- Duration
- 4 days
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Max altitude
- 4,450 m
- From
- $610 pp
Private tour prices
Group tour from $610 per person. Prefer your own guide and schedule? Private prices per person, by group size:
| Travelers | Price per person |
|---|---|
| 1 traveler | $1,652 |
| 2 travelers | $1,011 |
| 3 travelers | $804 |
| 4 travelers | $683 |
| 5-6 travelers | $644 |
| 7-10 travelers | $580 |
Quick answer
The Lares Trek is a 4-day cultural trek in the Andes north of the Sacred Valley that ends with a train to Aguas Calientes and a guided visit of Machu Picchu. You soak in the Lares hot springs, walk about 25 km through Quechua weaving villages, cross the Ipsaycocha Pass at 4,450 m (14,600 ft), and finish in Ollantaytambo. It is moderate, quieter than the Inca Trail, and needs no trekking permit. Our Lares trek costs $610 per person, with transport, guide, cook, meals, camping, train, a hotel night and Machu Picchu entry included.
| Duration | 4 days, 3 nights (2 camping, 1 hotel) |
|---|---|
| Hiking distance | About 25 km / 15.5 miles |
| Highest point | Ipsaycocha Pass, 4,450 m / 14,600 ft |
| Difficulty | Moderate |
| Permit | Not needed for the trek |
| Ends at | Machu Picchu, by train from Ollantaytambo |
| Best months | April to October |
| Price | $610 per person |
Why Choose the Lares Trek Peru
The Lares trek in Peru is the trek for people who want living Andean culture more than ruins: you walk between Quechua villages where families still herd llamas and weave by hand, on trails used every day by the people who live there.
It is also the easy choice when Inca Trail permits are sold out, because the Lares route needs no permit and you can book it a few weeks ahead.
- Natural hot springs on day 1
- Visits to weaving families in Huacahuasi and Patacancha
- Glacier views and turquoise Ipsaycocha Lake
- Few other hikers, even in high season
- Ends with a guided tour of Machu Picchu
What Our Lares Trek Tour Includes
Our Lares trek tour includes everything from your Cusco hotel back to your Cusco hotel, except your sleeping bag and tips.
- Hotel pickup in Cusco and private transport to the trailhead
- English-speaking trekking guide, cook and horsemen
- Horses carry the camping gear and up to 7 kg of your things
- 3 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 2 dinners, plus snacks and hot drinks
- Tents, sleeping mats, dining and toilet tent
- Lares hot springs entrance
- Train from Ollantaytambo to Aguas Calientes and back
- 1 hotel night in Aguas Calientes
- Machu Picchu entry, bus up and down, guided tour
| Not included | Typical cost |
|---|---|
| Sleeping bag rental | Ask us |
| Huayna Picchu or Machu Picchu Mountain ticket | Optional extra |
| Last dinner in Aguas Calientes | Your choice |
| Tips for guide, cook and horsemen | Optional |
Lares Trek Price and How to Book
Our Lares trek costs $610 per person in a small group, all inclusive as listed above. When you compare Lares trek tours, check whether the train, the Aguas Calientes hotel and the Machu Picchu entry are included, because many lower prices leave them out.
Book at least 4 to 6 weeks ahead in June to August so we can secure your Machu Picchu entry and train seats. No permit is needed for the trek itself. Send the form below with your dates and group size.
Lares Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu: Day by Day
The 4-day Lares trek to Machu Picchu has two days of hiking, one day of easy walking and travel, and one day at Machu Picchu.
| Day | Route | Distance | Highest point | Night |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Lares hot springs to Huacahuasi | About 6 km | 3,800 m | Camp |
| 2 | Huacahuasi to Patacancha via Ipsaycocha Pass | About 12 km | 4,450 m | Camp |
| 3 | Patacancha to Ollantaytambo, train | About 7 km | 3,700 m | Hotel, Aguas Calientes |
| 4 | Machu Picchu | Guided walk | 2,430 m | Back in Cusco |
Day 1: Cusco, Lares Hot Springs and Huacahuasi
Pickup around 5:00 am, drive over the Sacred Valley via Calca to the Lares hot springs (3,100 m) for a soak, then drive and walk up to the weaving village of Huacahuasi, where we camp at about 3,800 m. Walking: about 2 to 3 hours.
Day 2: Ipsaycocha Pass and Patacancha
The hardest day. Climb to the Ipsaycocha Pass at 4,450 m with views of glaciers and the turquoise Ipsaycocha Lake, then descend through llama pastures to Patacancha, at about 3,700 m. Walking: about 12 km, 6 to 7 hours.
Day 3: Ollantaytambo and Train to Aguas Calientes
Short downhill walk and transfer to Ollantaytambo, time to see the Inca town, then the afternoon train to Aguas Calientes. Hotel night with a hot shower.
