Discover the majesty of the Peruvian Andes with the Lares trek to Machu Picchu! This exciting trek takes you through breathtaking mountain scenery, lush valleys and authentic Andean villages. With Lares Trek, you will enjoy a unique experience while immersing yourself in the local culture and marveling at unforgettable panoramic views.
Our Lares trek to Machu Picchu offers an authentic and less crowded alternative to reach the legendary Inca Citadel. Known for its spectacular glacial lakes, natural hot springs and the opportunity to interact with local communities that preserve their ancestral traditions, this trail provides you with an intimate connection to the land and history of Peru.
From the mountain pass of Lares to the ancient Inca ruins of Machu Picchu, every step on this journey is an exciting adventure. Experience the warmth of Andean hospitality, taste delicious local cuisine and admire traditional handicrafts en route to one of the wonders of the world.
Join us on this exciting expedition and discover the natural and cultural beauty that make the Lares trek an unforgettable experience on your journey to Machu Picchu.
Walk and Terrain: Walk, on open roads, some steep ascending trails.
Walking Time: Approximately 4 hours.
Distance: 8km.
Embark on your unforgettable journey from Cusco to Machu Picchu via the enchanting Lares route, starting promptly at 5:00 am from your Cusco hotel. Our comfortable bus ride whisks you away to the picturesque village of Calca in just 45 minutes, followed by a scenic 2-hour drive to the rejuvenating hot springs of Lares.
Here, amidst the serene beauty of the mountainous landscape, indulge in a sumptuous lunch before commencing our trek. Take a refreshing dip in the natural thermal pools, surrounded by breathtaking vistas. Then, with renewed energy, embark on a captivating 4-hour uphill hike to our campsite at Huacawasi.
As the day draws to a close, relish a delectable dinner prepared especially for you, as you unwind and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead on your journey to Machu Picchu.
Walk and Terrain: Walk on open roads, some steep ascending trails
Walking Time: Approximately 10 hours (including picnic lunch in the route) Approximately: 9 hours.
Distance: 13km.
Rise and shine to the aroma of freshly brewed tea and a hearty breakfast, courtesy of your guide, signaling the start of another exciting day. Our journey unfolds as we ascend to the summit of Abra Huacawasi (4300 m), offering unparalleled panoramic views of the majestic mountains, rich flora, and diverse fauna that surround us.
Descending from this breathtaking vantage point, the Lares trek leads us downhill for an hour to the quaint village of Auroruy Cocha, where our skilled chef awaits to delight us with a mouthwatering lunch. Continuing our descent for the next 4 hours, we make our way to tonight's campsite in Yanahuara.
As the sun sets, join us for a communal dinner, sharing stories of the day's adventures, before retiring for a well-deserved rest under the starlit sky.
YanWalk and Terrain: Walk on open roads, some steep ascending trails.
Walking Time: Approximately 2 hours.
Distance: 13 km.uara – La Pista Central – Ollantaytambo – Aguas Calientes.
Embark on another exciting day of exploration, commencing with a refreshing start at 6:30 am from our campsite, fueled by a satisfying breakfast and invigorating morning tea. Our trek begins with a leisurely downhill hike lasting 40 minutes, leading us to La Pista Central, where a waiting bus conveniently transports us to Ollantaytambo in just 30 minutes.
Upon arrival in Ollantaytambo, indulge in a delightful lunch and take the opportunity to wander through the charming town and its bustling market. For those eager to delve deeper into Inca history and marvel at their architectural prowess, an optional visit to the Ollantaytambo archaeological site awaits, offering invaluable insights into the craftsmanship of this ancient civilization.
As our exploration of Ollantaytambo concludes, we bid farewell to the Lares trek and board a scenic train journey to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu. Upon arrival, settle into your hotel accommodations and relish a delicious dinner, preparing for the awe-inspiring adventures that await you at Machu Picchu.
Meals: Breakfast
Distance: 6kms/3.7mls
Difficulty: Easy
Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel, preparing you for an unforgettable journey to Machu Picchu Sanctuary. A quick 30-minute bus ride takes us to the entrance, where our knowledgeable trip leader will guide you through a captivating 2-hour tour of the ancient ruins.
For the adventurous spirits, the option to conquer the challenging ascent of Huayna Picchu awaits, offering stunning panoramic views of Machu Picchu. Alternatively, explore the sanctuary at your own pace, perhaps visiting the Machu Picchu or Huayna Picchu Mountains for unparalleled vistas. Additional activities in Aguas Calientes include immersing yourself in the local museum or relaxing in the soothing hot springs.
As the day draws to a close, descend to Aguas Calientes by bus, included in your package. Later, board the train to Ollantaytambo, where our transportation awaits to transfer you back to your hotel in Cusco.
Please note that while we strive to maintain the planned itinerary, campsite locations during the Lares trek and Llama's Path may vary due to factors such as booking availability, weather conditions, or safety regulations imposed by the Peruvian Government. Contact us at the time of booking to confirm your desired extra hikes, as availability may vary.
Pre-departure briefing: You will meet your Lares trek “the Llama Path” guide and group in our office for an orientation before your trek. The meeting will be at 6:00 PM the evening before the trip begins. In case you can’t come at this time “please let us know” to coordinate another time.
Touristic Transport: You will be picked up from your hotel in Cusco in the morning and will travel by private transportation to Lares Village “Trough the Sacred Valley of the Incas”, the starting point of the Lares trek to Machupicchu.
Adventure Experienced Lares trek Tour Guide: English speaking, professionally educated, and official tour guide with tourism certification. They all grew up in this region and have a true passion to teach others about their heritage. Your guide will explain the culture and surroundings along the entire route, including leading your group in ancient ceremonies! He or she will keep you safe, sound, and comfortable on your trek so that you can enjoy your time along the Inca path and will ensure you are safe and happy.
Tour Guide in Machupicchu Cultural Experienced: English speaking, professionally educated, and official tour guide with tourism certification. For visit the sacred city of Machupicchu.
Private campsites: Each campsite is carefully choosed for have a very local experience.
Night 1: Enjoy the 1st night in Wacawasi village on the route Lares trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4 man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks so you don’t have to bring in dirt.
Night 2: Enjoy the 2nd night in Yanahuara on the route Lares trek and sleep in our 4 season Pro Aconcagua Doite tents. All our tents are 4 man tents, but ONLY sleep 2, leaving lots of room to spread out comfortably and store your duffel bags. They also include a little vestibule in front, giving you some extra outdoor space to leave your boots and walking sticks so you don’t have to bring in dirt.
Night 3: The 3rd night in hotel is not included, which is in the town of Aguas Calientes; prices of hotels will vary according to your expectations and budget. However, we can offer you the option of joining us at our local accommodation Hotel Encanto Machupicchu "at no extra cost". www.hotel-encanto.com Our hostel in Aguas Calientes have double or triple rooms, private bathroom, hot shower, Wi-Fi, breakfast, and luggage storage while you visit Machu Picchu.
Note: It is not usual that the campsites, lodges or hotels change after the confirmation, however it can vary per government regulations and authorization, also for bad weather conditions and maybe because physical condition of our visitors: any changes in this matter ITEP travel will be informing you previously and as soon as possible.
Camping equipment: Dining and kitchen tents, tables, chairs, and cooking equipment (all carried by our porters and horses).
