Lares Trek to Machu Picchu 4 days

4:30 AM: Your adventure begins with a convenient hotel pickup from Cusco or the Sacred Valley. We'll head to the natural wonder of Lares Hot Springs, with a scenic stop at the vibrant Calca market, where you’ll experience local culture firsthand. After a brief drive, immerse yourself in the soothing, mineral-rich pools of Lares, surrounded by breathtaking mountain views. To kick-start your day, our trekking chef will prepare a hearty breakfast just for you.

Next, a short 30-minute drive takes us to Pampacorral, where our journey on foot begins. Enjoy a leisurely 2-hour hike to the remote Kiswarani Village, where a freshly prepared lunch awaits. As we continue our trek, a 2-hour hike through mesmerizing landscapes—potato fields, cascading waterfalls, and awe-inspiring mountain vistas—leads us to our peaceful campsite by the stunning Blue Lagoon, nestled at an altitude of 3900m (12,795 ft).

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted with your tents already set up, and a steaming cup of Coca-Cola tea or coffee to help you relax. As the day winds down, refresh yourself with warm water and enjoy tea time while gazing at the breathtaking starry sky before retreating to your cozy tent for the night.

Highlights of the Day:

• Soak in the relaxing Lares Hot Springs, surrounded by incredible mountain scenery
• Trek through charming villages, pristine nature, and stunning landscapes
• Enjoy expertly prepared meals by our trekking chef at every stop
• Stargaze from your campsite by the serene Blue Lagoon

Tour details:

• Campsite Altitude: 3900m (12,795 ft)
• Trekking Distance: 10 km / 6 miles
• Trekking Time: 4 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping under a blanket of stars
• Difficulty Level: Moderate

Wake up with a hot cup of coffee or coca tea, delivered right to your tent, as the fresh mountain air energizes you for the day ahead. After a nourishing breakfast and grabbing some snacks from our chef, you'll embark on a 4-hour hike to the highest point of your trek—Condor Pass, perched at a breathtaking 4750m (15,583 ft).

As you ascend, be mesmerized by serene Andean lakes, the sight of geese gliding across the water, and herds of llamas and alpacas grazing peacefully. The stunning backdrop of the towering Andes Mountains will leave you speechless. At the summit, you'll experience a unique moment—a 360° panoramic view of the mountains and lakes surrounding you. Here, your guide will perform a traditional spiritual offering ceremony honoring the sacred mountains and Pachamama (Mother Earth). Sip on a refreshing cup of coca tea, soaking in this incredible moment.

Begin your descent with a gentle 2-hour hike to Acopata, where a delicious, freshly-prepared lunch awaits. After refueling, continue downhill through awe-inspiring landscapes for another 2 hours to the remote village of Canchacancha (3750m / 12,303 ft).

Upon arrival, unwind with hot drinks as you settle into the charming village. Immerse yourself in the local culture—engage with the friendly villagers, chase llamas and alpacas, join the children for a game of soccer, or exchange language lessons, making meaningful connections with the community.

Highlights of the Day:

• Summit Condor Pass and take in breathtaking 360° views at the top
• Witness local wildlife, including Andean geese, llamas, and alpacas
• Participate in a spiritual offering ceremony led by your guide at the summit
• Engage with the welcoming community of Canchacancha Village

Tour details: 

• Campsite Altitude: 3750m (12,303 ft)
• Highest Altitude: 4750m (15,583 ft)
• Trekking Distance: 16 km / 10 miles
• Trekking Duration: 7 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Camping under the stars
• Difficulty Level: Moderate to Challenging

Wake up to the aroma of fresh coffee or coca tea, served right in your tent, and savor your breakfast with panoramic mountain views as your backdrop. After exploring the quaint village of Canchacancha, where time seems to stand still, begin a leisurely 4-hour descent into the beautiful Sacred Valley. Along the way, you'll visit local homesand learn about the villagers' traditional way of life and their Quechua language, which has beenpassed down through generations. You'll also have the meaningful opportunity to visit the elementary school, where we donate educational supplies and support the next generation of this remote community.

As you trek downhill, you'll notice the landscape changing—from the highland fields of potatoes and beans to the warmer, lush lands filled with corn and avocado. The transition is mesmerizing. Your journey concludes in Huaran (2700 m / 8,856 ft) with a delightful picnic lunch, where you'll bid farewell to your amazing chef and arrieros (horsemen) who have accompanied you on this unforgettable adventure.

But the day doesn’t end there! From Huaran, a private van will whisk you away to the fascinating Salineras of Maras, where you'll explore the ancient salt pools that have been harvested since Incan times. Next, visit Ollantaytambo, the remarkable Last Living Incan Citadel, recently recognized as one of the Best Tourism Villages by the UNTWO. Here, you’ll explore the magnificent Inca fortress, take in the rich history, and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

As the day winds down, board the 7:00 pm Expedition train to Aguas Calientes, where you'll stay the night in a cozy 3-star hotel, preparing for the ultimate experience—Machu Picchu.

Highlights of the Day:

• Visit the remote, traditional village of Canchacancha and connect with locals
• Trek through changing landscapes, from highlands to the fertile Sacred Valley
• Explore the Salineras of Maras and the historic Incan Citadel of Ollantaytambo
• End the day with a scenic train ride to Aguas Calientes, the gateway to Machu Picchu

Tour details: 

• Aguas Calientes Altitude: 2,000 m (6,561 ft)
• Trekking Distance: 12 km (7.4 miles)
• Trekking Duration: 4 hours
• Meals: Breakfast, Snacks, Lunch, Dinner
• Accommodation: Comfortable 3-star hotel in Aguas Calientes
• Difficulty Level: Easy to Moderate

Start your day with an early breakfast at the hotel before catching one of the first buses to Machu Picchu. Arriving early gives you the chance to watch the sunrise over the ancient citadel, a truly unforgettable moment. After passing through the entrance, you’ll take a short walk to the best spots to enjoy the views.

Next, you’ll go on a 2-3 hour guided tour of Machu Picchu. Your guide will explain the amazing history and incredible engineering of this Inca site, sharing its secrets and special features. After the tour, you’ll have time to explore on your own, or you can choose to hike up to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu for even more stunning views (these hikes must be booked in advance and are omitted).

When you’re ready, take the bus back to Aguas Calientes for lunch (on your own). In the afternoon, board the Vistadome Panoramic train for a beautiful ride through the Sacred Valley. After arriving in Ollantaytambo, you’ll be driven back to Cusco, arriving at your hotel around 7:30 p.m.

Highlights of the Day:

• Watch the sunrise over Machu Picchu
• Enjoy a guided tour exploring the history and wonders of the site
• Optional hikes to Huayna Picchu or Montaña Machu Picchu
• Scenic ride on the Vistadome Panoramic train through the Sacred Valley

Tour Details:

• Highest Altitude: 2430m (7972 ft)
• Tour Duration: 3 hours
• Meals: Breakfast (hotel)
• Difficulty Level: Easy