Day 4: Machu Picchu Guided Tour
Early bus up to Machu Picchu for a 2 to 3 hour guided tour, free time, then the train to Ollantaytambo and transfer back to your Cusco hotel, arriving in the evening.
Lares Trail Map, Distance and Elevation
The classic Lares trail in Peru runs from the Lares hot springs through Huacahuasi, over the Ipsaycocha Pass and down to Patacancha and Ollantaytambo, about 25 km of hiking with roughly 1,300 m of climbing.
Other Lares routes exist, such as Quishuarani or Cuncani to Patacancha, and every operator picks slightly different villages. The highest point on most routes stays between 4,400 m and 4,700 m.
| Point | Elevation |
|---|---|
| Cusco | 3,400 m / 11,150 ft |
| Lares hot springs | 3,100 m / 10,170 ft |
| Huacahuasi camp | 3,800 m / 12,470 ft |
| Ipsaycocha Pass | 4,450 m / 14,600 ft |
| Patacancha camp | 3,700 m / 12,140 ft |
| Ollantaytambo | 2,790 m / 9,150 ft |
| Machu Picchu | 2,430 m / 7,970 ft |
How Hard Is the Lares Trek?
The Lares trek is moderate: only one long day, but that day climbs to 4,450 m, so altitude is the real challenge, not the distance.
If you can walk 5 to 6 hours with breaks and you spend 2 days in Cusco first, you can do it. Horses carry the gear, and an emergency horse goes with the group.
To prepare, take a few 2 to 3 hour walks with hills in the weeks before. Mild headache or short breath on day 2 is normal; your guide carries oxygen and first aid, and with serious symptoms you walk down right away.
Lares Hot Springs
The Lares hot springs are natural thermal pools at about 3,100 m near the town of Lares, and our trek stops there on day 1 so you start with a warm soak.
There are several pools at different temperatures, changing rooms and basic toilets. Bring a swimsuit and a small towel in your daypack.
Lares Trail vs Inca Trail vs Salkantay
Choose the Lares trail for culture and quiet, the Inca Trail for Inca ruins and walking into Machu Picchu through the Sun Gate, and the Salkantay Trek for big glacier scenery and a longer challenge.
| Compare | Lares Trek | Classic Inca Trail | Salkantay Trek |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main highlight | Villages, weaving, hot springs | Inca ruins, Sun Gate | Glacier pass, cloud forest |
| Permit | Not needed | Needed, sells out | Not needed |
| Hiking | About 25 km | About 42 km | About 74 km |
| Highest point | 4,450 m | 4,215 m | 4,630 m |
| Arrive at Machu Picchu | By train and bus | On foot | By train and bus |
| Crowds | Very few | Busy | Medium |
Villages and People on the Lares Trekking Route
The Lares trekking route passes Quechua communities such as Huacahuasi and Patacancha, where families live from potatoes, llamas and alpacas and keep weaving traditions alive.
Your guide speaks Quechua and introduces you to a weaving family. Small gifts like school supplies or fruit are welcome; ask before taking photos of people.
Best Time to Do the Lares Trek
The best time for the Lares trek is the dry season, April to October. The Lares route stays open all year, even in February when the Inca Trail closes.
| Months | Weather | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| April to May | Dry, green valleys | Great balance |
| June to August | Dry, sunny, frosty nights | Bring a warm sleeping bag |
| September to October | Dry, a little warmer | Good views, few hikers |
| November to March | Rain most afternoons | Open all year, pack rain gear |
Camping, Food and Toilets on the Lares Trek
On the Lares trek you sleep 2 nights in tents near the villages and 1 night in a hotel in Aguas Calientes.
Our cook prepares three hot meals a day, with vegetarian options on request. Camps have a toilet tent; showers are only at the hot springs and the hotel. Nights near 3,800 m can drop below freezing from June to August.
Lares Trek Packing List
Pack light: horses carry up to 7 kg of your things, and the train to Aguas Calientes allows only a small bag.
- Original passport (needed for Machu Picchu and the train)
- Warm sleeping bag rated to about -10 °C
- Broken-in hiking boots and trekking poles
- Warm jacket, hat, gloves and rain jacket
- Swimsuit and quick-dry towel for the hot springs
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, water bottle and snacks
- Cash in soles for tips and small purchases
- Leave your big suitcase at your Cusco hotel; most hotels store it free
Can You Do the Lares Trek Without a Guide?
Yes, you can hike the Lares trek without a guide, because no permit is needed, but trails split often, signs are rare, and you must arrange transport, camping and your own Machu Picchu tickets and train.
With a guided trek, a local guide finds the way, talks with the villages in Quechua and handles the logistics to Machu Picchu.
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, 4 Days Reviews
“The highlight for me was meeting local communities along the route. Our 4 day Lares Trek to Machu Picchu felt much more cultural than I expected, and finishing the journey at Machu Picchu made the whole experience even more rewarding.”
