Lares Trek to Machu Picchu, amazing 3 Day Tour
Duration:
Tour Type
Group
1-8
Difficulty
Moderate-high
Altitude
Ver Mapa
Itinerary
Your Lares Trek adventure starts in Cusco. Our private transportation picks you up from your hotel at 6:00 AM. In approximately 1.5 hours, we reach Calca District.
This is located in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Here, we stop for 45 minutes to visit the local market. Afterward, a 30-minute ride brings us to Huaran Community (2800 m.a.s.l.). This is inside the Sacred Valley.
From Huaran, we begin our hike. We gradually ascend Huaran Valley. It boasts lush flora and fauna. This is perfect for seeing llamas and alpacas in their natural habitat. Spot endemic native trees and medicinal plants.
Ancient Cancha Cancha community uses these for natural remedies. Enjoy fantastic views of mountains and snow-capped peaks in the Andes. This first stretch takes about 3 hours. We then reach our camp for lunch. Enjoy a delicious and nutritive menu. Recharge for your cultural trek.
For cultural insight, explore our Cusco City Tour before your trek. For more on the Sacred Valley, consider a Sacred Valley Tour Full Day – Salineras, Chinchero, Moray, Ollantaytambo.
With renewed energy, we continue our hike. Enjoy first views of nearby snow-capped mountains. Within an hour, we reach the Cancha Cancha ancient community. This will be our campsite.
Once settled, we visit a local home. Learn about their lifestyle. Share some activities with them. This Lares Trek offers true cultural immersion. End the day with hot beverages and a tasty dinner.
Day 1 Statistics: Cultural Immersion Start
Difficulty Day: Intermediate
Hiking distance: 10 kilometers (6.2 miles)
Maximum Altitude: 3900.00 m.a.s.l. (12,795 feet)
Minimum Altitude: 2900 m.a.s.l. (9,514 feet)
Start End Time: 06:00 am ~ 06:00 pm
Hiking Time Day: 08:30 am
The second day of our Lares Trek adventure kicks off early. Enjoy a warm cup of coca tea. This helps with altitude acclimatization. After a hearty breakfast, fill water bottles. Begin the hike. Encounter stunning views of alpacas, llamas, and local people. See native potato fields in Cancha Cancha. You might even spot wild vizcachas.
This day is the most challenging. We ascend toward the highest point of the trek. The path takes us through majestic snow-capped peaks. See Pitusiray, Sahuasiray, and Colque Cruz. Locals revere them as protective entities.
Our goal is to reach Pachacuti Pass. It is situated at an impressive 4500 meters (14,764 feet) above sea level. Here, the stunning landscape unfolds. Witness vibrant lagoons, glaciers, and herds of South American camelids. The climb is worthwhile. For altitude preparation, consider our Altitude Program. For other demanding mountain treks, explore our Humantay Lake Trek Full Day Tour.
After reaching the pass, we begin our descent. Journey into Lares Valley, following an ancient Inca path. Pass waterfalls, lagoons, and serene creeks. Enjoy the awe-inspiring natural beauty of the Andes. Our journey takes us to the ancient Inca community of Qishuarani. We stop for a rustic lunch at a cozy lodge. Afterward, board a bus to Ollantaytambo. Catch the train to Aguas Calientes. This is your gateway to Machu Picchu.
Day 2 Statistics: Challenging Mountain Ascent
Difficulty Day: Challenging
Hiking distance: 11 kilometers (6.8 miles)
Maximum Altitude: 4500.00 m.a.s.l. (14,764 feet)
Minimum Altitude: 3800 m.a.s.l. (12,467 feet)
Start End Time: 05:00 am ~ 06:00 pm
Hiking Time Day: 06:00 am
On the final day of your Lares Trek adventure, we begin early. Catch the serene sunrise at Machu Picchu. Avoid crowds that grow as the day goes on. Starting early ensures a more peaceful experience. Your day starts with a 25-minute bus ride. It leads to the main entrance of the Inca citadel.
Upon arrival, your guide takes you to the iconic viewpoint. Capture the most famous photo of Machu Picchu. Your 3-hour guided tour provides detailed insights. Learn about the fascinating history of the Inca civilization. Discover the mysteries of the citadel.
After the guided tour, enjoy some free time. Explore other parts of the site. This includes optional hikes to HUAYNA PICCHU or MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN. It is highly recommended to book these extra tickets at least two months in advance.
