or ID
- Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses
- Reusable water bottle
- Light layers for changing mountain weather
- Sturdy hiking boots (broken in)
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Warm fleece for cold nights
- Headlamp and personal snacks
Important notes
- Community visits are respectful cultural exchanges; bring small gifts optional.
- Lares hot springs entrance fee not always included.
- Cold nights at altitude; quality sleeping bag essential.
- Supports local families through responsible tourism practices.
Gallery
Tour photos
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FAQ
We answer your questions
Yes, we recommend booking at least 2–4 weeks ahead, especially during peak season (May–September). Train and Machu Picchu entry slots are limited.
The total duration is 4 days / 3 nights. We will send you the detailed itinerary with timings once your booking is confirmed.
Community visits are respectful cultural exchanges; bring small gifts optional.
Lares hot springs entrance fee not always included.
Original ID or passport, layered clothing, sunscreen, hat, water, snacks, and comfortable shoes. For high-altitude tours, bring warm layers and a rain poncho.
Free cancellation up to 48 hours before departure
Yes, hotel pick-up in Cusco is included in the tour price.
Yes, we handle private and corporate groups. Message us on WhatsApp for a personalized quote for Lares Trek 4-Day Tour.