Verified Traveler
“We wanted a quieter alternative to the Classic Inca Trail, and the Lares route was perfect. Beautiful mountain scenery, traditional villages and a very knowledgeable guide made this one of our favorite experiences in Peru.”
Verified Traveler
“Machu Picchu was incredible, but honestly the journey through the Lares Valley was just as memorable. The landscapes changed every day, and the trek gave us a much deeper look at life in the Andes.”
Verified Traveler
“If you are looking for a Lares Trek from Cusco that combines hiking and culture, this is a great option. The four-day itinerary was well paced and never felt rushed, even on the more challenging sections.”
Verified Traveler
“I chose this trek because I wanted something less crowded than the Inca Trail. The Lares Trek to Machu Picchu gave us peaceful trails, amazing views and an authentic experience before reaching the famous ruins.”
Verified Traveler
“Our guide made a huge difference on this trip. During the guided Lares Trek, he explained the local culture, landscape and history in a way that made every stop more meaningful. The final Machu Picchu visit was the perfect ending.”
Verified Traveler
“This was our first multi-day trek in Peru and the 4 day Lares Trek turned out to be a great choice. It was challenging enough to feel adventurous but still manageable with the support of the trekking team.”
Verified Traveler
“We loved that this tour was not only about hiking. Visiting Andean communities along the Lares route made the experience feel more personal and authentic than a standard Machu Picchu tour.”
Verified Traveler
“For anyone comparing Lares Trek vs Inca Trail, I would recommend Lares if you prefer fewer crowds and more local culture. The scenery was stunning, and the route felt peaceful almost the entire time.”
Verified Traveler
“From Cusco to the mountains and finally Machu Picchu, everything was organized smoothly. Transportation, daily schedules and guidance were all handled professionally, which made the whole trekking experience much easier.”
Verified Traveler
“My partner and I wanted an adventurous Peru trip without following the busiest trekking route. The Lares Valley trek to Machu Picchu gave us exactly that—beautiful views, remote villages and a very memorable four days together.”
Verified Traveler
“I was surprised by how diverse the landscapes were. The Lares hiking tour passed through high mountain areas, valleys and small communities before finishing with Machu Picchu. Every day felt completely different.”
Verified Traveler
Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, 4 Days: FAQs
Where do I leave my luggage during the Lares trek?
Leave your main luggage at your Cusco hotel during the Lares trek, since most Cusco hotels store bags for guests free of charge. Pack a small duffel for the horses with sleeping clothes and layers, and carry a daypack with water, snacks, rain gear and your passport. Weight limits are given in your trek briefing.
Does the Lares trek go to Machu Picchu?
Yes, the Lares trek goes to Machu Picchu, but not on foot: you finish in Ollantaytambo and take the train to Aguas Calientes, then visit Machu Picchu on the last day.
How long is the Lares trek?
The Lares trek is 4 days and 3 nights, with about 25 km (15.5 miles) of hiking.
How high is the Lares trek?
The highest point of the Lares trek is the Ipsaycocha Pass at 4,450 m (14,600 ft).
Is the Lares trek hard?
The Lares trek is moderate. Day 2 is long and high, but the other days are short, and horses carry the gear.
Do you need a permit for the Lares trek?
No, you do not need a permit for the Lares trek. You only need a Machu Picchu entry ticket, which we include.
Is the Lares trek better than the Inca Trail?
The Lares trek is better if you want culture, quiet trails and no permit; the Inca Trail is better if you want Inca ruins and to walk into Machu Picchu.
Lares trek or Salkantay: which is easier?
The Lares trek is easier than Salkantay: it is shorter, about 25 km against 74 km, and its pass is lower.
When is the best time to do the Lares trek?
The best time to do the Lares trek is April to October, the dry season. The trek runs all year.
Is the Lares trek worth it?
The Lares trek is worth it if you want real village life and empty trails on the way to Machu Picchu, rather than Inca ruins along the path.
Where does the Lares trek start and end?
Our Lares trek starts at the Lares hot springs and ends in Ollantaytambo, with pickup and drop-off at your Cusco hotel.
Is the Lares trek good for families?
The Lares trek suits active families with kids from about 12 years old who are acclimatized.
How much should I tip on the Lares trek?
Tips are optional. Many groups give about S/150 to 200 per hiker in total, shared between guide, cook and horsemen.
Plan your trip
- Machu Picchu Elevation: How High It Is and How the Altitude Feels
- Aguas Calientes Peru Guide: The Town Below Machu Picchu
- Aguas Calientes Hot Springs: A Practical Guide to the Thermal Baths Below Machu Picchu
- Inca Trail vs Salkantay Trek: Which Should You Choose?
- Machu Picchu Packing List: What to Pack and What to Wear for Your Visit