Once you’ve explored the site, board the bus back to Aguas Calientes. Catch the Vistadome Train back to Ollantaytambo. Our private transfer waits at the train station. It takes you directly back to your hotel in Cusco. The estimated arrival time in Cusco is 7:30 PM. This marks the end of our services.
We hope you’ve had an unforgettable Lares Trek to Machu Picchu journey! For a non-trekking visit to Machu Picchu, consider our Machu Picchu Day Trip From Cusco 2025. For a more extensive exploration of Machu Picchu and Cusco, our Machu Picchu and Cusco Tour 3 Days offers a comprehensive experience. For comparisons between treks, our blog Inca Trail One day vs. Inca Trail 2 days might be helpful.
Day 3 Statistics: Grand Finale and Return
Difficulty Day: Easy
Hiking distance: Not applicable (mainly site exploration/travel)
Maximum Altitude: 3300.00 m.a.s.l. (10,827 feet) – Cusco
Minimum Altitude: 2000 m.a.s.l. (6,562 feet) – Aguas Calientes
Start End Time: 08:00 am ~ 07:30 pm
Hiking Time Day: Not applicable (mainly site exploration/travel)
Includes
Accommodation:
- 1 night at comfortable campsite during your trek.
- Hotel in Aguas Calientes (3 stars) for one night. (We include Ferre Hotel Machu Picchu or Inti Punku Hotel. Higher star hotels available upon request).
Transportation & Transfers:
- All private transfers during the tour, as specified in the itinerary.
- Pickup from your hotel in Cusco (must be in Cusco center).
- Private transportation from Cusco – Ollantaytambo – Cusco.
- Round trip Expedition Class train ticket for Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes – Ollantaytambo.
- Round trip transportation service for your entire journey.
Entrance Fees:
- Machu Picchu Citadel entrance fee.
Guiding & Tours:
- Briefing service by your guide one or two days before your tour.
- Professional Bilingual speaker tour guide for your experience.
- Chef and cook assistant specializing in gourmet and traditional Peruvian meals.
- Private guided walking tour in all visited archaeological sites.
- Hot shower service during your trek (at designated campsites).
- Portable toilet available during all trek duration.
Food & Meals:
- Meals included as specified on the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
- Drinkable water and snacks provided daily during the tour.
Equipment:
- 01 oxygen tanks and a first aid kit for emergencies.
- 01 pair of Walking Sticks per person.
- Professional trekking equipment.
- A duffel bag is provided for your trek.
- 01 Riding Horse for emergency use (in case clients feel very tired). It can also be used for photos.
Other Services:
- Superior Private Service offers private tours and personalized attention. We create unforgettable experiences in the Cusco region. For more about personalized service, check our Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu. Private Service Tour.
Not Included
Additional Entrance Fees:
- Tickets for HUAYNA PICCHU (45-minute walk) or MACHU PICCHU MOUNTAIN (1.5-hour walk) are not included. These require separate, advanced bookings.
Meals Not Included:
- Your last lunch in Aguas Calientes is not included. You can choose from various local options.
- Meals not specified on the itinerary are excluded.
Gratuities:
- Voluntary tips for guides, porters, etc., are not included. These are appreciated for exceptional service on your Lares Trek.
Pricing and Options
- Max Group Size : 8
- Our price: USD $ 0.00 per 1 person.
- Our price: USD $ 549.00 per person for 2 people.
- Our price: USD $ 529.00 per person for 3 people.
- Our price: USD $ 499.00 per person for 4 people or more. The best price!
- Reservation price: USD $ 300 per person
Packing List
Kenko Adventures Peru provides you with a duffel bag for your hiking tour during the briefing, typically a day before the trek. This duffel bag can hold up to 6 kg of personal items and a sleeping bag. Our porters or horses will carry your duffel bags, camping equipment, and food. According to Peruvian law, the maximum weight a porter can carry is 23 kg (18 kg of load and 5 kg of personal items). Any excess weight must be carried by you unless you hire an additional porter. You’ll need a small daypack for personal items, such as a water bottle, camera, and sun protection cream. You will have access to your duffel bags during lunchtime and at the campsites since porters always travel ahead of the group.
Appropriate Gear for Inca Trail or Alternative Hikes to Machu Picchu
We highly recommend wearing hiking pants and long-sleeved T-shirts during the day, along with fleeces and waterproof jackets. If you’re traveling during the rainy season, we suggest bringing a rain poncho or jacket and/or rain pants, as the weather can change rapidly. For camping nights, warm clothing is essential, and down jackets are recommended.
On the day of your Machu Picchu tour, the climate can be warm and sometimes very hot. We recommend bringing convertible hiking pants that can be turned into shorts for comfort during the day.
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- Antibacterial hand gel
- Binoculars
- Camera
- Clothes in layers
- Insect repellant – DEET 20 strongly recommended.
- Passport
- Personal medication
- Plastic bags for rain situations
- Sun hat
- lass=»value»>Sun scream
- Swimsuit
- Toilet paper
- Torch (flashlight)
- Warm clothes for overnights
- <li class=»value»>Water bottle to b
e refil in
- campsites
- Water purifier
- Waterproof clothes
- Waterproof hiking shoes
- Wet wipes
FAQ
Spots for the Lares Trek are limited, especially during peak season. We recommend booking your 3-day Lares Trek several months in advance. Permits are generally easier to secure than for the Inca Trail.
The 3-day Lares Trek is considered moderately challenging. It involves high-altitude passes. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended. Preparation helps with altitude acclimatization. For specific guidance, consider our Altitude Program.
Your Lares Trek includes 1 night of comfortable camping. You will enjoy the beauty of the Andes under the stars. Your final night is a hotel stay in Aguas Calientes. This ensures a relaxing rest.
Pack layers for varying Andean weather. Include durable hiking boots, rain gear, and sun protection. Bring personal toiletries. A comfortable daypack is essential for your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.
Peru’s climate is highly variable. You might experience all four seasons in one day! The Andes have two main seasons: Dry (May–September) and Rainy (October–April). Be prepared for diverse conditions.
Your Lares Trek is led by a professional bilingual guide. They are experts in Andean culture, local history, and trekking safety. They provide rich insights into communities and landscapes.
The Lares Trek stands out for its cultural immersion. You visit traditional Andean communities. Interact with local people. Learn about their lifestyle and ancient traditions. This offers a deep connection. For more on Andean culture, check out our blog Cusco: Unveiling Hidden Treasures.
The Lares Trek offers a less crowded alternative to the Inca Trail. It focuses more on cultural interaction. The Inca Trail follows a historic path directly to Machu Picchu. For detailed comparisons, our blog Inca Trail One day vs. Inca Trail 2 days offers insights. Consider also our Classic Inca Trail to Machu Picchu 4 Days.
The Lares Trek emphasizes cultural immersion and traditional villages. The Salkantay Trek is more about challenging mountain landscapes and glacier views. Both are excellent alternatives to the Inca Trail. Explore our Salkantay Trek 4 Days to Machu Picchu. Private Service Tour for details.
Our guides are trained for emergencies. They carry oxygen tanks and first aid kits. We have established evacuation plans. Your safety and well-being are our top priority on the Lares Trek.
All meals are included as specified in your itinerary. You receive breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Snacks and drinkable water are also provided daily. Enjoy delicious Peruvian cuisine during your trek.
Yes, you can store your main luggage at our office or hotel for free. Pack a small daypack for your trek. For city exploration before your adventure, consider a Cusco City Tour.
Yes, your original passport is essential. It must exactly match the number provided during booking. This is crucial for all official tour registrations. Carry it during your Lares Trek to Machu Picchu.
Eligible ISIC students can receive a discount. You must hold a valid, current, internationally accepted ISIC card in your name. Apply for the ISIC Card at https://www.isic.org/. Provide a copy of your ISIC card when booking.
You must be under 18 at the time of your trek. (Students 18+ need an ISIC card). Students aged 12 to 17 receive a discount. Children aged 2 to 12 also get a discount. Children under 2 join for free.
We strictly follow Leave No Trace principles. All waste is properly managed. It is carried out from the trail. Our eco-friendly practices help minimize environmental impact. We preserve the beauty of the Andes.
Charging options are limited during the 3-day Lares Trek. We recommend bringing portable power banks or solar chargers. This ensures your devices are ready for Andean photography. For drone use, check our blog Can You Fly a Drone in Cusco? Permits and Restrictions.
A riding horse is included for emergencies. This is in case clients feel very tired. It can also be used for photos. This offers additional support on your mountain trek.
The Lares Trek involves moderate hiking. It is generally suitable for active families. It is less physically demanding than the Inca Trail. Travelers should have a reasonable fitness level.
Absolutely! Many travelers extend their stay in Peru. Consider exploring other Andean wonders. Popular choices include the Machu Picchu and Cusco Tour 3 Days or the vibrant Rainbow Mountain and Red Valley Day trip.
